Strategy

These games focus on planning, resource management, and decision-making. Examples include “Catan,” “Risk,” and “Twilight Struggle.”

Bookmaker: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Bookmaker Review

Bookmaker pulls you in with easy rules, quick rounds, and loads of sneaky fun. It's perfect for groups who love bluffing, but luck sometimes overshadows skill. Still, we had plenty of laughs every game night!

Rating: 4/5

Review

Endgames packs tight strategy and fair play into every round. My pals and I laughed, cursed, and schemed—no runaway winners here. If you want a skill-based challenge minus unfair luck, this gem is worth your table time.

Ming Dynasty: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Ming Dynasty Review

Ming Dynasty mixes clever planning and lovely artwork, but throws in some surprise event cards that can mess with your plans. Still, I had a blast (even when my empire crumbled). Great for fans of strategy and history.

Birth of a Nation: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Birth of a Nation Review

Birth of a Nation nails its theme and gets most history right. You’ll plot, scheme, and maybe yell at your friends—just like real history—but with much better snacks. Watch out for the odd clunky rule or two.

King of New York cover
Rating: 3.8/5

King of New York Review

King of New York is wild, loud, and loaded with flashy monster fights. If you like dice and unpredictable chaos, it's a blast. But if you prefer deep strategy, you might want to look elsewhere for your city-smashing fix!

New Haven: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

New Haven Review

New Haven had us trading tiles, blocking pals, and arguing over forests like we're city planners with a grudge. If you want strategy with a hint of chaos, pack your builder’s hat. Just don’t wear it at the table.

Rainbow: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Rainbow Review

Rainbow is bursting with gorgeus colors and quick turns, but watch out—luck can trip up your best plans. Still, it's a fun, light choice for families who don't mind a bit of chaos and laughter.

Stacked: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Stacked Review

Stacked had me sweating over every block. One wrong move and my tower looked like my life—wobbly! It’s quick, silly, and rewards smart play, though the tiny rule card made me feel like a giant.

Maze - cover - Credit: Groteka
Rating: 3.3/5

Maze Review

Maze got my group shouting, laughing, and glaring suspiciously at Kevin (again). It’s quick to setup, fun to play, but luck sometimes throws you a curveball. Still, I’d play again—just maybe without Kevin’s "creative interpretations".

Venice: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Venice Review

Venice lets you steer gondolas, dodge scandals, and scheme your way to the top. It's fast and clever, though the luck makes me twitchy. Still, for fans of sneaky strategy, it's a real splash.