Strategy

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

Australia: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Australia Review

Played 'Australia' with my pals and it was a blast! The mix of strategy with a splash of horror caught us off guard in a good way. Though luck can sway the game, it's mostly your cunning that leads to victory.

Renfield: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Renfield Review

Renfield is a captivating mix of strategy and player interaction. Wonderful components, balanced mechanics, and endless replay value make it a must-have, though a bit of luck can sometimes swing the tide.

Rennaissance cover. Credit: Board Game Geek
Rating: 4/5

Renaissance Review

Renaissance is a gem with solid mechanics and stunning artwork, offering engaging player interaction and good balance. Minor luck elements aside, it's a satisfying game worth your time.

Bingo: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Bingo Review

Bingo, a classic game of luck, brings people together for laughs. Its simplicity shines, though it's heavy on luck. Great for quick, inclusive fun, but don't expect strategy. A solid 3.8 out of 5 from me.

Amsterdam - Amsterdam, Queen Games, 2020 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.5/5

Amsterdam Review

Amsterdam is a blast for fans of clever plans and bidding wars. The art pops, the gameplay hooks you, and victory feels earned—unless you accidentally sell your tulips too cheap. Oops. Still, it's a keeper for strategy lovers!

New York: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

New York Review

If you want to feel clever while building the Big Apple (without smashing your friendships to bits), New York is your ticket. Just watch out for unexpected pizza-related disasters at the table. Trust me, it happens.

Napoleon: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Napoleon Review

Napoleon made us all feel like mini history buffs—with more arguing and less actual empire-building. Tense battles, neat maps, and just a pinch too much luck for my taste, but hey, it's no dice-chucking circus.

Ohio: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Ohio Review

Ohio gives players smart choices, solid control, and enough replay value to keep game night fresh. Its components look good, though a few small flaws stop it from feeling perfect.

*Star: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

*Star Review

Star blends bright space art with smart choices and just enough luck to keep things tense. My friends and I kept plotting, blocking, and yelling at cardboard. A strong pick for thoughtful game nights.

Focus: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Focus Review

Focus turns quiet clues into loud brain-bending moments. It rewards smart guesses, keeps luck on a short leash, and makes every card feel like a tiny friendship test. Just don’t blame me when your best mate becomes suspicious.