Strategy

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

California: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

California Review

California turns home decoration into a clever race for style and points. Its tile choices feel tense, the planning stays fun, and nobody needs a real estate agent when the game ends.

China: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

China Review

China turns quiet planning into a tasty little brain wrestle. Its clear map, fair scoring, and sharp player tension kept my group plotting right until the last marker dropped.

Colorado - Colorado, Sylex, 2023 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4/5

Colorado Review

Colorado packs route planning, cheeky player blocking, and just enough luck to keep every turn tense. It rewards smart choices without turning game night into a spreadsheet funeral.

Yellowstone: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Yellowstone Review

Yellowstone offers clever herd planning, changing routes, and just enough luck to keep everyone sweating. My friends and I enjoyed its brisk turns, though crowded boards can make the final stretch feel a bit grumpy.

Times: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Times Review

Times is a quick, clever game that rewards good choices without making newcomers feel lost. A few lucky moments can sting, but smart play usually keeps the wheel turning.

Carnival: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Carnival Review

Carnival turns simple fairground fun into a clever contest. My friends and I loved the bright theme, fair luck, and quick turns, though the table got a bit messy.

Politico: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Politico Review

Politico turns every vote into a tense little showdown. Smart deals matter, but luck can wobble the game. I enjoyed it with friends, though a few swings felt a bit rude.

Skyward: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Skyward Review

Skyward rewards smart timing, bold choices, and just enough table talk to make friends nervous. Its factions add flavor, while the clean rules hide a tasty pile of tough decisions.

Target: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Target Review

Target brings quick turns, cheeky table talk, and just enough luck to keep everyone guessing. Smart choices matter, but one wild shot can wreck your grand plan. Rude? Yes. Fun? Also yes.

M: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

M Review

m offers smart choices, fair play, and enough table talk to keep everyone awake. Its luck adds spice without stealing the meal, though the fun depends on enjoying friendly competition.