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Some people might care about the benefits the best strategy board game can give them. Some tend to play games for both entertainment and training. Meanwhile, others might play games because of their original purpose – for fun, and they do not know that these titles can make them smarter.
If you are one of them, do not hesitate to check out the list of the most fantastic choices that we have curated.
Popular strategy board games: Their benefits
Playing games has been increasingly popular these days. The number of gamers keeps rising as time goes by. Interestingly enough, aside from the entertaining purposes, there are plenty of things to learn from these games.
1. Leadership
You can develop leadership skills through strategy games. As you are the one creating and controlling the strategy, you will be in charge. Pretty much all is your responsibility, and you must prevail by using your leadership skills.
With the increased popularity, games provide opportunities to learn on multiple levels. You can learn from contextual information. You learn through the alternative strategies’ benefits, risks, costs, outcomes, and rewards as well.
As a result, you will make fast-paced decision-making. These dynamics also help with developing relationships and delegating authority with others. Rather, your leadership skills will be improved.
2. Adaptability
Most strategy games put you through lots of challenging situations. It is necessary for you to make quick decisions. They tend to require your adaptability to change. That is one of the useful skills to have in business – for example.
3. Thinking outside of the box
Thinking creatively and off the beaten path is appreciated nowadays. Success does have to do with original, innovative ideas. The best strategy board game allows you to do things differently, standing out from the crowd.
Use your own in-game money, weapons, and armors smartly – for instance. Put your creativity and confidence to the test. When you learn to be original in the game, you will have a tendency to be original in real life.
4. Learning to give up something for the sake of other considerations
There are times you have to give up something if you want to get something else. Strategy games give you more options. While it is possible for you to choose A instead of B, you cannot choose both. You enjoy a different advantage with each sacrifice.
5. Learning from failures
You can learn the sense of grind by playing strategy games. You will occasionally lose, be killed in-game, or lose a large amount of currency. When you fall, you want to restart the game. You have the chance to think of something new and do things differently.
For example, when it comes to business, hustle (also, grind) is important. Without practice, tests, failures as well as optimizations, it is hard for your firm to reach its full potential.
6. Offering a positive impact on your brain
It is obvious that popular strategy board games train some parts of your brain, make you give a prediction based on the present to create an effective plan.
To be more specific, people who play games can increase their ability of multitasking, processing information, and adapting. This is because most of the games require these skills from players. For instance, you have to read the information the game gives you while you cannot stop your actions. And you might be aware that you can use these skills in real life.
When it comes to strategy games, you have to force your brain to work somehow. The more you make your brain “run”, the more grey cells it can create. That is why the number of precious cells in gamers is always higher than in non-gaming ones.
For instance, as for adults and seniors, strategy games show some advantages for brain function. These games can provide an efficient method to prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s in the elderly. Research projects claimed that if we want to stay away from dementia and Alzheimer’s and keep our brains functioning like when we were 20, maybe strategy board games are the best solution.
Overall, these games help people improve their cognitive abilities which allow people to adapt quickly to new environments and switch tasks with great speed and accuracy. Moreover, they help to prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s in adults. Speaking of the elderly, we can reduce the effects of these aging problems.
7. Improving competitiveness
Another thing we should take into account is competitiveness. More often than not, the best strategy board game contains different levels. And, in each level, the difficulty is not the same.
So, by involving in a game, you are being challenged. After finishing one level in a game, you will get a bonus which provokes you to keep playing. And, if you do not give up on any level of games, their competitiveness is growing strongly and positively.
8. Socialization
Most of the time, this type of game offers at least two players modes. It should help you with interaction ability.
In these games, you do not act alone. They have to coordinate with the other player to figure out the best solution for the puzzles. So, through dealing with problems with your friends, you learn how to communicate and to work with your teammate.
This skill is essential for you at school and work.
9. Stronger parent-child bond
When it comes to parents, through the games, they can understand their children more because they see how their kids react to each challenge. Moreover, parents can join with their kids, which tightens their relationship with them.
In general, playing popular strategy board games offers you various proven benefits, They not only entertain you but also require you to come up with a smart strategy if you want to win. And, of course, they benefit you in different ways.
Most useful tips to ace these games
The games have been a staple of the gaming community for a long time. They belong to a super popular genre in which the player is required to plan and make strategies in order to complete the objectives.
1. Knowing what they are
These games are easily one of the most engaging types. You can keep playing it for hours and never be bored by it. The variety of them available is so vast that you will be able to choose any game according to your preference and mood!
2. Key tricks to master strategy board games
In order to ace strategy games, we have talked to industry leaders and compiled a bunch of tips!
Observe first:
This is the most important aspect of the games. It will ensure that you become an unstoppable tactical force! By observing, you are also actually learning by studying the moves of other players.
The games may seem like a big scattered world during their initial phases. Give yourself some time to get acclimatized, observe the rules and dynamics of the game, how it is being played and how the gameplay progresses. This will grant you some key insight into the game.
Understand the concepts and mechanics:
Always analyze a game all the while trying to get a feel for the concepts and the mechanics of strategy games. Sometimes they may be a little complex but any time invested will ensure that you reap sweet returns. Once you understand these aspects, you will be able to make informed decisions in the game, step number two on your path to dominance.
Think tactically:
Once you have all the required first-hand information, you need to adapt to the environment. The best strategy board game can be quite confusing sometimes but you need to think tactically.
Sit back and carefully ponder what to do with all resources you have? Ask yourself what is required from you in this situation and which moves can you and your opponents make. Be smart with your thinking and allocate your resources intelligently.
Sacrifice short-term gains for long-term returns:
Game makers often insert some tempting situations into the gameplay for gamers which the latter cannot resist generally. But remember these are just ‘honey traps’.
So beware of them and wherever possible let go of the short-term gains if you think you can benefit largely at a later stage. This could be a game-changing move.
Anticipate the opponent’s next move:
You need to have strategies in place for doing well in the games. The best thing to limit your damage or loss is to anticipate your opponent’s next move.
This will help you be better prepared to deal with any given situation. And that way can be extremely useful for board games like blackjack, cards, and chess.
Have a Plan B:
Whether it is in real life or in popular strategy board games, it is always good to be prepared and have a contingency plan. Having a secondary plan, in case the primary one does not work out, will ensure your game does not derail.
For this, you need to visualize or imagine possible situations. Think about what could or could not happen and put in place a plan accordingly. But be aware of not becoming paralyzed through overthinking!
Polish your skills:
These games are no cakewalks and you need some skills to master them. You need to devote some time to develop and master the skills required to play them.
Every game has a specific required skill set. Sidenote: for example, if you are playing a shooter game, then try mastering the art of aiming. Once you start hitting the bull’s eye consistently then you can use it to your advantage.
Play regularly:
They say ‘practice makes perfect.’ Try playing the game as often as possible or on a daily basis. This will make you familiar with the nitty-gritty of the game and help you more.
Your best strategy board game (Updated list)
It is really fun playing these games. Players all across the globe like engaging in them because doing so needs some deep thinking and gaming skills. They are also challenging and entertaining. And altogether, that is what makes them so popular!
1. Hasbro Gaming Risk Game with Dragon – by Hasbro Gaming
- Age range: 10+
- Number of players: 2 – 6
Risk Game with Dragon is a classic board game with a seamless mix of conquest and diplomacy.
Here, you will make the most of military strategies to get territories and develop significant alliances assisting you with taking over the world.
To rock this game, you need a touch of luck as well. That is because you leverage dice to sort out which gamer is a battle winner. Yet, on the other hand, a lot of tactical thinking is still the crucial factor.
It is risky to assume control over land is dangerous. Would you say you are ready to ace it?
2. Chess Armory 15-Inch Wooden Chess Set – by Chess Armory
- Age range: 4+
- Number of players: 2
This pick from Chess Armory is outstanding amongst other popular strategy board games.
In the game, you checkmate the other gamer, which implies it is impossible for the king piece to stay away from getting attacked. Each board piece can just move in specific ways; that is why you need to come up with a few moves beforehand to build the surefire strategy.
Best of all, chess is suitable for any age. A few people train kids at four or older to play. Meanwhile, others do not become used to the chessboard until they are grown-ups. After all, it is never too old or early to get familiar with this classic Chess Armory game!
3. Catan Board Game – by Catan Studio
- Age range: 10+
- Number of players: As many as 6
It is another classic choice that will make you start to think clearly so that you can deal with tasks.
To be more specific, every game is a settler attempting to develop settlements by leveraging trading approaches and acquiring resources. The winner is the one with the incomparable settlement.
It is worth noting that since this game was published in 1995, it has been extraordinarily famous and has prompted a lot of extension sets. Are you in good shape to develop the most fantastic settlement?
See: games like Catan.
4. MONOPOLY Classic Game – Monopoly
- Age range: 8+
- Number of players: 2 – 8
This best strategy board game is a smooth combo of the luck gained from the roll of the dice and strategic thinking.
In MONOPOLY, you foster your real estate by going about the board purchasing and trading properties. Try and have as many properties as you can and gather cash from other gamers. Between purchasing properties, getting past ‘Go,’ and escaping prison, you guys will be busy for a long while.
5. Wingspan – by Stonemaier Games
- Age range: 14+
- Number of players: 1 – 5
This Stonemaier Games product is among the more current board games that have become incredibly popular.
In this card-driven game intended to bring out your competitive side, you find and draw in the most awesome birds to your wildlife habitat.
The thing is, it is not necessary for you to be an avid lover of birds to engage in the Wingspan. Anybody can see the value in the arranging that results in forming the most terrific habitat on the board. In addition, you will be fond of the game’s remarkable artwork.
6. Scythe Board Game – by Stonemaier Games
- Age range: 14+
- Number of players: 1 – 5
The Scythe is one of the most popular strategy board games to enjoy, particularly in case you are keen on history.
Its setting is in 1920s Europe’s alternative-history version. That is when there was turmoil following the Great War. Here, you play the role of a character from one of the Eastern Europa factions.
The Scythe’s objective is to lead your group to triumph and gain power via overthrowing territories and safeguarding your own. Can you meet your objectives and distinguish yourself in this world?
7. Carcassonne Board Game – by Z-Man Games
- Age range: 7+
- Number of players: 2 – 5
Assuming you wish to get involved in a game that you can lose all sense of direction in middle age for a little while, you cannot go wrong with this option from Z-Man Games.
Having the same name as southern France’s real hilltop town, the game allows gamers to fill the countryside over the city by leveraging tiles. Here, tiles embody urban areas, fields, roads, and so on.
The Carcassonne Board Game’s aim is for gamers to gain the most points through getting the most followers on tiles. Remember, you are better off placing the tiles cautiously. No one can really tell when one of them will prove to be useful.
8. Pandemic Board Game – by Z-Man Games
- Age range: 8+
- Number of players: 2 – 4
Another best strategy board game from Z-Man Games. In-game, you need to perform multiple tasks as well as make use of forward-thinking to save mankind from cataclysmic diseases.
More specifically, actìng as a member of a team entrusted with cooperation, you are answerable for protecting the world from epidemics and discovering how to cure this load of diseases.
Are you interested in working strategically in a group to accomplish a chancy objective? Then, the Pandemic Board Game should be your best bet.
9. Twilight Struggle – by GMT Games
- Age range: 13+
- Number of players: 2
History enthusiasts will be fond of Twilight Struggle since it sets two individuals in opposition to each other during the Cold War. One gamer is the Soviet Union, and the United States is the other.
In the game, gamers invest time and effort in considering strategic approaches to widen their impact all over the board. The winner is the one spreading the most influence over regions.
How fascinating to act as if you were a global leader and settle on strategic choices that will affect your position as the key superpower! Are you ready to ace the Twilight Struggle?
10. Ticket to Ride Board Game – by Days of Wonder
- Age range: 8+
- Number of players: 2 – 5
The Ticket to Ride is, beyond doubt, among the most popular strategy board games out there these days.
In the game, your group and you travel over America since you contend to construct the most excellent train routes that connect North American urban areas.
This product made by Days of Wonder will offer a good time for the entire family and provide your brain with a desirable workout. You need forward-thinking to make train routes, all things considered.
11. Spy Alley Mensa Award-Winning Strategy Board Game for Family – by Spy Alley
- Age range: 8+
- Number of players: 2 – 6
This outstanding Spy Alley will most likely make you stay alert throughout the game and hone your cognitive thinking abilities.
Here, your nationality (also known as identity) is mysterious. It is your responsibility to gather every one of the things you need for your identity and reach the victor’s square.
Be careful along the way, however. It will be your game over in case somebody guesses your identity before you arrive at the square for the one who wins. Of course – They will lose if their guess is not correct.
Hence, it is significant to take strategic considerations about what you gather and do not disregard the thing others are gathering. Loosen up, observe intently, and make a reasonable guess.
12. Tiny Towns: Original (AEG07053) – by Alderac Entertainment Group (AEG)
- Age range: 14+
- Number of players: 1 – 6
This best strategy board game will put your planning skills and cleverness to the test.
During the Tiny Towns: Original (AEG07053), you are a forest-located small town’s mayor. Smaller creatures inhabit this woodland that predators have a hard time noticing. And because it is a little area, you need to realize the best way of going through your resources to develop the town the best you can.
Please bear in mind that the more you develop and the less you squander, the more probable you are to win. Are you confident and skilled enough to build a lively town and address its issues without squandering materials? It might be more difficult than you think.
13. Ravensburger Disney Villainous Strategy Board Game – by Ravensburger
- Age range: 10+
- Number of players: 2 – 6
You like supporting your number one Disney heroes. Still, on the other hand, the villain characters are quite fun as well. In case you are curious about how it feels about being a bad guy, opt for this Ravensburger Disney Villainous Strategy Board Game.
Here, you act as a classic Disney evil character to attain your evil aims. Remember, however, the other bad guys have their objectives, as well. And they will do whatever it takes to accomplish them.
Above all, the game is fantastic for board game lovers, ardent fans of Disney, and families to appreciate. Do your best and see who wins!
14. Taco vs Burrito – by Alex Butler
- Age range: 7+
- Number of players: 2 – 4
While a kid at seven made the Taco vs Burrito, it is rightfully one of the most popular strategy board games among players of all ages.
In the game, you make the best (and most unusual) meal by leveraging a few fascinating ingredients. Where understanding the game is quite simple, the involvement of a certain strategy makes it super engaging. Because you need to play the card the proper way to make the appropriate dinner, pick reasonably.
15. Betrayal at House on the Hill – by Avalon Hill
- Age range: 12+
- Number of players: 3 – 6
Are you into spooky games? If so, you cannot go wrong with this choice from Avalon Hill.
In the game, you construct and explore a spooky mansion with other gamers. Be careful because a twist is here. One gamer winds up selling out the others, and the others need to collaborate to survive.
Prepare to deal with dreadful twists and turns since you do your best to get out. This experience will be the one you always remember for sure.
In a nutshell
The best strategy board game is a great way to have everybody off the screen for some fantastic time to strengthen relationships. Further, it assists with giving your brain some necessary workout through making you consider your next, next, and next turns while figuring or guessing your rival’s moves.
Hopefully, you find the above rundown we have curated is useful. With them, you can discover several great options for your next game night.
Was your #1 game not here? Drop your comment right below and let us know about it. And as always, please reach out to us if you have any other related questions.
Happy gaming and have a nice day!
