Strategy board games have been captivating players for centuries, challenging their strategic thinking and decision-making skills. In the fast-paced world of 2019, these games continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers all over the world. From ancient battles to futuristic empires, there is a strategy board game for every taste and interest.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect strategy board game to add to your collection. Factors such as playtime, complexity, theme, and player count all come into play when making this decision. In the following sections, we will delve into these factors and provide tips on how to choose the ideal strategy board game that suits your preferences.
In this article, we will also explore the top 5 strategy board games of 2019, providing a detailed review of each game and what makes them so popular among players. Additionally, we will uncover classic strategy board games that have stood the test of time and are still dominating in 2019. And for those looking for something new and exciting, we will highlight rising stars in the world of strategy board games that are making waves this year.
As technology continues to evolve, so does the way we connect with fellow players. The online gaming community plays a crucial role in bringing together strategy game enthusiasts from different parts of the globe. We will delve into how you can connect with fellow gamers and discuss strategies or even participate in online tournaments.
Furthermore, expansion packs and variants offer opportunities for players to take their gameplay experience to new heights. We will dive into different expansion packs available for popular strategy board games and explore how they enhance gameplay.
Lastly, we will give you a sneak peek into what lies ahead by discussing future trends and anticipated strategy board games for 2020. So get ready to embark on an exciting journey through the thrilling world of strategy board games in 2019.
How to Choose the Perfect Strategy Board Game
When it comes to choosing the perfect strategy board game, there are several factors to consider. These factors can help guide you in selecting a game that aligns with your preferences and overall gaming experience. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Complexity Level: Consider the complexity level of the game. If you’re new to strategy board games, you may want to start with a game that has simpler rules and mechanics. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced gamer looking for a challenge, you may prefer a more complex game with intricate strategies.
- Duration: Think about how much time you have available for gaming sessions. Strategy board games can vary greatly in terms of duration, with some games lasting just 30 minutes while others can take several hours to complete. Consider your schedule and choose a game that fits within your desired time frame.
- Theme and Setting: Pay attention to the theme and setting of the game. Strategy board games cover a wide range of themes, from historical battles to fantasy worlds and futuristic universes. Choose a theme that resonates with you or matches your interests, as this can enhance your overall enjoyment of the game.
- Number of Players: Determine how many players will be participating in your gaming sessions on a regular basis. Some strategy board games are designed for two players, while others accommodate larger groups. Make sure to choose a game that suits the number of players involved.
- Replayability: Consider the replayability factor of the game. A good strategy board game should have high replayability value, offering different strategies and outcomes each time it is played. Look for games that offer variability through randomized elements or multiple pathways to victory.
Remember, these factors are just some considerations when choosing a strategy board game. Ultimately, what matters most is finding a game that brings you joy and excitement as you navigate through its strategic challenges.
Top 5 Strategy Board Games of 2019
When it comes to strategy board games, there are a plethora of options available in 2019. These games require players to think strategically, make decisions, and anticipate their opponents’ moves. In this section, we will provide a detailed review of the top five strategy board games of 2019.
Risk: Europe
- This game takes the classic game of Risk to new heights by introducing a European map and adding new elements such as landmarks and objectives. It offers a fresh and engaging experience for both veteran Risk players and newcomers alike.
Terraforming Mars
- In Terraforming Mars, players take on the role of corporations working together to transform Mars into a habitable planet. This highly strategic game involves resource management, card drafting, and careful planning to gain the most victory points by the end of the game.
Wingspan
- Wingspan is an elegant strategy game where players compete as bird enthusiasts seeking to attract different species of birds to their wildlife preserves. With beautiful artwork and innovative gameplay mechanics, Wingspan offers a unique gaming experience that appeals to both casual gamers and hardcore strategists.
Gloomhaven
- Gloomhaven is a massive cooperative dungeon-crawling game that challenges players with tactical combat scenarios set in a rich fantasy world. With its branching storylines, character progression system, and challenging gameplay, Gloomhaven is an immersive experience that captivates players for hours on end.
Root
- Root is a asymmetric war game set in a woodland kingdom where different factions vie for control over territory and resources. Each faction has unique abilities and strategies, making every playthrough feel fresh and exciting. Root’s stunning artwork and deep gameplay make it one of the standout strategy board games of 2019.
These top five strategy board games of 2019 offer something for every type of player, whether you enjoy strategic warfare, resource management, or immersive storytelling. With their innovative mechanics and captivating gameplay, these games have earned their place as the best strategy board games of the year.
Unveiling the Classic Strategy Board Games Still Dominating in 2019
Classic strategy board games have stood the test of time and continue to captivate players in 2019. These timeless games offer engaging gameplay, strategic decision-making, and a chance for players to showcase their skills. Let’s take a closer look at some of the classic strategy board games that are still dominating in 2019.
One such classic game is Chess. Originating in the 6th century, Chess is considered one of the oldest strategy games in existence. It has gained immense popularity over the centuries and continues to be played by millions around the world. With its simple yet deep mechanics, Chess offers players endless possibilities for strategic moves, making it a favorite among competitive players.
Another classic strategy game that remains popular is Go. Originating in ancient China over 2,500 years ago, Go is known for its elegant simplicity and complex strategic depth. The goal of Go is to capture territory on a grid board by surrounding your opponent’s stones or pieces. The simple rules make it accessible to beginners, while experienced players can spend a lifetime mastering its intricacies.
A third classic game that still dominates in 2019 is Risk. First published in 1957, Risk has become synonymous with global domination and epic battles. In Risk, players must conquer territories through calculated attacks and defend their own holdings from opponents’ onslaughts. It combines luck with strategic planning, creating an intense and thrilling gaming experience that has kept players hooked for decades.
These classic strategy board games have evolved over time with different variations and editions but have retained their allure and relevance even today. Their enduring popularity speaks volumes about their gameplay mechanics and timeless appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the world of strategy board games, these classics are definitely worth exploring.
| Classic Strategy Board Game | Year of Publication | Number of Copies Sold |
|---|---|---|
| Chess | 6th century | Unknown, but estimated at billions |
| Go | 5th century BCE (earliest known mention) | Unknown, but estimated at millions |
| Risk | 1957 | Over 75 million copies worldwide |
Rising Stars
In the dynamic world of strategy board games, new titles are constantly emerging and capturing the attention of players. These rising stars offer fresh and innovative gameplay experiences that challenge and engage both new and seasoned players alike. In 2019, several new strategy board games have made waves in the gaming community, earning praise for their creativity, depth, and strategic gameplay.
“Wingspan”
One of the standout new strategy board games of 2019 is “Wingspan” by Elizabeth Hargrave. This unique game brings players into the world of bird enthusiasts as they compete to attract and care for a diverse array of birds in their aviary.
With its captivating artwork, intuitive gameplay mechanics, and rich thematic integration, “Wingspan” has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and players alike. The game’s strategic depth is enhanced through its various card combinations and engine-building mechanics, providing players with a wealth of strategic choices to make throughout each playthrough.
“Root”
Another notable new release in 2019 is “Root” by Cole Wehrle. Set in a vibrant forest inhabited by anthropomorphic animals vying for control, “Root” offers a highly asymmetric gameplay experience where each player adopts a unique role with distinct abilities and goals.
This asymmetry adds depth to the game’s strategic decision-making as players must adapt their strategies based on their role’s strengths and weaknesses as well as the actions taken by other players. The attractive art style combined with innovative game design has earned “Root” critical acclaim among strategy board game enthusiasts.
“Paladins of the West Kingdom”
Designed by Shem Phillips and S J Macdonald, “Paladins of the West Kingdom” is another rising star in the world of strategy board games this year. Set in medieval Europe, this game challenges players to build a kingdom and defend it against a variety of threats.
What sets “Paladins of the West Kingdom” apart is its unique blend of worker placement and deck-building mechanics, where players must efficiently allocate their workers to different tasks while simultaneously managing and improving their card-based actions. The game’s tight decision-making and competitive gameplay have garnered significant praise, making it one of the must-play new strategy board games of 2019.
These rising stars in the world of strategy board games are just a taste of the fresh and innovative titles that have debuted in 2019. Their popularity among players reflects an ongoing enthusiasm for diverse and engaging gaming experiences that challenge strategic thinking. As more game designers continue to push the boundaries of what can be achieved within the genre, it promises an exciting future for both casual and dedicated fans alike.
From Ancient Battles to Futuristic Empires
Strategy board games have come a long way since the ancient times, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a fan of science fiction, there is a strategy board game out there that will capture your imagination. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular strategy board games that span across various themes and time periods.
One such game is “Twilight Struggle”, which takes players back to the height of the Cold War era. This two-player game allows players to step into the shoes of either the United States or Soviet Union as they navigate through political events, military operations, and espionage activities. With its intricate gameplay mechanics and historical accuracy, “Twilight Struggle” has garnered critical acclaim and remains a favorite among strategy enthusiasts.
On the other end of the spectrum, “Scythe” transports players to an alternate 1920s Europe filled with giant mechs and industrial advancements. This game combines elements of economic management, resource allocation, and area control to create a truly immersive experience. With its stunning artwork and unique theme, “Scythe” has captured the attention of both strategy gamers and hobbyists alike.
Another notable strategy board game is “Terraforming Mars”, which puts players in charge of colonizing and transforming the red planet. As you manage resources, build infrastructure, and terraform the planet’s surface, you’ll encounter scientific breakthroughs and compete with other corporations striving for dominance. With its strong emphasis on strategic decision-making and thoughtful planning, “Terraforming Mars” offers endless replayability for fans of sci-fi gaming.
| Game | Theme | Player Count |
|---|---|---|
| Twilight Struggle | Cold War | 2 |
| Scythe | Alternate History/1920s Europe | 1-5 |
| Terraforming Mars | Science Fiction/Mars Colonization | 1-5 |
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of strategy board games that are available in the market today. Whether you prefer historical settings, futuristic worlds, or something in between, there is a strategy board game waiting to be explored. So gather your friends, develop your tactics, and embark on epic journeys of conquest and diplomacy in these captivating strategy board games.
The Art of Building Strategies
Strategy board games can be incredibly complex and challenging, requiring players to think strategically and make calculated decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned strategy game enthusiast or just starting out, mastering these games can take time and practice. In this section, we will explore some tips and tricks that can help you improve your skills and become a formidable player in strategy board games.
Understand the Game Mechanics
Before diving into a strategy board game, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the game mechanics. Take the time to read through the rulebook, watch tutorial videos, or play practice rounds to grasp the fundamental rules and objectives of the game. Understanding how different actions and strategies interact with each other is essential for building effective gameplay strategies.
Start with Basic Strategies
When starting out in a new strategy board game, it’s best to begin with simple strategies and gradually build upon them as you gain experience. Focusing on basic strategies allows you to familiarize yourself with the core mechanics of the game while still making meaningful progress. As you become more comfortable with the game, you can then explore more advanced tactics and develop your unique playing style.
Study Your Opponents
One key aspect of mastering strategy board games is studying your opponents’ moves and tendencies. Pay attention to their strategies, reactions, and decision-making patterns throughout the game. Observing their gameplay can provide valuable insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and preferred approaches, allowing you to adapt your own strategies accordingly.
Evaluate Risk vs Reward
In strategy board games, every move comes with its own risks and rewards. To maximize your chances of success, it’s important to evaluate these factors before making any decisions. Consider the potential outcomes of each move and weigh them against the expected benefits. Sometimes taking calculated risks can lead to significant advantages, but always be mindful of the potential consequences.
Learn from Your Mistakes
No one becomes a master strategist overnight. It’s natural to make mistakes when learning and playing strategy board games. Instead of getting discouraged, use these mistakes as learning opportunities. Analyze your gameplay, identify areas for improvement, and make adjustments for future matches. The more you play and learn from your mistakes, the better you will become at devising effective strategies.
By implementing these tips and tricks, you can enhance your strategic thinking abilities and improve your chances of success in any strategy board game. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to dive into new games and challenge yourself to expand your skills even further.
Connecting with Fellow Strategy Game Enthusiasts
The popularity of strategy board games has not only led to a surge in the number of games available, but it has also created a strong and vibrant online gaming community. Connecting with fellow strategy game enthusiasts through the online gaming community allows players to share their love for these games, exchange strategies, and participate in competitive gameplay.
One of the main benefits of joining the online gaming community is the ability to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for strategy board games. Online forums and discussion boards provide a platform for players to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from each other. This sense of community fosters a supportive environment where players can bond over their shared interest in these games.
Furthermore, the online gaming community offers opportunities for competitive gameplay. Many strategy board games have online platforms or dedicated websites where players can participate in multiplayer matches against opponents from around the world. This allows players to test their skills against others and improve their strategic thinking by facing different playing styles and tactics.
In addition to connecting with fellow gamers and participating in matches, the online gaming community also provides access to an abundance of resources that can enhance one’s gameplay experience. Websites and blogs dedicated to strategy board games offer reviews, guides, and tutorials that can help players improve their strategies or learn new ones.
Additionally, many game publishers have official online forums where they engage with fans, provide updates on upcoming releases, and even seek input from players for future expansions or variants.
The online gaming community has become an integral part of the world of strategy board games in 2019. Whether you are looking for camaraderie with fellow enthusiasts, competitive gameplay experiences, or valuable resources to enhance your gameplay, connecting with others through the online gaming community is sure to enrich your strategy board game journey. So why wait? Join this lively community today and take your love for these thrilling games to new heights.
Taking Strategy Board Gaming to the Next Level
Strategy board games are known for their depth and complexity, but even the most intricate game can become predictable after multiple plays. That’s where expansion packs and variants come in. These add-ons offer new gameplay elements, enhance replayability, and bring fresh challenges to experienced players.
Expansion packs are additional components that expand the base game by introducing new rules, objectives, or playing options. They often include additional game boards, cards, tokens, or miniatures that can be integrated into the original game. Expansion packs can introduce new factions or characters, additional strategies and tactics, or even entirely new gameplay mechanics.
One popular example of an expansion pack is “Cities & Knights” for the classic board game “Settlers of Catan.” This expansion introduces a more complex city-building aspect to the game, allowing players to focus on developing their cities’ infrastructure while also defending against barbarian invasions. The addition of this expansion pack adds a whole new layer of strategic decision-making to an already beloved game.
Variants, on the other hand, are alternative rule sets that modify the gameplay of an existing strategy board game. These variations can range from simple tweaks to completely reimagined scenarios. Variants are often created by dedicated fans of a particular game who want to customize their experience or explore different strategies.
For example, in “Risk,” a classic world domination game, there is a variant called “Secret Mission Risk.” In this version, each player is assigned a secret mission that they must complete in order to win the game. This adds an element of hidden information and subterfuge to the gameplay, forcing players to adapt their strategies based on their secret objectives.
Expansion packs and variants offer strategy board gamers endless opportunities for exploration and creativity. They allow players to revisit their favorite games with a fresh perspective and inject new life into well-worn strategies. Whether you’re looking to delve deeper into an existing game or try something completely different, expansion packs and variants are the perfect way to take your strategy board gaming experience to the next level.
Stay Ahead of the Game
As we near the end of 2019, it is important for strategy board game enthusiasts to look ahead and stay ahead of the game. Luckily, the world of strategy board games is constantly evolving and offering new trends and exciting games to anticipate for 2020.
One trend that is expected to continue into 2020 is the resurgence of classic strategy board games. Despite being decades old, these games have stood the test of time and continue to dominate in the gaming world. From classics like Risk and Chess to newer classics like Settlers of Catan, these games offer a depth and complexity that keeps players coming back for more.
Another trend on the horizon for 2020 is the rise of cooperative strategy board games. While competitive gameplay has long been a staple in this genre, many game designers are now focusing on creating games where players must work together to achieve a common goal. This cooperative aspect adds a new layer of challenge and camaraderie to gameplay, making it a popular choice for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
Lastly, technology continues to play a significant role in shaping the future of strategy board gaming. With the advent of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, players can now immerse themselves even further into their favorite games. These advancements not only enhance gameplay but also provide opportunities for unique experiences that were once thought unimaginable.
As we eagerly await what 2020 has in store, it’s clear that strategy board gaming will continue to captivate and thrill enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re a fan of classic or modern games, competitive or cooperative gameplay, or traditional or high-tech experiences, there will be something for everyone in the world of strategy board gaming in 2020.
So stay ahead of the game by keeping an eye out for new releases, trends, and events in order to make your next strategic move with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most popular board game in 2019?
In 2019, one of the most popular board games was “Codenames.” Developed by Vlaada Chvátil, this engaging and thought-provoking game became a hit among board game enthusiasts.
Codenames challenges players to work as a team and use their creativity and deduction skills to uncover secret agents by deciphering codenames given by a spymaster. With its simple rules, strategic gameplay, and endless replayability, Codenames gained immense popularity and received critical acclaim from both players and critics alike.
What is the most famous strategy board game?
When it comes to strategy board games, “Chess” is undoubtedly the most famous and well-known game in the world. Its origins can be traced back over a thousand years, with its complex gameplay capturing the minds of millions throughout history. Chess requires deep concentration, tactical thinking, foresight, and strategic planning.
The objective is simple: to defeat your opponent’s king while protecting your own piece of royalty. The timeless nature of Chess lies in its ability to provide countless possibilities for players of all skill levels.
What is the number 1 best-selling board game?
Monopoly holds the esteemed title of being the number one best-selling board game worldwide. Originating in the early 20th century, Monopoly was designed as an economic simulation game where players strive to become the wealthiest through buying properties, charging rent on them, and making shrewd business decisions along the way.
With numerous adaptations featuring various cities or themes globally, Monopoly has managed to capture both casual gamers’ attention as well as serious board game enthusiasts’ fascination for decades. Its widespread success can be attributed to its iconic place in popular culture and its appeal across generations as a classic family entertainment option.
I love playing all kinds of games – from classics like Monopoly to modern favourites like Ticket to Ride.
I created this blog as a way to share my love of board games with others, and provide information on the latest releases and news in the industry.
