Are you on the lookout for the top strategy board games 2018 has to offer? Look no further. In this article, we will delve into the world of strategic tabletop gaming and explore some of the most exciting titles that have captured the attention of both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts alike.
The year 2018 has been an exciting one for board gamers, with a plethora of new releases and updates to classic titles. From intense tactical decision-making to intricate resource management, strategy board games offer players a chance to flex their mental muscles while engaging in thrilling gameplay.
With so many options available, it can be tough to sift through the multitude of choices out there – but fear not, as we’ve got you covered with our curated list of the top strategy board games 2018 has in store.
Strategy board games have come a long way since their inception, evolving from simple dice-and-move games to complex, multi-layered experiences that require strategic planning and critical thinking. In this article, we’ll take a brief look at the history of strategy board games, exploring how they have grown and developed over time to become one of the most popular genres in the tabletop gaming world today.
So grab your thinking cap and get ready for some epic battles on the game board.
The Rise of Strategy Board Games
Strategy board games have been enjoyed by people of all ages for centuries, providing a blend of entertainment, social interaction, and intellectual challenge. The roots of strategy games can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Greeks, who played games like Senet and Petteia. These early games laid the foundation for the development of more complex and strategic board games over time.
During the 20th century, strategy board games experienced a surge in popularity with classics like Chess, Go, and Risk captivating players around the world. These games combined elements of skill, planning, and foresight, establishing a genre that continues to thrive to this day. With advancements in game design and manufacturing technology, strategy board games evolved to incorporate intricate gameplay mechanics, thematic depth, and innovative components.
The modern resurgence of strategy board games can be attributed to a combination of factors including increased accessibility through online platforms and a growing appreciation for analog gaming experiences in a digital age. As more players seek engaging and intellectually stimulating pastimes, top strategy board games continue to push the boundaries of creativity and strategic thinking.
In 2018, several standout titles have emerged as leaders in the genre, offering unique gameplay experiences that cater to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Criteria for Selecting the Top Strategy Board Games 2018
When it comes to selecting the top strategy board games for 2018, there are several key criteria that must be considered. These criteria help to ensure that only the best of the best make it to the list, providing players with engaging and challenging gameplay experiences. Some of the main factors taken into account when determining the top strategy board games of 2018 include game mechanics, replay value, player engagement, thematic elements, and overall fun factor.
To begin with, game mechanics play a crucial role in deciding which strategy board games rise to the top in 2018. Whether it’s worker placement, deck-building, resource management, or area control, the mechanics of a game can greatly influence how enjoyable and strategic it is to play. Games that offer a good balance of different mechanics while maintaining a clear focus on strategic decision-making are more likely to be considered for the top spots on the list.
In addition to game mechanics, replay value is another key criterion for selecting the top strategy board games of 2018. A game with high replay value will keep players coming back time and time again because each playthrough offers unique challenges and opportunities for strategic decision-making.
Whether it’s through randomized setups, variable player powers, or multiple paths to victory, games with strong replay value have a lasting appeal that sets them apart from others in the market this year.
- Strong Game Mechanics
- High Replay Value
- Player Engagement
- Thematic Elements
- Overall Fun Factor
Top Strategy Board Games 2018
When it comes to the top strategy board games of 2018, one standout game that has captured the attention of gamers is “Gloomhaven.” This cooperative role-playing game takes players on a thrilling adventure in a dark and mysterious world.
With its dynamic gameplay and intricate storylines, “Gloomhaven” offers hours of immersive gameplay that will keep players coming back for more. The game’s unique mechanics, branching story paths, and character development make it a must-have for any strategy board game enthusiast.
Another top strategy board game of 2018 that has garnered praise is “Scythe.” Set in an alternate history 1920s Europe, “Scythe” combines elements of resource management, area control, and engine-building to create a rich and engaging gaming experience. Players must balance their strategies carefully to lead their faction to victory in this beautifully designed and thought-provoking game. With its stunning artwork and deep strategic depth, “Scythe” has become a favorite among fans of the genre.
Lastly, “Terraforming Mars” made waves in the world of strategy board games in 2018. In this game, players take on the role of corporations competing to terraform Mars and make it habitable for human life.
Through careful planning, resource management, and strategic decision-making, players must optimize their engines to generate the most terraforming points and emerge victorious. With its innovative gameplay mechanics and replay value, “Terraforming Mars” has secured its place as one of the top strategy board games of 2018.
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Gloomhaven | Cooperative role-playing game set in a dark world with dynamic gameplay. |
| Scythe | Alternate history European setting with elements of resource management and area control. |
| Terraforming Mars | Players compete as corporations to terraform Mars through strategic decision-making. |
Top Strategy Board Games 2018
The top strategy board games of 2018 have been making waves in the gaming community, offering unique gameplay experiences for enthusiasts. One of the standout games of the year was “Pandemic Legacy: Season 2”. This cooperative game challenges players to work together to prevent the world from succumbing to deadly diseases. What sets this game apart is its legacy format, where decisions made in previous sessions impact future gameplay, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative that evolves as you play.
Another notable entry in the top strategy board games of 2018 is “Root”. This asymmetric game pits different factions against each other in a battle for dominance over a vast woodland. Each faction has its own playstyle and goals, adding layers of complexity and replay value to the game. With gorgeous artwork and deep strategic gameplay, “Root” has captured the attention of both casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Lastly, “Gloomhaven” stood as a powerhouse in the realm of strategy board games in 2018. This dungeon-crawling epic offers players a rich and immersive world to explore, filled with challenging scenarios and exciting combat mechanics. Players must make critical decisions throughout their journey, shaping not only their individual characters but also the overarching story of the game. “Gloomhaven” has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay design and high level of player interaction.
| Top Strategy Board Games 2018 | Rating |
|---|---|
| Pandemic Legacy: Season 2 | 5/5 |
| Root | 5/5 |
| Gloomhaven | 9/5 |
Top Strategy Board Games 2018
In the realm of top strategy board games 2018, one title has captured the attention of both casual players and hardcore strategists alike – “Scythe.” Set in an alternate history 1920s Europe, “Scythe” gives players the opportunity to lead their faction to victory through a combination of resource management, combat, and engine-building mechanics. With stunning artwork and high-quality components, this game offers a immersive experience that keeps players coming back for more.
To break down what makes “Scythe” stand out as one of the top strategy board games of 2018, let’s delve into some key aspects of the gameplay:
1. Unique Faction Abilities: Each player controls a different faction with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Whether you choose to focus on military might or technological advancement, every decision you make will impact your overall strategy.
2. Action Selection Mechanic: One of the core elements of “Scythe” is the innovative action selection system where players must carefully choose their actions each turn. Balancing short-term gains with long-term goals is crucial to success in this game.
3. Variable Board Setup: The modular board ensures that each game of “Scythe” feels fresh and exciting. With different combinations of encounters and objectives, no two playthroughs are ever the same.
Trends in Strategy Board Games 2018
The world of board games has seen a significant surge in popularity over the past few years, with strategy board games leading the pack. As we delve deeper into 2018, it’s time to take a look at some of the trends that are shaping the landscape of top strategy board games this year. From innovative gameplay mechanics to engaging themes, there is no shortage of exciting developments in the world of board gaming.
Increased Focus on Cooperative Gameplay
One notable trend in top strategy board games for 2018 is the emphasis on cooperative gameplay. Instead of competing against each other, players are working together towards a common goal, fostering teamwork and collaboration.
Games like “Pandemic” and “Gloomhaven” have been at the forefront of this movement, where players must strategize together to overcome challenges and emerge victorious. This shift towards cooperative play adds a new layer of depth and complexity to traditional strategy games, appealing to both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
Integration of Technology
Another trend that is shaping strategy board games in 2018 is the integration of technology into gameplay. With the rise of apps and digital tools, board game designers are finding innovative ways to enhance the player experience.
Games like “XCOM: The Board Game” incorporate companion apps that add new elements to gameplay, such as timed missions or hidden information. This merging of analog and digital components not only adds excitement to traditional board gaming but also opens up new possibilities for storytelling and immersive gameplay experiences.
Diversity in Themes and Settings
In 2018, top strategy board games are embracing a wide range of themes and settings, catering to diverse interests and preferences among players. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient civilizations, battling zombies, or unraveling political conspiracies, there is a game out there for every taste.
This focus on diversity not only reflects the growing creativity within the board game industry but also ensures that there is something for everyone on the table. As we continue through 2018 and beyond, we can expect to see even more unique and engaging themes being explored in top strategy board games.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of board games has seen a significant rise in popularity, with strategy board games leading the pack in 2018. The top strategy board games 2018 have managed to captivate players with their engaging gameplay, challenging mechanics, and immersive experiences. As more and more people turn to board games for entertainment, these top picks have truly set the bar high for future releases.
The criteria used to select the top strategy board games of 2018 were stringent, focusing on elements such as strategic depth, replayability, innovation, and overall player experience. Each game chosen excelled in its own unique way, offering something distinctive to players looking for an intellectual challenge and a rewarding gaming experience.
Looking ahead, it is clear that the trends in strategy board games are only going to continue evolving. With the advancement of technology and changing consumer preferences, we can expect to see even more innovative game designs and mechanics in the coming years.
Strategy board games offer a timeless appeal that resonates with players of all ages, making them a staple in the world of tabletop gaming for years to come. So be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming releases that will surely vie for the title of top strategy board games in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Popular Strategy Board Game?
The most popular strategy board game is undoubtedly chess. With its origins dating back centuries, chess has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among players of all ages. Its combination of strategic thinking, tactics, and skill makes it a challenging yet rewarding game for enthusiasts around the world.
What Are the 5 Most Popular Board Games?
Some of the five most popular board games include classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, Settlers of Catan, Ticket to Ride, and Risk. These games have become household names and are enjoyed by families, friends, and gamers alike due to their engaging gameplay and replay value.
What Is the Best Selling Board Game in America?
The best-selling board game in America is Hasbro’s classic Monopoly. Since its release in 1935, Monopoly has captured the hearts of millions with its competitive gameplay based on buying, trading, and developing properties. Its enduring popularity has made it a staple in American households for generations.
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.
