Are you ready to unleash your strategic mind? Look no further because we have compiled a list of the best strategy board games of 2021. Strategy board games have long captivated players with their intricate gameplay mechanics and engaging challenges. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the top strategy board games of the year and explore the different types of games that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Strategy board games have always been popular within the gaming community. These games require players to think critically, plan ahead, and adapt their strategies based on ever-changing circumstances. The satisfaction that comes from outsmarting opponents and successfully executing a well-thought-out plan is unmatched. Whether you’re a seasoned strategy game enthusiast or new to the genre, there’s a game on this list that will surely pique your interest.
The purpose of this blog post is to showcase the best strategy board games of 2021, providing an overview of both classic titles that continue to shine as well as exciting new releases. We will also delve into cooperative and competitive strategy games, options for solo play, and recommendations for both beginners and advanced players. So get ready to dive into the world of strategy board games and prepare yourself for an exhilarating gaming experience like no other.
Classic Strategy Board Games that Continue to Shine in 2021
When it comes to strategy board games, there are certain timeless classics that have maintained their popularity throughout the years. These games have stood the test of time and continue to be enjoyed by gaming enthusiasts in 2021. Here are a few classic strategy board games that remain as popular as ever:
- Chess: Considered one of the oldest and most well-known strategy board games, chess is a game of skill and strategic planning. With its simple set of rules and endless possibilities for creative moves, chess offers a challenging and captivating experience for players of all ages.
- Risk: Risk is a game of global domination where players deploy armies, form alliances, and conquer territories to achieve victory. This classic war strategy game provides an immersive experience with a mix of luck and careful planning.
- Settlers of Catan: Settlers of Catan revolutionized the world of board games when it was first released in Even after all these years, it remains one of the most popular strategy games worldwide. Players compete to build settlements on an island while acquiring resources, trading with opponents, and strategically positioning themselves for success.
These classic strategy board games have enduring appeal for several reasons. They offer deep gameplay mechanics that reward strategic thinking, decision-making, and long-term planning. Additionally, many of these games have evolved over time with expansions and new variations, providing even more opportunities for replayability.
Furthermore, these classics often serve as gateways into the world of strategy board gaming, introducing new players to this exciting genre. Their widespread recognition makes them accessible to beginners while still offering layers of complexity that challenge experienced gamers.
Whether you are looking for a nostalgic experience or wanting to introduce someone new to the joy of strategy board gaming, these classics are an excellent choice that continues to shine in 2021.
New Releases in the World of Strategy Board Games
In the ever-evolving world of strategy board games, there are always exciting new releases to look forward to. 2021 is no exception, as game designers continue to push boundaries and introduce fresh concepts to engage strategy game enthusiasts. This section will showcase some of the latest strategy board games that have been released this year, highlighting their unique gameplay mechanics and features that set them apart from others.
One notable new release in 2021 is “Empire of Angels: Lunar Phantoms.” This tactical role-playing board game takes players on a journey through a beautifully illustrated fantasy world. In this game, players assume the roles of Valkyries, powerful warriors with unique abilities and skills.
As they navigate through different scenarios, players must strategically position their characters on the board and make use of their special powers to defeat enemies and complete objectives. The engaging storyline and intricate gameplay mechanics make “Empire of Angels: Lunar Phantoms” a must-try for fans of strategy and fantasy genres alike.
Another exciting new strategy board game release in 2021 is “Lost Ruins of Arnak.” Set in an uncharted island full of ancient ruins, this game combines deck-building mechanics with worker placement strategies. Players take on the roles of adventurers exploring the island, uncovering hidden treasures, researching artifacts, and discovering secret locations.
The game offers a blend of strategic decision-making and resource management as players compete to gain knowledge and uncover the mysteries contained within the lost ruins. With its immersive theme and innovative mechanics, “Lost Ruins of Arnak” promises hours of exciting gameplay for strategy enthusiasts.
For those who enjoy cooperative gameplay experiences, “Red Cathedral” is a standout new release in 2021. Set in medieval Russia, this tile-placement game requires players to work together to construct the famous St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow.
Each player will have their own area to build upon while collaborating with others to complete different sections of the cathedral. Careful planning and coordination are necessary to ensure that the cathedral’s domes, colored tiles, and structures come together harmoniously. “Red Cathedral” offers a unique cooperative strategy experience that encourages teamwork and communication among players.
| Strategy Board Game | Unique Gameplay Mechanics/Features |
|---|---|
| Empire of Angels: Lunar Phantoms | Tactical role-playing gameplay with powerful Valkyrie characters |
| Lost Ruins of Arnak | Mix of deck-building mechanics and worker placement strategies in an uncharted island setting |
| Red Cathedral | Cooperative tile-placement game focused on constructing St. Basil’s Cathedral with strategic planning and collaboration |
Cooperative Strategy Board Games for Intense Team Play
In the realm of strategy board games, cooperative gameplay has become increasingly popular among players. These games offer a unique experience where players work together as a team to overcome challenges and achieve a common goal. This section will highlight the best cooperative strategy board games of 2021, providing an overview of their mechanics and why they are beloved by enthusiasts.
One standout cooperative strategy board game is “Pandemic”. In this game, players take on the role of disease-fighting specialists who must work together to halt the spread of deadly diseases across the globe. With limited resources and time, players must strategize and collaborate to find cures before it’s too late. The intense teamwork required in “Pandemic” makes it a thrilling and challenging experience for players.
Another highly acclaimed cooperative strategy board game is “Spirit Island”. Set on a mystical island, players assume the roles of powerful spirits defending their home from invading colonizers. Each spirit possesses unique abilities, and players must coordinate their actions to subvert the colonizers’ plans while protecting the island’s inhabitants. “Spirit Island” offers deep strategic gameplay and encourages extensive communication and cooperation among its players.
Next up is “Gloomhaven,” an epic campaign-style cooperative strategy board game that has garnered significant acclaim within the gaming community. Players assume the roles of mercenaries in a persistent world filled with branching storylines, challenging quests, and tactical combat encounters. By working together to overcome obstacles and make decisions collectively, players immerse themselves in a rich narrative while honing their strategic abilities.
These are just a few examples of cooperative strategy board games that provide intense team play experiences. Through collaboration, communication, and shared decision-making, these games create opportunities for bonding and strengthening relationships among players. Whether you’re working towards saving humanity from global pandemics or defending mystical realms from invaders, these cooperative strategy board games are sure to test your teamwork skills and provide hours of thrilling gameplay.
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Pandemic | A disease-fighting game where players cooperate to stop global outbreaks. |
| Spirit Island | Players are powerful spirits protecting their island from invading colonizers. |
| Gloomhaven | An epic campaign-style game where players work together as mercenaries in a persistent world. |
Competitive Strategy Board Games for Thrilling Head-to-Head Battles
In the world of strategy board games, there is a special thrill that comes with going head-to-head with opponents in intense battles of wits. For those seeking exhilarating competition and strategic showdowns, here are some of the top competitive strategy board games of 2021:
- Ticket to Ride: This popular game challenges players to build train routes across North America. Each player aims to connect cities and complete their long-distance routes while blocking opponents from achieving their goals. Ticket to Ride offers a perfect blend of luck and strategy, making every playthrough an exciting and unpredictable race against time.
- Risk: As one of the most iconic strategy board games, Risk continues to entertain players with its classic gameplay. In this game of global domination, players strategize to conquer territories and eliminate opposing armies. The constant decision-making, negotiation, and conflict resolution make Risk a thrilling experience that tests both tactical skills and diplomatic prowess.
- Catan: Settlers of Catan, commonly known as Catan, has taken the board gaming world by storm since its release. Players take on the roles of settlers who aim to build settlements and collect resources on the island of Catan. With limited resources available and a constantly changing landscape, strategic planning, negotiation, and resource management become crucial for success.
These competitive strategy board games offer strategic depth, engaging gameplay mechanics, and countless opportunities for cunning moves and surprising tactics. No matter which game you choose, be prepared for intense battles that will push your strategic thinking to the limits.
For gamers who thrive on competition and love outsmarting opponents through clever moves and calculated risks, these head-to-head strategy board games provide endless hours of excitement and satisfaction. Whether you’re conquering territories, building train routes, or colonizing an island, the thrill of victory awaits as you outwit and outmaneuver your rivals.
So grab a friend or family member, set up the game board, and brace yourself for thrilling head-to-head battles with these top competitive strategy board games of 2021. It’s time to show off your strategic prowess and experience the exhilaration of tactical triumph.
Solo Strategy Board Games
Solo strategy board games offer a unique and immersive gaming experience, allowing players to conquer challenges and strategize their way to victory without the need for opponents. These games have gained popularity in recent years as more players are seeking engaging solo experiences that test their strategic thinking and decision-making skills. In this section, we will explore some of the best solo strategy board games available in 2021.
Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is a highly acclaimed solo strategy board game that has been making waves in the gaming community since its release. Set in a persistent world of fantasy, players take on the role of adventurers exploring dungeons, battling monsters, and uncovering secrets. With its intricate gameplay mechanics and deep storytelling elements, Gloomhaven offers an engrossing solo experience that can keep players engaged for hours on end.
Mage Knight
Mage Knight is another popular choice for solo strategy board game enthusiasts. In this game, players become powerful Mage Knights venturing out into a mystical land to conquer cities, defeat enemies, and build their own empires. With its mix of deck-building and tactical combat, Mage Knight provides a challenging and rewarding experience for solo players who enjoy complex decision-making and strategic planning.
Spirit Island
Spirit Island is a cooperative strategy board game that also offers a seamless solo play experience. Players take on the roles of spirits defending an island from colonizing invaders by using their unique powers and abilities to drive them away. Known for its deep strategic depth and thematic gameplay, Spirit Island presents players with tough choices as they balance resource management, tactical positioning, and collaboration with the island’s natives.
Whether you’re looking for immersive storytelling, complex decision-making, or deep strategic depth, these solo strategy board games offer something for every type of player. They provide a challenging and rewarding experience that allows you to test your skills, conquer challenges, and unleash your strategic mind on your own terms. So grab your favorite solo strategy board game and get ready for an exciting journey of conquering obstacles, overcoming challenges, and achieving victory all on your own.
Strategy Board Games for Beginners
Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a perfect strategy board game for beginners who are looking for an easy-to-learn and fun-to-play experience. In this game, players take on the role of railroad tycoons attempting to build their rail networks across various cities in North America (or other regions depending on the version).
The rules are straightforward: collect and match colored train cards to claim routes and connect cities on the board. The objective is to score the most points by completing routes and fulfilling destination tickets.
One of the reasons why Ticket to Ride is great for beginners is its simple yet engaging gameplay mechanics. The game strikes a balance between strategy and luck, making it accessible for players of all skill levels. It also offers multiple strategies to pursue, such as focusing on longer routes or completing destination tickets efficiently. With its colorful components, intuitive gameplay, and a quick setup time, Ticket to Ride provides an excellent gateway into the world of strategy board games.
Carcassonne
Carcassonne is another fantastic choice for beginners who want an introductory strategy board game that is easy to learn but offers depth in gameplay. Set in medieval France, players take turns placing tiles with landscape features such as roads, cities, cloisters, and fields. They can then choose whether to place one of their limited supply of followers (called “meeples”) on that tile to claim ownership of that feature and earn points when it gets completed.
What makes Carcassonne appealing for newcomers is its simplicity combined with strategic decision-making. Players must carefully consider where and when to place their meeples, as well as how to connect different features on the board for maximum point potential.
It also offers different expansion sets that add new layers of depth over time without overwhelming new players. Carcassonne’s elegant design, flexibility in playstyles, and its ability to be played with up to 6 players make it an ideal choice for beginners seeking a fun and approachable strategy board game.
Splendor
Splendor is a highly accessible and enjoyable strategy board game that is perfect for beginners who want a quick and engaging experience. In this game, players take on the role of Renaissance merchants aiming to acquire gemstones and develop their economic engine. The gameplay revolves around collecting gem cards, reserving development cards, and using acquired gems to purchase valuable prestige points.
What sets Splendor apart as a beginner-friendly strategy board game is its intuitive rules and straightforward mechanics. It can be learned in minutes yet provides ample opportunities for strategic decision-making.
Players must carefully manage their resources, plan their purchasing strategies, and pay attention to their opponents’ moves to secure victory. Furthermore, Splendor’s elegant components and short playtime (around 30 minutes) make it an excellent choice for newcomers who are looking for a well-balanced combination of accessibility and depth in gameplay.
With these easy-to-learn yet fun-to-play strategy board games, beginners can dive into the world of strategic thinking and have an enjoyable gaming experience right from the start. Whether it’s building rail networks in Ticket to Ride, constructing medieval landscapes in Carcassonne, or becoming a successful Renaissance merchant in Splendor, these games provide a delightful introduction to the genre while still offering enough depth for players to explore different strategies and improve their skills.
So gather some friends or family members, choose one of these beginner-friendly strategy board games, and embark on an unforgettable gaming adventure.
Strategy Board Games for Advanced Players
For experienced strategy game enthusiasts who crave a greater challenge, there are a number of board games in 2021 that are specifically designed to push the limits of their strategic thinking and decision-making skills. These games offer complex gameplay mechanics and require players to dive deep into intricate strategies in order to outwit their opponents.
Whether you enjoy conquering empires, building intricate civilizations, or engaging in intense battles, these strategy board games will provide you with hours of immersive and challenging gameplay.
One standout game for advanced players is “Twilight Struggle.” Set during the Cold War era, this two-player game allows players to take on the roles of either the United States or the Soviet Union as they compete for global influence and supremacy. With multiple paths to victory and a deep card-driven mechanic that forces tough decisions at every turn, “Twilight Struggle” offers an intense strategic experience that will keep advanced players engaged for hours.
Another highly recommended strategy board game is “Terraforming Mars.” In this game, players take on the role of corporations tasked with terraforming the red planet. With a vast array of cards that allow players to develop their own strategies and unique powers, “Terraforming Mars” requires advanced players to carefully manage resources, plan efficient actions, and adapt to unexpected events. The depth and complexity of this game make it a favorite among experienced strategy gamers.
Finally, “Scythe” is a visually stunning board game that combines elements of resource management, area control, and engine building. Set in an alternate history 1920s Europe where mechs roam the land after World War I, this game challenges advanced players to master asymmetrical player powers and optimize their moves strategically across multiple fronts. With its deep strategic choices and high replayability value, “Scythe” is a must-try for those seeking an advanced challenge in strategy gaming.
These are just a few examples of strategy board games that cater to advanced players in 2021. If you’re ready to push your strategic mind to the limit and conquer the toughest challenges, these games will provide you with a thrilling and satisfying gaming experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 2021 offers an exciting array of strategy board games that can unleash your strategic mind and provide hours of entertainment. Whether you are a newcomer to the genre or an experienced player seeking a greater challenge, there is something for everyone in the world of strategy board games.
The classic strategy board games that have stood the test of time continue to shine in 2021. These games have enduring appeal due to their well-designed mechanics, engaging gameplay, and the strategic thinking they require. They offer a nostalgic experience for longtime fans and a great introduction to the genre for newcomers.
On the other hand, the new releases in 2021 push boundaries and introduce fresh gameplay mechanics to keep strategy game enthusiasts engaged. Each of these games brings something unique to the table, whether it’s innovative cooperative gameplay or thrilling head-to-head battles. They showcase the creativity and ingenuity of game designers in crafting immersive gaming experiences.
For those who prefer solitary challenges, there is a wide selection of solo strategy board games available in 2021. These games offer engaging experiences that test your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills as you overcome obstacles on your own. They provide an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth through gaming.
Lastly, both beginners and advanced players can find strategy board games suited to their level of expertise. Easy-to-learn options are perfect for newcomers who want accessible gameplay without compromising on fun and engagement. Meanwhile, advanced players can dig into more complex games that offer depth and satisfaction when conquered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most strategic board game?
The most strategic board game is often considered to be Chess. With a history spanning over a millennium, Chess has earned its reputation as a game that requires deep tactical thinking and strategic planning.
Each move in Chess has consequences that can significantly impact the outcome of the game, making players constantly analyze positions, anticipate their opponent’s moves, and formulate long-term strategies. The complexity of the game allows for endless possibilities and challenges players to develop critical thinking skills, spatial awareness, and forward-thinking decision-making.
What was the most popular board game in 2021?
As of 2021, it is difficult to pinpoint one specific board game as the most popular across all demographics due to the diverse preferences and interests of individuals. However, several board games gained significant popularity during this year. Among them were “The Settlers of Catan,” which continues to captivate players with its resource management and negotiation mechanics, and “Codenames,” a social deduction word association game that enjoyed mainstream success.
Additionally, modern classics like “Ticket to Ride” and “Carcassonne” remained immensely popular throughout 2021. The choice in popular board games ultimately depends on personal preferences and interests.
What is the No 1 board game?
Determining the No 1 board game is subjective because it heavily depends on various factors such as personal tastes, cultural differences, and historical significance within different communities or regions. However, one highly acclaimed board game that frequently garners praise from enthusiasts worldwide is “Pandemic.”
In this cooperative game, players work together as a team of specialists aiming to prevent global outbreaks of diseases. Its innovative gameplay mechanism, captivating theme, immersive experience, and strong replay value have contributed to its widespread success among both casual gamers and dedicated hobbyists alike.
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.
