Strategy board games have gained immense popularity in 2020, becoming a staple for game nights and fostering strategic thinking among players. With the increasing demand for engaging and intellectually stimulating entertainment, the best strategy board games of 2020 offer an array of options for players of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the world of strategy board games, there is a game out there that will captivate your attention.
In this article, we will delve into the reasons why strategy board games are a must-have for game night, exploring the myriad benefits of playing these games. Additionally, we will provide a detailed review of the top 10 best strategy board games of 2020, discussing their unique features and gameplay.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, we will also examine the evolution of strategy board games from traditional classics to modern favorites, as well as how to choose the right game for you.
From family-friendly options to adult favorites, there is a strategy board game that suits every age group and preference. We will also shine a light on the rise of cooperative strategy board games as a new trend in gaming.
Looking towards the future, we will discuss anticipated releases and trends for 2021 while embracing the excitement and strategic thinking offered by these captivating games in 2020. So whether you’re looking to enhance your strategic prowess or simply enjoy an engaging evening with friends and family, this article is your guide to navigating the world of strategy board games.
Why Strategy Board Games Are a Must-Have for Game Night
When it comes to game night, strategy board games are a must-have for anyone looking to add depth and excitement to their gaming experience. In 2020, the best strategy board games offer a range of benefits that go beyond just entertainment.
One of the key advantages of playing these games is the development of critical thinking and strategic skills. Whether it’s devising a plan to outwit opponents or making calculated moves to achieve victory, these games provide an opportunity for players to hone their decision-making abilities.
Furthermore, strategy board games also encourage social interaction and cooperation among players. The best strategy board games 2020 have multiplayer options that allow friends and family members to engage in friendly competition while fostering communication and teamwork. This not only strengthens personal relationships but also promotes a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences during game night gatherings.
In addition to mental and social benefits, playing strategy board games can also be a stress reliever. Engaging in strategic gameplay provides an opportunity for individuals to unwind, focus on the present moment, and escape from the pressures of everyday life. With the wide variety of options available, there’s a strategy board game suitable for every player, making them an essential addition to any game night lineup.
Top 10 Best Strategy Board Games of 2020
Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is consistently ranked as one of the best strategy board games of 2020. This game offers a deep and immersive experience, with players taking on the roles of mercenaries in a dark and unforgiving world.
The game features a unique card-driven combat system that adds an element of tactical decision-making to every encounter. With its challenging scenarios, rich storytelling, and customizable characters, Gloomhaven is a must-have for any board game enthusiast looking for a complex and engaging experience.
Wingspan
Wingspan has quickly risen to become one of the most beloved strategy board games of 2020. This award-winning game combines stunning artwork with strategic gameplay centered around bird-watching and habitat-building.
Players compete to attract a diverse array of birds to their wildlife preserves, using unique abilities and resource management to gain the most points by the end of the game. With its elegant mechanics and beautiful design, Wingspan has earned its place as one of the top strategy board games of 2020.
Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars continues to be a favorite among strategy board game enthusiasts in 2020. In this game, players act as corporations working together to terraform the red planet into a habitable environment for humanity. With resource management, project planning, and strategic decision-making at its core, Terraforming Mars offers an immersive and thought-provoking gameplay experience. Its replay value and depth make it a standout choice for fans of complex strategy board games.
Each of these top 10 best strategy board games of 2020 offers unique gameplay experiences that test players’ abilities in different ways. Whether you prefer intense combat scenarios or peaceful resource management challenges, there’s something on this list for every type of strategist looking for engaging and rewarding gaming experiences in 2020.
The Evolution of Strategy Board Games
Traditional Classics: Honoring Timeless Strategy Games
Classic strategy board games such as chess, Checkers, and Go have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by players around the world. These games require thoughtful planning, foresight, and strategic thinking to outmaneuver opponents. Chess, in particular, has been considered one of the greatest strategy board games for centuries due to its simple yet deep gameplay.
Modern Eurogames: Embracing Innovation and Creativity
In recent years, modern Eurogames like Settlers of Catan, Ticket to Ride, and Carcassonne have taken the tabletop gaming world by storm. These games are characterized by their emphasis on strategy and indirect player interaction, offering a new approach to traditional board game mechanics. With innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive themes, modern Eurogames have captivated both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts alike.
Crossover Success: Blending Traditional and Modern Elements
Some strategy board games successfully blend elements from both traditional classics and modern favorites. Games like Risk Legacy take familiar gameplay mechanisms from classic war games while incorporating innovative concepts that evolve over multiple play sessions. This blending of old and new has led to a resurgence in interest for classic titles with a modern twist, making them some of the best strategy board games 2020 has offered so far.
How to Choose the Right Strategy Board Game for You
When choosing the best strategy board games 2020 to add to your collection, there are several factors to consider in order to find the perfect game for you. Whether you are a new player or a seasoned strategist, it’s important to take into account your personal preferences and gaming style. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when selecting a strategy board game:
Factors to Consider:
1. Complexity: Consider the complexity of the game and whether it aligns with your skill level and experience. If you’re new to strategy board games, you may want to start with a game that has simpler rules and mechanics, such as Ticket to Ride or Carcassonne. On the other hand, if you enjoy a challenge and have experience with complex games, options like Terraforming Mars or Twilight Struggle may be more suitable for you.
2. Theme: Think about the theme or setting of the game. Do you prefer historical, fantasy, sci-fi, or abstract themes? There are strategy board games available across a wide range of themes, so choose one that resonates with your interests and preferences.
3. Player Count: Consider how many players will typically be joining your game nights. Some strategy board games are designed for two players, while others accommodate larger groups. Games like Pandemic and 7 Wonders offer scalability for different player counts.
4. Game Length: Determine how much time you want to dedicate to playing a single game session. Some strategy board games can be completed in under an hour, while others may require several hours of gameplay. If time is a factor for you, select a game with an appropriate length, such as Splendor or Scythe.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can narrow down your options and find the best strategy board game for your gaming preferences in 2020. Whether you enjoy competitive confrontations or cooperative challenges, there is sure to be a board game that suits your play style and provides endless hours of entertainment.
The Rise of Cooperative Strategy Board Games
In recent years, cooperative strategy board games have been gaining momentum and have become a new trend in the gaming industry. This category of games encourages players to work together towards a common goal, fostering teamwork and communication among the participants. Unlike traditional competitive board games where players face off against each other, cooperative strategy board games require collaboration and strategic thinking to overcome challenges, making them an exciting addition to game night for families and friends.
One of the key benefits of cooperative strategy board games is the sense of camaraderie they foster among players. Instead of trying to outsmart or outmaneuver each other, participants are united in their efforts to achieve a shared objective. This not only promotes teamwork but also teaches important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. Additionally, these games often lead to engaging discussions and brainstorming sessions, making them ideal for social gatherings and team-building activities.
Some of the best cooperative strategy board games of 2020 include Pandemic, Gloomhaven, and Spirit Island. Pandemic has gained widespread acclaim for its unique gameplay that tasks players with saving humanity from deadly diseases.
Gloomhaven offers a rich fantasy world with deep storytelling elements, while Spirit Island challenges players to protect a mystical island from invaders using strategic planning and resource management. These games have captured the attention of both casual gamers and dedicated enthusiasts alike, solidifying their place as top choices for game night entertainment.
| Cooperative Strategy Board Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Pandemic | A game that simulates global disease control where players must work together to stop the spread of viruses. |
| Gloomhaven | An immersive fantasy campaign where players collaborate to overcome challenges in a persistent world. |
| Spirit Island | Players cooperate as powerful spirits defending their island home from colonizing Invaders. |
Strategy Board Games for Every Age Group
When it comes to strategy board games, there are options that cater to players of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly game to play with the kids or an adult favorite for your next game night with friends, there is no shortage of choices in 2020. These games not only provide entertainment but also serve as a great way to sharpen cognitive skills and strategic thinking.
For families looking for a classic yet entertaining strategy board game, “Ticket to Ride” is an excellent choice. This game is easy to learn and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. It involves building train routes across the country, making it both educational and fun. Another family-friendly option is “Codenames,” a word-based game that encourages teamwork and critical thinking.
For adult gamers, “Wingspan” has gained popularity as one of the best strategy board games of 2020. This game focuses on bird-watching and strategic resource management, providing a unique and immersive gaming experience. In addition, “Terraforming Mars” offers complex gameplay and deep strategy, making it a favorite among serious board game enthusiasts.
It’s clear that there are numerous strategy board games available for every age group, offering a wide range of themes, complexities, and gameplay styles. Whether playing with family or friends, these games provide an opportunity for fun while also enhancing problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.
| Game Title | Age Group |
|---|---|
| Ticket to Ride | Family-friendly |
| Codenames | Family-friendly |
| Wingspan | Adults |
| Terraforming Mars | Adults |
The Future of Strategy Board Games
As 2020 comes to a close, the world of board gaming is eagerly looking forward to what 2021 has in store. With the immense popularity of strategy board games in 2020, game enthusiasts are looking for the next big thing to add to their collection. Anticipated releases and trends for 2021 promise to elevate the strategy board game experience even further.
Anticipated Releases
- “Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition” – A card-driven engine-building game set in the same universe as the original “Terraforming Mars,” this stand-alone game promises new gameplay elements and an updated look for fans of the franchise.
- “Dune: Imperium” – Based on the iconic science fiction universe created by Frank Herbert, this game combines deck-building and worker placement mechanics in a battle for control of the desert planet Arrakis.
- “Lost Ruins of Arnak” – Set on a mysterious island, this game has players exploring jungles, researching technology, and uncovering ancient artifacts in a quest for knowledge and adventure.
Trends for 2021
- Innovative Hybrid Games – With the success of games that combine multiple genres such as deck-building and worker placement or area control and resource management, expect to see more innovative hybrid games pushing boundaries in 2021.
- Digital Integration – Many new strategy board games are incorporating digital aspects to enhance gameplay, offering companion apps or digital components that add value to the tabletop experience.
- Diverse Themes – As the board gaming community continues to grow more inclusive, we anticipate seeing a broader range of themes and settings explored in strategy board games, catering to diverse interests among players.
Predicted Impact
With anticipated releases like “Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition,” “Dune: Imperium,” and “Lost Ruins of Arnak,” combined with evolving trends such as innovative hybrids, digital integration, and diverse themes, it’s clear that strategy board games are poised for another exciting year in 2021. As these games hit the shelves and new trends shape the landscape of tabletop gaming, enthusiasts can look forward to an ever-expanding world of strategic gameplay experiences.
The future looks bright for those seeking out the best strategy board games 2020 had to offer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the year 2020 has undoubtedly been a significant one for the world of board games, particularly for strategy board games. The increasing popularity of these games is a testament to the timeless appeal of strategic thinking and immersive gameplay. As we look back on the top 10 best strategy board games of 2020, it’s clear that these games have brought countless hours of entertainment and intellectual stimulation to players of all ages.
The benefits of playing strategy board games go beyond mere amusement. These games promote critical thinking, decision-making skills, and social interaction, making them a must-have for any game night. Whether it’s the classic favorites or modern releases, strategy board games continue to captivate players and provide a unique gaming experience that cannot be replicated by other types of tabletop or video games.
Looking ahead, the future of strategy board games looks promising with anticipated releases and emerging trends for 2021. The evolution of cooperative strategy board games as a new trend in gaming signifies an exciting shift towards collaborative gameplay experiences.
As more innovative and engaging strategy board games are introduced to the market, it’s safe to say that this genre will continue to thrive and attract a growing audience of dedicated players. The year 2020 has set the stage for what promises to be an even more remarkable era for some exciting play opportunities with the best strategy board games 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Strategic Board Games?
The best strategic board games are often subjective, but some popular choices include Settlers of Catan, Risk, and Ticket to Ride. These games require players to think critically and plan ahead to outwit their opponents.
What Was the Most Popular Board Game in 2020?
In 2020, the most popular board game was likely “Catan.” This game has gained a strong following over the years due to its combination of strategy and resource management. Its popularity continued to grow in 2020.
What Is the #1 Board Game in the World?
The #1 board game in the world is often debated, but chess is widely considered one of the top choices due to its intricate gameplay and global appeal. Chess has a rich history and is enjoyed by people of all ages worldwide.
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.
