Strategy board games have steadily gained popularity in recent years as more and more people discover the thrill of intellectual challenge and strategic thinking they provide. And 2016 was no exception, with a plethora of top-notch strategy board games hitting the market. From intense military simulations to cooperative endeavors and captivating historical reenactments, these games captured gamers’ attention and imagination.
In this article, we delve into the top strategy board games of 2016, exploring their unique features, gameplay mechanics, and themes. We categorize them into different genres, such as military, cooperative, historical, and abstract, to provide a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts of all interests.
Throughout the article, we also analyze the strengths and weaknesses of specific games to help readers navigate the vast landscape of strategy board gaming. Additionally, we explore popular themes that emerged in the top picks of 2016 – from fantasy realms to space exploration and civilization-building. We question whether competitive or cooperative gameplay is more appealing for strategy enthusiasts by showcasing examples from standout titles in these categories in 2016.
Moreover, we discuss the innovations and trends that shaped strategy board gaming in 2016. Whether it be integrating technology or experiencing legacy games (games where outcomes from previous plays impact future ones), there were exciting developments to examine.
Ultimately, our goal is to not only introduce readers to fantastic strategy board games but also provide insights into game mechanics and strategies that players can utilize to improve their own skills. By doing so, we aim to create an engaging resource for both newcomers and seasoned strategists alike. So without further ado, let’s dive into the captivating world of strategy board gaming.
Categorizing Strategy Games
Strategy board games can be categorized into various categories, each with its own unique characteristics and gameplay elements. In 2016, the top strategy games encompassed a wide range of themes and mechanics, catering to the diverse interests of gamers. Let’s delve into these different categories of strategy board games and explore some notable examples from 2016.
Military Strategy Games
Military strategy games focus on warfare and tactical decision-making. These games often simulate historical battles or conflicts, allowing players to command armies and strategize their way to victory. Examples of popular military strategy games from 2016 include “Scythe” and “Twilight Struggle.”.
Cooperative Strategy Games
Cooperative strategy games require players to work together towards a common goal. Instead of competing against each other, players collaborate to overcome challenges and obstacles presented by the game itself. “Pandemic Legacy: Season 1” and “Dead of Winter: A Crossroads Game” are two highly acclaimed cooperative strategy games that emerged in 2016.
Historical Strategy Games
Historical strategy games provide a deep dive into specific periods or events in history. These games often incorporate historical accuracy while offering players the opportunity to rewrite or reimagine history through their strategic choices. Notable examples from 2016 include “Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization” and “Liberty or Death: The American Insurrection.”.
Abstract Strategy Games
Abstract strategy games are characterized by simplified rules, focused on pure strategy rather than theme or narrative. These games tend to have minimalist aesthetics but offer complex gameplay depth that challenges players’ strategic thinking skills. Two standout abstract strategy board games from 2016 include “Santorini” and “Onitama.”.
By categorizing strategy board games, it becomes easier for players to explore games that align with their preferred themes or gameplay mechanics. The diversity within each category ensures that there is a strategy board game to suit every gamer’s taste. Whether you prefer military conquest, cooperative problem-solving, historical simulations, or abstract strategic challenges, the world of strategy board games in 2016 had something for everyone.
Game 1
One of the top strategy board games of 2016 was Scythe, designed by Jamey Stegmaier. Set in an alternate history 1920s Eastern Europe, Scythe combines elements of resource management, area control, and engine building to create a unique and immersive gameplay experience.
Scythe is known for its stunning artwork and components, which greatly contribute to its appeal. The game features beautifully illustrated cards and game boards that depict the intricacies of the fictional world. The attention to detail in the design adds depth to the gameplay and helps players immerse themselves in the world of Scythe.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, Scythe offers players multiple paths to victory. Each player controls a unique faction with their own strengths and abilities, giving them different strategies to pursue. The game encourages players to think strategically as they navigate the ever-changing board and compete for resources and territory.
One unique feature of Scythe is its action selection mechanism. Players must choose actions from a personal player mat which limits their options each turn. This creates tension as players have to carefully plan their moves while anticipating their opponents’ choices. Additionally, the inclusion of mechs adds another layer of strategy as players can upgrade them into more powerful units or use them defensively.
Overall, Scythe offers a rich and engaging strategic experience that keeps players coming back for more. Its combination of captivating artwork, versatile gameplay mechanics, and immersive theme make it deserving of its recognition as one of the top strategy board games of 2016. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the genre, Scythe provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience that will keep you strategizing long after each play session concludes.
Game 2
Another highly recommended strategy board game from 2016 is “Scythe”. Scythe is set in an alternate history version of the 1920s where players take on the role of factions competing for control over a post-war land resource. It combines elements of worker placement, area control, and resource management to create a unique gameplay experience.
One of the strengths of Scythe is its beautiful artwork and components. The game board is intricately designed with stunning illustrations that bring the world to life. The miniatures representing each faction are also well-crafted and add to the immersive experience. Additionally, the game includes metal coins which add a tactile and thematic element to the gameplay.
Scythe also stands out for its deep strategic gameplay. Each faction has different abilities and resources, allowing for a variety of paths to victory. Players must carefully manage their resources and make strategic decisions to gain control over territories, build structures, upgrade technologies, and deploy mechs. The combination of different mechanics adds layers of depth to the gameplay, creating a satisfying experience for seasoned strategy gamers.
One potential weakness of Scythe is its steep learning curve. The rulebook can be overwhelming for new players, with many interconnecting systems and complex strategies to grasp. This may make it less accessible for casual gamers or those unfamiliar with complex Euro-style games. However, once players invest time in understanding the mechanics, the rewarding gameplay experience makes it worth it.
In comparison to Game 1 (insert title), Scythe offers a more immersive theme and deeper strategy. While Game 1 may have had simpler rules and easier accessibility, Scythe provides a richer gaming experience overall for players who enjoy delving into complex strategies and exploring an alternate history setting. Both games have their own unique strengths and weaknesses that cater to different types of strategy game enthusiasts.
Overall, Scythe is a highly recommended strategy board game from 2016 that offers a visually appealing and immersive experience with deep strategic gameplay. Its unique blend of mechanics and alternate history theme sets it apart in the genre. Players who enjoy diving into complex strategies and exploring detailed game worlds will likely find Scythe to be a standout choice.
Popular Themes in Strategy Board Games
In 2016, strategy board games continued to captivate players with a wide range of themes. Among the top picks of the year, three prevalent themes stood out: fantasy, space exploration, and civilization-building. These immersive and imaginative themes allowed players to step into different worlds and engage in strategic decision-making.
- Fantasy: One of the most popular themes in strategy board games is fantasy. Games like “Mage Knight” and “War of the Ring” transport players to fantastical realms where they can command armies, cast spells, and embark on epic quests.
This theme appeals to many players who enjoy delving into richly detailed worlds filled with mythical creatures and magical powers. The combination of strategic gameplay with imaginative storytelling allows players to create their own narratives within these fantasy realms. - Space Exploration: Another prominent theme in strategy board games is space exploration. Games such as “Twilight Imperium” and “Eclipse” allow players to become interstellar empires vying for control over planets and resources in vast galaxies. The theme of space exploration opens up endless possibilities for strategic decision-making as players navigate star systems, negotiate alliances or wage wars across the cosmos.
- Civilization-Building: Civilization-building is a perennially popular theme in strategy board games that was well represented in 2016 with titles like “Through the Ages” and “Terra Mystica.” These games enable players to guide civilizations from humble beginnings to grand heights by managing resources, developing technologies, and expanding territories. The appeal of civilization-building lies in its ability to simulate the complexities of history while providing opportunities for strategic planning and long-term development.
These popular themes not only provide engaging settings for strategy board games but also inspire unique mechanics that enhance player immersion and strategic decision-making. Whether it is commanding armies in a fantasy realm, exploring the depths of outer space, or guiding the rise of civilizations, these themes serve as a gateway to exciting and rewarding gameplay experiences.
As the popularity of strategy board games continues to grow, players can look forward to even more diverse and imaginative themes in the future.
Competitive vs Cooperative
Within the realm of strategy board games, there exists a wide spectrum that ranges from competitive to cooperative gameplay. While both styles have their own merits and drawbacks, they attract different types of players and provide distinct experiences. In this section, we will delve into the pros and cons of competitive and cooperative strategy games, highlighting notable examples from the top picks of 2016.
Competitive Strategy Games
Competitive strategy board games have long been a staple in the genre, captivating players with their intense rivalries and strategic decision-making. These games pit players against one another in a battle for dominance or resources, with victory coming to those who outmaneuver and outwit their opponents. One notable example from 2016 is “Scythe”.
“Scythe” takes place in an alternate history where factions compete to conquer territories and resources by utilizing unique abilities granted by mechs. This game received praise for its beautifully crafted artwork, complex yet streamlined mechanics, and deep player interaction. However, the competitive nature of “Scythe” may not be suitable for everyone as it can lead to intense competition and potential feelings of frustration for less experienced or casual gamers.
Cooperative Strategy Games
On the other end of the spectrum are cooperative strategy games, which emphasize collaboration and teamwork among players towards a common goal. These games foster a sense of camaraderie as players work together to overcome challenges presented by either the game itself or an external AI-controlled antagonist. A standout example from 2016 is “Pandemic Legacy: Season 1”.
“Pandemic Legacy: Season 1” takes the popular base game “Pandemic” to new heights with its innovative legacy format – where choices made during each session permanently change future gameplay. Players must work together as disease-fighting specialists to prevent global outbreaks while unraveling a gripping narrative.
The cooperative nature of this game fosters engagement, communication, and strategic planning among players. However, some may find the lack of direct competition less appealing as it reduces the adrenaline rush that comes with outsmarting opponents.
By considering both competitive and cooperative strategy games, players can determine which style aligns better with their preferences and playstyle. Moreover, understanding the pros and cons of each gameplay type allows enthusiasts to navigate through the vast array of 2016’s top strategy board games more strategically.
Innovations and Trends
One noticeable trend in strategy board gaming in 2016 was the integration of technology into traditional board games. Many designers and publishers found creative ways to incorporate digital elements into their games, enhancing gameplay and increasing player engagement.
One example of this is “XCOM: The Board Game,” which seamlessly integrates a companion app that not only keeps track of various game elements but also adds a real-time element to the game. Players must work together to defend against an alien invasion, with the app providing challenging events and time-sensitive decisions.
Another emerging trend in 2016 was the rise of legacy games. Legacy games are designed to be played over multiple sessions, with each playthrough permanently altering the game’s components or rules. This creates a unique narrative for each group of players as they shape their own version of the game.
“Pandemic Legacy: Season 1” took this trend by storm in 2016, providing an engaging cooperative experience where players experienced an evolving storyline and had lasting consequences based on their choices. The success of “Pandemic Legacy” paved the way for other legacy-style games like “Charterstone” and “Gloomhaven”.
Additionally, 2016 saw an increased focus on storytelling within strategy board games. Games like “Scythe” and “Terraforming Mars” offered deep thematic experiences, allowing players to immerse themselves in rich narratives set in unique fictional worlds. These games incorporated compelling artwork, evocative card text, and intricate world-building mechanics to transport players into captivating settings.
As innovation continues to flourish within the realm of strategy board gaming, it will be interesting to see how technology continues to shape gameplay experiences. The integration of virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) may become more prevalent, further blurring the lines between traditional board games and digital gaming.
Legacy games are also expected to evolve, introducing new mechanics and storytelling devices to captivate players even more. Ultimately, the innovations and trends witnessed in 2016 have breathed new life into the strategy board gaming genre, creating exciting possibilities for future gameplay experiences.
Game Mechanics
In addition to their thematic elements, the success of strategy board games often hinges on their innovative and engaging game mechanics. The top strategy board games of 2016 showcased a variety of unique game mechanics that challenged players to think strategically and adapt to changing circumstances. Understanding these game mechanics can provide valuable insights and tips for players looking to improve their strategies and enhance their gameplay experience.
One notable game that exemplified interesting game mechanics in 2016 is “Scythe.” This highly acclaimed strategy board game combines elements of resource management, area control, combat, and economic engine building. Each player takes on the role of a faction leader in an alternate history setting where mechanical engines dominate a post-World War I era.
As players build up their factions, they must strategically manage resources, explore the board, engage in combat encounters, and utilize special abilities to gain control over territories. The combination of these different mechanics creates a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience.
Another standout game in terms of unique game mechanics is “Terraforming Mars.” In this science fiction-themed strategy board game, players take on the role of corporations working to transform Mars into a habitable planet. The game employs a card-driven mechanic as players draft cards from various project categories, such as technology or colony establishment.
These cards then allow players to take actions like increasing temperature or oxygen levels on Mars or building infrastructure. This card-driven mechanic provides players with numerous strategic choices as they must carefully select which projects to prioritize based on their current goals and available resources.
Understanding the specific game mechanics employed by these top strategy board games can greatly enhance one’s ability to develop effective strategies. For example, in “Scythe,” it is crucial for players to balance their resource management with territory expansion and engagement in combat encounters.
Similarly, in “Terraforming Mars,” players must carefully evaluate the cards available in each round and consider how they can be used to further their individual objectives. By familiarizing themselves with these game mechanics, players can better anticipate their opponents’ moves and adapt their strategies accordingly.
| Game | Unique Game Mechanics |
|---|---|
| “Scythe” | Resource management, area control, combat, economic engine building |
| “Terraforming Mars” | Card-driven mechanic for actions like temperature and oxygen level increase, infrastructure building |
By understanding the intricacies of these game mechanics and strategies employed by the top strategy board games of 2016, players can elevate their gameplay experience while also developing skills that may be applicable to other games within the genre. As players continue to explore the diverse offerings of strategy board games, they will likely encounter new and innovative game mechanics that challenge them to think creatively and analytically.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the popularity and appeal of strategy board games in 2016 are clearly evident. Strategy board games have captured the attention and interest of players around the world, offering a unique and engaging gaming experience. The diverse categories of strategy games, from military to cooperative to historical and abstract, provide something for every type of player.
The top strategy board games of 2016 showcased a variety of themes, including fantasy, space exploration, and civilization-building. These themes not only added immersion to the gameplay but also allowed players to explore new worlds and concepts. Additionally, the competitive versus cooperative debate was explored, highlighting the pros and cons of both types of gameplay.
In terms of innovation and trends, 2016 witnessed an integration of technology into strategy board gaming. This included the use of apps or companion devices that enhanced gameplay or added additional layers of complexity. Legacy games also gained traction in 2016 – these were games that evolved over time as players made permanent changes to the game components or storyline.
As we look towards the future, it is clear that the enduring appeal of strategy board games will continue to captivate players in 2017 and beyond. With advancements in technology and a never-ending thirst for new ideas, we can expect even more immersive gameplay experiences. It is likely that we will see further developments in legacy games as well as increased integration between video gaming platforms and traditional tabletop gameplay.
Overall, strategy board games have proven themselves to be a dynamic gaming genre with limitless potential. Whether it’s delving into intricate game mechanics or immersing oneself in genre-rich themes, strategy board games offer an unparalleled level of engagement for players. As we move forward into 2017 and beyond, it is safe to say that strategy board gaming will continue to evolve and surprise us with new innovations and unforgettable experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular strategy board games?
There are several strategy board games that have gained immense popularity over the years. One of the most popular ones is “Chess.” Dating back to ancient times, Chess has captivated players with its intricate strategic gameplay which involves outsmarting opponents and capturing their king.
Another highly popular strategy board game is “Risk,” which requires players to conquer territories and establish dominance over the world map through careful planning and tactical moves. “Settlers of Catan” is also a favorite among strategy game enthusiasts, as it combines elements of resource management, negotiation, and expansion in a dynamic gameplay experience.
What is the most popular game in the world 2016?
In 2016, the title of the most popular game in the world belonged to “Pokémon Go.” This mobile augmented reality game took the world by storm, breaking records within weeks of its release.
With millions of players exploring their surroundings in search of virtual Pokemon creatures, Pokémon Go became a cultural phenomenon and brought gaming into the real world like never before. Its success can be attributed to its innovative use of technology, nostalgia for the beloved franchise, and social aspects that encouraged players to interact with each other.
What is the most successful board game of all time?
The most successful board game of all time is widely considered to be “Monopoly.” Developed in the early 20th century by Elizabeth Magie Phillips, Monopoly has become an iconic classic enjoyed by generations worldwide.
The game simulates real estate trading and development, challenging players to make strategic decisions regarding property acquisition and management while navigating various obstacles such as chance cards and opponents’ properties. Monopoly’s enduring success can be attributed to its engaging gameplay, simple yet addictive mechanics, and universal appeal that transcends language barriers and ages.
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.
