Are you on the lookout for the top ten strategy board games 2018? Look no further. Strategy board games have been gaining popularity in recent years, attracting a growing number of players seeking intellectually stimulating and immersive gaming experiences. These games are known for requiring strategic thinking, long-term planning, and tactical decision-making, making them a favorite among enthusiasts of complex and challenging gameplay.
When it comes to selecting the top strategy board games, certain key criteria come into play. Factors such as complexity, strategic depth, replayability, and thematic appeal are carefully considered to determine which games stand out as the best of the best in the genre. In this article, we’ll delve into the top ten strategy board games of 2018, analyzing what makes these games exceptional and why they deserve recognition.
From analyzing gameplay mechanics to discussing player engagement, we will offer an in-depth look at each game that secured a spot on our list. Additionally, we will provide insights into strategies and tactics that make these games stand out as prime choices for strategic gamers.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the genre, our comprehensive breakdown of these top-rated strategy board games will help you find your next favorite game to add to your collection. Keep reading to discover which titles made it to our list and why they are worth exploring for any fan of strategic gaming.
Key Criteria for Selecting the Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018
When choosing the top ten strategy board games for 2018, several key criteria were taken into consideration to ensure that only the best and most deserving titles made the cut. One crucial factor in the selection process was the complexity of the game. The top ten strategy board games of 2018 are known for their intricate rules, multi-layered strategies, and deep decision-making, providing players with a challenging and rewarding experience.
Another important element that played a significant role in determining the top ten strategy board games of 2018 is their strategic depth. These games offer a wealth of options, allowing players to craft long-term plans, adapt to changing circumstances, and outmaneuver their opponents through clever tactics. They provide an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience that keeps players coming back for more.
Replayability was also a vital consideration when curating the top ten strategy board games of 2018. A game’s ability to remain fresh and engaging after multiple plays was essential in securing its position on the list. Whether through variable setups, diverse player interactions, or dynamic outcomes, these games have proven themselves to be endlessly replayable, offering new challenges and experiences each time they are brought to the table.
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Complexity | The overall intricacy of game rules and strategic decisions |
| Strategic Depth | The richness of options available to players in crafting long-term plans and outmaneuvering opponents |
| Replayability | The ability of a game to offer fresh experiences after multiple plays through variability and dynamic outcomes |
#1 Top Ten Strategy Board Game 2018
Gloomhaven, the top-ranked game of the top ten strategy board games, has gained widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive world. Released in 2017, it continued to dominate the board game scene in 2018, securing its position as a favorite among strategic gamers. What sets Gloomhaven apart is its unique combination of role-playing elements with tactical combat scenarios, providing players with a rich and rewarding experience.
The game’s success can be attributed to its strategic depth and replayability. With a vast array of scenarios, characters, and equipment to explore, Gloomhaven offers endless possibilities for players to craft their own strategies and tactics.
The game’s thematic appeal also resonates strongly with players, drawing them into a dark and mysterious world filled with choice-driven narratives and challenging encounters. This comprehensive blend of strategic complexity and immersive storytelling makes Gloomhaven a standout choice for those seeking an unparalleled gaming experience.
In addition to its gameplay strengths, Gloomhaven has garnered praise for its player engagement. The collaborative nature of the game encourages teamwork and coordination among participants, fostering an exhilarating sense of camaraderie as players navigate through the game’s evolving narrative. Whether delving into daunting dungeons or engaging in intense battles, Gloomhaven consistently delivers compelling gameplay experiences that keep players enthralled from start to finish.
| Gloomhaven | Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018 |
|---|---|
| Innovative gameplay mechanics | Endless possibilities for strategic exploration |
| Immersion in dark and mysterious world | Engaging player engagement and collaboration |
#2 Top Ten Strategy Board Game 2018
In the #2 spot for the Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018 is “Terraforming Mars”. This highly acclaimed game has garnered attention for its unique gameplay mechanics and strategic challenges, making it a favorite among board game enthusiasts. With an emphasis on planetary terraforming and resource management, “Terraforming Mars” offers players a deep level of strategic depth and complexity that sets it apart from other games in the genre.
Key features that have contributed to “Terraforming Mars” securing its position as the second-ranked game include its replayability and thematic appeal. The game allows for different strategies and tactics to achieve success, providing players with ongoing engagement and satisfaction. In addition, the theme of space exploration and environmental transformation adds an immersive element that resonates with a wide range of gamers.
Players of “Terraforming Mars” must carefully manage their resources, balance competing priorities, and adapt to dynamic gameplay conditions in order to succeed. The game’s strategic challenges require careful planning and decision-making, making it a top choice for those seeking a mentally stimulating gaming experience.
Factors Contributing to Terraforming Mars’ Success
- Rich thematic elements that capture the imagination of players
- Diverse strategic options that cater to different play styles
- High replayability due to variability in gameplay setups
Strategies for Success in Terraforming Mars
- Focus on optimizing your engine early on to generate resources efficiently.
- Strive for a balance between terraforming objectives and resource acquisition.
- Keep an eye on your opponents’ strategies and adjust accordingly to stay competitive in the game.
As one of the top ten strategy board games of 2018, “Terraforming Mars” has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the gaming community with its sophisticated gameplay and thematic depth.
#3-#5 Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018
#3: Settlers of Catan
Settlers of Catan remains a staple in the world of strategy board games, and its placement as one of the top ten strategy board games for 2018 is a testament to its enduring appeal. The game’s mix of resource management, negotiation, and strategic placement makes it a favorite among players who enjoy complex and interactive gaming experiences.
With multiple expansion packs available, Settlers of Catan continues to offer new challenges and opportunities for strategic play, cementing its position as a beloved classic.
#4: Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars has garnered widespread praise for its deep strategic gameplay and immersive theme. As players work to make the red planet habitable, they must carefully manage resources, draft project cards, and navigate ever-changing environmental conditions. The game’s emphasis on long-term planning and tactical decision-making provides a satisfying challenge for strategy enthusiasts. With its engaging mechanics and high replayability, Terraforming Mars secures its spot as one of the top strategy board games of 2018.
#5: Scythe
Scythe combines elements of area control, resource management, and combat strategy within an alternate history setting known for its stunning visuals and rich lore. Players take on the role of faction leaders vying for dominance in Eastern Europa through economic growth, aggressive tactics, or diplomatic maneuvers.
The game’s asymmetric abilities and variable player mats add layers of complexity that reward careful planning and adaptability. Scythe’s unique blend of mechanics and thematic storytelling places it firmly among the top ten strategy board games for 2018.
Overall, these three titles represent diverse approaches to strategy board gaming while fulfilling essential criteria such as strategic depth, thematic appeal, and replay value. Each game offers a distinct experience catering to different play styles while showcasing the innovation present in modern board game design.
#6-#10 Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018
In the lower half of the top ten strategy board games 2018 list, there are some noteworthy titles that may not have secured a higher rank but still offer compelling gameplay experiences for strategic gamers. Here are the games that landed in the #6-#10 positions:
1. 7 Wonders: This card drafting game challenges players to develop their civilizations and navigate through different ages. With its blend of resource management, strategic card play, and varied paths to victory, 7 Wonders offers a richly layered gameplay experience.
2. Terraforming Mars: Set on the Red Planet, Terraforming Mars requires players to collaborate and compete in transforming the hostile environment into a habitable world. The game’s emphasis on engine building and long-term planning makes it a favorite among fans of deep strategic gameplay.
3. Scythe: Combining elements of resource management, area control, and combat, Scythe immerses players in an alternate history 1920s Europe where nations vie for dominance using giant mechs. Its elegant design and asymmetric player abilities contribute to its strong appeal.
4. Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization: As a civilization-building game that spans from antiquity to modern times, Through the Ages challenges players to manage resources, advance technologies, and build their societies while navigating through historical events.
5. Great Western Trail: Themed around managing cattle herds during the 19th century American West, Great Western Trail incorporates deck-building and spatial movement mechanics as players seek to deliver herds across various locations for maximum profit.
While these games didn’t claim the top spots on the list of top ten strategy board games 2018, their distinct themes and deep gameplay mechanics make them notable titles in their own right within the realm of strategic board gaming. Each game caters to different player preferences and strategic styles while offering robust replayability that keeps gamers engaged over multiple sessions.
Honorable Mentions and Notable Omissions
In addition to the top ten strategy board games 2018, there are several notable games that deserve recognition for their unique contributions to the genre. One such game is “Terraforming Mars,” which narrowly missed the cut but remains a fan favorite for its deep strategy and immersive theme. With its emphasis on resource management and engine-building, “Terraforming Mars” offers a rich gameplay experience that has captivated players since its release.
Another honorable mention is “Scythe,” a game set in an alternate-history 1920s Europe where players compete for dominance through economic, military, and technological advancements. Its stunning artwork and innovative mechanics have garnered widespread acclaim, making it a strong contender for the top ten list. The strategic depth of “Scythe” makes it a must-play for enthusiasts of complex board games.
On the other hand, one notable omission from the top ten strategy board games 2018 is “Azul.” Despite its popularity and critical acclaim, “Azul” did not secure a spot on the list due to its focus on tile-placement rather than traditional strategic elements. While “Azul” offers engaging gameplay and accessible mechanics, it may not align with the specific criteria used to evaluate top-tier strategy board games.
These honorable mentions and omissions serve as a testament to the diversity within the strategy board game genre. While only ten games can claim the spotlight as the best of 2018, there are many others worthy of exploration for those seeking new challenges and experiences within this thriving community.
The Future of Strategy Board Games
In conclusion, the Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018 list showcases the best of the best in the world of strategic gaming. Each game selected in the top ten has been carefully evaluated based on key criteria such as complexity, strategic depth, replayability, and thematic appeal. These games offer players a rich and immersive experience that challenges their tactical thinking and decision-making skills.
Looking ahead, the future of strategy board games seems bright, with anticipated releases and trends that could shape the landscape of strategic gaming in 2019 and beyond. The increasing popularity of strategy board games indicates a growing interest among gamers for thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating gameplay. As new titles enter the market, players can expect a wide range of innovative mechanics and engaging themes that will continue to push the boundaries of strategic gaming.
While some notable omissions may have sparked discussions, it is evident that the Top Ten Strategy Board Games 2018 list represents an impressive selection of games that have made a significant impact on the gaming community. From traditional war simulations to futuristic space exploration, these top ten games encompass a diverse range of themes and gameplay styles, catering to different player preferences and strategic styles.
Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or new to the genre, there’s something for everyone among the top ten strategy board games of 2018.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Popular Strategy Board Game?
The most popular strategy board game is undoubtedly Chess. With a history dating back over a thousand years and millions of dedicated players worldwide, Chess remains a timeless classic that continues to challenge and engage its players.
What Is the #1 Board Game in the World?
The #1 board game in the world is likely to be Chess. Its widespread appeal, long-standing popularity, and the competitive nature of the game make it a top choice for individuals looking for a mentally stimulating and strategic board game experience.
What Is a Well Known Board Game That Requires Strategy?
A well-known board game that requires strategy is Settlers of Catan. Players must plan and strategize as they compete to build settlements, collect resources, and expand their territories in this award-winning game. Its blend of luck and strategic thinking makes it a favorite among board game enthusiasts.
I love playing all kinds of games – from classics like Monopoly to modern favourites like Ticket to Ride.
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