Abstract strategy board games are a unique genre of games that offer a challenging and intellectually stimulating experience. These games require strategic thinking, planning ahead, and the ability to outmaneuver opponents using clever tactics. With so many abstract strategy board games to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we will explore 10 abstract strategy board games that are sure to provide the ultimate thinking challenge.

1. Chess

Chess is one of the oldest and most well-known abstract strategy board games. It's a two-player game where each player controls an army of pieces with different abilities. The objective is to checkmate the opponent's king by placing it under attack in a way that it can't escape capture. Chess is a game that requires foresight, patience, and creative problem-solving skills.

2. Go

Go is another ancient abstract strategy board game that originated in China over 2,500 years ago. It's a two-player game where players take turns placing black or white stones on a grid, trying to surround and capture their opponent's stones while protecting their own. Go is known for its simple rules and yet complex gameplay, providing endless opportunities for strategic thinking and long-term planning.

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3. Hive

Hive is a modern abstract strategy board game that uses hexagonal tiles instead of a traditional game board. Players take turns placing their pieces (bees, grasshoppers, spiders, and more) onto the board, trying to surround the opponent's queen bee while protecting their own. Hive is a game that requires tactical placement of pieces, as well as the ability to adapt to changing situations.

4. Azul

Azul is a visually stunning abstract strategy board game that uses colorful tiles to create intricate patterns on a game board. Players take turns selecting tiles from a communal pool and placing them onto their own boards, trying to score points by completing rows and columns of matching tiles. Azul is a game that rewards careful planning and efficient tile placement.

5. Onitama

Onitama is a two-player abstract strategy board game that simulates a martial arts battle. Players control five pieces with different movement abilities, trying to either capture their opponent's master piece or move their own master piece into the opponent's temple. Onitama is a game that requires creative thinking and quick adaptation to changing circumstances.

6. Santorini

Santorini is a two-player abstract strategy board game that simulates building a city on the Greek island of Santorini. Players take turns moving their workers around the board, trying to build towers and temples while blocking their opponent's progress. Santorini is a game that requires careful planning and strategic positioning of pieces.

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7. Quoridor

Quoridor is a two-player abstract strategy board game that simulates maneuvering through a labyrinth. Players take turns moving their pawns and placing walls on the board, trying to reach the opposite side before their opponent does. Quoridor is a game that requires clever use of walls and strategic positioning of pawns.

8. Tak

Tak is a modern abstract strategy board game inspired by the fantasy novel series "The Kingkiller Chronicle" by Patrick Rothfuss. It's a two-player game where players take turns placing stones and building a tower, trying to create a road that connects opposite sides of the board. Tak is a game that requires long-term planning and the ability to outmaneuver opponents using clever tactics.

9. Hanabi

Hanabi is a cooperative abstract strategy board game where players work together to create a fireworks display. Players hold their cards facing away from themselves and must rely on clues from their teammates to determine which cards to play. Hanabi is a game that requires excellent communication skills and strategic thinking.

10. Pentago

Pentago is a two-player abstract strategy board game that uses a rotatable game board split into four quadrants. Players take turns placing their pieces onto the board, trying to create a line of five in any direction. Pentago is a game that requires quick thinking and the ability to outmaneuver opponents using clever tactics.

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In conclusion, abstract strategy board games offer a unique and intellectually stimulating experience for players. With so many options available, there's sure to be a game that suits your interests and skills. These 10 abstract strategy board games are just a few examples of the many challenging and engaging games available, providing the ultimate thinking challenge for players of all levels.

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