The modern world of gaming is incredibly diverse. Not only are there dozens of ways to play (from handheld consoles to PCs to VR devices), but the breadth of game types is also varied. From hyper-casual simulations like The Sims to highly competitive MOBAs like Valorant to analog classics like chess, the number of games available today is staggering.
Every single one offers a unique challenge. Some games require players to develop their hand-eye coordination and accuracy, allowing them to perform at a high level even when moving quickly. Other games might require a unified approach to teamwork in which players communicate via chats to take down their enemies.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Some games put a stronger emphasis on leveling up and gaining new powers, others on randomized assets. The list goes on and on. But what about when it comes to strategy? After all, every game requires some form of strategic thinking—that’s part of what makes them fun for players.
But some genres place a stronger focus on analytical thinking and critical reasoning. Let’s dig a little deeper to explore what types of games, both digital and analog, challenge the mind.
Card Games
Like board games (below), card games have been around for centuries—and they’re all about pushing the mind to new heights. Let’s take a look at the example of blackjack, a popular game that’s accessed on virtual platforms and at physical casinos. The goal of the game is to reach the number 21 before the dealer—but without going over.
However, there’s tons of variation in how players can do that. For example, they might need to learn the basics of doubling down in order to increase their potential payout or know when to use blackjack insurance to avoid a hefty loss. In other words, a basic understanding of the game’s rules won’t do—the very best players dive into the nitty-gritty of strategic and complex thinking.
Board Games
Just like card games, board games have been around for centuries. Chess, similar to blackjack, remains a hugely popular game around the world. Competitive players can even attain a level of celebrity, such as Bobby Fisher and Magnus Carlsen.
But, unsurprisingly, they’ll need to be some of the fastest and most tactical thinkers in the world to do so. The number of options in chess is staggeringly high—and there are well-known strategies that pros must learn and adapt if they want to succeed. It’s not for the faint of heart—or the faint of mind.
Wargames
Wargames are simulations of conflict or military activities that are purely recreational. While it might sound a little violent, the goal is simply to manage and maneuver a wide range of resources while weighing a huge number of unknowns. In other words, it’s a highly tactical and strategic challenge.
The most well-known game in this genre is Warhammer 40,000, along with sci-fi twists like Star Wars: X-Wing. Just like with board games and card games, these are often played analog via a tabletop.
Turn-Based Strategy (TBS)
It wouldn’t be a list of the most strategy-heavy video games without a focus on TBS and RTS (below) titles. TBS games closely follow the goals of wargames in that players must use their ‘turn’ to enact their masterful and large-scale plans. But there are plenty of subgenres within this larger category, such as third-person shooters like Gears Tactics and more traditional wargame-inspired hits like Unity of Command. Many also touch on genres like sci-fi and fantasy to add a dimension of storytelling and intrigue.
Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
Compared to TBS games, RTS takes place a bit faster, as players are allowed to play simultaneously. That broad definition means that many of the world’s leading hits fall into this category, including MOBAs like League of Legends and tower defense games like Kingdom Rush. Because of the sheer number of resources involved, most RTS games are geared toward PC and desktops, as the interface is a bit too cluttered for mobile.
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