Top Strategy Board Games to Play in Under 1.5 Hours
Looking for the perfect strategy board game to play in under 1.5 hours? Whether you're playing with friends, family, or in a group setting, there are several fantastic options that offer strategic gameplay with short playtimes. In this article, we'll explore some of the best games that fit the bill, along with a few key takes on what makes them stand out.
A Quick Overview of Short Strategy Games
Not only do these games provide engaging strategic gameplay, but they are also quick to set up and play, making them ideal for a shorter gaming session. This makes them perfect for those who enjoy variety, don’t want to invest too much time, or are looking for a casual games night with friends and family. Here are some of the best options:
7 Wonders
7 Wonders is a card drafting game where players build civilizations through resource management. This game typically takes about 30-45 minutes to play. It’s a wonderful blend of strategy and resource management, offering players a chance to create their own civilization and outplay their opponents.
Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a tile-placement game where players build a landscape with cities, roads, and fields. A game usually lasts around 35-45 minutes. The core of this game is its simplicity and strategy, making it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels.
Kingdomino
Kingdomino is a simple yet strategic domino-style game where players build their own kingdoms. It takes about 15-20 minutes to play, making it one of the fastest games on this list. Despite its simplicity, it offers a lot of strategic depth, making it perfect for a quick gaming session.
Splendor
Splendor is a resource management and engine-building game where players collect gems to purchase cards. Games generally last about 30 minutes, providing a solid mix of strategic decision-making and card collection.
Azul
Azul is a tile-drafting game where players compete to create beautiful mosaics. A typical game lasts around 30-45 minutes, offering a visually satisfying and strategic gameplay experience. The game’s visual appeal and the challenge of collecting the right tiles make it a winner for both visual and strategic thinkers.
The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine
The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine is a cooperative trick-taking game that lasts about 20-40 minutes per session depending on how many missions you play. It’s a thrilling adventure suitable for those who enjoy cooperative play.
Patchwork
Patchwork is a two-player game where players compete to build the most aesthetically pleasing quilt using Tetris-like pieces. It takes about 30 minutes to play and provides a unique visual challenge, making it a favorite among players who enjoy creative thinking and puzzle-solving.
These games are not only strategic but also quick to set up and play, making them perfect for a shorter gaming session. They offer a mix of strategy, visual appeal, and enjoyment that can satisfy a wide range of players.
Additional Recommendations
While the games above are excellent, there are other strategic board games that can also be played within a 90-minute timeframe. Here are a couple more to consider:
Onitama
Onitama is a chess-like game that can be played in a very short time, making it ideal for quick gameplay sessions. It’s straightforward but offers strategic depth, making it a great choice for shorter playtimes.
Memor ‘44
Memor ‘44 is another excellent option that combines strategy and military tactics. It’s not as well-known as some of the others in this list, but its quick playtime makes it a unique addition to your game collection.
For longer game sessions, you might consider:
Wingspan
Wingspan is a popular bird-taming game that can be played in 90 minutes but may take longer for inexperienced players. It offers a mix of strategy, resource management, and thematic gameplay, making it a favorite among board gaming enthusiasts.
Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition
Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition is another excellent game that can be played in 90 minutes, but it may take longer for new players. It’s a more advanced game that offers deep strategy and thematic gameplay, making it perfect for those who want a longer, more involved gaming session.
These games are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for quick, strategic gameplay. They offer a mix of strategy, visuals, and enjoyment, making them perfect for a variety of play styles and preferences. Whether you’re playing with friends, family, or in a group setting, these games are sure to keep the fun and strategy going for hours on end!