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I am very excited about this year's crop of abstract board games. The basic game versions of abstract games, of course are checkers, chess and Othello. Abstract games are games that are built on the idea of manipulating the very few rules to develop strategies that can quickly secure victory. In recent years, manufacturers have seemed to focus more on glitzy packaging and equipment instead of interesting gaming challenges. This year, there is one noteworthy games that should be added to the great abstract board games of the past..

Yinsh. Yinsh reminded me a lot of Othello. It is a very advanced form of Othello, Tic-tac-toe and Pente. It introduces rings that leave behind markers when they are moved on the board. When the rings jump over a piece, they change its orientation. When a player gets five markers in a row, he gets to take a ring off the board. Three rings secures victory. This game is fun, very fast, challenging and introduces no room for luck to influence play. This is a welcome addition to the line of abstract games.

Abalone. This is a fun abstract game. The marbles are placed onto a hexagonal board, pushing others off. It is a simple game to learn, but it is never static and it always requires concentration to keep from being overwhelmed. Like any good abstract game, it has no die or spinner to help a poor player defeat a player who plays carefully and thoughtfully.

Cathedral. I really like Cathedral, and I recommend the wooden edition. Unlike many other abstract games, which are mathematical and logical in their play, this game emphasizes visual and spatial intelligences. Playing your pieces carefully you attempt to force your opponent into less and less viable positions so they are more limited in the pieces that they can play! In terms of abstract strategy, this game is original, and unique. It is also a pleasure to see a game with such a cool design.

Abstract board games can be a life long hobby. It really is possible to play chess your entire life without ever seeing the same game twice. With these games, the same concept is there. Although the game rules and mechanics never change, the game itself is always new.

Learn more about this author, John Devera.
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