As with all of my Top 10 lists, the most important criterion is that I like the game. There is also an added criterion of longevity. These are games I have enjoyed for at least several years—like Emergency HQ or Legendary—and some for decades, like Monopoly and Risk. Monopoly was the first non-kids game I was introduced to at around 8 or 9 years old. Oh, after i wrote this I discovered that I had already done this in 2009. Only 4 of my previous list made it this time.
#10 — Emergency HQ
A newer strategy/mobile game from Germany. It is inspired by the 1970s TV series Emergency!, which was one of my favorites as a kid. You are tasked with managing rescue units and responding to major disasters in real-time.
#9 — Command & Conquer
A pillar of the real-time strategy genre. It’s the classic battle for resources and base-building that set the stage for almost every strategy game that followed.
#8 — Red Alert
This Command & Conquer spin-off takes the strategy to an alternate-history Cold War setting. It’s fast, aggressive, and has always been a personal favorite for its tactical depth.
#7 — Axis & Allies
Another classic strategy game based on one of the greatest conflicts in human history. Whether playing the original board game or the computer version, both have their strengths in simulating the high-stakes decisions of WWII.
#6 — Smash Up
An interesting twist on deck builders. The decks are loaded with snark, pop culture references, and enough quirky actions to keep the game engaging as you try to collect enough battle points for the win.
#5 — Monopoly
The ultimate classic. It was my introduction to “grown-up” gaming, and it remains the gold standard for property trading and long-term tabletop rivalries.
#4 — Marvel’s Legendary
Legendary is a great series for two competitive people like The Big Guy and myself. Unlike most competitive games, you actually have to work together to defeat the villains, which adds a unique layer to the strategy.
#3 — Spades
I prefer in-person games for this. It’s a classic trick-taking card game that requires a good read on your partner, and it’s always been a great way to make friends.
#2 — Sid Meier’s Civilization
I have enjoyed this series since Civ 2, and that is still my favorite version. The “one more turn” loop of building an empire from the Stone Age to the Space Age is still as addictive as ever.
#1 — Risk
The classic strategy game. It’s the game that truly rewards long-term planning and bold moves, making it my clear number one for world domination.
The #1 Strategy Tip
If you want to win at Risk, remember this one golden rule: He who controls Madagascar controls the world. It’s the perfect spot to build up your forces while the rest of the world fights over Europe and North America.
The Dee Zone 