15 Best Board Games for Strategy Lovers That Will Challenge Your Mind

If you’re a strategy lover looking for the ultimate challenge, I’ve got just the list for you. From family-friendly titles like Plunder and Azul to more complex games like Wingspan, Secret Hitler, and Sid Meier’s Civilization, there’s something for every skill level. These games feature engaging mechanics, beautiful components, and high replayability. Keep exploring to discover which games will test your mind and elevate your game nights to a new level.

Key Takeaways

• The list includes a variety of strategic games like Catan, Betrayal, and Wingspan that promote critical thinking and resource management.
• It features games with high replayability through modular components, random setups, and multiple scenarios.
• Many games combine visual appeal with complex mechanics, appealing to both aesthetic and strategic enthusiasts.
• Cooperative and team-based options like Forbidden Island foster collaboration and strategic planning.
• The selection covers both casual and in-depth games suitable for different skill levels and group sizes.

Plunder Family Board Game

If you’re looking for a family-friendly strategy game that’s easy to pick up and engaging for players of all ages, Plunder is an excellent choice. As a swashbuckling captain, I love how quickly I grasp the mechanics thanks to the simple, thematic rules and overview guide. The game’s modular design, with double-sided ocean tiles, keeps each session fresh and unpredictable. It’s perfect for 2 to 6 players, and the 20-minute gameplay fits nicely into any game night. Plus, with no eliminations, everyone stays involved until the very end. It’s a fun, strategic challenge that the whole family can enjoy together.

Best For: families, teens, and adults seeking an easy-to-learn, engaging strategy game suitable for all ages and perfect for game nights or gift-giving.

Pros:

• Simple, intuitive mechanics and clear overview guide make it easy for new players to learn quickly.
• Modular game board with double-sided tiles ensures high replayability and varied gameplay each session.
• Suitable for 2-6 players with no eliminations, keeping everyone engaged until the end.

Cons:

• Approximately 20 minutes per player may be long for very casual or quick gaming sessions.
• Might be less suitable for very young children under 10 due to thematic content and complexity.
• Limited expansion options or advanced rules could reduce long-term strategic depth for experienced gamers.

Stonemaier Games Wingspan Base Game Board Game

Looking for a strategy game that combines educational depth with stunning artwork? Wingspan by Stonemaier Games is perfect. As a bird enthusiast, I love attracting diverse species to my wildlife preserve, each card offering fascinating facts and realistic illustrations. The game’s engine-building mechanics keep me engaged, balancing resource management, egg-laying, and habitat expansion. Its beautiful components, from watercolor art to sturdy tokens, create an immersive experience. Perfect for 1-5 players, it’s relaxing yet strategic, rewarding thoughtful planning. With awards like the Kennerspiel des Jahres and ample replayability through varied bird cards and goals, Wingspan is a must-have for nature lovers and competitive strategists alike.

Best For: bird enthusiasts, casual and strategic board gamers, and those seeking an educational and visually stunning gaming experience.

Pros:

• Beautiful watercolor artwork and realistic bird illustrations enhance immersion and educational value.
• Engaging engine-building mechanics provide strategic depth and replayability.
• High-quality components and elegant design contribute to a durable and aesthetically pleasing game.

Cons:

• Slightly complex rules may be challenging for complete beginners without guidance.
• The game’s setup and gameplay can take around 70 minutes, which might be lengthy for quick gaming sessions.
• Expansions and additional content are often recommended for sustained interest, increasing overall cost.

Asmodee Azul Board Game

The Asmodee Azul Board Game stands out as an ideal choice for strategy lovers who appreciate both visual artistry and tactical depth. I love how its vibrant, handcrafted tiles create stunning mosaics, making every game visually appealing. The gameplay is simple to learn but offers layers of strategy—selecting and placing tiles to complete patterns while blocking opponents. It demands planning, adaptability, and foresight, especially as the game heats up. With quick rounds and high replayability, Azul keeps me engaged and challenged. Its quality components and elegant design make it a satisfying experience, whether for casual play or serious competition.

Best For: strategy enthusiasts and art lovers seeking a visually stunning, engaging, and thoughtfully designed tile-placement game suitable for family or competitive play.

Pros:

• Beautiful, handcrafted tiles that enhance visual appeal and tactile enjoyment
• Easy to learn with deep strategic layers that keep gameplay fresh and challenging
• High replayability due to random tile draws and player choices, making each game unique

Cons:

• Slightly more enjoyable with 2 players, as 4-player games can be more unpredictable
• Can be intense and cutthroat as rounds progress, which might not suit casual players seeking a more relaxed experience
• Premium components and design come at a higher price point compared to simpler games

Clue Conspiracy Board Game for Adults and Teens

Clue Conspiracy stands out as an ideal choice for adults and teens who love immersive, strategic social deduction games with a dark twist. Set at the mysterious Black Adder Resort, it challenges players to uncover a conspiracy to murder Mr. Coral, using deception, deduction, and bluffing. Players take on secret roles in two teams—Friends or Conspiracy—each working toward different goals, either solving the mystery or sabotaging it. The game’s thematic depth, combined with components like secret role envelopes and a web app, creates a suspenseful experience. Although it can be complex initially, its engaging gameplay makes it perfect for game nights with strategy enthusiasts.

Best For: fans of immersive, strategic social deduction games who enjoy dark mystery themes and complex gameplay suitable for teens and adults.

Pros:

• Rich thematic experience set in an intriguing tropical resort environment.
• High-quality components and innovative secret role envelopes enhance immersion.
• Engaging gameplay with multiple victory conditions, encouraging bluffing and strategic deduction.

Cons:

• Can be challenging to learn initially, requiring time to understand rules and setup.
• Limited replayability due to the game’s complexity and specific scenario focus.
• Slightly longer setup time (~20 minutes) may affect casual or quick-play sessions.

The Chameleon Bluffing Board Game for Family

If you’re searching for a game that combines quick thinking with clever deception, The Chameleon is perfect for family game nights. It’s an award-winning bluffing game suitable for 3-8 players aged 14 and up, offering fast, engaging fun. With 80 secret words, each round feels fresh and challenging. Players race to identify the chameleon using subtle clues, strategic finger-pointing, and deduction, all while avoiding detection themselves. The game is easy to learn, taking just a couple of minutes to grasp, and plays in around 15 minutes. It’s a lively, social game that encourages clever communication, making it ideal for family, friends, or parties.

Best For: families, friends, and social groups seeking a quick, engaging bluffing game that encourages strategy, deduction, and lively interaction.

Pros:

• Easy to learn and quick to play, making it perfect for casual game nights
• Includes 80 secret words for high replayability and variety
• Recognized with awards such as Best Party Game at UK Games Expo and Dice Tower Seal of Excellence

Cons:

• Recommended for ages 14 and up, so may not be suitable for younger children
• Limited to 8 players, which might not accommodate larger groups easily
• Requires players to be comfortable with bluffing and strategic deception, which might not appeal to everyone

Spy Alley Mensa Award Winning Family Strategy Board Game

For families and casual gamers seeking a fun yet challenging strategy experience, Spy Alley stands out as an award-winning choice. This Mensa Award-winning game is perfect for 2-6 players aged 8 to adult, offering a enthralling spy adventure in just 30 to 45 minutes. You assume secret identities, using clever tactics to uncover enemies and protect your own identity. The game’s replayability is impressive—no two sessions are alike, and players learn new strategies with each play. It’s an engaging way to develop social deduction, reasoning, and strategic thinking skills, making it ideal for family game nights or friendly gatherings.

Best For: families, casual and social gamers, and anyone seeking an engaging, strategic spy-themed game that promotes social deduction and critical thinking.

Pros:

• Award-winning game recognized for quality and engaging gameplay.
• Suitable for 2-6 players aged 8 to adult, making it versatile for various groups.
• High replayability with different strategies and missions each game, keeping players engaged over time.

Cons:

• Game duration of 30-45 minutes may be too long for very young children with limited attention spans.
• Some players might find the complexity challenging at the lower age range of 8.
• Requires a flat playing surface and space for setup, which might be inconvenient in small or crowded areas.

Gamewright Forbidden Island Cooperative Board Game

Designed by renowned creator Matt Leacock, Forbidden Island is a must-have cooperative strategy game perfect for players who enjoy working together to overcome challenges. In this game, 2-4 players team up to retrieve sacred treasures while traversing a perilous, ever-changing island. The game’s innovative mechanics and immersive storyline sharpen problem-solving and creative thinking skills. Its vivid visuals and detailed illustrations bring the island to life, increasing engagement. Suitable for ages 10 and up, Forbidden Island encourages teamwork, strategic planning, and social interaction, making it ideal for family game nights. It’s an educational, fun experience that tests your decision-making under pressure.

Best For: families and groups of 2-4 players who enjoy cooperative, strategy-based board games that promote teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Pros:

• Encourages teamwork, communication, and social interaction among players.
• Features rich visuals and immersive storytelling that enhance engagement.
• Suitable for players aged 10 and up, making it accessible for family game nights.

Cons:

• Might be less appealing to competitive players who prefer individual gameplay.
• The complexity and rules may require some explanation for younger or new players.
• Limited to 2-4 players, which may not accommodate larger groups.

CATAN Board Game (6th Edition) – Trade, Build & Settle

The CATAN Board Game (6th Edition) stands out as an ideal choice for strategy lovers who enjoy dynamic gameplay and high replayability. I love how the modular hex board creates a fresh experience every time, challenging players to adapt their strategies. Gathering resources, building roads, and trading with others require careful planning and tactical decision-making. The robber adds a clever twist, forcing players to think on their feet. With simple rules but deep strategic options, it’s perfect for families and enthusiasts alike. Whether playing casually or competitively, I find CATAN’s blend of luck and skill keeps the game exciting and engaging every session.

Best For: strategy enthusiasts, families, and casual gamers seeking a highly replayable and engaging resource management game.

Pros:

• Modular hex board creates unique game setups, enhancing replayability
• Simple rules combined with deep strategic options appeal to both beginners and experienced players
• Encourages friendly competition and social interaction through trading and negotiation

Cons:

• Small components and pieces may be prone to wear or loss over time
• Rules learning curve can be tricky for new players to remember initially
• Game length (60-90 minutes) might be too long for very casual or young players

Exploding Kittens Board Game for Ages 7

Exploding Kittens Board Game stands out as an excellent choice for kids aged 7 and up who enjoy combining humor with strategic thinking. I love how the game’s playful theme and colorful characters, like TacoCat and GnomeCat, make it engaging for young players. The game’s simple rules and quick gameplay keep everyone entertained, while the unpredictable board flips and action cards add a layer of strategy and excitement. It’s perfect for family game nights or parties, encouraging risk-taking and social interaction. With its blend of humor and strategy, Exploding Kittens keeps kids laughing and thinking, making it a fantastic addition to any game collection.

Best For: kids aged 7 and up who enjoy humorous, strategic, and fast-paced party games suitable for family gatherings and social play.

Pros:

• Easy to learn with simple rules, making it accessible for young players.
• Combines humor and strategy to keep players engaged and entertained.
• Features colorful characters and unpredictable board flips that add excitement and variety.

Cons:

• Limited to a maximum of 6 players, which might not suit larger groups.
• Some players may find the randomness of card draws frustrating.
• Requires a flat surface for the game board, which may not be ideal for all playing environments.

Avalon Hill Betrayal at The House on The Hill 3rd Edition Board Game

If you’re a strategy lover who thrives on unpredictable storytelling and collaborative gameplay, Avalon Hill’s Betrayal at House on the Hill 3rd Edition is an excellent choice. Set in a haunted mansion, it combines exploration, character abilities, and a traitor mechanic that keeps players guessing. With 50 unique haunts and modular components, every game feels fresh and unpredictable. The streamlined rules make it accessible for newcomers, while the detailed miniatures and artwork add immersion. Whether you’re unraveling dark secrets or working together to survive, this game challenges your strategic thinking and keeps everyone engaged in a spooky, story-rich experience.

Best For: strategy enthusiasts who enjoy unpredictable storytelling, cooperative gameplay, and immersive horror-themed experiences with friends or family.

Pros:

• Highly replayable with 50 unique haunts and modular components, ensuring fresh experiences each game.
• Engaging narrative that combines exploration, character abilities, and traitor mechanics for strategic depth.
• High-quality miniatures, artwork, and durable components enhance immersion and overall game appeal.

Cons:

• Rules can be complex for new players, requiring thorough reading and understanding.
• Some components, like character boards, may lack durability over extended play.
• The game’s setup and gameplay length can be somewhat time-consuming, especially for larger groups.

No Escape Board Game for Adults and Kids

No Escape Board Game stands out as an excellent choice for families and groups seeking a lively, strategic activity that everyone can enjoy. It’s perfect for 2-8 players of all ages, from kids to adults, making it ideal for game nights or parties. The game’s quick setup means you’ll be playing within minutes, and its dynamic tile-laying and action sequences keep each session fresh and exciting. Traveling a maze inside a space station, players must balance strategy with a bit of luck, making each move unpredictable. The high-quality components and immersive theme create a mesmerizing experience that challenges minds while providing tons of fun for everyone involved.

Best For: families, friends, and groups of 2-8 players seeking an engaging, strategic maze escape game suitable for all ages during game nights, parties, or social gatherings.

Pros:

• Quick and easy setup allows for immediate gameplay.
• Dynamic tile-laying and action sequences keep each game fresh and exciting.
• High-quality components and immersive theme enhance the overall gaming experience.

Cons:

• The game’s reliance on a mix of strategy and luck may lead to unpredictable outcomes.
• Limited to 2-8 players, which might not accommodate larger groups.
• As a maze escape game, it may be less appealing to players preferring cooperative or competitive vs. style games.

Clue Board Game for Ages 8 and Up

The Clue board game for ages 8 and up is an excellent choice for families and casual players who love solving mysteries through deduction. This reimagined version features a detailed Tudor Mansion setting, a compelling storyline involving blackmail and murder, and an intriguing cast of characters like Miss Scarlett and Professor Plum. The game includes beautifully designed components such as sculpted movers, textured gold weapons, and illustrated gameboards. Players gather clues, use detective notepads, and draw Clue cards to uncover secrets quickly. It emphasizes critical thinking, quick decision-making, and deductive reasoning, making it a fun, engaging challenge for players aged 8 and older.

Best For: families, friends, and mystery enthusiasts aged 8 and up looking for an engaging, visually stunning deduction game with rich storyline and high-quality components.

Pros:

• Beautifully designed with detailed artwork and luxurious components like textured gold weapons and sculpted character pieces
• Promotes critical thinking, deductive reasoning, and quick decision-making in a fun and engaging way
• Suitable for 2-6 players, making it versatile for various group sizes and perfect for family game nights

Cons:

• Some users report minor issues such as missing cards or box damage upon arrival
• The game’s complexity may be slightly challenging for very young children under age 8
• Higher price point due to premium components and reimagined design

Secret Hitler

Secret Hitler stands out as an excellent choice for strategy lovers who enjoy social deduction and bluffing. The game’s beautiful wooden components, detailed cards, and sleek design make it visually appealing and durable. Played with 5-10 adults, it offers intense 45-minute sessions filled with deception, alliances, and suspicion. Players are assigned hidden roles—Liberals, Fascists, or Hitler—and must use deduction and social cues to outmaneuver opponents. Its balance of strategy and social interaction creates tense, memorable moments. Whether you prefer casual fun or deeper intrigue, Secret Hitler provides a challenging, engaging experience that sparks lively discussion and strategic mind games.

Best For: strategy enthusiasts and social deduction fans seeking a visually appealing, engaging party game that encourages bluffing, deception, and lively discussion for groups of 5-10 adults.

Pros:

• Beautiful, high-quality wooden components and detailed cards enhance the aesthetic and durability of the game.
• Fast-paced gameplay with around 45-minute sessions allows for multiple rounds and high replayability.
• Encourages social interaction, strategic deception, and role-playing, creating memorable and engaging moments.

Cons:

• The themes of deception and political intrigue may not be suitable for all players, especially younger or sensitive audiences.
• Slightly complex rules or minor ambiguities, like the starting player, can require clarifications for new players.
• Best experienced with 7 or more players to maximize strategic depth, limiting smaller groups.

Asmodee Pandemic Board Game (Base Game)

Perfect for dedicated strategy enthusiasts and teamwork fans, Asmodee’s Pandemic Board Game (Base Game) offers a compelling cooperative experience that challenges players to work together to contain and cure four deadly diseases. Playing with 2-4 players, ages 8 and up, it combines role-specific skills with strategic planning to prevent global outbreaks. You’ll manage hand sizes, coordinate roles, and respond swiftly to rising infection rates. The game’s difficulty varies with initial setups and epidemic cards, making each session unique. It emphasizes teamwork, with all players either winning or losing together, making it perfect for family nights, team-building, or problem-solving game nights.

Best For: Strategy game enthusiasts, teamwork fans, and families seeking a challenging cooperative experience that emphasizes collaboration and problem-solving.

Pros:

• Promotes teamwork and strategic planning among players.
• High replayability due to variable setup and difficulty levels.
• Suitable for a wide age range, making it accessible for both kids and adults.

Cons:

• Can be challenging for younger players or beginners to master.
• Length of gameplay may vary, sometimes exceeding 45 minutes.
• Requires careful management of game components and rules, which can be complex for new players.

Asmodee Sid Meiers Civilization: A New Dawn Board Game

If you’re a strategy enthusiast who enjoys building and managing civilizations, Asmodee Sid Meier’s Civilization: A New Dawn offers a rich and engaging experience. You take on the role of a civilization leader, guiding your society through ages by advancing culture, technology, and military power. The game features multiple victory paths, such as building wonders, scientific progress, or cultural achievements, providing diverse strategic options. With modular map pieces and different leaders, every game feels unique. Though complex at first, it rewards careful planning and tactical decisions. Playing for 1-2 hours with 2-4 players, it’s perfect for those who love deep, thematic strategy games that challenge your mind.

Best For: strategy enthusiasts and Civilization fans seeking a deep, thematic, and replayable civilization-building board game.

Pros:

• Provides a rich, immersive experience with multiple victory paths and strategic options.
• Modular map pieces and diverse leaders ensure high replayability and unique gameplay each session.
• Good quality components with durable pieces, suitable for extended gaming.

Cons:

• Complex rules and initial learning curve may require significant time to master.
• Absence of military units limits some combat strategies, relying on dice rolls instead.
• Longer setup times and potential component disorganization can affect overall gameplay flow.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Board Games for Strategy Lovers

When selecting a strategy board game, I consider several key factors to guarantee the best experience. Balancing complexity with player count, replayability, theme, artwork, and game length helps me find the right fit. These elements make sure everyone stays engaged and the game remains enjoyable over time.

Complexity Level Balance

Choosing the right board game for strategy lovers involves balancing complexity to guarantee everyone stays engaged and enjoys the experience. Matching a game’s complexity to players’ experience ensures fun without frustration or boredom. Light strategy games, with simple rules and shorter playtimes, suit casual players, while heavy games, featuring intricate mechanics and longer sessions, appeal to seasoned strategists. Evaluating the learning curve is important—can players quickly grasp the rules, or do they need extensive guidance? Striking the right balance means selecting games that offer strategic depth but remain accessible enough so new or casual players don’t feel discouraged. Considering the group’s skills and preferences helps ensure the game is challenging yet enjoyable, boosting replayability and shared satisfaction for everyone involved.

Player Count Flexibility

Flexibility in player count is a key factor to contemplate when selecting a strategy game, as it allows you to adapt to different group sizes effortlessly. Games that support a range of players, typically from 2 to 6 or more, are ideal because they accommodate various social settings. Many include rules or variants to balance gameplay, making them fair whether you’re playing solo or with a larger group. This versatility not only keeps the game fresh but also boosts replayability, as different strategies emerge with varying numbers of players. Some games are optimized for specific counts but offer expansions or optional rules to support more players seamlessly. Overall, a flexible player count makes the game more adaptable, whether for casual family nights or more competitive sessions with friends.

Replayability Factors

High replayability is essential for strategy board games because it keeps the experience fresh and engaging over time. I look for games with variable setups, like modular boards or randomized goals, so each playthrough feels different. A wide range of strategies and decision paths also keeps things interesting, encouraging me to try new tactics and adapt to changing situations. The presence of diverse components—cards, tokens, characters—adds variety and reduces predictability, making each game unique. Additionally, scenarios with different victory conditions or objectives challenge me to rethink my approach regularly. Finally, games that support expansions or rule modifications can notably extend their lifespan, offering fresh mechanics and content that keep the gameplay exciting long-term. These factors ensure I stay invested and challenged with every session.

Theme & Artwork Appeal

The visual and thematic aspects of a board game play a significant role in how deeply I connect with it. Engaging artwork and themes boost immersion, making strategic decisions more meaningful. I find that a theme aligning with my interests—whether exploration, mystery, or history—enhances my investment and enjoyment. High-quality, detailed illustrations and components also make gameplay more intuitive and satisfying, helping me grasp complex mechanics more easily. The artwork style, whether realistic or stylized, influences how clearly I understand game rules and strategies. Additionally, appealing visuals and themes can elevate replay value by creating a memorable experience I want to revisit. Ultimately, compelling theme and artwork draw me in and keep me engaged, making the game more than just a challenge—it’s an immersive journey.

Game Duration Suitability

Choosing a strategy board game that fits your available time guarantees everyone stays engaged and avoids frustration. I always check the typical length of a game before starting, whether it’s a quick 20-minute session or a lengthy 2-hour challenge. Matching the game’s duration to players’ patience levels is key, especially with younger or casual gamers who prefer shorter playtimes. I also consider if the game allows for multiple rounds in one sitting or is better as a one-time experience. Keep in mind, larger groups can extend game length due to complexity. Whether it’s a relaxed family night or a strategic marathon, selecting a game with the right duration ensures everyone’s enjoyment and keeps the game pace lively and fun.

Skill & Strategy Depth

When evaluating strategy board games, it’s essential to take into account their complexity and how deeply they challenge your planning and decision-making skills. Some games are straightforward, like simple tile placements, while others feature intricate engine-building systems that demand careful thought. The level of skill involved often depends on strategic decision points such as managing resources, controlling areas, or bluffing opponents. Games with multiple victory paths or variable setups offer more depth, requiring players to adapt their tactics over time. Additionally, asymmetric roles or unique powers increase complexity by forcing players to optimize different strategies simultaneously. Highly strategic games often have a steep learning curve but reward players with richer gameplay, nuanced choices, and a more engaging experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Strategy Board Games for Three Players?

If you’re looking for the best strategy board games for three players, I recommend “Catan,” “Ticket to Ride,” and “Carcassonne.” These games are perfect for three because they encourage strategic planning, negotiation, and tactical thinking. I love how they keep everyone engaged and thinking ahead. Plus, they’re easy to learn but offer enough depth to keep things interesting. Give them a try for a fun, challenging gaming session!

Which Games Incorporate Historical or Educational Themes Effectively?

I love games that blend strategy with history or education. Titles like “Twilight Struggle” brilliantly simulate the Cold War, making you think deeply about real-world events. “Civilization” lets you build and expand your empire while learning about different eras. “Pandemic” teaches about disease control and global cooperation. These games are engaging, thought-provoking, and packed with educational value, making them perfect for anyone wanting to learn while having fun.

Are There Strategy Games Suitable for Very Experienced Players?

Absolutely, there are strategy games perfect for very experienced players. I recommend titles like Twilight Struggle, which simulates Cold War politics, and Terraforming Mars for complex resource management. These games require deep strategic thinking, multiple layers of planning, and adaptability. I love how they challenge even seasoned players, pushing your tactical skills to the limit. If you’re looking for a true mental workout, these games won’t disappoint.

How Do Cooperative Strategy Games Enhance Teamwork Skills?

Cooperative strategy games boost teamwork skills by encouraging clear communication, shared planning, and collective problem-solving. They require players to listen actively, coordinate actions, and adapt strategies together. These games foster trust, patience, and mutual understanding as everyone works toward a common goal. Through collaboration, I’ve learned to value diverse perspectives, improve my decision-making, and develop a stronger sense of community—all essential skills that extend beyond the game board.

What Are the Latest Innovative Mechanics in Strategy Board Games?

The latest innovative mechanics in strategy board games include legacy elements that evolve gameplay over time, allowing for personalized storytelling. Asymmetrical roles create unique experiences for each player, demanding different strategies. Additionally, deck-building mechanics add depth, while real-time decision-making challenges players to act swiftly. These innovations keep gameplay fresh and engaging, pushing the boundaries of traditional strategy games and offering new ways to test your tactical skills.

Conclusion

If you plunge into these games, your mind will be blown to smithereens by their sheer brilliance—seriously, they’ll make you a strategic genius overnight! Whether you’re outsmarting family, plotting world domination, or bluffing your way to victory, these games will turn your brain into a powerhouse of tactics. Get ready to challenge your limits and have epic, mind-bending fun—because once you start, you won’t want to stop!