chess like strategy games

Now, if you’re lookin’ for games like chess, you ain’t alone. Lots of folks out there enjoyin’ strategy games where ya gotta think real hard, like chess. Some of them games might even stretch your brain in ways chess can’t, and there’s plenty out there to keep your mind busy. So, sit tight and I’ll tell ya about a few games that’ll give ya that same chess-like feel, without makin’ you pull your hair out too much.

1. Go (Weiqi) – A Real Oldie but Goodie

First up, there’s this game called Go, or Weiqi, they say it’s as old as 4000 years! Can you believe that? It’s from over in East Asia, places like China and Korea. Now, this game ain’t got no fancy pieces like chess, but it’s got its own charm. It’s a game that really makes you think about where you put your pieces, just like chess. The game’s got a simple setup, but it can take a whole lifetime to master. In Go, it’s all about strategy, and ya gotta think ahead, just like in chess. But here’s the catch – Go is all about patterns. If you can spot the right patterns, you’ll be a step ahead of your opponent.

2. Checkers – Simple, Yet Challenging

Then there’s Checkers, a game a lot of folks know about. Now, this game might seem simple at first – you just jump over pieces and try to get to the other side. But don’t let that fool ya, it’s trickier than it looks. Kinda like chess, you gotta think a few moves ahead. The pieces can only move in certain directions, but you’ve got to figure out how to trap your opponent’s pieces, and that takes some brainpower. Ain’t no king in this one like in chess, but the idea’s still the same – outsmart your opponent!

3. Shogi – Japanese Chess

Now, if you think chess is tough, you might want to try Shogi. It’s like Japan’s version of chess, but it’s got its own twists. The biggest difference is you can take your opponent’s pieces and use ‘em as your own! Ain’t that somethin’? It changes the game up completely, makes you think twice about every move. If you’re a chess lover, you might find this game even more fun ‘cause it’s got that same strategy feel, just with a bit more chaos involved. It’s a real challenge, but if you can handle chess, you might just be ready for Shogi!

4. Xiangqi – Chinese Chess

If you’ve ever seen a game of Xiangqi, you might’ve thought, “Now that looks like chess!” And you’d be right. Xiangqi, also known as Chinese chess, is very similar to chess, but the pieces move a little differently, and the board’s got some extra lines that make things a bit more complicated. The goal’s the same – get the other side’s king (or “general”) and trap ‘em. Just like in chess, you gotta plan your moves and think ahead. It’s one of those games where you don’t wanna make a wrong move or you’ll end up in a sticky situation.

5. Hive – No Board, All Strategy

Now, this one’s a little different. Hive don’t use a board, which is a real strange thing for people who are used to chess. But don’t let that stop ya. This game’s got pieces that move in different ways, just like chess pieces. The whole idea’s to trap the other player’s queen bee by surrounding her with your pieces. Every piece moves differently, so you gotta be strategic with each one. It’s a game that’ll really make you think about your moves. And just like chess, it can get real intense real quick!

6. Tafl Games – Viking Strategy

Another game that’s kinda like chess is Tafl. This one’s got a board with pieces that look a little different from chess, but the idea’s still the same – outsmart your opponent. It’s an old Viking game, and it’s got a unique twist. You’ve got one side tryin’ to escape and the other side tryin’ to trap them. It’s all about movin’ your pieces around the board in the right way, and just like in chess, you gotta think ahead. If you love strategy games like chess, Tafl will be right up your alley.

7. Blokus – A Colorful Challenge

If you’re lookin’ for something that’s a little more colorful and fast-paced, you might want to try Blokus. It’s not like chess exactly, but it’s got that same strategy feel. You got different colored pieces, and you gotta place ‘em on the board so they don’t block your own moves or let your opponent take advantage of your gaps. It’s simple enough to learn, but tough to master, and like chess, you’ll be thinkin’ about your next few moves the whole time. It’s a game of pure strategy!

8. Onitama – Quick and Tactical

Onitama’s another one that’ll get your brain workin’. It’s a fast game, perfect for folks who don’t want a long game like chess but still want a challenge. It’s got martial arts moves, and you gotta move your pieces to capture your opponent’s master. It’s real tactical – the moves are simple, but ya gotta use ‘em in the right way. If you like chess but don’t have time for a long game, Onitama’s a great choice. It’s quick, fun, and full of strategy.

Conclusion

So, if you’re into chess and lookin’ for somethin’ new to try, these games will keep your mind sharp and your strategy on point. Whether you’re lookin’ for a game that’s similar to chess, like Shogi or Go, or somethin’ a little different, like Hive or Blokus, there’s plenty of options. Each game’ll challenge you to think ahead, plan your moves, and maybe even outsmart your opponent. So, get ready for some brain workouts, ‘cause these strategy games are gonna keep ya busy!

Tags：[Chess, Strategy Games, Board Games, Go, Shogi, Checkers, Xiangqi, Hive, Tafl, Onitama, Blokus, Mind Games, Board Game Night]