Five Digital Games for Strategic Thinking

The world of digital gaming has exploded in popularity in recent years. The gaming industry is now worth an estimated $347 billion (source: Statista), and it’s home to all manner of genres and titles, from vast, immersive fantasy epics like Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild right the way through to remote casino and poker games where you can play for real money.

While some of today’s games can rival blockbuster movies in terms of entertainment value, there are plenty of titles that do more than just amuse or provide a distraction. Whether you’re navigating complex puzzles, being asked to multiply resources, or needing to make quick decisions under pressure, these games offer a challenging experience that’s equally fun and rewarding.

Ready to put your strategic skills to the test? Here are the games that will help you do just that!

Chess

Let’s start with a classic. Chess is the quintessential strategy game, and thanks to digital tech you can enjoy this age-old battle of wits wherever you go. Platforms like Chess.com make this game accessible to all experience levels; whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grandmaster, you can enjoy a range of difficult levels, tutorials and challenges.

Chess is such a good game to play to develop strategic thinking. The game forces you to think several moves ahead, requiring you to anticipate your opponent’s strategy and adapt your plan as the game unfolds. Do you find yourself having a hard time calculating your next move in real life? Chess could be your go-to game to refine that skill.

Poker

Sticking with the classics for a moment, let’s turn our attention to the card table. When it comes to strategic thinking, few games are as reliant on this skill as poker. The advent of iGaming has taken this classic card game to the digital realm, where Texas Hold’em poker games can be found in abundance at immersive platforms. What’s more, playing this game in an online environment means you can practise and refine your strategies without the pressure of being in a real-life casino.

Unlike some other card and table games originating in the casino, poker isn’t about chance. Being adept at this game requires a significant amount of strategy, especially when it comes to knowing when to bet, call or fold. Understanding the odds and making quick, informed decisions are key to poker mastery.

Hearthstone

For a different take on card gaming, but with all the strategic gameplay you’re looking for, may we present Hearthstone? This digital card game asks you to build decks and engage in one-on-one battles – sounds simple enough, right? Well, it may be a game that’s straightforward to learn, but it’s a challenge and a half to master, requiring players to draw on all their strategic thinking skills to decide which cards to play and when.

Being a successful Hearthstone player requires a solid understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each card, and the ability to anticipate your opponent’s moves in advance. The game also involves a fair amount of bluffing and risk management, adding further layers of strategic play.

Civilization VI

If you enjoy playing video games where you can build and manage entire civilizations, Civilization VI is a must-play. This turn-based strategy game allows you to lead a nation from the Stone Age to the Information Age, making decisions about everything from diplomacy and economics to military conquest. Be warned, though, as each choice you make has long-term consequences, requiring you to think strategically about how to balance short-term gains with long-term goals.

StarCraft II

A staple title in the real-time strategy genre, StarCraft II is a fiendishly challenging game that combines fast-paced gameplay with deep strategic thinking. Whether you’re managing resources, constructing buildings, or deploying units in battle, the game demands quick decision-making and efficient multitasking.

If you’ve ever wondered how you’d fare in a high-pressure environment, playing Starcraft II might just give you the answer.

Ready to Play? 

Each of these games offers a unique challenge that goes beyond mere entertainment. They sharpen your mind, test your decision-making skills, and push you to think strategically. Whether you’re commanding armies, building civilizations, or outsmarting the dealer in blackjack, these games will give your brain cells a workout that can’t be matched. The only thing that remains is to decide which game you’ll try out first!