The best games by David Thompson (I) 🇺🇸👨 2026

War Chest is a distinctive bag-building war game that requires players to skillfully manage their army both on and off the battlefield.

Stalingrad, 1942, is a grueling conflict that affects the entire Eastern Front. Players must use strategy and bravery to secure this pivotal stronghold while every loss in battle decreases their forces for the entire campaign. Through up to fifteen branching scenarios, decisions influence the fate of Stalingrad and possibly the war itself, allowing for varied playthroughs despite the lasting consequences of actions taken. This standalone campaign game features over 300 unique illustrations and 150 vivid mission descriptions, immersing players in a crucial moment of history.

Players take on the role of a sniper who must sneak past or overpower German guards. Up to three other players control squads of German soldiers, balancing between defending objectives and hunting the sniper. The game features a bag-drawing mechanism, where the sniper draws tokens to target defenders, while clever tactics can reduce the likelihood of a hit.

Spain, 1936: General Franco's troops move in, leading to a long period of civil war and oppression. A group of Republicans continues the armed struggle, forming resistance groups known as the "Maquis," who risk their lives hidden in the mountains to defend democratic ideals.

Players must keep track of a busy rail network filled with trains. As more trains are placed on the board, the game becomes increasingly intense, requiring effective coordination to transport goods without delays. The journey spans Europe, the United States, and Canada, and with simple rules, players can start right away—time is of the essence.

The battle for Castle Itter took place on May 5, 1945, near the Austrian village of Itter, during the final days of World War II. Players take on the role of troops defending the castle, aiming to withstand attacks until the SS deck is exhausted. Points are earned for each surviving defender while points are lost for any remaining SS counters on the board at the end of the game.

The RAF faces off against the Luftwaffe in this two-player card game set during World War II aerial battles. In the summer of 1940, Germany's war machine has overrun the continent, and Britain is the last barrier to a German victory in Europe. Command seasoned pilots of the Luftwaffe or the resourceful RAF as they engage in dynamic aerial combat, ensuring pilot cohesion and evading anti-aircraft fire to secure victory in the skies.

Experience a divided Europe marked by expansionist ambitions, a resurgent Russia, and the return of a new Cold War. Players control either Europe, including NATO and the European Union, or Russia, as they vie for influence in contested countries across Central and Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. The game features a blend of historical events and fast-paced card-driven mechanics, where players must balance expanding their influence with the risks of overreach.

In a post-apocalyptic world, players work to rebuild society. They construct new cities for survivors while facing threats from marauders who want to loot and destroy. Players must gather resources and accommodate more survivors, as neglecting their needs may lead to rebellion against them. The game offers various tactical options and strategies to achieve victory.