I Thought I Knew Strategy… Until I Played These Games

Over the past month, I’ve been deeply immersed in three of Eric Lang’s most well-regarded games—Blood Rage, Rising Sun, and Ankh: Gods of Egypt. Each of these games offers a unique approach to strategy, and the more I played, the more I realized how much they reflect real-world decision-making.

I’ve always believed that board games are more than just entertainment—they are structured exercises in critical thinking, adaptability, and resource management. Playing these three games reinforced that idea in new ways.

Blood Rage taught me the power of timing and controlled aggression. The game is all about managing limited resources while choosing when to go all-in on a battle and when to hold back. I found myself weighing short-term sacrifices against long-term gains—something that applies far beyond the game board.

Rising Sun was a fascinating lesson in diplomacy and negotiation. Unlike other strategy games where direct conflict is inevitable, success here often depended on building alliances, earning trust, and knowing when to shift allegiances. It made me think about how influence and persuasion shape real-world decision-making, especially in business and leadership.

Ankh: Gods of Egypt tested my ability to adapt and plan for the long term. One of its most unique mechanics forces players to merge factions mid-game, completely reshaping the competitive landscape. This experience reminded me that in both games and life, rigid plans rarely survive in dynamic environments—you have to be ready to pivot.

Beyond these mechanics, what stood out to me the most was how different players approached challenges in completely unique ways. Some played aggressively, some methodically, and some thrived in unpredictable chaos. It reinforced something I’ve learned over the years—strategy isn’t just about making the best moves; it’s about understanding the motivations of the people around you.