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Board games are as much a part of human civilization as the pyramids at Giza, the Benin Bronzes of West Africa and the Mona Lisa in Paris. They are also astonishingly ancient.

On this course taught by , we are going to look at abstract strategy games. Within the community of board gamers, the term 'abstract strategy games' refers to two-player games with no inherent element of luck, with perfect information and no theme. These are also sometimes called 'combinatorial games'.

While Chess and Go are the most well known and global examples of abstract strategy games, a large number of lesser-known games, both ancient and contemporary, also share high replayability, complexity, and social, cultural and scientific relevance.

Sessions include the exploration of classic games such as Chess, Go, Draughts, and Mancala, along with modern games like Othello, Hive, Hex, and Quoridor. We will discuss these games from many different viewpoints: historical origins, mathematical aspects, principles of game design, AI-influence and elements of strategy.

But most importantly, we are going to play those games! This is an essential part of understanding why such games are so enjoyable and relatable.

No previous experience with game theory is necessary.

Reading material or special equipment needed (if any)

You should bring a laptop, tablet or smartphone to the sessions in order to access the online platforms the games discussed are played on. Where a session uses a physical game, this will be provided by the tutor.

Term dates

•  Autumn/Michaelmas Term: week beginning 12 October 2026 until week ending 18 December 2026

For content enquiries: Contact the tutor, Dr Francesco Salerno at frasco.sal@gmail.com

For enrolment and booking enquiries: Contact Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

This course has no exams or assessments, so you can focus on enjoying your learning. Regular attendance may also lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate. (T&Cs apply).