Pylos is a beautifully simple yet deeply strategic abstract game for two players. Each player starts with 15 wooden spheres and takes turns adding one to the board, gradually building a pyramid. The aim is to be the player who places the very last sphere on top.

You can save pieces by completing squares or lifting your own spheres to higher levels — clever planning and foresight will give you the edge. The rules are quick to learn, but the tactics run deep, making it a game that’s easy to pick up and hard to master.

Game details:

• Players: 2

• Age: 8+

• Play time: Around 15 minutes

• Contents: Wooden board, 30 wooden spheres, cloth bag, and rulebook

Elegant to look at and satisfying to play, Pylos is just as at home on the coffee table as it is in a games collection.