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Skill Games Rules & Strategy - "Learn to Play, Play to Win"

5 Easiest Skill Games
By LearnPlayWin, Updated 7 Jan 2009

Which skill games have the simplest rules? Which are easiest to learn? Here's our list of the 5 easiest skill games -- games that require no more than 5 minutes to learn.

Keep in mind that "easy to learn" does not necessarily mean "easy to master". Some games, such as Othello, have simple rules but complex strategy.

Also, not all of the games on this list are traditional skill games. We've included card and puzzle games. The only criteria is that the game must require some level of developed mental skill to win consistently.

Now on to the list.

#1 Sudoku. If you aren't a numbers person, this game may seem intimidating. But part of the game's broad appeal is the simplicity of its rules, which can be summed up in a sentence or two. Sudoku is easy to learn but playing and completing the game is a constant challenge. Although Sudoku is more of a single-person puzzle game than a traditional skill game, there is no doubt that developed skill (and brain power) is required to win.

#2 Tic-Tac-Toe. Even a child can learn to play this game with a simple demonstration. Unfortunately, games this simple tend to get boring awefully fast.

#3 Othello (aka Reversi). The concept of this game is pure genius. The rules are succinct and clear. Instead of arguing or debating technicalities, players dedicate themselves to out-thinking their opponents. Fantastic game.

#4 Rock Paper Scissors. Is this a game of skill or pure luck? If the game is pure luck, why do some players win more regularly than others? Clearly, on some level you need to out-think your opponent to win. Perhaps we can call it a game of psychological skill?

#5 Blackjack. As long as you aren't the dealer, you can learn to play blackjack in minutes. Basic strategy can be memorized in an hour. Advanced strategies (that is, card counting) take much longer to master. Blackjack is generally considered more of a casino game than a skill game.