The “Expert” gaming world is buzzing with excitement. The jury for the Diamant d’Or, one of the most prestigious awards for heavy strategy games, has just released its final shortlist for the 2026 edition. Eight titles will compete to succeed past legends of board gaming and claim the ultimate distinction.
Here are the eight contenders that impressed the judges with their depth, originality, and finely-tuned mechanics.
The 8 Finalists at a Glance
The 2026 vintage promises to be particularly eclectic, blending historical themes, science fiction, and dreamlike worlds:
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Ada’s Dream: A title that appears to immerse us in the world of pioneering programming and mathematics.
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Ants (Fourmis): An organic management game where strategy unfolds at the colony level.
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Galactic Cruise: Take the helm of a luxury space tourism company. A highly anticipated title known for its stunning aesthetic and strategic weight.
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Keyside: An invitation to maritime trade and port development.
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Luthier: A game already making waves for its unique theme centered on the craft of making classical string instruments.
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Philharmonix: High-level orchestral management. Get your conductor’s batons ready!
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Recall: A game that seems to play with memory or timelines, featuring very intriguing artwork.
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Sweet Lands: A world with a softer appearance that undoubtedly hides a formidable engine-building core.
