Are there things similar to chess?

Maybe the question sounds a bit strange, so let me explain. Some things in chess I really like, but others I don't. For example that it depends a lot on knowledge, that after a few moves you find yourself in a wellknown opening structure. I prefer just to think on my own, I'd prefer much more space for creativity. So do you know other games or other fields of interest that are very complicated and fascinating?

You could try chess 960 where the starting position of the pieces is random so there is no opening theory.Also in crazyhouse variant there is little theory and it's complicated.

Oh please

Playing Tic-Tac-Toe is similar.

It has squares and you need to plan ahead to play well or learn the general principle of play.

There are other games that make us think ahead and that helps us hone our problem solving skill. This skill is used in every day life. Some plan ahead others live the moment.

@shakki-mestari123
I don't like 960 too much. Often games are very symmetrical, because you have just one normal way to bring the pieces out. It feels a bit like 1.d4 d5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nc3 Nc6 4.Bf4 Bf5 etc. So the positions are not as interesting as in standard chess.

@g3Bb2 I see.

Well, that might be an obvious advice, but consider trying shogi, for example.

@Toscani are you serious. Tic Tac Toe is a solved game and easy to draw.

go is interesting.

Please understand
Possible legal moves in chess is more than atoms in the universe.
Einstein was a big fan of discovered attacks and checks.

The only answer for you is Chess and chess variants like 960