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Description
Frosthaven is the story of a small outpost far to the north of the capital city of White Oak. It's an outpost barely surviving the harsh weather let alone invasions from forces both known and unknown. However, a group of mercenaries, at the end of their rope, will help bring this settlement back from the edge of destruction. Not only will they have to deal with the harsh elements, but with other, far more dangerous threats out in the unforgiving cold, as well. There are: Algox, the bigger, more yeti-like cousins of the Inox, attacking from the mountains; Lurkers flooding in from the northern sea; and rumors have it that there are machines that wander the frozen wastes of their own free will. The party of mercenaries must face all of these perils, and perhaps in doing so, make peace with these new races so they can work together against even more sinister forces.
Frosthaven is a standalone adventure from the designer and publisher of Gloomhaven that features sixteen new characters, three new races, more than twenty new enemies, more than one hundred new items, and a new, 100-scenario campaign. Characters and items from Gloomhaven will be usable in Frosthaven, and vice versa.
In addition to using the well-known combat mechanisms of Gloomhaven, Frosthaven features other elements, such as mysteries to solve, a seasonal event system to live through, and player control over how the ramshackle village expands, with each new building offering new ways to progress.
Frosthaven has a whole new set of items but there is a mechanism for bringing items over from 'Gloomhaven'. However, as Frosthaven's outpost is a remote location, these products may be imported but are not present as standard items. Resources are much more valuable and you have to build items through a crafting system rather than just buying them.
—description from the publisher
Year Published
2022
Featured Videos
Unboxing
Frosthaven NEW 4K Unboxing
Transcript Analysis
Browse transcript mentions, sentiments, pros/cons, mechanics, topics, quotes, and references.
Total mentions: 31
This page: 31
Sentiment:
pos 21 ·
mix 4 ·
neu 4 ·
neg 1
Showing 1–31 of 31
Video T-kBBwCrMK4
top_10_list at 20:56
video_pk 62894 · mention_pk 155743
Click to watch at 20:56 · YouTube ↗
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- it's the meanest game in my top 10, no question
- there's just always something exciting to do on your turn
- it's an absolute hit
- it's the best social deduction experience I've ever had
- the shortest playing time
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Vs9mFwZcE8M
BoardGameCo general_discussion at 6:46 sentiment: neutral
video_pk 62616 · mention_pk 155334
Click to watch at 6:46 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
neutral
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
- Array
- Fantasy
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- This is a record crowdfunding week with a ton of I mean, this is the this is the like the most money I've seen in crowdfunding in a single week in a long time.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Qb0f5O5NKs0
Ryan & Bethany Board Game Reviews top 10 list at 1:56 sentiment: positive
video_pk 62318 · mention_pk 154823
Click to watch at 1:56 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Huge box, lots of content and options
- Continued evolution of the Gloomhaven system
- Impressive component solutions and storage ideas
Cons
- Very heavy and potentially expensive to ship
- Continued storage and organization considerations
Thematic elements
- Array
- Fantasy
- Campaign-based, dungeon-crawl style
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Cooperative Game — Players cooperate to advance a campaign with evolving scenarios.
- cooperative play — Players cooperate to advance a campaign with evolving scenarios.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- the biggest game of all time up to this point is gloomhaven
- there is so so so much in this box they showed us all different sort of storage solutions
- 34 pounds
- I thought frost haven was smaller than gloomhaven
- getting people together playing games
- there was a comedy show as one of the events of origins
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video uAzUWB3AwHI
Unknown Channel general_discussion at 0:00 sentiment: positive
video_pk 60773 · mention_pk 153215
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Greater narrative weight and settlement integration than base Gloomhaven
- Improved longevity with more content and personal quest depth
- Seasonal dynamics and puzzle book add new gameplay layers
- App automation option for monsters and narration
- Expanded components and storage solutions (e.g., broken token compatibility)
Cons
- Increased component count and complexity make setup and storage more challenging
- Double-sided tiles can slow setup and require flipping decisions
- Higher price point and risk of overwhelming new players
- More rules to manage with two scenario books and puzzle book
Thematic elements
- settlement-building, survival, and campaign-driven RPG storytelling
- frozen northern settlement of Frosthaven, part of the Gloomhaven world
- story-driven, long-form campaign with player agency and evolving narrative
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Attack modifier decks / card-based damage — Damage is determined by drawing from a deck rather than dice.
- Campaign framework — Standalone campaign with storybooks, scenario books, and a puzzle book.
- Double-sided overlay tiles — Tiles are double-sided to reduce setup and memory load.
- Expanded content: 160 event cards, many scenarios, solo scenarios — A large pool of events and challenges to extend gameplay; solo scenarios available.
- Loot/token system with Solute deck draw — Loot tokens replaced by draws from the Solute deck for variety.
- Monster stat envelopes with quadrants — Monsters use a rotating quadrant system to reveal stats per level.
- Personal quests and retiring mechanics — Personal quests exist; retiring a character creates a home/building and unlocks new paths.
- Resource management — Items require wood, herbs, and other resources beyond money.
- Resource-based shopping — Items require wood, herbs, and other resources beyond money.
- season system — Game cycles through seasons (Winter/Summer) affecting events and resource costs.
- Settlement building — Players improve a settlement using resources and stickers, affecting gameplay and perks.
- Two scenario books and puzzle book — Multiple books govern setup, exploration, and puzzles.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- this is the doozy of a board game
- the map is actually something that's like they're not just like a pretty thing to look at; it seems like they're actually gonna make it do more things
- I love me some automation
- this is such a cool game
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video FN0WXE0TQS0
Unknown Channel general_discussion at 0:01 sentiment: negative
video_pk 60760 · mention_pk 153203
Click to watch at 0:01 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
negative
Pros
- Introduces a new negative condition that adds risk and tension
- Potential for richer decision-making under pressure
Cons
- Can be punishing and frustrating for players
- Balancing the new condition may be challenging
Thematic elements
- Array
- Fantasy frost frontier
- Campaign-driven narrative
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Combat: Damage Based — A status effect that alters how damage is dealt or received, affecting combat outcomes and strategy.
- Damage modification — Damage taken or dealt can be altered by a condition, leading to amplified consequences in combat.
- Negative condition — A status effect that alters how damage is dealt or received, affecting combat outcomes and strategy.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- oh boy here i go designing frost haven
- negative condition in fact
- it's now brittle that's right folks
- frost haven brittle the next time i
- the next time i figure with brittle takes damage they take twice the amount of damage instead
- take twice the amount of damage instead
- broke his hand
- this is so stupid why did we do this
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Ufj12H3-5UA
Unknown Channel analysis at 0:00 sentiment: positive
video_pk 60588 · mention_pk 152976
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Digital version automates complex upkeep and rule interactions, reducing mental load
- Significantly faster play sessions (30–40 minutes solo) and ability to speed up animations
- Automated enemy turns, autosave, and quick rest/restart options improve play flow
- UI improvements, tooltips, and learning aids help onboarding and ongoing play
- Lower price point for digital version across player counts (e.g., $40 vs $250 MSRP for physical)
- Visuals, narration, and voiceovers enhance the storytelling and immersion
- Potential for broader audience reach and community features (custom scenarios, etc.)
Cons
- UI can require many clicks to access information; some information should be hover-accessible
- Tutorials sometimes gloss over rest mechanics, which are vital to combat
- Outpost phase and morale/inspiration/prosperity systems can be underexplained in tutorials
- Early access introduces bugs and jank; some quirks may affect balance or clarity
- Movement undo is limited; undo only reselects cards and restart can be tedious
- Overall rule complexity remains a challenge for newcomers, especially in larger scenarios
- Some visual or software bugs persist and occasionally trade one issue for another
Thematic elements
- Array
- Fantasy
- Campaign-driven
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Gloomhaven Digital
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Automated Enemies / AI — Enemy turns are automated in the digital version, reducing bookkeeping.
- Character Class Complexity / Transformation — Classes can switch forms or have multiple options per card set, increasing strategic depth.
- Deck building — Players manage a hand of cards to perform actions and influence round outcomes.
- hand management — Strategic selection and saving of cards to maximize round effectiveness.
- Hex-based movement — Movement and positioning on a hexagonal dungeon grid.
- Outpost / Town Building — Constructing and upgrading buildings to improve long-term capabilities.
- Resource management — Gathering resources to craft gear and to upgrade town buildings.
- resource management / crafting — Gathering resources to craft gear and to upgrade town buildings.
- Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game — Missions feature varied and sometimes unique objectives and special rules.
- scenario-based objectives — Missions feature varied and sometimes unique objectives and special rules.
- turn order / initiative — Cards have initiative speeds that influence turn order and action timing.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- I absolutely love this game and have so much fun with it, no matter the version.
- This is still peak gameplay.
- The digital version plays more than twice as fast as physical.
- There is no major setup needed, which is something that people online never seem to factor into playtime.
- The Haven games are tough, crunchy games.
- I want as many people as possible to be able to get into these games and see how goated they are.
- Frost Haven Digital is still very one-to-one and there's so much crunchy decision-making and unique gameplay circumstances and even aesthetics to fall in love with here.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 9UDUvoYFYgg
Shellside game_review at 0:00 sentiment: mixed
video_pk 60681 · mention_pk 153094
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed
Pros
- Base insert fits snugly back into the Frosthaven box
- Potential for organization improvements with the right setup
- Some configurations allow space to stash miscellaneous items
Cons
- Setup/teardown speed generally not improved; often worse than base insert
- Numerous fit issues with sleeved cards and various components
- Time-consuming assembly (punching pieces, edges, possible gluing)
- Poor token/overlay organization and missing coin tokens in Frosthaven
- Inserts designed before the game release may not match actual needs
Thematic elements
- Array
- Fantasy
- analytical
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Deck building — Players manage and rebuild loot and modifier decks as part of play, affecting resources and encounters.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- the clear winner here is in fact the base game insert
- my disappointment is immeasurable and multiple days have been ruined putting this all together
- I'd be livid if I paid for these
- setting up the laserox insert took me an entire day to do because you can't just punch them out without stripping the edges
- this project took like a week to do
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video XArL0BGnhPc
Unknown Channel playthrough at 0:55 sentiment: positive
video_pk 60691 · mention_pk 153103
Click to watch at 0:55 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Expanded content from Gloomhaven
- Built-in scenario structure (tiles)
- Active Kickstarter support
Cons
- High cost and long wait times
- Accessibility for new players
Thematic elements
- Array
- frozen fantasy dungeon-crawl
- Campaign-driven, persistent world
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign/scenario progression — Continued campaign with ongoing unlocks and story.
- Combat: Deck/Hand — Character ability cards drive actions in combat.
- Cooperative Game — Players cooperate to defeat enemies across linked scenarios.
- cooperative gameplay — Players cooperate to defeat enemies across linked scenarios.
- Deck/hand management — Character ability cards drive actions in combat.
- tile placement — Tiles are used to build the dungeon layout per scenario.
- Tile Placement/Scenario Setup — Tiles are used to build the dungeon layout per scenario.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- it's the number one game on board game geek
- it weighs over 9.8 kilograms
- new class i just unlocked
- when's frosthaven coming out
- scenario books with the tiles built
- oh my god frosthaven
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video zBEpughGa8E
Shelf Side general_discussion at 13:47 sentiment: mixed
video_pk 60643 · mention_pk 153034
Click to watch at 13:47 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed
Pros
- Deep campaign and world-building
- Rich, thematic experience
Cons
- Bulky components
- High complexity for newcomers
Thematic elements
- Array
- Fantasy dungeon-crawl campaign
- Campaign-driven with evolving story
Comparison games
- TI4
- Root
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Cooperative Game — Players cooperate to survive dungeon-crawl campaigns.
- cooperative play — Players cooperate to survive dungeon-crawl campaigns.
- Deck/hand management — Character-driven actions rely on managing a hand of cards.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Safety First safy last safety third
- this video is brought to you by ascension
- we bought from Costco a long time ago
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video SxEhIZRkJnY
Unknown Channel general_discussion at 5:47 sentiment: positive
video_pk 59663 · mention_pk 152200
Click to watch at 5:47 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Huge scope and depth; highly anticipated by the creator
- Official tutorials available to aid learning
- Extends beloved Frosthaven narrative
Cons
- Heavy rulebook; learning curve; setup duration
Thematic elements
- Campaign-driven dungeon exploration and cooperative combat
- Frosthaven, a frozen frontier within the Gloomhaven universe
- Campaign-based, scenario-driven progression
Comparison games
- Osworn
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Ahoy number one ... the main game with sustenance during the holidays
- Ahoy gonna be a really fun time to to be had there
- Aquatica non-stop lately
- the base game as it is is perfect it's honestly one of my top 10 games of all time if not top five maybe even top three
- Ready Set bet that's gonna be I probably like the biggest highlights during the next week or so
- Captain sonar you saw me unbox it yesterday we're gonna be playing this for sure
- Frost Haven this one's gonna be for me to enjoy for now until I get going with this
- Paul Grogan from Gaming Rules just released an official tutorial on that video has come in clutch
- it's been super helpful learning this way way easier than trying to absorb with all the information that the manual is giving
- I'll see you all on the next one
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Dn-TkT7hMKs
Game Night Picks game_show at 4:57 sentiment: positive
video_pk 31929 · mention_pk 94188
Click to watch at 4:57 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Rich thematic immersion
- Deep cooperative depth and campaign feel
- Excellent table presence and component quality
Cons
- Very heavy rules for newcomers
- Long play sessions can be demanding
Thematic elements
- Cooperative dungeon crawling with campaign progression
- Northern fantasy world; cold, wintry environs
- Campaign-driven, story-arc advancement with evolving encounters
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — Character and settlement improvements accumulate over sessions.
- Cooperative Game — Players work together to achieve common objectives against game challenges.
- cooperative play — Players work together to achieve common objectives against game challenges.
- Modular board — Board and scenarios change with campaigns, creating replayability.
- Modular board / scenario-based setup — Board and scenarios change with campaigns, creating replayability.
- Resource management — Manage health, resources, and terrain to survive encounters.
- worker placement — Characters perform actions to gather resources, explore, and complete quests.
- Worker placement / action selection — Characters perform actions to gather resources, explore, and complete quests.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- In space, no one can hear you scream about how you didn't draw the card you need again.
- The real monsters are the other players.
- The answer here, of course, is terraforming Mars.
- This one's food chain magnet.
- Cartographers.
- The biscuit tin never has biscuits in it, does it? It's always got bubbling sewing stuff.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 7-cPUjaDEDc
Adam Porter general_discussion at 8:23 sentiment: neutral
video_pk 11587 · mention_pk 34039
Click to watch at 8:23 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
neutral
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
- cooperative dungeon-crawl and campaign progression
- fantasy world with a persistent campaign
- campaign-driven, evolving story
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — ongoing character development and world evolution across sessions.
- campaign persistence — ongoing character development and world evolution across sessions.
- cooperative tactical combat — players work together in tactical encounters with unit actions.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- i'm going to tell you how the board game industry works and how much money you can expect to make
- a physical presence on the high street is expensive and footfall is decreasing as shoppers move online
- youtube influencers play a big role in shifting toys and games
- board game geek was founded at the turn of the century and quickly became a central hub for all things related to tabletop gaming
- it's a sphere almost as saturated as the board game market itself so it's not easy
- i'm a dentist
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 4mbf9hAu5lI
Unknown Channel game_review at 1:56 sentiment: positive
video_pk 11167 · mention_pk 32838
Click to watch at 1:56 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- larger scope and more content than Gloomhaven
- continues familiar tactile depth with new systems and settings
- strong sense of progression and discovery in a new icy setting
Cons
- increased complexity and commitment
- potential for burnout given expanded content
- requires ownership of Frosthaven components
Thematic elements
- expansion of campaign scope with more content and complexity
- frozen frontier; continuation of the Gloomhaven campaign with new locations and environments
- campaign-driven; introduces new mechanics and a larger, ongoing narrative
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Adds new locations, scenarios, and progression systems to extend the campaign length and depth.
- card play and initiative — Maintains the core Gloomhaven mechanic of using cards to perform actions and determine turn order, with new twists in Frosthaven.
- expanded campaign mechanics — Adds new locations, scenarios, and progression systems to extend the campaign length and depth.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Gloomhaven is fantastic.
- the card play mechanic ... initiative
- I experienced the fullness of this game.
- we live in an era where there's so many other campaign games.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video QWoPkIN0KuY
Cardboard Herald general_discussion at 0:04 sentiment: positive
video_pk 11098 · mention_pk 32651
Click to watch at 0:04 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Huge content: 100 missions
- 16 new characters
- 3 new races
- 25+ new enemies
- 100 new items
- seasonal events and mysteries
- city-building integration
Cons
none
Thematic elements
- Survival, community-building, and ongoing campaign in a fantasy setting
- A snowy frontier town in the Gloomhaven universe with persistent town-building
- Campaign-driven with evolving town and persistent events
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign missions — Structured scenarios with branching outcomes.
- Card-driven combat — Players use ability cards to perform actions and manage turns.
- city-building effects on gameplay — Buildings modify options and gameplay flow.
- Cooperative Game — Co-op play with team-based decision-making.
- Cooperative multiplayer — Co-op play with team-based decision-making.
- engine building — Buildings modify options and gameplay flow.
- Events — Persistent events and mysteries that reoccur in play.
- persistent town-building — Add buildings to Frosthaven that influence campaign options.
- Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game — Structured scenarios with branching outcomes.
- seasonal events and mysteries — Persistent events and mysteries that reoccur in play.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- cool sounding kind of old-school JRPG type of system
- Breath of Fire 3 in its fairy City in particular
- this game is coming to Kickstarter in March of 2020
- there's going to be perhaps the most exciting element of all this a degree of city building as you expand upon the town of Frost Haven
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 7jrdRqVTOAM
Quackalope general_discussion at 42:30 sentiment: positive
video_pk 10927 · mention_pk 32181
Click to watch at 42:30 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- rich campaign system
- deep mechanics that scale with player choices
Cons
- heavy rulebooks
- large time commitment
Thematic elements
- campaign-driven tactical dungeon exploration and settlement management
- frost-bound frontier with fortress-city and evolving threats
- long-form campaign with evolving story beats
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
- Root
- Wingspan
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card-driven actions — players select actions through a hand of cards that power the turn sequence
- cooperative dungeon-crawl — team-based exploration with shared objectives and consequences
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- board game content channels on YouTube are very wide and shallow
- we're narrowing that down and identifying five categories of videos
- the next year for the channel is really about building back relationships with the community
- I want to bring our channel down to probably about five identifiable series
- defund Kickstarter is an idea we talked about
- we're not going to trade Shabbat for conventions
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video tok_HZNmEjA
Three Minute Board Games game_review at 0:00 sentiment: mixed
video_pk 10880 · mention_pk 32070
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed
Pros
- Ambitious game design that expands on Gloomhaven with more varied classes
- Tactical combat and card play remain engaging and deep
- Campaign integrates settlement-building and progression to reward long-term investment
Cons
- Very high time and financial commitment
- Complex rules that may overwhelm new players
- Campaign can dominate a table for a long period, requiring long-term commitment
Thematic elements
- cooperative adventuring with personal goals, settlement-building
- Isolated fantasy town facing a rising darkness
- campaign-driven with evolving narrative and character progression
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Jaws of the Lion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Characters gain better gear and skills over the campaign, driving progression.
- card modifier deck — Attack results are modified by a deck that can add or subtract outcomes, including misses.
- Character progression — Characters gain better gear and skills over the campaign, driving progression.
- Combat: Deck/Hand — Monsters possess their own action decks; elites provide enhanced powers and abilities.
- elemental system — Elements appear on cards and can be advanced; elements can be spent for bonuses.
- enemy action decks and elites — Monsters possess their own action decks; elites provide enhanced powers and abilities.
- hand management / card-driven combat — Players select two cards per turn, using the top of one card and the bottom of the other; initiative determines order of actions.
- loot and resource management — Defeated enemies drop loot; loot can be spent on gear, tokens, or to unlock structures.
- outpost / settlement building — Between missions, players spend loot to construct buildings that unlock campaign options and upgrades.
- Reclaim as Action — Resting recovers discarded cards but requires burning one to take a risk.
- Resource management — Defeated enemies drop loot; loot can be spent on gear, tokens, or to unlock structures.
- resting / fatigue mechanics — Resting recovers discarded cards but requires burning one to take a risk.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- FrostHaven is gloomhaven but extra
- The Tactical combat and decision making with its excellent card play returns
- the best thing about this game is its ambition, trying to outdo a monster hit game and succeeding is something special
- however Frost Haven requires a serious commitment both in financial terms and the amount of time you'll spend on it
- it's a game that needs to dominate your table for the better part of a year lest it not be worth picking up
- not the extra missions, the settlement building or the narrative but whether the new classes grab you and make you intrigued
- and there are 13 more classes I haven't even looked at
- if this looks daunting try jaws of a lion first
- and for the original here's gloomhaven
- frosthaven, it's a gold medal game but is it too much of a good thing
- and if you enjoyed this video hit the notification button like share and subscribe to the channel
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video AQ5hersjVpQ
Three Minute Board Games general_discussion at 4:31 sentiment: neutral
video_pk 10490 · mention_pk 30885
Click to watch at 4:31 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
neutral
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
- Campaign-driven dungeon exploration with persistent character progression and boss-centric encounters.
- A fantasy fortress and surrounding regions undergoing ongoing exploration and conflict.
- Campaign arc with evolving scenarios and character development across sessions.
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — Persistent character development and evolving game state across multiple scenarios.
- Cooperative Game — Players collaborate to complete missions against AI-driven encounters on a shared board.
- cooperative play — Players collaborate to complete missions against AI-driven encounters on a shared board.
- turn-based tactical combat — Grid-based combat with card-driven action selection and strategic positioning.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- create content or die like you have to be making stuff constantly or the algorithm that just beats the crap out of you
- thank you to my patrons who have let me be sick for a month and not pulled backing
- this is my job and if I'm not getting new revenue from YouTube I'm really existing on Patreon
- we will be taking a look at the shelf of opportunity, we will be doing our game awards
- it's the kind of thing that when it comes along it is nice to have that little bit of backup there that I can rely on
- thank you to those people who are still watching even though we haven't been on the air for a month
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Fxtn7YuYXFU
Fanbase Games interview at 17:13 sentiment: positive
video_pk 10086 · mention_pk 29717
Click to watch at 17:13 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- enhanced world-building and representation
- inclusion-focused development process
- continues the depth and scale of the gloomhaven universe
Cons
- even greater complexity and time commitment
- resource-intensive development and production
Thematic elements
- expanding narrative and world-building beyond gloomhaven
- fantasy world with evolving communities and cultures
- lore-rich, culture-aware storytelling with a focus on inclusion
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Jaws of the Lion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative campaign with narrative text — long-form scenarios that advance a shared story with multiple factions
- culture-aware narrative design — explicit efforts to portray diverse cultures respectfully and richly
- expanded team/character roles — new classes and mechanics that broaden play styles beyond gloomhaven
- player-driven world-building — narrative and lore development influenced by design choices and feedback
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- diversity and inclusion makes everything stronger
- there's no reason not to do it
- it's about treating cultures with care and respect
- hiring cultural consultants to sort of help us go through all the narrative of frosthaven
- there's been this creeping feeling that i made some mistakes with gloomhaven
- don't be afraid to do the work
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 0T_YvUIxdjU
Unknown Channel general_discussion at 10:10 sentiment: positive
video_pk 9597 · mention_pk 28386
Click to watch at 10:10 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Deep campaign depth and expanding toolbox of characters
- Elegant improvements over earlier puzzles and campaigns
- High-quality components and art
Cons
- Long play sessions can be taxing for viewers and players
- Complex setup and management of multiple scenarios
Thematic elements
- Heroic fantasy campaign with evolving narratives and character progression
- Frosthaven, a frozen, northern outpost with ongoing adventures
- Campaign-driven with continuous character development across sessions
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Kingdom Death Monster
- Descent: Journeys in the Dark
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card-driven actions — Players select action cards to carry out a sequence of movement, attack, and support options.
- tile-based exploration — Modular map tiles and scenario-driven exploration shape each session.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Madara got 71% of the vote in the poll, so we are painting the Blighted Guardians.
- I love Madara the story is really good and it's one of my favorite games.
- We are going to do Madara tonight; I think this is going to be fantastic.
- Skyrim Adventure Game I enjoy it; I like that we can all kind of do turns together.
- The AI in Madara is solid; it tells you exactly what to do and keeps the game flowing.
- The campaign vibe of Frosthaven is making me excited to get back to it.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video K7GhXiN9sis
OFPG Voices general_discussion at 40:39 sentiment: positive
video_pk 9125 · mention_pk 26905
Click to watch at 40:39 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- expansive, richly textured campaign
- new components and accessories expand play experience
Cons
- massive footprint and cost
- can be intimidating to start
Thematic elements
- expansion-driven campaign with new environments
- Northern fortress-based fortress-hub in Gloomhaven universe
- epic dungeon-crawl-adventure
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Terracotta Army
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign with character retirement and new arcs — Progression continues with new characters and challenges.
- modular terrain and inserts — Additional components (laser rocks, inserts) for modular play.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- "top 23 board game terms that we mentioned quite a bit"
- "we want to ramp up quicker"
- "we're going to pick out the top 20 is where we started but then we said well it's 2023 so we're going to give you the top 23 board game terms"
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video EVW4MoHuBMI
Cardboard Harold general_discussion at 1:21 sentiment: positive
video_pk 8853 · mention_pk 26121
Click to watch at 1:21 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- strong campaign depth and replayability
- cooperative synergy and thematic cohesion
- generally streamlined relative to expectations for a heavy game
Cons
- high complexity and lengthy setup
- less ideal for solo play
- requires a regular gaming group to realize best value
Thematic elements
- cooperative dungeon-crawl with campaign progression
- frozen frontier fortresses in a harsh arctic-like world
- persistent campaign with character/story arcs
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven Jaws of the Lion
- Root
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card-driven action selection — players choose actions through a hand of action cards, driving tempo and choices
- Character progression — progression across scenarios with gear, abilities, and persistent improvements
- Combat — combat encounters with enemies, monsters, and terrain effects
- cooperative play — players collaborate to achieve shared objectives and survive the campaign
- Tile-based map exploration — scenarios unfold on modular tiles that define encounters and exploration
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- the fact that people want to listen is mind blowing
- we are not monetizing, we are not turning this into a job
- I bought Frost Haven in the mail and I was excited
- I thought it was gonna be bloated too clunky, but it was pretty streamlined surprisingly
- Harassment I'll try to speak for myself and my co-host a little bit
- the best experience you are going to have with most games is with other players
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video eaPzPEaBAkc
Board Game Coffee unboxing at 0:00 sentiment: positive
video_pk 8672 · mention_pk 25545
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Massive content and replay value
- Stunning art and high-quality minis
- Great organization and insert design
- City-building aspect adds depth
- Deep, evolving campaign experience
Cons
- Very heavy and complex; steep learning curve
- High price and large footprint
- Read-heavy rulebook and lengthy setup
Thematic elements
- cooperative campaign adventuring with city-building
- Frosthaven, a frozen frontier city in a harsh, wintry world
- long-form, evolving story with character development and quest-driven arcs
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Jaws of the Lion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Character progression, scenario unlocks, and persistent improvements over a long campaign.
- Campaign progression and unlocks — Character progression, scenario unlocks, and persistent improvements over a long campaign.
- Card-driven actions — Players select two cards from their hand each turn, choosing top and bottom actions; each card is used for two actions, driving strategic planning.
- City-building elements — Players participate in developing Frosthaven's settlement through resources and evidence-based choices.
- Grid building — Players participate in developing Frosthaven's settlement through resources and evidence-based choices.
- Modular map tiles and minis — A modular board with numerous minis and terrain tiles enabling varied environments and tactical combat.
- Top/Bottom actions and initiative — Cards have top and bottom actions that can be combined in various ways, tied to turn order and timing.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- this is heavier than gloomhaven
- this game's gonna be so epic
- I'm excited to actually get to play this
- the best thing about Frost Haven is the discovery; it's all about discovery
- commit don't bother with the reusable stickers
- you get what you put in you get out what you put in
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video rG40z4Hdilg
Unknown general_discussion at 0:00 sentiment: neutral
video_pk 8257 · mention_pk 24202
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
neutral
Pros
- High production quality and thematic integration
- Deep cooperative mechanics with meaningful choices
- Expansive campaign with evolving narrative
Cons
- Time-intensive setup and component prep
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Heavy footprint of materials and storage
Thematic elements
- Cooperative dungeon-crawl campaign with evolving narrative and character-driven progression
- Fantasy city-state of Frosthaven, a sprawling, inhospitable realm where guilds and adventurers prepare for perilous expeditions
- Story-driven campaign with anchored missions and persistent character arcs
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign progression and character development — The game evolves over multiple scenarios with persistent hero advancement, loot, and narrative consequences.
- Component management and setup — Pre-game prep involves punching out tokens, sorting components, and organizing resources for smooth play.
- cooperative play with asymmetric roles — Each player controls a unique character with specific abilities, requiring teamwork and strategic planning.
- deck-based action selection — Players choose actions by playing cards from a hand; each card provides top and bottom actions that shape the team's options for the round.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- today is the day today we follow our
- there are a lot of these
- 45 minutes to punch and semi-sort
- still gotta put these in those
- it's gonna have to be continued in another video
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video srf0yu1uDbk
Board Game Coffee general_discussion at 27:51 sentiment: positive
video_pk 8055 · mention_pk 23725
Click to watch at 27:51 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- rich campaign, lots of content
- upgradable city and varied interactions
Cons
- heavy and long, time consuming
Thematic elements
- Nordic-fantasy frontier with winter themes
- City-building, campaign within the Frosthaven ecosystem
- Expanded, multi-session campaign with city upgrades
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Pool resources to upgrade a settlement and unlock new areas
- Campaign and city-building — Pool resources to upgrade a settlement and unlock new areas
- Deck building — Characters grow and adapt with new abilities
- Deck-building and action point management — Characters grow and adapt with new abilities
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Sleeping Gods is so good it's so good
- it's like playing a Choose Your Own Adventure storybook
- The Minis on this are huge
- this box is so much heavier than I thought it was
- it's the slowest game ever
- it's a worldwide contest
- have fun keep gaming be social
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video jFsLuN0B3P4
Board Game Officer general_discussion at 15:23 sentiment: positive
video_pk 7661 · mention_pk 22686
Click to watch at 15:23 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Rich campaign depth and modular insert ecosystem
- Excellent table presence and organization potential
Cons
- Large time commitment and complexity
- Expensive when adding inserts and expansions
Thematic elements
- Survival, logistics, and ongoing campaign
- Frost-laden frontier with deep dungeon-crawl elements
- campaign-driven with evolving factions
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
- Aeon Trespass Odyssey
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — Persistent outcomes shape future play
- cooperative dungeon crawl — Team-based exploration and combat
- Modular scenarios and inserts — Expandable board and card systems
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Glitter is terrible
- The instructions are incredible, way better than Ikea
- If it strikes your fancy, check it out
- Stay on target
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video NitC6ukS1GU
The Broken Meeple general_discussion at 3:47 sentiment: positive
video_pk 7507 · mention_pk 22296
Click to watch at 3:47 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- Newer and more developed than Gloomhaven
- Incorporates feedback from Gloomhaven
- Better setting than Gloomhaven
Cons
none
Thematic elements
- Dungeon exploration with winter theme
- Dark Fantasy/Winter/Dungeon Crawl
- Campaign-based
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign system — Persistent progression through multiple scenarios
- Deck building — Players build decks of action cards
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- I really enjoyed it clean you just take the cards you move up the prices
- I didn't really know much about this game because I missed a Kickstarter
- I am hyped for this game hegemony has probably been my best game I've played of the year so far
- You need to temper your expectations a bit for this game
- trade show it's just it's kind of irresponsible really
- I'm getting sick of it
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video vS9TH9uJYps
Board Game Coffee unboxing_and_setup_feedback at 0:50 sentiment: positive
video_pk 6266 · mention_pk 18560
Click to watch at 0:50 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- beautiful and sturdy insert; excellent organization
- modular trays keep cards, tokens, and tiles neatly separated
- clear video-guided assembly and labeling for assembling the insert
Cons
- some glue required for certain pieces; a few components loosen without glue
- tiles require a separate box, adding space
- some assembly steps require careful orientation
Thematic elements
- cooperative dungeon crawling with ongoing campaign progression in a harsh, snowy setting
- Frosthaven, a frozen northern frontier within the Gloomhaven universe, focused on exploration, danger, and survival in a wintry landscape.
- campaign-driven, evolving narrative with character progression and evolving scenarios
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Gaia Project
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- combat_card_decks — monsters and heroes rely on decks of combat cards to drive actions and effects.
- Combat: Deck/Hand — monsters and heroes rely on decks of combat cards to drive actions and effects.
- hand management — players manage a hand of action cards to perform actions during encounters.
- hand_management — players manage a hand of action cards to perform actions during encounters.
- initiative_and_action_order — turn order is determined by initiative values on played cards, shaping tactical decisions.
- Modular board — modular map tiles define mission layouts and exploration flow.
- status_effects_and_modifiers — tokens track ongoing effects and modifiers impacting characters and monsters.
- tile_based_dungeon_exploration — modular map tiles define mission layouts and exploration flow.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- I love how organized this is, this is the prettiest box insert I've ever seen
- I'm really looking forward to filling this up with Frost Haven things
- this insert is beautiful and the attention to detail is wicked
- frost Haven comes pretty packed
- it's got all your life counters and they have a video to help you with things
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video iMRwLAFpFcg
Good Time Society playthrough at 0:00 sentiment: positive
video_pk 4454 · mention_pk 13076
Click to watch at 0:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed_positive
Pros
- Digital adaptation reduces setup and scale issues while preserving core mechanics
- Tactical depth from hex patterns, shadow management, and form-shifting
- Strong cooperative vibe and team-based planning
- Loot and card-recovery add tension and strategy
Cons
- Card economy and discard mechanics can be confusing and punishing
- Hex-grid positioning with shadows can be visually and mechanically dense
- Rest mechanics may feel punishing if planning mistakes occur
Thematic elements
- survival, exploration, tactical monster combat
- Frosthaven, a frozen northern town in a fantasy world under siege by raiders
- grim fantasy with evolving town/story context
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative_teamplay — Four players coordinate class abilities, positioning, and shared goals to defeat enemies and protect city guards.
- eclipse_hexes_and_loot — Hex-based map with special/eclipse hexes; players place waypoints and trigger effects such as damage or loot.
- hand_management — Each turn you select two ability cards (top and bottom) to resolve actions; damage can force trashing cards to stay in the fight.
- initiative_and_turn_order — Initiative is determined by the numbers on chosen cards; planning order is critical for team coordination.
- pattern_attack — Top and bottom cards create a pattern; attacks must be placed on hexes that match gray/blue spots within range.
- rest_and_card_recovery — Short rests and long rests recover health and allow drawing back cards, but may require discarding or losing cards.
- shadow_hexes_and_shadow_step — Death walkers can create shadows on hexes; players can move to and act from these shadows, including shifting forms.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- The game is played by choosing two ability cards on your turn and you get to do the top of one card and the bottom of another card.
- I place these eclipse hex's and in a range of three hex's and then I get to do cool stuff on them like do a bunch of damage.
- initiative order is based on the numbers of the cards.
- If you take damage, you may trash a card instead and lose it forever.
- Shadow hexes, shadows created by Death Walkers; it's cool.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video Ok7Fjx29an8
Beyond Solitaire top_50_list at 2:00 sentiment: mixed
video_pk 2736 · mention_pk 8026
Click to watch at 2:00 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
mixed
Pros
none
Cons
none
Thematic elements
Comparison games
none
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Mechanics unknown.
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- Gloomhaven will not be removed from number one on BGG it's just not possible.
- Frost Haven tweaks a few things but the stuff that it adds is so much more involved and in depth.
- Arc Nova is meteoric rise in the top lists; it's everywhere now.
- Mage Knight is my number one favorite game of all time.
- Spirit Island is my number one cooperative game of all time.
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video haRvIw-42Gk
Foster the Meeple top_11_list at 8:44 sentiment: positive
video_pk 2732 · mention_pk 8017
Click to watch at 8:44 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- deep, expansive campaign
- playable with other Gloomhaven content
Cons
- very heavy, long play times
- massive setup
Thematic elements
- Gloomhaven-inspired campaign dungeon crawl
- Northern fortress, icy frontier
- campaign-driven, persistent world
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
- Jaws of the Lion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Cooperative campaign — long-form, multi-session storyline with evolving scenarios
- Hero progression — carryover character development across sessions
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- it's based on the disney movie onward
- it's a disney theme obviously
- i'm a sucker for space games especially space exploration games
- this is a 4x game where i mean you're basically just building out your empire and exploring space
- this game is adorable and fun and i'm really excited for it
- cooperative exploration you're on this mysterious seventh continent and you're exploring and placing new tiles
- winter queen is an abstract game drafting pattern building and set collection
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
Video 4Sp4cZCaKMM
Unknown Channel top_10_list at 1:53:49 sentiment: positive
video_pk 1268 · mention_pk 3687
Click to watch at 1:53:49 · YouTube ↗
Overall sentiment (raw)
positive
Pros
- extremely thematic and immersive
- very broad content and long-term play value
Cons
- very large and heavy
- can be tedious to set up and teach
Thematic elements
- deep narrative campaign with modular scenarios
- frost-infected fantasy world with dungeon-crawler vibe
- story-driven, evolving world
Comparison games
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign-driven progression — persistent characters and stories across sessions
- Card-driven action economy — actions selected via cards, with evolving decks
- scenario-based play — each scenario varies with objectives and encounters
Video topics + discussion points
No key topics recorded for this video.
Quotes (from this video)
- There are so many just different things about this game that it's hard to manage all the decisions
- the theme is extremely strong in this one, you can feel it in every action
- the app integration in Mansions of Madness is great and speeds things up
References (from this video)
No references stored for this video.
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