Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a standalone game that takes place before the events of Gloomhaven. The game includes four new characters — Valrath Red Guard (tank, crowd control), Inox Hatchet (ranged damage), Human Voidwarden (support, mind control), and Quatryl Demolitionist (melee damage, obstacle manipulation) — that can also be used in the original Gloomhaven game.
The game also includes 16 monster types (including seven new standard monsters and three new bosses) and a new campaign with 25 scenarios that invites the heroes to investigate a case of mysterious disappearances within the city. Is it the work of Vermlings, or is something far more sinister going on?
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is aimed at a more casual audience to get people into the gameplay more quickly. All of the hard-to-organize cardboard map tiles have been removed, and instead players will play on the scenario book itself, which features new artwork unique to each scenario. The last barrier to entry — i.e., learning the game — has also been lowered through a simplified rule set and a five-scenario tutorial that will ease new players into the experience.
- Strong all-round package compared to base gloomhaven
- Great storytelling through scenarios
- Solid progression and campaign feel
- Requires commitment to a campaign
- Some may prefer the larger base game content
- Adventure, tactical combat, evolving stories
- Fantasy dungeon crawl in the Gloomhaven universe, campaign-driven scenarios
- Story-forward campaigns with branching scenarios
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — Scenarios carry over and characters level up through sessions
- cooperative tactical combat — Team-based tactical decisions with card-driven actions
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- "Loving it, absolutely loving it"
- "I think Jaws of the Lion is a better all-round put together package"
- "it's one of the most complicated games out there; the learning curve is huge"
- "I rate the game I think like a 9.5 out of 10"
- "we played Star Wars Imperial Assault all day"
References (from this video)
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative tactical combat — players work together to defeat monsters on tactical maps
- deck-building — players use ability and attack cards drawn from a personal deck
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's not just people of color we're talking about women too yes whether you have color or not underrepresented under-represented lgbtq yes so we'll have a nice diverse group of people
- Die Hard is a Christmas movie
- send in the questions we love hearing from you all
- family we just love being with you we couldn't let this day go by without visiting with you and talking to you
- we're launching a new show called OFPG Voices
- it's not just people of color we're talking about women too
References (from this video)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- gaming is for everybody
- Black history is American history
- If it happened on American soil it's American history
- History is not a priority in this country; comfort is the preeminent american value
- we're here we're here we're here
References (from this video)
- compact entry into the Gloomhaven system
- highly engaging and campaign-driven
- still heavy on rules and learning curve
- pacing can be slow if players overthink
- team-based tactical exploration
- fantasy dungeon-crawl with card-driven scenarios
- campaign-driven storytelling
- Gloomhaven (full)
- Descent: Journeys in the Dark
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card-driven dungeon crawl / scenario-based progression — structured scenarios with cooperative play and evolving character abilities
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's board game adjacent let's just say it's kind of like an activity where you've got a big map on the table and you're trying to solve crimes
- i really really like tapestry
- it's simple but fun
- the fan track keeps you relevant when you're behind
- it's a bundle of fun
- i love calico
- radlands is a fantastic two-player card dueling lane fighter
References (from this video)
- accessible entry to Gloomhaven system
- tight, cooperative play
- still heavy in rules
- campaign can be lengthy
- cooperative exploration with tactical combat
- fantasy dungeon-crawl
- campaign-driven storytelling
- Gloomhaven
- Descent
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative dungeon crawl / card-driven combat — scenario-based missions with evolving character abilities
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's board game adjacent let's just say it's kind of like an activity where you've got a big map on the table and you're trying to solve crimes
- i really really like tapestry
- it's simple but fun
- the fan track keeps you relevant when you're behind
- it's a bundle of fun
- i love calico
- radlands is a fantastic two-player card dueling lane fighter
References (from this video)
- entry point into Gloomhaven family
- tight cooperative play
- heavy rules
- campaign length can be intimidating
- cooperative tactical combat
- fantasy dungeon-crawl
- campaign-driven adventure
- Gloomhaven
- Descent
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative dungeon crawl / card-driven combat — scenario-based missions with evolving character abilities
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's board game adjacent let's just say it's kind of like an activity where you've got a big map on the table and you're trying to solve crimes
- i really really like tapestry
- it's simple but fun
- the fan track keeps you relevant when you're behind
- it's a bundle of fun
- i love calico
- radlands is a fantastic two-player card dueling lane fighter
References (from this video)
- Solid solo play option and strong co-op experience
- Tight puzzle-like challenges with satisfying conundrums
- Rich thematic consistency and replay value
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Can be lengthy and require substantial time to complete campaigns
- cooperative tactical dungeon exploration
- fantasy dungeon-crawl world of Gloomhaven
- campaign-based scenarios with evolving challenges
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Deck-driven actions — Players select cards that determine actions each turn.
- Scenario-based progression — Campaign-like structure with scenarios that affect future play.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- "this is the completely biased unadulterated Jack's personal top 10 list of 2024"
- "it's a wonderful year to be a gamer with the partner gamer in your life"
- "Leviathan Wilds is a midweight game that doesn't take a lot to get to the table"
- "Harvest is a game that got me into gaming in the first place"
- "this year has been bonkers... I'll remember forever"
References (from this video)
- Big content for a smaller footprint
- Better teach-in for new players
- fantasy dungeon exploration
- Expanded Gloomhaven experience in a smaller box
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign/shorter — A more approachable Gloomhaven experience with a contained campaign.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- the mere mortal tier I'm talking about people that have either no board gaming experience at all or at most they've played Monopoly Uno or maybe Katan
- the perfect uh game to introduce to someone to the Rand W genre
- this is the perfect game to introduce someone to the Roll & Write genre
- this is a great option especially if you know that they like card games or nature
- I've seen people draw some gorgeous Maps
- this game made me feel all smart and stuff
- Everdale is a fantastic puzzle
References (from this video)
- great value in Jaws of the Lion
- tight, accessible campaign
- streamlined setup compared to base game
- some feel it lacks the depth of the base game
- campaign-driven tactical combat with evolving character progression
- fantasy dungeon crawl in the Gloomhaven universe
- streamlined campaign for quicker access
- Gloomhaven (base game)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign-based dungeon crawling — progress through scenarios with evolving map and character growth.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- this is the zombie game in my collection
- gaming Nirvana
- my first ever certified dopamin award
References (from this video)
- Beautiful universe
- Engaging solo play
- Four character options
- Loving the experience
- Partner doesn't play this one
- Solo-only game in their collection
- Dungeon crawling campaign adventure
- Gloomhaven fantasy universe
- Progressive campaign narrative
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Multi-scenario linked campaign
- Character control — Play all four characters solo
- Deck building — Evolving character abilities
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- love it love it love it
- that's gonna be a real big part of our collection
- Lost Cities is a two-player game it's evil y'all
- happy frustration
- it's kind of funny funny
- i like it better this time
- games have to grow on me
- beautiful game loved it oh man omg
- i love the artwork diverse
- this may be one of our favorites
- we are disappointed
- we didn't build a fort
- what are we doing
- if you ain't have fun what you doing
References (from this video)
- dramatically improved the playability of gloomhaven and jaws of the lion
- consolidates bookkeeping and reduces table clutter
- more accessible and less intimidating
- low cost relative to the game's overall cost
- helps the game hit the table more frequently
- some players dislike app integration in board games
- still requires manual input for many elements (gold, experience, status effects)
- not all components are fully simulated; you still manage tokens and rules at the table
- dependencies on devices and screen for core functionality
- Cooperative tactical combat with exploration and character progression
- Fantasy dungeon crawl in the city of Gloomhaven and surrounding regions; campaign-driven scenarios
- Campaign-driven, scenario-based with evolving character stories
- Gloomhaven
- Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- combat_modifier_deck — A live modifier deck alters attack outcomes; includes curses, blessings, and other modifiers that influence results.
- initiative and turn order — Characters select actions and determine order; turns and actions flow in a tactical grid-based combat context.
- monster_AI_and_deck_interactions — Monsters use their AI and modifier interactions, including reshuffles and special effects, to drive enemy behavior.
- scenario_progression_and_scaling — Scenarios scale with difficulty and monster counts; progression affects setup and challenge level.
- status_effects_and_tracking — Status effects, experience, gold, and health are tracked with tokens and in-app reminders.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- dramatically improved the playability of gloomhaven and jaws of the lion
- this is by far one of the most successful third-party integrations of an app that I have seen
- it's a beautiful thing that is of so much value for a relatively low cost
- far easier to set up and far more accessible experience
References (from this video)
- great intro into Gloomhaven, accessible entry
- heavy rules for new players
- campaign length
- cooperative tactical combat
- fantasy dungeon-crawling campaign
- campaign progression
- Gloomhaven
- Descent
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign-based progression — unlock abilities and equipment as scenarios unfold
- Tactical combat — grid-based combat with enemy AI and teamwork
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Hive is a simple two-player game yet it's for gamers because there's a lot of decisions it almost feels chess-like it's zero luck
- this video is going to go head-to-head and find the best board games for gamers under budget
- 75 not that bad for five really good games for gamers
- it's going to be the most expensive ice cream
References (from this video)
- One of first campaigns they finished start to finish
- Great introduction to campaign games
- Incredible experience
- Refined accessible version of Gloomhaven
- Will naturally fall lower in rankings due to one-and-done campaign nature
- Campaign adventure
- Fantasy - dungeon crawling
- Narrative campaign with storybook
- Gloomhaven (original game)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Story-driven campaign gameplay
- Storybook Map — Maps presented as storybook that you open and play
- Tactical combat — Turn-based combat with character management
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Azul is just a classic classic game
- I will always want to play this game it's a staple
- Racing is my favorite game mechanic
- I love watching everything kind of like waterfall off of each other
- Castles of Burgundy is incredible I love Castle's birdie
- I love this game so basically like the world is dying
- The best part about Black Angel the little robot guys
- Bet on yourself always always I don't even care if I lose the game believe in yourself
- Dice Throne is an incredible 1v1 battle Yahtzee game
- Wingspan I am almost always in a game of Wingspan on BGA
- This game is beautifully designed it just feels good when you play it
- I can't win and I am getting freaking sick of it
- It's always a great time when it hits the table
- Paint the Roses is a Cooperative deduction game
- I've fallen back in love with it
- Some of the best gaming experiences I've had is playing that game
- I really really love Flamme Rouge it is an excellent game
- I will fall in love with this game it's got the recipe for it to be like a top 10 game
References (from this video)
- Accessible onboarding with a learn-to-play guide and structured tutorial flow
- Binded map system improves setup speed and reduces chaos
- Maintains cooperative essence and combat depth of the gloomhaven universe
- Strong artwork, engaging minis, and a compact box experience
- Still carries weight and complexity typical of gloomhaven, albeit reduced
- Some components (sealed tuck boxes) require careful handling to avoid spoilers
- Learning curve remains non-trivial for absolute newcomers
- Cooperation, tactical combat, and dungeon-crawling exploration with accessible, tutorial-driven gameplay.
- A cooperative fantasy campaign set in the gloomhaven universe, reimagined for a streamlined onboarding experience with a binded map approach.
- Onboarding-forward, learn-as-you-go, with a guided progression that introduces abilities gradually.
- Gloomhaven (base)
- Aftermath
- Fables
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative play — Up to four players coordinate to complete scenarios with shared goals and complementary roles.
- Deck-driven actions — Players use attack/ability cards from a hand; choose top or bottom of each card to resolve actions, creating tactical depth.
- Learn-to-play framework — A guided learning path and learn-to-play guide provide spoon-fed introduction to abilities and mechanics.
- Monster stat tracking — Enemy sheets and tokens manage health, status effects, and behavior, enabling structured combat management.
- Scenario book with binded map — Map and scenario info are presented in a bound book format, reducing tile handling and streamlining setup.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- this jaws of the lion this is the more consumer friendly accessible tutorial driven experience
- spoon-fed your abilities
- it's gonna be good
- it's a trend that i am digging
- this is going to be fun
- it's a more accessible version of gloomhaven
References (from this video)
- initial presentation and organization of components feels intuitive
- clear flow from setup to play with mystery elements
- some find non-intuitive setup and organization for larger groups
- adventure and tactical combat in a shared campaign world
- fantasy dungeon-crawl, scaled-down for new players
- campaign-driven, modular storylines
- Gloomhaven
- Sleeping Gods
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative tactical combat — players work together to complete scenario objectives on a map grid
- modular map tiles and progressive unlocks — scenario-based content unfolds as players advance
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- everything to me has sort of built around and built off of wasteland express
- this tub which is color coded to the player pieces
- the insert has transformed what is the absolute worst aspect of this game and made it this beautiful premium
- sleeving is a hobbyist mentality
- open like a feast as soon as you open the box
- the central basin allows you to get everything successfully into the box and the lid closes
- box mapping removes all inserts
References (from this video)
- more approachable entry into Gloomhaven
- reduced setup complexity
- still heavy for casual gamers
- less room to explore later into the system
- fantasy dungeon crawling with campaign feel
- Gloomhaven world, scaled-down single-box experience
- structured campaign with guided goals
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — scenario progression and character development
- initiative/deck-driven actions — smaller box version with simplified setup
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- easy one for me
- locking it in
- we're not big fans of the crew
- it's not close
- open-world sandboxy exploration
References (from this video)
- Intro to Gloomhaven in a leaner package with strong value
- Excellent campaign design and depth for the price
- Easy access to expansions/heroes via packs
- Setup can still be lengthy even in the smaller box
- Less replayability than the full big-box Gloomhaven
- cooperative dungeon crawling; tactical combat; progression
- Gloomhaven city dungeons; fantasy campaign
- campaign with scenarios; branching choices
- Gloomhaven (Big Box)
- Frosthaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- action-card system — Actions are driven by selectable cards; initiative-driven turns
- Character progression — Characters level up and unlock abilities across scenarios
- cooperative play — Team up to complete each scenario
- scenario-based campaign — 20 scenarios with branching choices; introduces rules gradually
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's a better time than ever to get into this game because the packaging that they did for the core set eliminates the need of buying multiple core sets
- don't miss out on this if you've been thinking about buying this
- this trumps the Lord of the Rings on a couple aspects: it plays pure solo a lot better
- the modularity is it Beggars belief how modular this game is and the mix and matching and the different possibilities
- the brain burn in this game is real
- Mage Knight one of the most influential games that defines this solo board gaming Hobby
- for 30 dollars you're going to get a masterfully crafted experience
- the setup in big box Gloomhaven is depressing; this version streamlines it
References (from this video)
- eases new players into the Gloomhaven ecosystem
- solid introduction to the core system
- tactical combat with persistent character progression
- fantasy dungeon-crawl with a streamlined starter
- Frosthaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- gloomhaven-style card actions — hand-management and card-driven turns adapted for beginners
Video topics + discussion points
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)
- Accessible entry into the Gloomhaven system
- Good for new players
- Not as deep as the main Gloomhaven experience
- Cooperative dungeon exploration
- Intro campaign entry into the Gloomhaven system
- Story-driven, accessible entry point
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card-driven actions — Character abilities are deployed via a fixed deck system.
- Co-op — Players work together to overcome scenarios.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- I like making my own decisions I like the competitive aspect when I sit down to play that game.
- I really enjoy the whole universe of gloomhaven I really do.
- it's almost like a video game that's right in the palm of your hand as a board game.
- the undaunted series brings me back to my childhood.
- Happy Father's Day to all the fellow fathers out there.
References (from this video)
- great entry into heavier Euro-style co-ops
- clear mission structure and tangible progression
- can be lengthy and rules-dense for new players
- cooperative strategy with evolving scenarios
- fantasy dungeon-crawl in a shared campaign world
- campaign-driven progression and storytelling
- Descent: Journeys in the Dark
- Summoner Wars
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cooperative play — players work together to complete scenarios
- hand management — skill/action cards influence choices and outcomes
- Scenario-based progression — unlocks new content and harder challenges over time
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- topic ideas so if you can if you have a topic idea if you just put the word topic like in caps and then like a colon
- virtual conventions are kind of the thing we're doing right now
- i am not a pro when it comes to airbrush
- i would like them to release just some simple stuff like here's the rules for those assault primaries
- buy from your local store first
References (from this video)
- Mass-market accessibility via smaller box and $50 price point
- Streamlined setup and a painless learning curve
- High-quality miniatures and art for the price
- Standalone campaign that works with the Gloomhaven universe
- Some replayability trade-offs due to fixed board and stickers
- Not as modular or expandable as the full base game for long-time players
- adventure campaign in a city outskirts
- city-adjacent dungeon-crawl within the Gloomhaven world, scaled for mass-market
- introductory campaign with scenario-by-scenario teaching
- Hero Quest
- Descent: Journeys in the Dark
- Puerto Rico
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card-driven action selection — Two actions per round; top and bottom actions; simplified approach for new players.
- Learn-to-play guide and guided scenarios — Two-paragraph learn-to-play guide and five-scenario progression to ease players in.
- Scenario-book maps — Maps for each scenario are printed inside the scenario book; no separate tiles needed.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Gloomhaven is a standalone campaign standalone game there are 25 scenarios and four character classes.
- The maps for each scenario within the scenario book; you open the scenario book and there's your map you don't need any additional tiles.
- There are 25 scenarios and four character classes; it's a standalone campaign.
- This is a mass-market approach with a smaller box and a $50 price point.
- If you sit down with somebody who has never played before, you can teach them quickly.
References (from this video)
- great entry into Gloomhaven, accessible yet deep
- tutorial levels teach core mechanics gradually
- strong cooperative play and story elements
- not as weighty as some heavy Gloomhaven campaigns
- still heavy for new players if aiming for full experience
- cooperative dungeon exploration with persistent leveling
- Dark fantasy dungeon crawl; entry point into Gloomhaven universe
- campaign with story-driven progression
- Gloomhaven (base game)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- character growth and class variety — level up and customize heroes with cards and items
- cooperative team play with wardens — one player or the game acts as warden to control monsters
- legacy-lite progression with keeps track — track progress through a campaign with sessions
- streamlined Gloomhaven experience — easier onboarding compared to base game
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's disturbing it might not be for everyone
- it's a two-hour nightmare
- the first five levels are set up as a tutorial
- it's easier to get into gloom haven
- it's like going to the movies but it's a date night and interactive
References (from this video)
- easier entry into the Gloomhaven system
- still provides campaign feel
- less depth than base Gloomhaven for veterans
- Cooperative dungeon crawl with approachable rules
- Introductory campaign to the Gloomhaven universe
- Campaign with modular scenarios
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card-driven actions in a streamlined format — Simplified version of Gloomhaven rules
- Cooperative play with guided tutorial — Eases new players into Gloomhaven mechanics
Video topics + discussion points
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)
- polished package; accessible entry into the Gloomhaven universe
- great expansion of the Gloomhaven system in a smaller box
- still heavy on content; can be overwhelming to newcomers
- cooperative fantasy combat with evolving character arcs
- fantasy dungeon-crawl with a streamlined box
- campaign-driven with modular missions
- Gloomhaven
- Descent: Road to Legend
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — multilayer storyline with side missions and branching paths
- Card-driven combat — top/bottom card mechanics drive actions and outcomes
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- pure cooperative where everybody wins or loses together
- we're in this together it's okay you know i'm not working against you
- macro level adventure
- this is the gloomhaven that should have been the first gloomhaven to come out now
References (from this video)
- introductory entry into Gloomhaven with approachable learning curve
- clear path from Jaws of the Lion to core Gloomhaven
- still heavy and long; not quick play
- tends to be a solo/group heavy experience
- campaign-driven tactical combat
- Gloomhaven world, dungeon exploration
- introductory campaign with accessible pacing
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign progression and character development — persistent progression across scenarios
- card-based combat and initiative — no dice, use cards to determine actions and order
- modular board and story-driven quests — map evolves with missions, expanding the campaign
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Dungeon Academy came out in 2019 can be played from 1 to six players
- let me show you how it plays
- the key just means you have to get the key before you can get out of your dungeon
- easy is 1 minute, moderate is 45 seconds and hard is 30 seconds
- our goal is to make this world a better place one board gamer at a time
- I love the original trilogy movies and that's what really drew me to this game
- this one's getting my table as soon as I download that app
- I would recommend this over the original zombicide
- the hordes are coming you need to complete your goals and get out
- it's actually my favorite of the Clank series now
- you never know what's around the corner
- Gloomhaven jaws of the lion what I love the most about this is it's taking the system of Gloom Haven and put it in a package that is super easy to get into
- it's an easier way to learn I think at least for me
- Arcadia Quest is a wonderful game and it was the first dungeon crawler I played
- Star Wars Imperial Assault is getting my table as soon as I download that app
References (from this video)
- clever card system; strong story scaffolding
- big, sprawling rules; heavy to play solo or quick sessions
- fantasy exploration with tactical combat
- story-driven dungeon crawl
- campaign-driven, rich world
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- cards-based initiative — two cards per turn directing speed and action
- cooperative play — team up to defeat monsters and complete scenarios
- tiered character progression — unlock powers across a campaign
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- this game is poo
- it does as i said just take that edge off the randomness
- one of the best card games i've ever played
- it's almost like a eurofied Ticket to Ride
- the ambition of this game is absolutely mind-blowing
- a game that rewards repeated plays
- the board is always flux and alive
References (from this video)
- High-quality narration from Foreteller
- Clear promotion of the game and its narration
- Cross-promotional content and planned cross-platform playthrough
- Supportive community engagement through the giveaway
- Requires sharing email and personal data to enter the giveaway
- Gives a strong marketing bias toward Foreteller and Foreteller products
- Potential privacy concerns around collecting email addresses
- Mercenary adventuring, personal honor, and investigative peril.
- Dungeon-crawl mystery within the city of Gloomhaven, focusing on a missing-person investigation in a grim fantasy setting.
- Foreteller-style narration embedded in-game scenarios; sample intro excerpt used to illustrate tone.
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card-driven action system — Character actions are determined by action cards with top/bottom halves and varying effects.
- cooperative play — Players work together to complete scenarios against a shared foe and objective.
- Narration/immersion — Official narration (Foreteller) enhances immersion with spoken and text narration.
- scenario-based campaign — A linked sequence of missions within a campaign book providing progression and unlocks.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Foreteller narrates epic board games; they narrate gloomhaven all 95 scenarios
- you can go pick them up right now and begin using them in your epic game
- we're going to be playing jaws of the lion
- the winner ... i want to be able to email that person the code
References (from this video)
- Clearer teaching path than base game; strong introductory experience
- Accessible entry with structured scenarios
- Encourages campaign progression and mini painting
- Solid rulebook and guidance
- May feel lighter than the base Gloomhaven in depth
- Story not the main selling point; similar to base title
- fantasy dungeon exploration with a more accessible ruleset
- Continued gloomhaven world; introductory scenario set in gloomhaven city
- introductory campaign with guided teaching elements
- Zombicide
- Cthulhu Death May Die
- Seventh Continent
- Oathsworn
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Card play / hand management — Two cards chosen and used per turn with top and bottom actions.
- Deck-building / upgrading — Characters progress and build their own decks with new abilities.
- Dungeon crawl with objectives — Scenario objectives, puzzle-like challenges, and monster encounters.
- Mission-driven progression — The campaign advances with chapters and story milestones.
- No dice; randomness via modifier cards — Randomness comes from attack modifier cards instead of dice.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- i could commit to another 20 episodes
- i like it i like how a game this complex actually gives you five training scenarios to introduce you to all the mechanics
- the rule book actually is really helpful
- there's no dice
- i'm a glass cannon
- right now i could commit to another 20 episodes
References (from this video)
- Takes up entire test table
- Ready for review
- Cooperative adventure
- Fantasy dungeon
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- I used to call this a shelf of shame that was a pretty common thing to call it back in the day and I don't never really liked that term because I don't feel shame that I haven't got to these games
- this is mostly work like this is just a backload of things I probably should get to
- people will still be looking for it
- it doesn't matter if the game is like 20 years old people will still be looking for it
- I've painted this one and I spent a lot of time doing it
- there's no point putting them on the channel I think both of them have been out of print for like a decade
- one of the worst kickstarters by one of the worst studios in board gaming history
- Golden Bell Studios did everything wrong you could possibly think of
- purely toxic company run by incredibly terrible people
- it would be kind of a joke that I'd be able to do a three minute video of feudum
- this game has a tutorial video online that's like 40 minutes long
- The Rose explanation video feels like a parody but it's actually how the game is played
- nothing personally to me puts me off playing a game that then sitting down unboxing it and having a craft assignment
- stop making me spend hours assembling your damn games
- this is an uncontrollable mess right now
- I'm a full-time dad and I'm really doing this in the evenings
- I have a finite space and also it just puts pressure and stress on me having a whole bunch of crap there that I know I'm not going to get to
- I'm going to do a big cull
- I will be published by this company but that doesn't mean I'm going to be slavishly devoted to every single game they put out
- I am a sucker for cute animal games like I really am
References (from this video)
- clear tutorial approach that eases entry compared to base Gloomhaven
- compact, story-driven with modular campaigns
- strong theme and satisfying dungeon-crawl feel
- still can be lengthy and heavy in practice
- some rules nuance can feel dense even with tutorials
- heroic cooperative dungeon exploration
- fantasy dungeon-crawl with a modular, scenario-based campaign
- chapter-like scenarios with tutorials and escalating challenges
- Gloomhaven
- House on the Hill (via discussion context)
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign-driven co-op — A structured campaign with scenarios that gradually teach and challenge the players.
- chapter-based tutorial — The book teaches the game progressively through scenarios and guided play.
- character abilities and deck management — Each character has unique abilities managed via a deck system; players optimize hand interactions.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's a solid game with like this it pulls you in each stream
- the tutorial format really helps you experience it differently
- we had this new evolution of our game group for a good three months
- betrayal legacy is still sitting on my shelf unplayed but I was intrigued
- it's slower at the beginning but picks up and it's a good overall experience
References (from this video)
- Robust, living campaign with broad content
- High production quality and modular expansions
- Heavy rules and steep learning curve
- No quick one-off play; best as long-form campaign
- Campaign-driven development with cooperative party play
- Dark fantasy, sprawling dungeon-crawl with tactical combat
- Interwoven scenarios with evolving story and town phase
- Shadows of Brimstone
- Shadows of Kilforth
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign risk and town phase — Between-dungeon downtime and decision points affect progression.
- Cooperative, multi-character campaign — Team-based missions with character progression.
- deck-building/hand-management — Character abilities and actions built from cards.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- This game is amazing at creating an emerging narrative.
- I voted this number one adventuring game this year.
- Emerging narratives are just fantastic in Explor It.
- The lore, the art, the setting—the Gothic vibe here is unmatched.
- You can play solo without a DM and still have a deep experience.
- This is one of the best dungeon crawlers you can buy today.
References (from this video)
- Lower barrier to entry than base game
- Smaller scope; less depth than base game
- accessible entry into the Gloomhaven universe
- same world as Gloomhaven; introductory dungeon-crawl
- campaign-lite, approachable
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- we love y'all
- it's a family
- we want this community to grow
- board gaming is part of our everyday life
- This is the heart of the episode
- we're going to keep the party going
References (from this video)
- Excellent entry point to Gloomhaven series
- Storybook format with integrated map
- Campaign-based storytelling
- Character upgrades and progression
- Great for two-player gaming
- More complex than standard Gloomhaven
- Time-intensive gameplay
- Dungeon crawling, adventure
- Fantasy dungeon
- Story-driven campaign
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign — Legacy story with multiple scenarios
- exploration — Explore dungeons and areas
- hand management — Card-based action selection
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- These go to 11 - just like in Spinal Tap
- I literally started this video by saying everything will be cute and animal related, and the first one is murder war counts
- You're basically Bilbo Baggins trying to steal Smaug's treasures
- The only reason this game is on your list is because you always win
- It's like clue but cooler and more dynamic
- I love space... love space theme games... any space related games I'm in love with
- I have Disney tattoos all over my arms
- 1v1 all day, give me that
- It is uncanny how lucky Jamie is
- Mansions of Madness is so good like I love it
- Jaws of the Lion was a great compromise where Gloomhaven is super heavy
References (from this video)
- affordable entry into the Gloomhaven universe
- 25 scenarios provide substantial content
- tutorial-like first half introduces mechanics gradually
- cross-compatibility with the base game expands play
- still a cooperative campaign game; setup and play can be lengthy
- adventure, progression, cooperative exploration
- fantasy dungeon crawl in the Gloomhaven universe
- campaign-driven with a structured tutorial arc
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign-style progression — a guided path through multiple scenarios with evolving rules
- cooperative dungeon exploration — players collaborate to defeat monsters and complete objectives
- Deck-driven combat — actions are chosen from player decks to execute in fights
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's ultimately a small card game
- it's a great bang for your buck game because it's a relatively cheap game that just works.
- this is a really in-your-face game where there's going to be a grid of cards.
- it's such a good value because this game very often is like $30 for massive content.
References (from this video)
- robust and engaging combat system that emphasizes meaningful, deliberate decisions each turn
- tutorial scaffolding improves onboarding for new players without overwhelming them
- campaign structure takes players across a varied city with a wealth of locations and monsters
- introduces four new characters that add variety for veterans and maintain a familiar feel for fans of the original gloomhaven
- level-up rewards and new powers provide a sense of growth and evolving strategical options
- the tutorial approach can feel skippable to seasoned players, reducing onboarding value
- compared to the original gloomhaven, it lacks some scale and breadth of scope, functioning more as a compact experience
- the overall complexity remains high, potentially challenging for complete newcomers even with guidance
- additional rules introduced in later scenarios can compound rule management and playtime
- fantasy dungeon exploration with cooperative tactical combat and character development
- Gloomhaven city; a campaign-driven dungeon-crawler setting with evolving locations and encounters
- episodic scenario-driven campaign with persistent progression and evolving abilities
- Imperial Assault
- HeroQuest
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- card discard and lost pile management — used cards enter a lost pile; managing discards and hand size is critical to avoid early defeat when no cards remain
- cooperative combat and status effects — team members coordinate actions, position to exploit terrain, and manage conditions like curses, stuns, or immobilization
- hand management — each turn you select two action cards; the bottom card is typically used for movement, the top for the main action; order and combination drive tactical choices
- initiative and turn order — the middle number on the chosen cards determines player initiative and turn sequencing, affecting planning and reaction time
- modifier and elemental resource system — modifier cards add or subtract to rolls, and elemental essences can power other cards, creating layered resource management
- permanent character development — as players level up, they unlock new abilities and power cards that enhance future decision-making and strategy
- Scenario-based progression — campaigns unfold across linked scenarios with recurring monsters, locations, and rewards that scale with character development
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- you are the jaws of the lion. A mercenary party arriving at gloomhaven in search of adventure
- the best thing about this game is the cool bonus at level 5 they're too awesome to spoil here
- pretty daft name, pretty good game. gold medal
- for new players even with the tutorial gloomhaven is a pretty complex game
- for gloomhaven veterans, you'll like it for the four new characters
- it's just more gloomhaven
References (from this video)
- accessible introduction to the Gloomhaven system
- fantastic campaign experience
- not the highest replay variety vs. base game
- still heavy in setup and rule complexity
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- campaign/legacy-style progression — shorter campaign in a smaller box compared to base Gloomhaven
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- our top 50 is like a living breathing thing that changes every day by the day by the minute
- these games are all incredible even if something's like a number 600 from 700 it's probably still a good game
- ranking is subjective; it's hard to compare a 18 card game to a heavy Euro
- we rank in the moment based on our gut feeling and that's just how the chips fall sometimes
References (from this video)
- Dense, intriguing art that hints at exploration and combat
- Box art can be busy and not clearly indicate gameplay
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- It's iconic. It is at least eye-catching; it's a classic.
- The box should tell us what we're doing in the game and how we're going to feel.
- This is top-notch stuff.
- I actually just ordered my copy, so this is obviously working for me.
- The cover sells the game, it screams what you're going to do.
References (from this video)
- Rich cooperative puzzle-like combat with strong thematic tie-ins
- Engaging boss mechanics that require balancing offense, defense, and positioning
- Dynamic use of environment and status effects for strategic depth
- Complex setup with many rules to track
- Long play sessions and potentially punishing failures in blind runs
- Dark fantasy, occult rituals, exploration and perilous boss battles
- Fantasy dungeon-crawl in a grim cityscape with ritual sites and sinister cults; the Nexus and Blood Tumor loom as central threats.
- Scenario-driven narrative with text narrative passages between encounters and boss fights
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Boss-specific rules — The Blood Tumor and other bosses introduce dedicated mechanics (healing triggers, special abilities, and end conditions) that shape multi-phase combat.
- Card-driven actions — Players select and play action cards from a hand, guiding movement, attacks, and special effects; hand management drives pacing and risk.
- Crowd control and status effects — Muddle, poison, wound, and other statuses influence damage, accuracy, and defenses; many actions hinge on manipulating these statuses.
- Environmental interaction — Doors, traps, and terrain features (like traps and hazardous zones) shape combat flow and risk management.
- Experience, level-up, and deck growth — Defeating foes yields XP; players advance by gaining new cards, expanding future options and power.
- Initiative and positioning — Turn order and positioning matter; players must coordinate to position enemies, traps, and terrain to their advantage.
- Loot economy — Treasure and coin acquisition provides rewards and planning hooks for future scenarios and upgrades.
- Push/Pull and movement manipulation — Character abilities can push or pull enemies, drawing them into traps or away from allies; engagements hinge on map control.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- Our goal is to kill the blood tumor.
- The blood tumor heals that amount.
- This card seems really good.
- My hope is to have the ruin these guys' day. That's my hope here.
References (from this video)
- Professional audio narration enhances mood and immersion
- High production value with clear voice acting
- Preload capability supports offline or cabin play
- Narration does not cover every event or rule in the book
- Requires reliance on player reading of some events and rules
- dark fantasy adventure with cooperative tactical combat, hero progression, and branching scenario outcomes
- fantasy dungeon-crawl in the Gloomhaven world, focusing on a self-contained scenario-based campaign within the Sleeping Lion/Long Rest hub area
- scenario-driven narrative with episodic arcs, augmented by Foreteller audio narration for mood and context
- Gloomhaven
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- Campaign progression — A linked sequence of scenarios with persistent character and story progression between sessions.
- card-driven action system — Characters select two actions from a hand of cards, balancing top and bottom actions with rewards and penalties.
- cooperative play — 4 players work together to complete scenario objectives against AI-driven enemies.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- it's fast it's easy and it adds a degree of polish on an already very polished game
- this is a handy tool
- now that i have it i'm totally going to be using it from this point forward
- it's not a mandatory element right you don't need that in order to play
- thoroughly impressed
- i'm looking forward to seeing what they're doing in the future
- if you are someone who wants that extra level of thematic immersion into your games then this is a great entry point