Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

AdventureExplorationFantasyFighting
Players
1-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
2 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
120 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
14+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
3.6 / 5
Year
2020

About the game

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a standalone game set before the events of Gloomhaven, built to be a faster, friendlier entry point into that tactical card-combat system. It introduces four new characters and a self-contained campaign of 25 scenarios, played directly on the scenario book rather than with separate map tiles. A simplified rule set and five-scenario tutorial ease new players into the experience. Characters and content are also compatible with the original Gloomhaven.

Hobbli's Notes

Jaws of the Lion is the ideal on-ramp into the Gloomhaven system, keeping the beloved card-driven tactical combat while dramatically cutting down setup time and rules overhead. Removing loose map tiles in favor of the scenario book streamlines play considerably. It is a smart, accessible package that still delivers the tactical depth fans of the series expect, without the intimidating scale of the full Gloomhaven box.

What we like

  • Much easier setup and lower learning curve than full Gloomhaven.
  • Retains the satisfying card-based tactical combat of the series.
  • Compact, self-contained campaign fits well into shorter time frames.
  • Great entry point before moving on to Gloomhaven or Frosthaven.

Keep in mind

  • Shorter campaign with fewer scenarios than the full Gloomhaven.
  • Less character variety than the original game.
  • Still requires session-to-session commitment to finish the campaign.

Who it's for

Newer or casual groups curious about Gloomhaven-style campaigns, playable solo or in groups up to 4, ages 12 and up.

Mechanics

Action QueueAction RetrievalCampaign / Battle Card DrivenCommunication LimitsCooperative GameCritical Hits and FailuresDeck / Bag BuildingMovementHand ManagementGrid / MapLine of SightMulti-Use CardsOnce-Per-Game AbilitiesPlayer EliminationRole PlayingScenario / Mission / Campaign GameSimultaneous Action SelectionSolo / Solitaire GameVariable Player Powers

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