Gloomhaven
" Deep tactical RPG adventure with unique card combat and rich storytelling but steep learning curve "
Gloomhaven Review
Gloomhaven is a digital adaptation of a beloved tactical board game that offers a deep, strategic, and challenging turn-based RPG experience. Players control mercenaries navigating a dark fantasy world, managing unique card decks that serve as both abilities and stamina, creating a tension-filled gameplay loop emphasizing careful planning and resource management. The game includes multiple classes, a rich branching campaign, and a sandbox-style Guildmaster mode, providing hundreds of hours of content.
While praised for its faithful representation of the original, atmospheric art, and meaningful progression, the game is also noted for its steep learning curve and slow pacing. Multiplayer is functional but sometimes plagued by connectivity issues and waiting times. Despite some bugs, UI quirks, and occasional rule misinterpretations, many players find the experience rewarding, especially when playing solo or with friends locally. However, technical problems on some platforms and difficulty spikes may deter newcomers.
Highlights
Players highly praise Gloomhaven's strategic depth and faithful adaptation of the board game mechanics, especially the innovative card-based combat system. The game's worldbuilding, storytelling, and character variety receive strong commendations.
The atmospheric graphics and detailed environments complement the dark fantasy tone well. Voice acting and soundtrack effectively enhance immersion. The Guildmaster mode and solo play options are appreciated for accessibility and replayability. Many enjoy the challenging but rewarding gameplay loop and the emotional weight of character progression and retirement.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include a steep difficulty curve with minimal onboarding, making early progress frustrating for new players. Technical issues such as bugs, save corruption (notably on Mac), and slow or buggy multiplayer sessions are frequently reported.
The UI sometimes lacks polish, with cumbersome controls, unclear card interactions, and occasional misinterpretations of board game rules. Some players find the exhaustion mechanic and RNG elements frustrating. Multiplayer waiting times and desyncs disrupt flow, and a lack of undo or retry options increases challenge. The elemental system and some card functionalities have been described as confusing or poorly implemented.
Pros
- • Deep and rewarding tactical combat with unique card-based mechanics.
- • Faithful adaptation of the original board game experience.
- • Rich, dark fantasy world with mature storytelling and atmosphere.
- • Seventeen distinct playable classes offering varied playstyles.
- • Well-designed Guildmaster mode for flexible solo or casual play.
- • Meaningful progression with character retirement and legacy elements.
- • Atmospheric graphics and detailed environments that enhance immersion.
Cons
- • Steep learning curve with insufficient tutorial guidance for beginners.
- • Technical issues including bugs, save corruption, and crashes, especially on Mac.
- • Multiplayer suffers from connectivity problems and slow turn pacing.
- • UI can be clunky with confusing card interactions and controls.
- • Occasional misinterpretations of board game rules affect gameplay.
- • Frustrating RNG elements and exhaustion mechanics hinder enjoyment.
- • Lack of undo or retry options increases difficulty and frustration.
Rating Criteria
Lead your band of mercenaries in the land of Gloomhaven, work with unsavoury individuals, shape the fate of the region, fight your way through horrific places and get rich or die trying in this ruthless Tactical-RPG.
