Gloomhaven, the highly-rated board game, has made its way to consoles, including the PlayStation 5, thanks to Twin Sails Interactive and Flaming Fowl Studios. As newcomers to the highly acclaimed Gloomhaven universe, we stepped into this dark fantasy world with both intrigue and trepidation. Having initially launched on PC, this one is now available to a wider range of adventurers.
Set in a dark fantasy realm, Gloomhaven casts you as the leader of a band of mercenaries navigating perilous dungeons, foreboding forests, and shadowy caves. The gameplay revolves around tactical turn-based combat and exploration on grid-based maps, staying close to the board game original. The card-based system of the game requires players to select two cards for each character per turn, each offering different abilities like movement, attacks, and special skills.
Gloomhaven boasts a staggering array of content, featuring 17 distinct characters, 50 formidable foes, over 1000 abilities, and 280 branching scenarios. If you were worried about replay value… don’t be. The depth of gameplay is further expanded by the inclusion of DLCs like “Jaws of the Lion” and “Solo Scenarios,” offering additional scenarios, characters, and challenges.
The game, somewhat surprisingly considering its board game origins, excels in portraying a rich narrative – feeling almost like a tabletop RPG in this sense. The attention to detail is commendable, immersing players in the sights, sounds, and even smells of each location. The tutorial section, though detailed, can be overwhelming for newcomers who never played the board game. Combat is strategically centered on drawing cards, managing their use, and understanding character placement.
Graphically, Gloomhaven has a rather simplified but effective approach, employing shaders and dynamic lighting to create an atmospheric experience. The menus are thoughtfully designed, providing comprehensive information on damage, buffs without making the screen feel too cluttered. On the playing field, each character is meticulously crafted, both in appearance and backstory.
For those with little experience with board games of this type, the game’s pacing can be on the slower side. The reliance on RNG (random number generation) can also lead to occasional frustrating experiences, especially for those seeking a more tactical approach based on their videogame experiences. In this sense Gloomhaven is a more than solid adaptation of the original game, but some of its mechanics are distinctly boardgame-like as a result, including having to frequently draw cards and manage your abilities.
Where Gloomhaven shines is in its cooperative play, especially with friends who are also into RPGs like this. The potential to work and adventure together is boundless, making it an ideal choice for game nights – and we’re pretty sure that’s the appeal of the original game as well. The sheer breadth of abilities, characters, and scenarios ensures extensive replayability, while multiplayer and cooperative modes enhance the overall experience, making it more akin to a board game experience.
In conclusion, Gloomhaven successfully translates the depth and complexity of the board game into an engaging digital format. While it may feel daunting at first, perseverance through the tutorials reveals a rewarding and immersive tactical RPG experience. The atmospheric visuals, comprehensive menus, and intricate character design contribute to the game’s overall appeal. Despite some pacing issues and a reliance on RNG, Gloomhaven offers a unique and memorable journey through its dark fantasy universe. For those seeking a challenging and cooperative adventure, Gloomhaven beckons with its strategic gameplay and rich narrative – but bring a board game mindset.
Score: 7.5/10
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