Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion Review

What Is Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion?

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a standalone cooperative board game that takes place before the events of the original Gloomhaven. It includes four new characters: Valrath Red Guard, Inox Hatchet, Human Voidwarden, and Quatryl Demolitionist, which can also be used in the original Gloomhaven game. The game features 16 monster types, including seven new standard monsters and three new bosses, and a new campaign with 25 scenarios that involves investigating mysterious disappearances within the city.

First Impression

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion board game (a.k.a. JoTL) delivers an exceptional experience with its high-quality components, immersive gameplay, and impressive replay value. As I explore the depths of this dark fantasy, cooperative game, from publisher Cephalofair Games and game designer Isaac Childres, I find myself drawn into its rich world and card management mechanics.

The Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion box has the following dimensions:

Box size: 23.0 x 29.2 x 10.2 cm
Box weight: 2.96 kg (about 6.5 lbs)

How Many Scenarios in Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion?

With 25 scenarios that gradually increase in complexity and difficulty, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion offers impressive replay value and a substantial 50-75 hours of gameplay, plus it is compatible with the original game. If you are looking for a cooperative campaign game, for 1-4 players, this is a great alternative.

While the price tag may seem steep, this cooperative dungeon crawler justifies its cost with its sheer amount of content and quality of components. There’s more to uncover in this rich and expansive world, for hop along to my Gloomheaven Jaws of the Lion game review…

Unboxing and Component Quality

As I cracked open the compact box, adorned with excellent artwork and an audio narration inset, I was immediately struck by the thoughtful organization and impressive quality of the components within. The unboxing experience of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is truly exceptional, showcasing the attention to detail that has gone into crafting this board game, but also Gloomhaven universe as a whole.

Upon lifting the lid, I was greeted by a beautifully organized interior, with each component carefully slotted into its designated space.

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion comes packed with a plethora of gaming pieces that immerse players into the world of the famous city. The game includes a map of Gloomhaven, four books (two rule books and two books of scenarios), cardboard monster standees and cards for the monsters. Additionally, players will find various types of tokens, an element board, and a variety of card types to enhance gameplay dynamics.

The money and damage tokens, the cards, and the map board are all of exceptional quality, with vibrant colors and crisp visuals that evoke the fantasy world of Gloomhaven. The six punchboards of tokens and four character packs, each containing unique items and powerful cards to play, are particularly remarkable for their sturdy construction and attention to detail.

The map board, inspired by fantasy novel artwork, is a stunning representation of the city of Gloomhaven, complete with removable sticker sheet that can be applied and removed without damaging the board. The envelopes for each character pack are a thoughtful touch, allowing for easy saving of game progress and organization of character items, reducing setup time and improving the overall gaming experience. Overall, the component quality of Jaws of the Lion is exceptional, setting a high standard for board games regarding production values and attention to detail.

Pre-Designed Gloomhaven Character Classes

The classes in Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion are similar to those in the original Gloomhaven game but have some key differences. Here is a comparison:

Similarities:

Core Gameplay Mechanics: Both games have cooperative gameplay, tactical combat, and character development through experience and loot.

Class Roles: Each class in Jaws of the Lion has a specific role, such as ranged damage (Inox Hatchet), melee damage and obstacle destruction (Quatryl Demolitionist), support with mind control (Human Voidwarden), and tanking (Valrath Red Guard). These roles are similar to those in the original Gloomhaven game.

Differences:

New Classes: Jaws of the Lion introduces four new classes not found in the original Gloomhaven game: Inox Hatchet, Quatryl Demolitionist, Human Voidwarden, and Valrath Red Guard.

Inox Hatchet: Specialized in ranged damage, known for his high damage output and ease of play.
Valrath Red Guard: A tank-type class with good hit points and attacks, often used as a support character.
Quatryl Demolitionist: Focused on melee damage and obstacle destruction, considered easy to play and suitable for beginners.
Human Voidwarden: A support class that can use mind control in battle, requiring strategic planning and decision-making.

Gameplay Balance: Jaws of the Lion is designed to be more accessible and easier to learn, with a more gradual introduction to game mechanics. This makes it a good starting point for new players.

Class Performance: Some classes in Jaws of the Lion, like the Demolitionist, may not perform as well in the original Gloomhaven game due to differences in game mechanics and balance.

Gameplay Mechanics and Combat System of Gloomhaven: Jaws of The Lion

In Gloomhaven Jaws of the Lion board game, the gameplay revolves around battle rounds where players must strategically plan their actions and movements to defeat enemies and achieve objectives. Each round consists of players selecting two cards from their hand, one for their top action and one for their bottom action. The initiative value on the selected cards determines the order in which players and enemies will act during the round.

Playing Jaws of the Lion players will face a variety of monsters, each with their own unique abilities and attack patterns. Learning how to anticipate and counter these abilities is key to success in combat.

Successfully completing a Battle Goal Card can reward players with bonus experience points at the end of the scenario, providing an incentive to push themselves and take risks to achieve their goal. However, players must also be mindful of balancing their Battle Goal with the overall objectives of the mission and the needs of their party.

Ability Cards in Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion offer players a wide range of strategic choices to make in each round of this tactical combat. With each player selecting two cards at the start of a round, they must carefully consider how the abilities synergize with each other and with what their party is likely doing next turn.

One key aspect to consider when choosing ability cards is the initiative value. This value determines when in the round order a player will act, and players must decide if going first is the best option for their current strategy. Additionally, the AI system for enemies adds another layer of complexity, as players must anticipate the actions of their foes and adjust their plans accordingly.

As players progress through the game, they have the opportunity to level up and add new cards to their deck. This allows for customization of their abilities and combat modifier deck, providing new options and enhancing their overall combat effectiveness. Players must also be mindful of resting, as each rest reduces the number of cards in their hand and can eventually lead to being knocked out of the fight.

In Jaws of the Lion, monsters have a variety of abilities that make them challenging opponents for the players. Each monster type has its own set of cards that determine their actions in combat. The monsters can only use the top of one card and the bottom of the other, giving them a combination of offensive and defensive moves.

The initiative value on the monster cards determines when they act in a round, adding an element of unpredictability to their behavior. Players must strategize and adapt to the changing initiative order of both their characters and the monsters. This dynamic system keeps each round fresh and engaging, as players must react to the actions of the monsters based on their initiative values.

When a monster attacks, players draw a card from their modifier deck to determine the outcome of the attack. This adds a level of randomness to combat, as players must be prepared for varying levels of damage inflicted by the monsters.

Scenario Structure and Progression

With 25 scenarios that gradually increase in complexity and difficulty, the game’s structure is meticulously designed to as a learn to play guide that will guide you through a thrilling and challenging campaign. If you love complex games and this style of game mechanics, this is a must-have.

Three key aspects of the scenario structure that stood out to me:

Linear progression: Each scenario builds upon the previous one, creating a sense of progression and character growth.
Revealing new content: Completing each scenario grants access to new mechanics, content, and challenges, keeping the game fresh and exciting.
Scenario book design: The “Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion” scenario book is designed to provide a more streamlined and accessible experience compared to the core Gloomhaven game. Here are some key points about the scenario book:

Setup Speed: The scenario book setup is significantly faster compared to the core Gloomhaven game, making it easier to start playing quickly.
Character Movement: The starting characters in Jaws of the Lion have lower movement values compared to those in Gloomhaven, which can make navigating larger maps more challenging. Conversely, porting JOTL characters into Gloomhaven may require additional support to keep up with the party’s movement.
Maps: Maps in Jaws of the Lion are more condensed and smaller compared to those in Gloomhaven, which can affect gameplay and strategy.
Battle Goals: The scenario book introduces a variety of battle goals, which can add more excitement and unpredictability to the game. These goals can be mixed and matched to create different scenarios.
Item Shop: The item shop in Jaws of the Lion allows for trading items between players between scenarios, which is different from the core Gloomhaven game.
Loot and Experience: The game includes loot and experience points, which are essential elements of the Gloomhaven experience. Players can earn these rewards by completing scenarios and achieving goals.

Overall, the “Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion” scenario book offers a more streamlined and accessible experience while maintaining the core elements that make Gloomhaven enjoyable.

Scenario 1 serves as a tutorial, introducing players to the basic concepts of choosing cards for their turn, initiative tracker, monster focus, and movement. A great way to learn the game and it’s turn order mechanics.

As players advance to Scenario 2, they will encounter new elements such as money tokens, treasures, traps, and doors.

Scenario 3 adds more complexity with difficult terrain, experience points, and city events, while Scenario 4 delves into full character decks, spawning monsters, and battle goals.

Scenario 5 presents the first Boss battle, allowing players to level up and choose the difficulty level.

Replay Value and Difficulty

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a great cooperative campaign game that boasts impressive replay value and a challenging difficulty curve. The variable length of the campaign, the diverse scenarios and side quests, along with the unpredictable combat encounters ensure that each playthrough is unique. The gradual increase in difficulty keeps players engaged and motivated to improve their strategy. The high replayability factor, combined with the a superb gaming system, guarantees hours of entertainment. Definitely a great game, and a great deal if found at the right price.

Art and Visual Design

The art and visual design of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion are a notable highlight, with the beautifully illustrated, fantasy-novel-inspired map of the city of Gloomhaven on the gaming board immediately drawing me in. The attention to detail is impressive, making the game a true visual feast.

The Item Cards are self-explanatory, featuring pleasing illustrations that are easily identifiable due to art design and dividers, which helps with gameplay flow.

The Stickers used to track progress through the city of Gloomhaven are non-adhesive and can be removed and reattached without damaging the board.

In Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, the books of scenarios play a crucial role in guiding players through the campaign and setting up each individual encounter. Divided into the main scenario book and a supplemental scenarios book, these books provide a rich tapestry of locations, foes, and challenges for players to navigate.

Contained within the Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion box are four envelopes, each representing a different character in the game. These envelopes hold a mix of tokens, ability cards, modifier cards, and other unique components specific to each character. For example, cracking open the Inox Hatchet’s box reveals tokens, ability cards, modifier cards, and a small pad of character sheet-style papers for use during the game.

It is important to note that the character sheet-style papers are finite, so it is recommended to fill them out in pencil to allow for easy adjustments during gameplay. Additionally, finding replacements for these character sheets may prove to be challenging and costly, so it is advised to take care of them while playing. Each character pack provides players with a personalized and immersive experience, allowing them to delve deeper into the game and connect with their chosen character.

Final Thoughts on Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion Review

My initial impression of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion’s price tag was that it felt steep, but then I realized the sheer amount of content and quality of components justified the cost. At a price point around $50, it’s undeniable that Jaws of the Lion is an investment. However, considering the game’s well-balanced design, impressive component quality, and sheer replayability, I believe it’s a great cooperative campaign game that offers excellent value for the price.

Compared to the original Gloomhaven, Jaws of the Lion is a easy to learn introduction to the Gloomhaven and Frosthaven series, providing a more streamlined and accessible experience. The base game comes with a substantial amount of content, including 25 scenarios, and over 200 event cards. This is an amazing game that offers a huge amount of gameplay and variety, definitely worth the learning curve.

While it’s true that Jaws of the Lion is a more compact experience compared to the original Gloomhaven, it’s still a good game that packs a punch. The game’s designers have done an excellent job of distilling the essence of Gloomhaven into a more compact and accessible package. I personally love Jaws of the Lion and I believe this board game is an excellent value for money option, offering a rich and engaging gaming experience that justifies the cost. If you can pick up Jaws of the Lion at a reasonable price, give it a try!

FAQ

How Is Jaws of The Lion Different to Gloomhaven?

Jaws of the Lion offers a more streamlined and accessible experience compared to the original Gloomhaven game. One major difference is the smaller scope of Jaws of the Lion, which means there is less downtime between scenarios. This makes the game more fast-paced and focused, perfect for players who prefer a more condensed gameplay experience.

In terms of gameplay, Jaws of the Lion offers a more cohesive and synergistic experience with its pre-designed character classes. Players don’t need to spend as much time customizing their characters and decks to ensure they work well together, as the game is designed for these classes to complement each other effectively.

Is Jaws of The Lion Good for Beginners?

For beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of Gloomhaven, Jaws of the Lion is an excellent entry point. Its smaller scope, clear rules and guides, and built-in synergies between the characters make it easier for new players to grasp the game mechanics and strategies. The game’s onboarding learn-to-play setup helps players understand the combat system and card management, making it simple to digest for those new to the Gloomhaven-style gaming system.

The reduced complexity of Jaws of the Lion compared to the original Gloomhaven allows beginners to ease into the experience without feeling overwhelmed. The game is quicker to set up, smaller to carry, and has a shorter campaign to complete, providing a taste of Gloomhaven without spoiling the full experience.

How Many Playable Scenarios Are in Jaws of The Lion?

In Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, players have the opportunity to engage in up to twenty-five different scenarios. The first five scenarios serve as a tutorial, gradually introducing players to the rules and mechanics of the game. As players progress through the scenarios, they continue to learn new strategies, vocabulary, and gameplay elements, keeping the gameplay experience fresh and engaging.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Gloomhaven Jaws of The Lion?

The game consists of a total of 25 scenarios, each of which can take varying amounts of time to complete. In our experience, the first three scenarios can be completed in a single sitting of around five hours. However, as you progress through the game, the scenarios become more challenging and can take longer to complete.

For example, completing Scenario 4 took us an entire gaming session, while Scenario 5 also required a significant amount of time to finish. This trend continues as you progress through the remaining scenarios, with each one offering new challenges and obstacles to overcome. You can expect 75 hours of gameplay.

Is Gloomhaven Jaws of The Lion Replayable?

The replay value of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is outstanding. The game allows for different approaches to each scenario, providing a unique gameplay experience even after multiple playthroughs.

How Many People Can Play Jaws of The Lion?

Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion offers flexibility in terms of player count, accommodating different group sizes. Whether you prefer to play solo or with a group of friends, this game has you covered. Playing Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion solo is absolutely possible and can be a highly enjoyable experience. The game is designed to be played with a single player controlling all of the characters. This allows for a deep and immersive gameplay experience, as you can strategize and make decisions for each character without any external interference. For those who prefer to play with a partner, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is an excellent choice. The game is specifically balanced and designed for two players, ensuring that each player has a significant role to play in progressing through the scenarios. Playing as a duo adds an extra layer of strategic depth, as you can coordinate your actions and abilities to overcome challenges and defeat enemies.

Can Kids Play Gloomhaven?

One question that often arises when discussing Gloomhaven is whether or not kids can play the game. With its complex rules, strategic combat, and immersive campaign, Gloomhaven may seem daunting for younger players. However, with the release of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, a more streamlined and beginner-friendly version of the game, children can now join in on the adventure.

Jaws of the Lion serves as a perfect entry point for kids to explore the world of Gloomhaven. The game features a simplified rule set, a tutorial to ease players into the mechanics, and a more accessible gameplay experience. The scenarios are designed to gradually introduce players to the game’s core concepts, making it easier for kids to learn and enjoy.

While Gloomhaven may still be a bit too complex for younger children, Jaws of the Lion offers a more kid-friendly version of the game that is perfect for family game nights or introducing kids to the world of tabletop gaming.

Which Gloomhaven Should I Play First?

If you are new to the Gloomhaven franchise and are wondering which version to start with, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is the perfect entry point. This standalone game distills the core elements of the original Gloomhaven into a more accessible and beginner-friendly experience. With a smaller box size, streamlined rules, and a guided tutorial campaign, Jaws of the Lion is designed to ease players into the rich world of Gloomhaven without overwhelming them.

For those looking for a more immersive and expansive experience, the original Gloomhaven is still a fantastic choice. With its massive campaign, endless possibilities for character customization, and intricate gameplay mechanics, Gloomhaven offers a deep and rewarding gaming experience for those willing to invest the time and effort.

Can You Combine Gloomhaven and Jaws of The Lion?

Many players wonder if they can combine the original Gloomhaven game with the Jaws of the Lion expansion. The answer is yes, you can absolutely combine the two to create a unique and challenging gaming experience. Since both games use the same core mechanics and rules, merging them together is relatively straightforward. You can mix and match characters, enemies, and scenarios from both games to create custom campaigns that suit your gaming group’s preferences.

Combining Gloomhaven and Jaws of the Lion allows you to expand the content available to you, creating even more variety and replayability. It also gives you the opportunity to experience the different gameplay styles and characters introduced in each game.

Does Jaws of The Lion Have Miniatures?

Jaws of the Lion takes a different approach compared to its predecessor, Gloomhaven. Instead of including miniatures, Jaws of the Lion opts for standees – two-dimensional cut-outs that represent characters and monsters in the game. These standees are punched out of cardboard and placed on stands to be placed on the game board during gameplay. While some players may prefer the tactile feel of miniatures, the standees in Jaws of the Lion serve their purpose effectively and help to keep the game more compact and portable.

Is There an App for Gloomhaven Jaws of The Lion?

Unfortunately, there is no official app specifically designed for Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion. Players will have to rely on the scenario booklet provided in the game and manually track their progress through the city of Gloomhaven.

Is There a Gloomhaven Video Game?

Yes, there is a Gloomhaven video game. It is a digital adaptation of the popular tabletop campaign-based game, developed by Flaming Fowl Studios and Saber Interactive. The game is available on PC and consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.

Key Features and Comparisons:

Gameplay Mechanics: The digital version maintains the core gameplay mechanics of the board game, including the card-based combat system and grid-based movement. However, it introduces some house rules that have been popular among fans of the board game, such as the ability to raise or lower difficulty levels and the inclusion of a new “Friendly” difficulty leve.
Difficulty: The digital version is considered more difficult than the physical board game due to its unforgiving nature and lack of flexibility in decision-making. This can be attributed to the fact that there is no undo feature for individual actions, and mistakes can be costly.
Multiplayer: The game allows for multiplayer capabilities, enabling players to join and play together online. This feature is particularly useful for those who have difficulty gathering friends to play the physical version.
Visuals and Controls: The console versions of the game are visually identical to the PC version, with the main difference being the visual quality and loading times. The Switch version has lower resolution textures and reduced lighting details compared to the other platforms. The game is designed to be easy to use with a controller, with the only minor complaint being the inability to turn off the “press to hold” method of selecting things.
Content: The digital version includes the main campaign and the new Guildmaster mode, which is exclusive to the digital version. The console versions also include the digital version of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion and Solo Mercenary Challenges as purchasable DLC. The tutorial and “How to play” material are also included and are considered the best way to learn how to play the game.
Legacy Style: The game is designed to be a Legacy-style board game, where player choices and decisions have lasting impacts on the game world and the characters. This adds a layer of depth and replayability to the game.
Comparison to Physical Version: The digital version is considered a great adaptation of the board game, offering many benefits such as ease of setup, reduced space requirements, and the ability to play with friends online. However, some players may miss the tactile experience and social interaction that comes with playing the physical version.

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