Gloomholdin’ (2021) Board Game

Gloomholdin’ is a web-published board game that was released in in 2021. It is designed for 1-2 players and falls under the categories of Adventure, Card Game, Fantasy, and Print & Play. The game features campaign and battle card-driven mechanics, card play conflict resolution, cooperative gameplay, critical hits and failures, and grid movement.

Game Components of Gloomholdin’

18 cards: These cards encapsulate the essential elements of Gloomhaven, allowing for a streamlined experience.

Rulebook and Scenario Book: Available for free download, these resources guide players through the game setup and gameplay.

Optional tabletop setup: While designed to be played in-hand, Gloomholdin’ can also be set up on a table for those who prefer it.

How To Setup Gloomholdin’

To set up Gloomholdin’, players need to organize the 18 cards in a specific manner. The game involves stacking and layering the cards to indicate the current state of the game. The map card is managed by using the red arrow on the top card to point to the player’s current hex. For a detailed setup, players can refer to the rulebook and scenario book available for download.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dexterity and card management: Players must manage the cards in their hand, using specific orientations and positions to track game state.

Campaign format: Gloomholdin’ follows a campaign format, similar to Gloomhaven, with its own original story and scenarios.

Solo and 2-player variants: The game is primarily designed for solo play but has a 2-player variant in development.

Hex-based movement: The player navigates through a hex-based map, with the red arrow indicating their current position.

Player Experience

Gloomholdin’ offers a unique and challenging experience, particularly for fans of Gloomhaven who want a more portable and streamlined version of the game. It requires a good understanding of Gloomhaven’s terminology and gameplay mechanics but provides an engaging and intricate game world despite its compact size.

Pros

Portability: Can be played entirely in one hand.

Free to print and play: With the blessing of Cephalofair Games, the game is available for free download.

Compact: Ideal for those with limited space or time.

Campaign format: Offers a rich, story-driven experience.

Cons

Complexity: Requires a deep understanding of Gloomhaven’s mechanics.

Dexterity required: Managing the cards in one hand can be challenging.

Spoilers for Gloomhaven: May contain spoilers for the original game.

Personal Thoughts on Gloomholdin’

Gloomholdin’ is perfect for fans of Gloomhaven who are looking for a more convenient and portable way to enjoy the game. It’s also a great option for those interested in microgames and solo gameplay experiences. However, it may not be suitable for new players unfamiliar with Gloomhaven’s mechanics. The game’s innovative design and Cephalofair Games’ support make it a must-try for anyone eager to explore the world of Gloomhaven in a new and exciting way.

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