Gloomhaven: Core Game with Standees (Kickstarter Special)

Board Game Geek Rating: 8.15. Board Game Geek Avg Player Rating: 9.10. This Kickstarter - exclusive Gloomhaven Core Game comes with standees but no minis. It also includes a 'Thank You' card with a secret decoder message. Note that paid add - ons from the Kickstarter Campaign aren't included unless stated otherwise. Published in 2017, it's for 1 to 4 players. Gloomhaven offers Euro - inspired tactical combat in a changing fantasy world. Players become adventurers, each with unique skills, and must cooperate to clear dungeons and ruins. As you play, you'll level up, loot, and expand the story based on your choices. It's a game that evolves over multiple sessions, like a 'Choose Your Own Adventure' book. Combat uses an innovative card system. Each turn, pick two cards. The top - card number sets your initiative. Cards have top and bottom powers, and you decide which to use on your turn. But be careful, as you'll permanently lose cards over time. There are no dice; attacks are modified by your attack deck, which changes as you complete goals and level up. Leveling up gives you access to more powerful ability cards. During battles, loot money tokens to buy items in town. Increase the town's prosperity by completing scenarios and making decisions. Manage your reputation, as it affects event outcomes and shop prices. Completing career goals allows your character to retire, unlocking new classes, events, and perks. After retirement, start a new character and keep exploring. There's a wealth of information on the Gloomhaven website and BoardGameGeek. You can play the intro scenario on Tabletop Zen (free) or Tabletop Simulator (requires purchase). There's also a PDF Print - and - Play of the first scenario. Gloomhaven is deep and expansive, with multiple storylines for different game groups. New classes become available when you meet certain conditions.

How to play: First, gather 1 to 4 players. Each player takes on the role of an adventurer. Start a scenario and play through rounds of combat. On your turn, pick two ability cards from your hand. The number on the top card decides your initiative for the round. Decide whether to use the top power of one card and the bottom power of the other. Loot money tokens during battles and use them to buy items in town. As you complete scenarios and make decisions, increase the town's prosperity and manage your reputation. Try to complete career goals to retire your character and unlock new content. Things to note: Remember that you'll permanently lose cards from your hand over time. So, plan your moves carefully. Paid add - ons from the Kickstarter Campaign are not included unless otherwise stated. Maintenance: Keep the cards in a protective sleeve to prevent damage. Store the game in a cool, dry place. If you have any questions about the game, check the Gloomhaven website or BoardGameGeek for more information. You can also play the intro scenario on Tabletop Zen or Tabletop Simulator to get a feel for the game.