Dungeon crawler board games offer a rich and diverse gaming experience, encompassing various themes and mechanics. This abundance of choice can make selecting a starting point challenging. This guide highlights some of the best options, ranging from fantasy epics to horror adventures and even licensed titles.
TL;DR: Top Dungeon Crawler Board Games
Frosthaven (See it on Amazon!)
Descent: Legends of the Dark (See it on Amazon!)
Star Wars: Imperial Assault (See it on Amazon!)
Slay the Spire: The Board Game (See it on Amazon!)
Mansions of Madness (See it on Amazon!)
Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape (See it on Amazon!)
Nemesis (See it on Amazon!)
Cthulhu: Death May Die (See it on Amazon!)
Clank! Catacombs (See it on Amazon!)
Marvel Zombies - A Zombicide Game (See it on Amazon!)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant (See it on Amazon!)
Resident Evil: The Board Game (See it on Amazon!)
Arcadia Quest (See it on Amazon!)
While definitions vary, these games generally feature tactical combat, character progression, loot acquisition, and dungeon exploration (which can be metaphorical). They often boast rich lore and intricate mechanics, providing lengthy cooperative campaigns.
Frosthaven / Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Frosthaven (See it on Amazon!)
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion (See it on Amazon!)
- Age: 14+
- Players: 1-4
- Play Time: 60-120 mins
Gloomhaven set a high bar for dungeon crawlers, and Frosthaven provides a similarly immersive experience within the same universe. Jaws of the Lion offers a streamlined alternative with reduced setup time. Characters can even transfer between the two games. Jaws of the Lion is a great entry point, but both offer extensive campaigns. They blend choose-your-own-adventure narratives with tabletop gameplay, featuring character departures and evolving rosters. Excellent for 2-4 players. (See our Gloomhaven review and Frosthaven impressions for more details.)
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This comprehensive overview should help you navigate the world of dungeon crawler board games and find the perfect fit for your gaming preferences.