Gloomhaven: Buttons & Bugs

Gloomhaven: Buttons & Bugs brings the epic depth and strategy of Gloomhaven into a compact solo format for players who want a rich adventure without the bulk. The story starts after the events of Gloomhaven and Forgotten Circles, where reclusive Aesther Hail, a heroine who saved the city, casts a spell on her lab door: anyone who opens it shrinks. Your character, a wannabe hero, ends up the size of a mouse and must navigate a miniature, dangerous world to convince Hail to restore them. Each scenario is represented by a single card that pits a mercenary against a handful of enemies. Combat uses double‑sided action cards (each card can be used twice) and a die with a modifier table that evolves as you level up. Players manage a small hand, move on a hex grid, and make tactical decisions that can lead to critical hits or devastating failures. The campaign unfolds in sequential scenarios, letting you choose the order of missions and watch the story unfold based on your choices. The game blends engaging storytelling, detailed miniatures, and a progression system that rewards experimentation and strategy. If you love Gloomhaven’s vibe but want something shorter and solo‑focused, Buttons & Bugs is the perfect pick for testing skill and creativity in 20‑minute scenarios.

The experience is smooth, with simple mechanics that are deep in choice: you can upgrade skill cards, tweak the damage table, and even customize scenario order. Fun comes from the tension of each decision, the risk of failure, and the joy of seeing your character grow. In short, Buttons & Bugs is a mini‑Gloomhaven that preserves the series’ essence while being lighter and more accessible.

For campaign fans, the solo play is flawless: you control everything from movement to combat without needing teammates. If you’re after a game that mixes strategy, narrative, and miniatures in a compact package, this title will surprise you. Get ready for epic mini‑adventures where each card can change the story’s direction and every move counts.