8.7
rating
Ludopedia
7.7
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you love Gloomhaven, the fresh storyline and the Aesther class will give you even more tactics and narrative depth.
Highlights
- Well‑designed new scenarios
- Unique class with fresh abilities
- Additional monsters and bosses
- Dynamic modular board
Keep in mind
- Steep learning curve
- Requires extensive translation
- Games can run long
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Gloomhaven: Forgotten Circles is the first expansion for the celebrated Gloomhaven and adds twenty new scenarios that take place after the original campaign. The centerpiece is the new Aesther Diviner class, a seer who strives to stop an approaching calamity. Each scenario is split across multiple pages, creating more dynamic and surprising encounters that force the party to constantly adapt. The expansion also introduces seven new monster types—including three brand‑new bosses—and fourteen new items to broaden equipment choices. Core mechanics stay true to the base game: campaign driven by battle cards, simultaneous action selection, hand management, and hex‑grid modular movement. The modular board lets the map be rebuilt for each mission, enhancing the sense of exploration. One to four players can cooperate or play solo, and the 4.3 weight signals a medium‑high complexity, perfect for those who love deep tactics and rich narrative. Components feature detailed miniatures, standees, and an audio narration track that immerses players in the story. In short, Forgotten Circles expands Gloomhaven’s world with fresh storylines, diverse foes, and new tactical tools while preserving the high production values fans expect.
GALLERY
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Cephalofair Games, Albi, Albi Polska, Feuerland Spiele, Galápagos Jogos, Hobby World, Korea Boardgames
Designer
Isaac Childres, Marcel Dragomir
Artist
Alexandr Elichev, Josh T. McDowell
How many hours does the expansion take to finish?
It varies by group, but most scenarios run between 1 and 2 hours each.
Can I play it solo?
Yes, the expansion includes solo rules just like the base game.
How many players are supported?
From 1 to 4 players, same as the original.
Do I need any extra components?
Besides the expansion box you need the base Gloomhaven game and the audio track, which is included.
Is the new Aesther Diviner class balanced?
It offers unique mechanics and fits with the other classes, though it may require a short learning period.
Are the new monsters tougher?
Some, especially the three new bosses, are tougher, but difficulty can be tweaked via campaign cards.
Do I have to translate the scenario book?
Most text is in English; fan‑made translations are available online.