Dungeon crawlers represent a rich and diverse genre in the board game world, offering a wealth of options for players. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, so this guide highlights some of the best, spanning various themes and mechanics.
TL;DR: Top Dungeon Crawler Board Games
### Frosthaven
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### Descent: Legends of the Dark
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### Star Wars: Imperial Assault
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### Slay the Spire: The Board Game
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### Mansions of Madness
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### Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape
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### Nemesis
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### Cthulhu: Death May Die
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### Clank! Catacombs
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### Marvel Zombies - A Zombicide Game
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### Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant
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### Resident Evil: The Board Game
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### Arcadia Quest
While definitions vary, common elements include tactical combat, character progression, loot acquisition, and dungeon exploration (which can be metaphorical). These games often boast rich lore and intricate mechanics, perfect for extended cooperative campaigns.
Frosthaven / Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
### Frosthaven
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### Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
Age: 14+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 60-120 mins
Gloomhaven set a high bar, but Frosthaven provides a similarly immersive campaign within the same universe. Jaws of the Lion offers a streamlined alternative with reduced setup time. Character progression across both games is possible. Jaws of the Lion is a great entry point for newcomers. Both are excellent cooperative experiences for 2-4 players.
Descent: Legends of the Dark
### Descent: Legends of the Dark
Age: 14+ Players: 1-4 Play Time: 120-180 mins
This cooperative Descent iteration features stunning 3D cardboard scenery and a well-integrated app for resource management, character advancement, and randomized dungeons. It blends tactical combat, dice rolling, and app-based elements for a compelling RPG experience.
Star Wars: Imperial Assault
### Star Wars: Imperial Assault
Age: 14+ Players: 2-5 Play Time: 60-120 mins
This Star Wars-themed game reimagines the dungeon as an Imperial base. Rebel operatives collaborate against an Empire-controlling player in scenario-based campaigns, utilizing lightsabers and blasters in tactical combat. It features iconic Star Wars characters.
(Remaining games' descriptions follow a similar structure, adapting the original text while maintaining the core information and image placement.)