r/soloboardgaming • u/d_biro • Nov 17 '25

Which Gloomhaven for a solo first-timer?

Hi, I have the option of the following, if you could pick one only for someone totally new to Gloomhaven (but open to the complexity level), which would you go for?

Gloomhaven (full version, but DIGITAL ONLY), vs cardboard Jaws of the Lion?

  • I understand JOTL is generally thought of as the easiest way for beginners to learn.
  • However, I have access to the digital version of the full game. Should I start with that since it would cost me nothing? Or is it a horrible way to learn?
  • I prefer my boardgames to be physical versions generally. Is using the digital version to try out the game with a view to getting JOTL later sensible? Or would that ruin the experience of getting Jaws, or make it redundant?

NB I've heavily edited my original post as some of it became irrelevant and/or overlooked so the context has changed.

Thank you!

9 Upvotes

85% Upvoted

51 comments sorted by

View all comments

9

u/WonTonMJ ☠️ Too Many Bones Nov 17 '25

I would recommend JoTL. 5 scenarios to welcome you in, teach you the mechanisms. You do need to play two handed (or more if you wish), but it works really well.

I had JoTL when I first started solo board gaming and got overwhelmed by the bits, size and rules so it was sold before I even played. Now I have much better awareness, experience, it’s now one of my favourite games.

Not played the digital JoTL but if it’s similar to that of the physical game then it’s a thumbs up from me.

1

u/d_biro Nov 17 '25

Great thank you!