Dungeon crawler board games are a rich and diverse genre, offering deep gameplay experiences and a wide range of thematic options. With so many excellent choices available, it can be challenging to decide where to start. These games span various themes, from horror to fantasy, and even include popular franchises like Marvel and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, all of which have successfully ventured into this exciting genre.
TL;DR: The Best 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
0See it at AmazonDefining the dungeon crawler genre can be a topic of debate among tabletop enthusiasts, but these games typically feature tactical combat, character progression, loot, and dungeons. However, the dungeons don't have to be literal; some of the best games in this category deviate from the traditional fantasy RPG setting. What they often share is a deep lore and intricate mechanics. If you're seeking lengthy cooperative campaigns, you're in the right place.
Frosthaven / Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
### Frosthaven
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### Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion
12See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 60-120 minsGloomhaven set the standard for deep dungeon crawler board games, although the original is currently out of print. Fortunately, its follow-up, Frosthaven, offers an equally engrossing campaign set in the same universe. Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion provides a streamlined alternative with less prep time, addressing one of the original's few criticisms. The two games are interconnected, allowing characters created in one to transfer to the other. Jaws of the Lion is a better starting point for newcomers due to its reduced setup time, but fans of epic fantasy adventures can't go wrong with either.
Both titles blend choose-your-own-adventure storytelling with tabletop gameplay. Their campaigns are long, rich in lore, and full of adventure. Characters may leave after completing their objectives, creating bittersweet moments as players bid farewell to familiar faces and welcome new ones. Both games are excellent cooperative multiplayer experiences, ranking among the best board games for two and four players.
For more insights into these tabletop masterpieces, explore our Gloomhaven review and hands-on impressions of Frosthaven.
Descent: Legends of the Dark
### Descent: Legends of the Dark
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 120-180 minsWhile many dungeon board games boast impressive plastic miniatures, seasoned gamers know that's just part of the experience. This third, fully cooperative iteration of the Descent series adds stunning 3D cardboard scenery and a spacious storage box. However, the game's quality lies in its blend of tabletop tactics, dice rolling, and app-based resource management, allowing for crafting, leveling up, and other engaging mechanics within a narrative campaign featuring randomized dungeon layouts. It stands out as both an exceptional RPG and a top-notch dungeon crawler.
For a detailed look at this game, check out our in-depth review of Descent: Legends of the Dark.
Star Wars: Imperial Assault
### Star Wars: Imperial Assault
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 2-5Play Time: 60-120 minsDungeons aren't limited to fantasy settings; the labyrinthine corridors of an Imperial base can serve just as well. In Star Wars: Imperial Assault, a group of rebels works together against an opponent controlling the Empire's forces in a scenario-based campaign. While you swap traditional weapons for lightsabers and blasters, the core experience of looting, exploring, and leveling up remains intact. Plus, you'll encounter many beloved Star Wars characters to aid your cause. This game is a standout among the many Star Wars board games available.
Slay the Spire: The Board Game
### Slay the Spire: The Board Game
0See it at AmazonAge: 12+Players: 1-4Play Time: 30-150 minsFans of the popular video game will appreciate its deck-building mechanics translated to the tabletop. The board game version offers new content and streamlined mechanics, allowing players to ascend the spire together, facing its diverse monsters and bosses. This social and strategic experience retains the addictive thrill of curating and deploying cards against various foes.
We thoroughly enjoyed our review of Slay the Spire: The Board Game and recommend it to fans of the genre.
Mansions of Madness: Second Edition
### Mansions of Madness
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 60-360 minsMansions of Madness: Second Edition is an immersive cooperative mystery horror game. Players choose from eight investigators to solve puzzles, gather weapons, and battle monsters while combating insanity. The game includes four scenarios, ranging from 60 to 360 minutes, with the longest offering a deep campaign. An app enhances the storytelling with narration, eerie music, and voiceovers, while also streamlining gameplay, making it easier to start and teach.
Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape
### Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 60 minsDespite the "2" in its title, Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape is a significant departure from its predecessor. It's accessible to new players and offers a fun, engaging experience. The game follows classic dungeon crawler tropes but distinguishes itself with six unique character classes that offer varied gameplay. The loop of battling monsters, looting, leveling up, and upgrading gear across various scenarios is satisfying, and the different classes ensure each playthrough feels fresh.
Nemesis
### Nemesis
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 60-180 minsThough not officially tied to the Alien franchise, Nemesis captures its essence through tense gameplay where players sneak through corridors, evading dangerous aliens. The game introduces objective cards that influence player strategies, some requiring players to work against each other. These hidden objectives add a layer of uncertainty and mistrust, yet teamwork is essential for survival. Alongside the base game, various expansions and additional miniatures enhance the experience.
Cthulhu: Death May Die
### Cthulhu: Death May Die
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 90-120 minsCthulhu: Death May Die is a cooperative horror game inspired by H.P. Lovecraft. Players tackle standalone scenarios to stop dangerous rituals from summoning powerful beings. Characters gain strength as their sanity dwindles, adding a risk-reward element. The game is easy to pick up but challenging to master, and its flexible player count makes it highly accessible.
Clank! Catacombs
### Clank! Catacombs
5See it at AmazonAge: 13+Players: 1-4Play Time: 45-90 minsClank! Catacombs challenges players to fight monsters, free prisoners, collect gold, and evade a dragon. This entry in the Clank series dives deep into the dungeon crawler genre and is arguably the best yet. Its expanding map tiles create a roguelike experience, ensuring no two games are the same. With a smaller footprint and fewer miniatures, Clank! Catacombs is perfect for those with limited space.
Marvel Zombies – A Zombicide Game
### Marvel Zombies - A Zombicide Game
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 60 minsThe Zombicide series is renowned for its cooperative survival gameplay, and Marvel Zombies is one of its standout entries. Inspired by the What If comic series, players can take on the role of zombies or heroes, with new mechanics that refresh the classic formula. The detailed miniatures are a treat for Marvel fans, and numerous expansions offer further exploration of the comic book universe.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant
### Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 45-150 minsTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant is an underrated gem in the dungeon crawler genre. While primarily appealing to TMNT fans, it offers unique mechanics where dice rolls affect adjacent players, enhancing the cooperative experience. The game can be played fully cooperatively or as a one-versus-many with one player as the villain, making it ideal for groups of four or five.
Resident Evil: The Board Game
### Resident Evil: The Board Game
0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 60-90 minsFans of the iconic video game franchise will appreciate Resident Evil: The Board Game. Set in the Spencer Mansion, it features familiar characters, puzzles that unlock new map areas, limited resources, and plenty of zombies. While the board game versions of Resident Evil 2 and 3 preceded the original, the first game is arguably the best. All three are recommended for franchise enthusiasts, with the original serving as an excellent starting point.
Arcadia Quest
### Arcadia Quest
0See it at AmazonAge: 13+Players: 2-4Play Time: 60 minsIn a genre often dominated by darker themes, Arcadia Quest stands out with its chibi art style and accessible gameplay. It introduces a competitive twist with PvP quests that require players to face off during scenarios. While it can't be played solo, those who can gather a consistent group for a campaign will enjoy a vibrant and engaging dungeon crawler experience.
