Top Dungeon Crawler Board Games for Epic Tabletop Adventures

Dungeon crawler board games represent one of the most immersive and diverse genres in tabletop gaming, offering a vast array of captivating choices that cater to a wide range of themes and play styles. From horror to fantasy, and even featuring popular franchises like Marvel and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the genre has something for everyone. Navigating the plethora of exceptional options can be daunting, but understanding the core elements—tactical combat, character progression, loot, and dungeon exploration—can guide enthusiasts to find their perfect match. These games often transcend the traditional fantasy dungeon setting, showcasing rich narratives and intricate mechanics that keep players engaged for hours.

TL;DR: The Best Dungeon Crawler Board Games

### Frosthaven

0See it at Amazon### Descent: Legends of the Dark

0See it at Amazon### Star Wars: Imperial Assault

0See it at Amazon### Slay the Spire: The Board Game

0See it at Amazon### Mansions of Madness

0See it at Amazon### Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape

0See it at Amazon### Nemesis

0See it at Amazon### Cthulhu: Death May Die

0See it at Amazon### Clank! Catacombs

0See it at Amazon### Marvel Zombies - A Zombicide Game

0See it at Amazon### Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant

0See it at Amazon### Resident Evil: The Board Game

0See it at Amazon### Arcadia Quest

0See it at Amazon

Dungeon crawlers are renowned for their deep gameplay and rich storytelling, often providing players with lengthy cooperative campaigns. Whether you're battling through mythical realms or navigating the corridors of a sci-fi facility, these games offer an engaging blend of strategy, exploration, and narrative.

Frosthaven / Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

### Frosthaven

0See it at Amazon### Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion

12See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-4Play Time: 60-120 mins

Gloomhaven set the benchmark for immersive dungeon crawler experiences, though it's currently out of print. Fortunately, its successor, Frosthaven, continues the legacy with an equally captivating campaign within the same universe. For those new to the series, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion offers a streamlined introduction, significantly reducing setup time. Both games are interconnected, allowing characters to transfer between them, making Jaws of the Lion an ideal starting point for beginners while Frosthaven appeals to those seeking an epic fantasy adventure.

These games blend the excitement of a choose-your-own-adventure story with the tactical depth of a tabletop game. Their campaigns are lengthy and filled with lore, and the dynamic character roster adds emotional depth as players say goodbye to old characters and welcome new ones. Both are excellent cooperative multiplayer experiences, perfect for two to four players.

For detailed insights, explore our review of Gloomhaven and our 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 mins

While many dungeon crawlers boast impressive miniatures, Descent: Legends of the Dark elevates the experience with detailed 3D cardboard scenery and a spacious storage box. This fully cooperative game merges traditional tabletop tactics with dice rolling and app-based resource management, simplifying crafting, leveling up, and other gameplay elements. The randomized dungeon layouts and compelling narrative campaign make it a standout RPG and dungeon crawler.

For a thorough analysis, 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 mins

Dungeons don't have to be fantasy-themed; the maintenance corridors of an Imperial base can serve just as well. In Star Wars: Imperial Assault, a team of rebels faces off against an opponent controlling the Empire's forces in a scenario-based campaign. Players swap traditional weapons for lightsabers and blasters, engaging in tactical combat while exploring and leveling up. The game also features beloved Star Wars characters, enhancing the immersive experience. It's 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 mins

Fans of the video game will appreciate the transition of Slay the Spire to the tabletop, maintaining its deck-building mechanics while introducing a social element. Players ascend the spire together, facing various monsters and bosses, making strategic decisions with their curated card decks. The game retains its addictive quality, offering a strategic and social experience.

Our review of Slay the Spire: The Board Game highlights its engaging gameplay and strategic depth.

Mansions of Madness: Second Edition

### Mansions of Madness

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 60-360 mins

Mansions of Madness: Second Edition is a cooperative mystery horror game where players choose from eight investigators to solve puzzles, collect weapons, and combat monsters and insanity. The game features four scenarios, with varying lengths, supported by an app that enhances the narrative and gameplay. The app adds tension through its eerie music and voiceovers, while also streamlining the experience, making it easier to learn and play.

Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape

### Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 60 mins

Massive Darkness 2: Hellscape is a standalone sequel that's accessible to newcomers and veterans alike. It follows classic dungeon crawler elements but distinguishes itself with six unique character classes, each offering a different play style. The game's replayability is enhanced by its varied scenarios and character classes, providing a fresh experience with each playthrough.

Nemesis

### Nemesis

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 60-180 mins

Nemesis captures the essence of the Alien franchise, immersing players in a tense environment where they must navigate corridors while avoiding dangerous aliens. The game introduces hidden objectives, creating distrust among players as they strive to survive. Teamwork is essential, but hidden agendas can lead to betrayal, adding depth to the survival horror experience.

Explore additional Nemesis expansions and miniatures to enhance your gameplay.

Cthulhu: Death May Die

### Cthulhu: Death May Die

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 90-120 mins

Inspired by H.P. Lovecraft, Cthulhu: Death May Die is a cooperative horror game where players work to prevent dangerous rituals. Characters gain strength as their sanity dwindles, adding a risk-reward element. The game is easy to pick up yet challenging to master, with standalone scenarios that allow for flexible player groupings.

Clank! Catacombs

### Clank! Catacombs

5See it at AmazonAge: 13+Players: 1-4Play Time: 45-90 mins

Clank! Catacombs combines dungeon crawling with roguelike elements, expanding the map with tiles that change with each playthrough. Players engage in various tasks like fighting monsters and collecting gold, all while evading a dragon. The game's compact design makes it an attractive option for those with limited space, offering a fresh and engaging experience.

Marvel Zombies – A Zombicide Game

### Marvel Zombies - A Zombicide Game

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-6Play Time: 60 mins

Marvel Zombies brings the popular Zombicide series into the Marvel universe, allowing players to take on the role of zombies or survivors. The game introduces new mechanics that refresh the classic formula, appealing to both new and seasoned players. The detailed miniatures and various expansions make it a must-have for fans 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 mins

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Change is Constant offers a unique dungeon crawler experience, though it's primarily appealing to fans of the franchise. The game features engaging mechanics, including dice rolls that impact adjacent teammates, fostering a true cooperative experience. It can be played fully cooperatively or 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 mins

Set in the iconic Spencer Mansion, Resident Evil: The Board Game brings the survival horror of the video game series to the tabletop. Players navigate puzzles, manage limited resources, and fend off zombies. While the board game versions of Resident Evil 2 and 3 were released before the original, the first game is considered the best entry point for fans of the franchise.

Arcadia Quest

### Arcadia Quest

0See it at AmazonAge: 13+Players: 2-4Play Time: 60 mins

Arcadia Quest stands out with its chibi art style and accessible gameplay, introducing a competitive twist with PvP quests. While it cannot be played solo, its campaign-driven format encourages repeated play with the same group. The game's unique blend of competition and cooperation, along with its charming aesthetic, makes it a delightful addition to the dungeon crawler genre.