Top Dungeon Crawler Board Games for Epic Tabletop Adventures

Dungeon crawler board games represent one of the most immersive and diverse genres in the world of tabletop gaming. With a vast array of options ranging from horror to fantasy, and even encompassing popular franchises like Marvel and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, choosing the right game can be a daunting task. These games often blend tactical combat, character development, loot acquisition, and exploration, not necessarily limited to traditional dungeons but extending to various thematic settings. What unites them is their deep lore and intricate mechanics, offering rich, cooperative campaigns that captivate players for hours on end.

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

Defining the dungeon crawler genre can be a contentious topic among tabletop enthusiasts, but these games typically include tactical combat, character progression, loot, and, of course, dungeons. These dungeons don’t have to be literal, however. In fact, some of the best board games in the category aren’t stereotypical monster-battling RPGs set in a fantasy world. One other thing these titles do generally have in common, though, is that they are rich in lore and mechanics. For those looking for lengthy cooperative campaigns, you have come to the right place.

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 minsGloomhaven set the standard for deep dungeon crawler board games, but with the original currently out of print, its follow-up, Frosthaven, offers an equally engrossing campaign set in the same universe. Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, on the other hand, provides a streamlined option that requires less prep time, addressing one of the original’s few critiques. The two games are interconnected, allowing characters created in one to transfer to the other. Jaws of the Lion serves as a better starting point for newer players due to its decreased setup time, while fans of fantasy epics can’t go wrong with either.

Both titles offer a choose-your-own-adventure experience, with long and rich campaigns full of lore and adventure. Characters within the game may depart after completing their primary objectives, creating bittersweet moments as players say goodbye to familiar faces and welcome new ones. Both options are excellent cooperative multiplayer titles, making them some of the best board games for two players and the best board games for four players.

For more information about these tabletop masterpieces, check out our review of Gloomhaven 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 feature plastic figures, seasoned gamers know it's not just about the eye candy. This third, fully cooperative iteration of the Descent franchise fills the gap with a stunning lineup of 3D cardboard scenery and a cavernous box to store it all. Beyond the impressive aesthetics, the game cleverly combines tabletop tactics, dice rolling, and app-based resource management, allowing for crafting, leveling up, and other engaging mechanics within a randomized dungeon layout and an engrossing narrative campaign. It stands out as both an excellent RPG board game and a top-notch dungeon crawler.

For our detailed review, check out our in-depth Descent: Legends of the Dark review.

Star Wars: Imperial Assault

### Star Wars: Imperial Assault

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 2-5Play Time: 60-120 minsDungeons don't have to be fantasy labyrinths; the maze-like corridors of an Imperial base work just as well. In Star Wars: Imperial Assault, a group of rebel operatives collaborates against a player controlling the Empire's forces in a scenario-based campaign. Swapping swords and bows for lightsabers and blasters, players loot crates, explore secrets, and level up while engaging in tactical combat to take down the bad guys. The game also features a range of beloved Star Wars characters, making it 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 the transition of Slay the Spire to a tabletop experience. The game retains the deck-building essence of the original, allowing players to ascend the spire—a dungeon you climb rather than crawl—together. This social and strategic experience involves defeating various monsters and bosses, with the addictive thrill of curating and using your cards in tactical combat.

We thoroughly enjoyed our review of Slay the Spire: The Board Game and loved every second of the gameplay.

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 a captivating cooperative mystery horror game where players choose from eight investigators to solve puzzles, collect weapons, and fight off monsters and insanity. The game unfolds through four different scenarios, ranging from 60 to 360 minutes, with the longest offering a deep and immersive campaign. An app enhances the storytelling with eerie music and excellent voiceovers, streamlining the game and adding to the tension.

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. This sequel is accessible to new players, offering a fun and engaging experience with dice-throwing, monster-slaying, and dungeon looting. The game features six unique character classes, each with distinct playstyles, enhancing replayability. The satisfying loop of combat, looting, leveling up, and upgrading gear can be enjoyed across various scenarios, making each playthrough feel fresh.

Nemesis

### Nemesis

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 60-180 minsWhile the Alien franchise has several licensed board games, Nemesis captures its spirit without official ties. The game evokes the creeping terror of sneaking through corridors to avoid dangerous aliens. Players receive objective cards that may require actions against other players, adding tension and uncertainty. Hidden objectives make it challenging to trust others, yet teamwork is crucial for survival. Alongside the base game, there are numerous Nemesis expansions and additional miniatures available.

Cthulhu: Death May Die

### Cthulhu: Death May Die

0See it at AmazonAge: 14+Players: 1-5Play Time: 90-120 minsInspired by H.P. Lovecraft, Cthulhu: Death May Die is a cooperative horror game with standalone scenarios centered around stopping dangerous rituals. Characters gain strength as their sanity diminishes, introducing a risk-reward mechanic. The game is easy to pick up but challenging to master, and its flexibility allows different groups to play different scenarios, enhancing its accessibility.

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 avoid a dragon. This entry in the Clank series dives deepest into the dungeon crawler genre, featuring tiles that expand the map and create a roguelike experience. No two playthroughs are the same due to shuffled tiles. While many dungeon crawlers come with extensive miniatures, Clank! Catacombs uses cards and tiles, offering a smaller footprint ideal 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 known for its cooperative survival games, and Marvel Zombies stands out as one of the best entries. Inspired by the What If comic series, players can take on the role of zombies, introducing new mechanics that streamline and enhance the classic experience. The detailed miniatures are a highlight for fans of the comic book characters. The Marvel Zombies line has several expansions, and there are many great Marvel board games for those seeking more comic book-themed fun.

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 dungeon crawler that may not appeal to those unfamiliar with the franchise. However, TMNT fans will appreciate the miniatures, character cards, scenario booklet, and box design. The game introduces a unique mechanic where part of a player’s dice roll impacts adjacent teammates, enhancing the cooperative feel. 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 minsFans of the Resident Evil video game franchise will enjoy Resident Evil: The Board Game, set in the iconic Spencer Mansion with familiar characters. The game features puzzles that unlock new areas, limited resources, and plenty of zombies, mirroring the video game experience. While the board game versions of Resident Evil 2 and 3 were released before the original, the first game is considered the best. All three titles are worth exploring, with Resident Evil: The Board Game being an ideal starting point.

Arcadia Quest

### Arcadia Quest

0See it at AmazonAge: 13+Players: 2-4Play Time: 60 minsIn a genre often filled with dark themes, Arcadia Quest stands out with its chibi art style and easy-to-learn gameplay. It introduces a competitive twist with PvP quests, requiring players to face off against each other within scenarios. While many dungeon crawlers are cooperative, Arcadia Quest’s mandatory face-offs make it unsuitable for solo play. As the game is campaign-based, it's best enjoyed with the same group throughout. Those who can gather a consistent group will find a fun and engaging dungeon crawler with plenty of personality.