Introduction
Legacy board games offer an incredibly fun and unique gaming experience. Combining elements of traditional board games with captivating narratives, these games continually evolve with changing rules and unlockable surprises. Cooperative gameplay is often a key feature of legacy board games, fostering teamwork and shared victories.
In this article, we present our selection of the top legacy board games that you should definitely try in 2023.
Gloomhaven
We have to kick off our list with what I consider one of the best legacy board games and a personal favorite: Gloomhaven. The hype surrounding Gloomhaven is well-deserved because it truly is a phenomenal game. In Gloomhaven, players embark on dungeon-delving adventures as a party of heroes. As you journey through dungeons, defeat monsters, and return to town for healing and upgrades, the game’s card mechanic becomes the highlight. The cards you play not only determine your abilities but also act as your resources. It’s crucial to balance your card usage to survive the scenarios and coordinate effectively with the group. Though the game features an overarching narrative, it is the satisfying gameplay mechanics, loot, and character progression that truly captivate players. Gloomhaven may be seen as more of a campaign or dungeon crawling game, but it embodies all the elements that make legacy games so exciting. If you’re willing to immerse yourself in one of the biggest board games out there, give Gloomhaven a try. And if you’re unsure, you can also experience Gloomhaven on PC, which is a great way to test the game solo.
Read my full review of Gloomhaven here.
Jaws of the Lion
Considered “Gloomhaven lite” by some, Jaws of the Lion serves as a prequel to the original Gloomhaven game. It offers a simpler and more streamlined experience, making it an excellent entry point for new players. Unlike Gloomhaven, Jaws of the Lion eliminates the game board, opting for a campaign book where players directly play on a map. This change not only simplifies gameplay but also reduces cost. Additionally, characters from Jaws of the Lion can be used in the original Gloomhaven, and vice versa. Although Jaws of the Lion lacks personal quests, reputation, and certain features present in Gloomhaven, it remains a true legacy game with unlockable miniatures, stickers, and game-changing campaign decisions. If Gloomhaven seems a bit intimidating, Jaws of the Lion is the perfect alternative.
Read my Jaws of the Lion review here.
Pandemic Legacy Season 1
While it may not be the first legacy board game, Pandemic Legacy Season 1 holds a special place in my heart as the game that sparked my love for the genre. If you enjoy the original Pandemic, Pandemic Legacy Season 1 is a must-play. In this cooperative game, players strive to prevent the collapse of the world due to rampant diseases. Each player controls a token with a unique ability, and together, you must strategically combat the spreading diseases. Pandemic Legacy Season 1 starts off similarly to a standard game of Pandemic, but every game thereafter reveals new abilities, cards, and surprises. The 12-month campaign delivers an ever-changing and exciting experience, with each game carrying consequences into future sessions. Even though my group found it relatively easy, the tension arising from potential mistakes and the lingering effects of outbreaks made every game intense. Make sure to grab the Season 1 version for the full experience!
Pandemic Legacy: Season 2
Continuing the storyline of Pandemic Legacy Season 1, Season 2 takes place several years later in a grittier setting. If you enjoyed the first season or are seeking a challenging Pandemic-like experience, Season 2 is the game for you. You do not need to play Season 1 to enjoy it, as the storyline is easy to understand. This edition differentiates itself from the original Pandemic, featuring distinct mechanics and a darker atmosphere. Pandemic Legacy Season 2 is an excellent addition to the legacy board game collection.
Pandemic Legacy Season 0
Season 0 of Pandemic Legacy serves as a prequel, transporting players to the heart of the Cold War several years before Season 1. Though not a necessity, playing Season 0 allows you to fully experience the entire Pandemic Legacy journey. Mechanics resemble those of Season 1, making it accessible to Pandemic veterans. Embrace the challenge of cooperative board game block management and delve into the world of Pandemic Legacy Season 0.
The Rise of Queensdale
If you’re a fan of city-building and worker placement games, The Rise of Queensdale is a legacy board game worth considering. Set in a charming euro-style world, this game immerses players in a polyomino (tile-laying) experience. Your goal is to construct the most appealing town while strategically placing workers according to the rolled dice. Each game presents a different objective, pushing you to adapt your strategy accordingly. With 24 chapters comprising varying rules and sticker-based modifications, The Rise of Queensdale offers a competitive twist to the legacy board game genre.
Betrayal Legacy
Embark on a cooperative exploration journey through a haunted house with Betrayal Legacy. As you and your friends venture deeper, uncover secrets, and face off against supernatural forces, the game progressively shifts toward a 1 vs. many dynamic. One player assumes the role of the betrayer, while others strive to complete their objectives. Betrayal Legacy builds upon the original Betrayal game, addressing some of its flaws while preserving the unique thematic atmosphere. With 14 different time periods and an engaging narrative, Betrayal Legacy offers a satisfying legacy experience.
The King’s Dilemma
Though I haven’t personally played The King’s Dilemma, its rave reviews and captivating gameplay have earned it a spot on my “must-play legacy games” list. This social game spans approximately 15 games, each set during a different king’s reign. Players represent Noble Houses and compete to influence the king’s decisions in their favor. Balancing personal goals and the greater good, engaging in alliances and bidding competitions, each game shapes the story and leads to different endings. The King’s Dilemma promises an immersive and socially interactive legacy gaming experience.
My City
My City delivers a polyomino (tile-laying) legacy game with a twist. As you progress through the 24 chapters, you strategically place tiles on your personal board, striving to earn the most victory points. Each game introduces new objectives, altering your optimal tile placement strategy. Stickers modify the board layout, and rules evolve across chapters. Although My City is relatively simple, it offers a delightful and accessible legacy experience, particularly for fans of tile placement games.
Aeon’s End Legacy
Aeon’s End Legacy combines cooperative gameplay with deck building mechanics. Players control characters with unique decks, gradually expanding their abilities and facing off against menacing monsters. The game’s brilliance lies in the collaborative card synergies and strategizing with fellow players. Aeon’s End Legacy boasts a loyal following and remains immensely popular, making it a must-try for deck-building enthusiasts.
Shadowrun: Crossfire
Set in the cyberpunk universe of Shadowrun, Shadowrun: Crossfire offers a cooperative deck-building legacy game experience. Players select races and classes for their characters and persistently develop their decks throughout the campaign. As you explore the game’s world, defeat enemies, and collect rewards, you will immerse yourself in the dark and thrilling atmosphere of Shadowrun. If the Shadowrun theme appeals to you, this legacy game is definitely worth exploring.
Dragonfire
For those who enjoy the Dungeons & Dragons ambiance, Dragonfire presents a cooperative deck-building legacy game set in the Forgotten Realms. With deck-building mechanics similar to Shadowrun: Crossfire, Dragonfire offers an immersive experience within a fantasy setting. As you progress through the legacy campaign, your characters and decks evolve, enhancing your abilities and deck synergies. Dragonfire combines the allure of the D&D universe with captivating deck-building gameplay.
Charterstone
As a worker placement legacy board game, Charterstone revolves around shared village building. Over the course of 12 games, players construct buildings, complete goals, and accumulate victory points. Each game introduces new rules, buildings, and enhancements, providing an evolving gaming experience. The adorable art style adds to the game’s appeal, though the choices and mechanics may overwhelm younger players. Charterstone is also available for digital play, making it accessible for solo players.
Clank! Legacy
Clank! Legacy, based on the deck-building game Clank!, combines deck-building mechanics with miniatures and a game board. Set in the vibrant Acquisitions Incorporated Universe, players compete to amass treasure and build their branch of Acquisitions Incorporated. While the game is technically competitive, players must work together in certain aspects to succeed. Clank! Legacy offers a unique legacy experience with its captivating blend of competition and cooperation.
Frosthaven (Gloomhaven 2)
Anticipated for release in 2022, Frosthaven serves as the sequel to the renowned Gloomhaven. Though not yet available, Frosthaven promises a fresh story and setting within the Gloomhaven universe. If you’re debating between playing the original Gloomhaven or waiting for Frosthaven, both offer incredible gaming experiences. Frosthaven is an exciting addition to the legacy board game collection and is bound to captivate players.
The Queen’s Dilemma (Upcoming)
While The Queen’s Dilemma is not yet released and won’t be available in 2022, fans of The King’s Dilemma should keep an eye out for its successor. Just like its predecessor, The Queen’s Dilemma promises an engaging and socially interactive legacy game experience.
Honorable Mentions
Alongside our top picks, several other legacy games deserve recognition:
- Vampire: The Masquerade – Heritage: A compelling legacy board game for vampire enthusiasts.
- Android: Netrunner – Terminal Directive: A unique 2-player legacy game that requires the base game to play.
- Centauri Saga: Abandoned: An expansion for the 4x board game Centauri Saga.
- Risk Legacy: The game that kickstarted the legacy board game trend, offering an improved version of the classic game.
- Zombie Kidz Evolution and Zombie Teenz Evolution: Legacy games perfect for family-friendly cooperative adventures.
- Ultimate Werewolf Legacy: A legacy version of the popular social deduction game Ultimate Werewolf, best enjoyed with a large group of players.
- Machi Koro Legacy: A fun and light legacy game for fans of city-building and dice rolling mechanics.
- First Martians: Adventures on the Red Planet: A cooperative worker placement legacy game set on Mars, complete with an integrated app for immersive gameplay.
- Seafall: An exploration-focused legacy game with 4x elements, though its mixed reviews warrant caution.
- Critical Role Adventures (Upcoming): An eagerly anticipated legacy game bound to capture the attention of fans.
- Sagrada Legacy (Upcoming): Limited information is available at present, but details are expected soon.
These honorable mentions offer a diverse range of legacy gaming experiences, each with its own unique appeal.
Conclusion
Legacy board games provide an unparalleled gaming adventure, offering ever-evolving gameplay, captivating narratives, and unforgettable moments. Our curated list of the best legacy board games for 2023 includes various styles and themes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of cooperative gameplay, strategic deck building, or immersive storytelling, these legacy games promise countless hours of excitement and enjoyment.
So gather your friends, immerse yourselves in these captivating worlds, and embark on unforgettable gaming journeys. Have a blast exploring the ever-changing rules and narratives that await you in the realm of legacy board games.
For more information about legacy board games and other exciting experiences, visit Ratingperson, your go-to source for all things gaming!