This week saw the release ofGloomhavenon Steam and GoG, following two years in early access. The new title is a digital adaptation of the hugetactical-RPG board gamefrom Cephalofair Games, which has topped lists of the greatest board games ever since its 2017 release.Gloomhavenis renowned among tabletop fans for its massive scope and well-honed gameplay, and the interest in the digital version has been strong since it was first announced.
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There are 6 starting classes for players to choose from when they begin a new campaign of Gloomhaven, each with its own unique style. The best choice for players who like taking on the role of the tough, straightforward fighter is the Brute class. The Brute isa melee-focused bruiserwith a strong set of cards to help him survive and deal damage in close quarters. As thedigital version of Gloomhavenis a straight adaptation of its tabletop counterpart, this guide will be applicable to players of both.
Best Starting Brute Cards In Gloomhaven
As one ofGloomhaven’s 6 starting classes, the Brute is fairly easy to play compared to the 11 unlockable classes. In boththe Cephlofair board gameand its digital version, the Brute is designed tocombine DPS and tanking ability.However, most new players, particularly in smaller groups, with probably want to play the Brute as a tough DPS character rather than a straight tank. Here are the core starting cards of this Brute build inGloomhaven.
The other Level 1 and Level X cards available to a new Brute are less essential to the build, but honorable mentions includeProvoking Roar, Grab and Go, Trample, and Warding Strength.
Leveling The Brute In Gloomhaven
As players advance in levels, they’ll get the ability to add new cards to their Brute deck. Players following this build should especially try to grabHook and Chain (Level 3), Unstoppable Charge (Level 4), and Immovable Phalanx (Level 6).These cards all lean heavily into the Brute’s combination of big melee damage and survivability, turning him into classicDungeon & DragonsFighter.
Along with new cards, players will also want to buy items and pick Perks to improve their Brute. When it comes to Perks, it’s best to start byremoving negative item effects, then clearing up the deck as much as possible by removing/replacing -1 cards. The removal of negative item effects is especially important, as it will allow the Brute to use theRPG’s heavy armoritems without penalty. It’s this armor that will help keep the Brute alive on the frontline, and allow players to spend their coin on offensive items like the War Hammer, or utility like the Stamina Potion.
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