Gloomhaven is a game of tactical combat in a persistent world of shifting motives. Players take on the role of wandering mercenaries with their own specializations, goals, and personal stories. Each scenario in Gloomhaven presents a new challenge, and players must work together to overcome enemies and obstacles. Between scenarios, players improve their characters by gaining new abilities, items, and perks. The game also features a legacy-style component where choices made in one scenario affect future scenarios.