When it comes to board games, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion clearly stands out as a cooperative tactical combat game set in a unique fantasy world. Card-based RPG was recently released in the digital version making it playable for PC. Among its diverse characters, Hatchet, an Inox adept in ranged combat, captures attention with his specialized skill set.
The Hatchet is known for his exceptional ability with throwing axes, a rarity among his race, traditionally recognized for brute strength. This character brings a distinctive playstyle to the game, combining the Inox’s inherent power with a finesse in ranged attacks.
Hatchet Background and Role
The Hatchet character in Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion emerges from the Inox race, known for their physical prowess. However, unlike his kin, the Hatchet has adapted to an urban environment, showcasing a blend of raw strength and tactical acumen. This adaptation is reflected in his primary role as a ranged damage dealer, a skill not commonly associated with the Inox.
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Hatchet’s proficiency with throwing axes sets him apart, offering a gameplay experience that contrasts with the typical close-combat style of his race. The Hatchet’s backstory adds depth to his character, depicting him as a figure who has embraced a different path from his tribal origins, finding his niche in precision-based combat.
Such unique positioning within the game’s narrative not only makes the Hatchet an interesting character to explore but also introduces a fresh dynamic to the traditional Inox archetype.
How does The Favorite and Hatchet work
Central to the Hatchet’s gameplay in Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is a mechanic known as The Favorite. This feature allows the Hatchet to mark a target, significantly boosting his damage output against it. The mechanic is token-based, representing the Hatchet’s focus and determination in combat.
Players can strategically deploy The Favorite to deal substantial damage to high-value targets, making it a pivotal aspect of the Hatchet’s playstyle.
The mechanic’s design encourages thoughtful gameplay, requiring players to decide the optimal moment for its use. This decision-making process is crucial, as the token must be retrieved after use.
The Favorite not only enhances the Hatchet’s effectiveness in combat but also aligns with the character’s theme of precision and skill, distinguishing him from other characters in the game.
Essential Items for Early to Mid-Game
In the initial stages of Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, selecting the right items for the Hatchet is crucial.
- The Potion of Stamina: This potion stands out for its ability to retrieve valuable cards, a key aspect of maintaining momentum in the game. Moreover, This potion also allows the Hatchet to reuse powerful cards, including those integral to maximizing The Favorite.
- Potion of Power: Often overlooked, Potion of Power can give advantage by helping secure 1-hit kills with The Favorite.
- Piercing Bow: This item can prove invaluable against foes with high shield values. It complements the Hatchet’s attack style, ensuring that his high damage potential is not mitigated by enemy defenses.
Card Selection for Optimal Gameplay
The choice of cards is a defining element in the Hatchet’s gameplay.
Cards like Retrieval and Close Cuts are essential, offering both offensive capabilities and strategic flexibility. Retrieval is particularly important for its role in reclaiming The Favorite token, while Close Cuts provides opportunities for close-range combat when necessary.
Center Mass and Double Throw are also crucial, the former for consistent damage output and the latter for its high-impact, albeit burn-on-use, effect.
Here are some other cards that might help you in Hatchet class:
- Second Wind
- Stopping Power
- Fancy Hat
- Disorienting Barrage
- Power Pitch
- Care Package / Double Throw
These cards, when used in combination, allow players to exploit the full range of the Hatchet’s abilities, balancing between sustained damage and powerful one-off attacks.
Perk Selection for Character Development
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Choosing the right perks is vital for enhancing the Hatchet’s capabilities. Initially, players should focus on consistency perks, which remove negative modifiers from the attack modifier deck. This ensures a more reliable damage output in combat.
As the game progresses, players can tailor their perk choices based on the needs of their guild. For instance, if more Wind infusions are required, selecting perks that align with this need becomes beneficial. This approach to perk selection not only improves Hatchet’s individual performance but also his contribution to the team’s overall strategy.
Final thoughts
The Hatchet in Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion offers a unique and engaging playstyle, blending the Inox race’s inherent strength with a rare finesse in ranged combat. The character’s distinctive use of The Favorite, combined with a well-chosen set of items and cards, allows players to experience a tactical depth rarely seen in other characters.
The Hatchet’s ability to adapt to various combat scenarios, supported by strategic perk selections, makes him not just a formidable individual combatant but also a valuable team player.
FAQs
Is Gloomhaven Jaws of the Lion replayable?
Yes, Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is replayable. Players can replay any failed mission without consequence, retaining all gold and experience collected. This feature enhances the game’s longevity and allows players to experiment with different strategies.
Can you play Jaws of the Lion solo?
Absolutely! Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion can be played solo. In solo play, one player controls two characters, similar to the original Gloomhaven. This mode offers a unique challenge and allows players to experience the game’s depth independently.
How do you paint a hatchet in Gloomhaven?
Painting the Hatchet character from Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion involves several steps. Start by applying Stirland Mud texture paint, followed by a wash with Army Painter Strong Tone. Once dry, drybrush the base with Tyrant Skull. Adding grass tufts can give the figure a more realistic look, ready for adventure.
Is Jaws of the Lion good for 2 players?
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is excellent for two players, especially for couples who enjoy engaging and complex board games. It offers a more accessible experience than the original Gloomhaven while retaining all the fun and strategic depth. The campaign’s structure, comprising multiple sessions, makes it a great choice for couples looking for a long-term gaming experience.
Is Gloomhaven Jaws of the Lion complicated?
Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion is indeed a complex game, similar to its predecessors, Gloomhaven and Frosthaven. It has a significant learning curve, but the game includes a comprehensive Learn to Play Guide to help new players understand and enjoy the game. The guide is particularly helpful in easing players into the game’s mechanics and strategies.
