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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 is a melee-focused bruiser with a strong set of cards to help him survive and deal damage in close quarters. As the digital version of Gloomhaven is a straight adaptation of its tabletop counterpart, this guide will be applicable to players of both.
Best Starting Brute Cards In Gloomhaven
As one of Gloomhaven’s 6 starting classes, the Brute is fairly easy to play compared to the 11 unlockable classes. In both the Cephlofair board game and its digital version, the Brute is designed to combine 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 in Gloomhaven.
Balanced Measure (X): Two great non-burn options allowing huge amounts of movement and damage when used properly. Skewer (X): This card is all about the top action, a powerful multi-target attack that requires a little set-up. Leaping Cleave (1): Another AoE attack, Leaping Cleave also offers a great bottom action which combines well with Skewer, forming a combo worthy of the Final Fantasy series. Spare Dagger (1): The Attack 3 Range 3 on this card gives the Brute the ability to deal with ranged targets or immobilization, as well as a great bottom action for melee.
The other Level 1 and Level X cards available to a new Brute are less essential to the build, but honorable mentions include Provoking 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 grab Hook 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 classic Dungeon & Dragons Fighter.
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 by removing 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 the RPG’s heavy armor items 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.
Gloomhaven is out now for PC.
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