77

In Gloom, players assume control of the fate of an eccentric family of misfits and misanthropes, attempting to make them suffer the greatest tragedies possible before helping them pass on. Using transparent modifier cards, players alter the Self-Worth of characters with horrible events and negative points, aiming to finish with the lowest score.

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77

The Verdict

based on 14 reviews

Positive 0%
Mixed 0%
Clever transparent stacking card mechanic
Dark humor and creative storytelling
Simple rules, quick to teach
Portable, light filler between heavier games
Morbid theme won't suit every group or younger players
Depends heavily on players embracing storytelling
Repetitive and luck-heavy for some
Flimsy box and components noted
85
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Gaming with Edo & Jessica, Gaming with Edo & JessicaVideo

“It's really fun, it's devilishly uh entertaining, and I hope you enjoy it.”(4:15)

85
StatedThis reviewer gave their own score. We only converted it to our 0–100 scale.
Zatu GamesArticle

“Gloom has loads going for it, in particular the really cool see through card mechanic which is unique to this game and works well.”

85
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Nerds on EarthArticle

“Gloom is a fantastic bit of fun, the rules are incredibly straightforward, and simple theme promotes a sense of hilarity about impending demise.”

80
StatedThis reviewer gave their own score. We only converted it to our 0–100 scale.
Board to Death TV, Board to Death TV - Board Game ReviewsVideo

“Gloom is simple, quirky, fun, and plays fast. It's a perfect bring anywhere type game and great to play in between heavier games at game night.”(2:15)

80
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
HexaGamersArticle

“Gloom is well-constructed as a card game — good depth, meaningful interaction, genuinely interesting mechanics. The morbid theme is a real filter: it won't work with every group, and that's okay. For groups with dark humour and a taste for card games with actual strategy, it's a great find at a low price.”

80
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
The Board Game Family, TrentArticle

“We always have a fun time when we play Gloom. The stories that add up as you heap misfortune and other cards on yours or other's characters is a hoot.”

80
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Big Boss Battle (B3), Jupiter HadleyArticle

“Once I started playing the game I really enjoyed it. The clever design of the cards combined with the amazing story telling makes for a very captivating game.”

78
StatedThis reviewer gave their own score. We only converted it to our 0–100 scale.
Party Tails Games, Party Tails GamesVideo

“I'm going to give it a 7 because I think it's just as fun as Kittens or Unstable Unicorns, so if you're a fan of those types of light party games, light group games, then you'll also like this game.”(4:22)

75
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Roll For Crit, Roll For CritVideo

“I think we overall great dad casual game really great if you have people in your group i feel like to tell stories and stuff but still has some gamey elements”(25:58)

75
StatedThis reviewer gave their own score. We only converted it to our 0–100 scale.
I Slay the Dragon, WolfieArticle

“It is an easy little filler that you can bring out and enjoy with your friends. It makes it a perfect fit for me, but I can see how others may not feel the same.”

75
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
The Game Dork's Gaming Corner, The Game DorkArticle

“Of course, not everyone enjoys storytelling games of this nature. If you are such a player, then Gloom is not for you. If you do like telling stories, though, then you really must give Gloom a try.”

75
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Board Game Authority, Jeff GillsArticle

“Overall, I'd say Gloom is a solid addition to any collection, especially for those who value theme, creativity, and a little dark humor.”

70
StatedThis reviewer gave their own score. We only converted it to our 0–100 scale.
Board Game Reviews by Josh, JoshArticle

“It is a good little game, but I have several other card games that I prefer (like Lunch Money). If a friend brings Gloom with them and wants to play it, I will probably be willing, but I don't anticipate seeking it out.”

60
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Theology of Games, Theology of GamesArticle

“Well... Did You Like It? - Yes. And, no. The game designer, Keith Baker, really put out a solid effort on this one. The game plays pretty well, the mechanics don't feel gimmicky even though they could easily let the clear cards be the selling point.”

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