Quick answer
The Frosthaven Play Surface Books are a set of four scenario books that replace the map tiles and most overlay tokens for all 138 Frosthaven scenarios. They cut down setup time dramatically and include the scenario narrative text and special rules, so you can open the book to the right page and start playing.
Frosthaven
What exactly is inside the Frosthaven Play Surface Books?
The set includes four Scenario Play Surface Books, each covering a portion of the 138-scenario campaign. Inside, each scenario is printed on a large, durable page that shows the map layout, room connections, and where overlay tokens like obstacles and traps would normally go. The books also include the scenario narrative text and any special rules, so you don't need to flip between the main scenario book and map tiles.
How do the Play Surface Books speed up setup?
With the standard Frosthaven setup, you have to sort through map tiles, find the right overlay tokens, and arrange them according to the scenario book. The Play Surface Books eliminate that step entirely. You just open the book to the scenario you're playing, place it on the table, and you're ready to go. For players who frequently set up and tear down, this can save several minutes per session and reduce the risk of losing small tokens.
Do the Play Surface Books work with all Frosthaven scenarios?
Yes, the books cover all 138 scenarios from the main Frosthaven campaign. That includes both the main story missions and any side scenarios that are part of the campaign. If you're playing a scenario that isn't in the base campaign, such as a solo scenario from the Frosthaven: Solo Scenarios expansion, you'll still need to use the traditional map tiles for those.
Frosthaven: Solo Scenarios
How do the Play Surface Books compare to using a game mat or map tiles?
A traditional game mat just provides a neutral surface; you still need to place map tiles and overlay tokens on top of it. The Play Surface Books are different because they contain the scenario layout itself, so you don't need map tiles or most overlay tokens at all. This makes them more convenient for quick setup, but they do take up table space and you'll need to turn pages as the scenario progresses if it has multiple rooms.
Are the Play Surface Books an accessory or a standalone product?
They are an accessory only. You still need the Frosthaven core game to play, because the books don't include the rules, character sheets, enemy stat cards, or the attack modifier decks. The books are designed to replace the map tiles and overlay tokens, not the entire game. So if you're new to Frosthaven, you'll want to start with the core box and consider these as an add-on to improve your setup experience.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need the Frosthaven core game?
Yes. The Play Surface Books are an accessory and do not include the rulebook, character sheets, enemy stat cards, or attack modifier decks. You need the core box to play. Buy these as an add-on to your existing Frosthaven set.
Can I use them for solo scenarios?
No. The books only cover the 138 scenarios from the main campaign. For Frosthaven: Solo Scenarios, you'll need to use the standard map tiles and overlay tokens. Keep your map tiles handy for solo play.
How much table space do they need?
Each book page is large enough to show the scenario layout clearly. You'll need a table that can accommodate an open book, and you'll turn pages as you move to new rooms. Check your table size before making the switch.
Frosthaven Play Surface Books at a glance
- Frosthaven Play Surface Books: Inspired by the critically acclaimed play surface books from gloomhaven-jaws-of-the-lion-29707ed19be586a8fa9b3f48-1604051">Gloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion, this set of 4 Scenario Play Surface Books eliminates the need for your Frosthaven map tiles & the majority of overlay tokens in favor of quicker and easier setup times. Just open the books to your scenario and start playing! Includes scenario narrative text and special rules for all 138 Frosthaven scenarios! *ACCESSORY ONLY.* If you're tired of sorting map tiles and hunting for the right overlay token, these books let you skip that step entirely and jump straight into the action. Just remember they don't replace the core game.
