Quick answer
A Mercenary Pack is a small character expansion that adds one new playable mercenary to your Gloomhaven or Frosthaven campaign. If you already own the base game and want a fresh class to level up, a Mercenary Pack is the simplest way to add one. Check the specific pack's listed compatibility before buying, because not every pack works with both games.
Frosthaven
What exactly is a Mercenary Pack?
A Mercenary Pack is a compact expansion built around a single new mercenary character. It typically includes that character's miniature, ability cards, and the components needed to play them in a campaign. Unlike a full expansion, it does not add new scenarios, monsters, or a branching campaign path—it adds one ally you can recruit, level up, and retire. This makes it a low-commitment way to introduce a new class to your table without changing the overall campaign structure.
Which Mercenary Packs are available right now?
Cephalofair currently offers several Mercenary Packs. Two examples are Hail: Irritable Enchanter and Anaphi: Fallen Lion. Hail is a powerful enchanter whose irritation fuels her resolve, while Anaphi is a vermling mercenary who wields augments and summons pests. Each pack is sold separately and includes the components for that specific mercenary. Availability can vary, so check the product page for current stock.
Do Mercenary Packs work with both Gloomhaven and Frosthaven?
Compatibility depends on the pack. Some Mercenary Packs are designed for Gloomhaven, some for Frosthaven, and some may work with both. The product listing is the best place to confirm which game a pack supports. If you are unsure, look for the game logo on the packaging or check the product description. Using a pack with the wrong game may require adjustments or may not work at all, so it is worth verifying before you buy.
What is included in a Mercenary Pack?
Each Mercenary Pack includes the components needed to play that mercenary: a miniature, ability cards, and any unique tokens or mats that character requires. The exact contents vary by pack. For example, a summoner-type mercenary may include summon tokens, while a more direct combat class may not. The product page lists the specific contents, so read it carefully if you want to know exactly what you are getting.
Can I use a Mercenary Pack in a campaign I have already started?
Yes, you can usually add a Mercenary Pack to an ongoing campaign. You will need to follow the normal rules for recruiting a new character, which may involve creating a new mercenary at the party's current prosperity level. Some packs may have specific instructions for integration. If you are mid-campaign, check the pack's rules insert or the product page for any special notes about adding the character partway through.
How do Mercenary Packs compare to full expansions?
Mercenary Packs are much smaller in scope than full expansions like Gloomhaven: Forgotten Circles or Frosthaven. They add a single playable character, not new scenarios or a new campaign. If you want more of the same game with a new class to try, a Mercenary Pack is a good fit. If you are looking for new story content, scenarios, or monsters, you will want a full expansion instead.
Do I need to paint the miniatures?
No, painting is optional. The miniatures come unpainted, but they are fully playable as-is. Many players enjoy painting them to match their character's theme, but it is not required. If you do paint, use acrylic hobby paints and a primer made for plastic miniatures. A simple wash and drybrush can bring out the details without a lot of effort.
Are Mercenary Packs a good value?
For players who want more character options without buying a full expansion, Mercenary Packs offer a focused way to add variety. They are typically less expensive than a full expansion and take up less shelf space. If you enjoy trying new classes and want to support your favorite game, a Mercenary Pack is a reasonable purchase. If you are looking for a large amount of new content, you may find them too limited.
Mercenary Pack quick reference
What is a Mercenary Pack?
A single-character expansion that adds one new playable mercenary to your Gloomhaven or Frosthaven campaign. Buy it if you want a new class without a full expansion.
Which game does it work with?
Check the product listing for compatibility; some packs are for Gloomhaven, some for Frosthaven, and some for both. Verify before purchase to avoid mismatches.
What's inside?
Miniature, ability cards, and any unique tokens or mats for that mercenary. Contents vary by pack. Read the product page for exact contents.
Can I add it mid-campaign?
Yes, usually following the normal recruitment rules. Some packs may have specific integration instructions. Check the pack's rules insert for any special notes.
Do I need to paint the mini?
No, painting is optional. The miniature is playable unpainted. Paint only if you enjoy the hobby side.
Is it worth the price?
A focused way to add variety if you want more character options without a full expansion. Best for players who enjoy trying new classes.
Mercenary Packs and accessories
- Hail: Irritable Enchanter - Mercenary Pack: Hail: Irritable Enchanter - Mercenary Pack lets you recruit Gloomhaven's perpetually annoyed enchanter, turning her irritation into resolve and releasing a fraction of her immense power. A strong pick if you want a powerful caster with a distinct personality and a gameplay style built around converting annoyance into action.
- Anaphi: Fallen Lion - Mercenary Pack: Anaphi: Fallen Lion - Mercenary Pack features a former Jaws of the Lion mercenary who wields augments and summons Gloomhaven's most unsavory pests. Ideal for players who enjoy summoning and augment mechanics, or who want a vermling character with ties to the Jaws of the Lion storyline.
- Challenge Coins: Challenge Coins are 38mm metal coins with colored enamel highlights, available in Gloomhaven and Frosthaven designs. A small upgrade for your table that doubles as a collectible, useful for tracking first player or as a thematic marker during play.
