Quick answer
The Swindler's Chest is a dedicated storage solution for Emerald Skulls (and Goblin Vaults in the regular version). It includes a double-sided playmat and three plastic trays, and its larger box supports sleeved cards. Standard game boxes store the base game components but lack the extra organization and playmat. Choose the Chest if you want an all-in-one storage and play solution; stick with standard boxes if you prefer minimal storage and already have a playmat.
Goblin Vaults
What the Swindler's Chest Holds
The Swindler's Chest (Emerald Skulls only) is designed to store all gameplay content from Emerald Skulls. It does not include Goblin Vaults base game content. Inside, you get a double-sided playmat—one side for each game—and three plastic trays that keep components organized for quick setup and teardown. The box is sized to accommodate sleeved cards, so your cards stay protected.
What Standard Storage Offers
Standard storage typically means the original game box and any insert that came with it. It holds the base game components but usually lacks dedicated trays for quick setup or space for a playmat. If you already own a playmat and don't mind bagging components, standard storage works fine. However, it won't hold sleeved cards as comfortably, and you'll need separate storage for expansions or promos.
Capacity and Compatibility
The Swindler's Chest is specifically built for Emerald Skulls (and Goblin Vaults in the regular version). It is not a generic storage box. If you own other games, you'll need separate solutions. The chest's trays are custom-fit for the game's tokens and cards, so they won't fit other games' components neatly. Standard boxes are game-specific too, but often have more empty space that can be used for aftermarket inserts or baggies.
Setup and Portability
The Swindler's Chest's plastic trays let you lift components out and start playing faster. The double-sided playmat means you don't need to bring a separate mat. However, the chest is larger and heavier than a standard box, so it's less portable if you're carrying it to game night. Standard boxes are lighter and easier to transport, but you'll need to pack components carefully to avoid shifting.
Trade-offs: Swindler's Chest vs Standard Storage
- Storage Capacity: The Swindler's Chest holds all Emerald Skulls content plus sleeved cards and a playmat. Standard boxes hold the base game but may not fit sleeved cards or a playmat comfortably. Choose the Chest if you want everything in one place; choose standard if you travel light.
- Setup Speed: The Chest's three plastic trays let you lift and play quickly. Standard boxes often require bagging and unbaging components. The Chest saves time if you play frequently.
- Portability: The Chest is larger and heavier than a standard box, making it less convenient to carry. Standard boxes are lighter and easier to transport. If you game at friends' houses often, standard storage may be more practical.
- Cost: The Swindler's Chest is an additional purchase, while standard storage comes with the game. However, the Chest includes a playmat and trays that would cost extra separately. Consider the Chest an investment in organization and protection.
Product facts
- Swindler's Chest (Emerald Skulls only): This version of the Swindler's Chest includes all gameplay content from Emerald Skulls only. It does not include the Goblin Vaults base game content, which is included in the regular Swindler's Chest. The chest also includes a double-sided playmat (one side for each game) and 3 plastic trays for easy game setup and storage. Additionally, the larger box supports sleeved cards for both games! If you only own Emerald Skulls, this chest gives you dedicated storage and a playmat without paying for Goblin Vaults content you don't need. The sleeved card support protects your investment.
- Roll Player: Fiends & Familiars (Expansion) - BIG BOX: Get the exclusive big box version of the second expansion of Roll Player to hold all gameplay content in one place. In Roll Player: Fiends & Familiars, players compete to construct the greatest fantasy characters, now with the help of Familiars and the hindrance of Fiends. This big box shows how expansion storage can consolidate content, similar to how the Swindler's Chest consolidates Emerald Skulls. If you own multiple Roll Player expansions, this box keeps everything together.
- Cartographers: Collector's Edition (Empty Box): By popular demand, you can now obtain the beautiful, Thunderworks exclusive Collectors Edition box by itself! (no game content included) The storage box also includes a set of 20 colored pencils and a plastic tray to hold your sheets. Store Cartographers, Cartographers Heroes, all 6 map packs, and all 6 promo packs in one shelf-worthy, foil embellished box. It even fits sleeved cards! This empty box is another example of a dedicated storage solution that fits sleeved cards and organizes a full collection. It's a good option if you already own the Cartographers content and want a unified storage box.
- Emerald Skulls: 92 Metal Gears: Upgrade your gaming experience with these premium metal gears. There are 92 gears across 3 denominations that are designed to replace the cardboard gear tokens in Emerald Skulls and Goblin Vaults (the sister game to Emerald Skulls) although you can also enjoy the metal gears while playing any of your favorite games. The coins are 2.5 mm thick and collectively weigh 0.96 lbs. These metal gears are a component upgrade for Emerald Skulls. They replace cardboard tokens and add a premium feel. If you store them in the Swindler's Chest, the trays may need adjustment, but they fit in standard token storage.
Which Storage Solution Is Right for You?
Best for
- Players who own Emerald Skulls and want a dedicated, organized storage solution with a playmat and sleeved card support.
- Collectors who value quick setup and teardown and want to protect their cards.
Not for
- Players who only own the base game and are satisfied with the original box and baggies.
- Those who need a portable option and don't mind slower setup.
