The Gloomhaven vs Frosthaven decision is not as obvious as you might think. Frosthaven is the better designed game in almost every measurable way — more interesting classes, better crafting systems, more narrative coherence, and a map that rewards exploration rather than just working through scenarios sequentially. But it is also a larger investment of time, money, and table space.

For new players to the series, Jaws of the Lion is the correct starting point. It teaches the core loop over its first four scenarios, the character options are thematically distinct, and it is $25 instead of $100+. If you finish it and want more, you will know exactly what you are getting into with the larger boxes.

If you already have Gloomhaven and are deciding between continuing and switching to Frosthaven: finish what you started. The satisfaction of completing a campaign is its own reward, and the two games share enough DNA that Frosthaven will feel like a natural upgrade whenever you get there.