I admit that, aside from a brief test at launch, I haven’t really spent much time with Frosthaven, the strategy title developed by Julian Gollop’s Snapshot Games and Arc Games, currently available in Early Access on PC.
Now there’s an even better reason to dive in, as the developers have announced Awakening Protocol, the first major update introducing new heroes, missions, and system improvements.
Developed by Snapshot Games, led by X-COM creator Julian Gollop, in collaboration with Frosthaven board game designer Isaac Childres, Awakening Protocol introduces a full narrative arc centered around the Unfettered, a mechanical civilization once lost to time.
Players will explore the remnants of this fallen society as it stirs back to life under a mysterious new leader. The storyline pushes players to make consequential decisions that will shape the fate of Frosthaven itself.
The update adds three new playable heroes designed to diversify party composition and strategy, alongside five new bosses that test players with unique combat abilities.
More than 18 new quests expand the world’s exploration scope, while settlement-building receives a notable boost with the addition of the Town Hall and eight new upgrades.
A new challenge system introduces optional objectives with higher risk-reward scenarios, complemented by over 40 new items and job postings that act as side quests from the Town Hall.
To celebrate the release, Frosthaven will be featured at SPIEL Essen 2025 from October 23 to 26. Visitors will find the Awakening Protocol demo and developer meet-and-greet sessions at Cephalofair Games’ booth in Hall 3 (#3R200), where Game Director Hristo Petkov and the team will showcase the new content and distribute themed merchandise.
The digital adaptation of Frosthaven builds upon the legacy of Gloomhaven, translating its complex tactical systems and cooperative campaign structure into an accessible digital format.
Designed for both solo and online co-op play, it combines deep class mechanics, resource management, and long-term progression. Each hero class offers a distinctive playstyle, encouraging experimentation and synergy across missions. The improved interface and streamlined UX help make the dense strategy more approachable without diluting the board game’s signature depth.
Awakening Protocol promises to evolve the Early Access experience with fresh tactical challenges and story content that mirror the ambitious design philosophy of the original game.
It marks a good time to jump in and witness how Snapshot’s digital craftsmanship continues to bridge tabletop precision with modern RPG design.
Frosthaven is available now in Early Access on Steam and the Epic Games Store, with the Awakening Protocol update arriving October 23. Below the early access launch.
