A comprehensive comparison of Talisman 5th Edition (Avalon Hill) with 2nd and 3rd Editions, examining what’s changed and whether it’s worth getting.
Who Should Get 5th Edition:
- If you dislike Talisman: 5th Edition won’t change your mind
- If you own an older version: The Alliance expansion (October 2024) adds official co-op/solo rules with light legacy elements - that’s the draw
- If you’re new: This video provides comparison info
Major Rule Changes (marked in rulebook):
- Endgame: Defeat a dragon boss (Str/Craft 10) instead of killing other players - more like 3rd Edition
- Character selection: Choose your character; last to choose goes first
- Alignment: Can change at game start
- Carrying limit: 4 objects + Talisman (Talismans don’t count)
- Death penalty: Keep ALL items, gold, followers, spells - just respawn at Village
- Fate tokens: Can spend to move up to 6 spaces (huge!)
- Toad curse: Only lasts 1 turn, keep all cards
- No “lose a turn” spaces!
- New space: Caverns - random teleport, can reach Warlock’s Cave turn 1
- Tavern: Pay 2 gold to ferry to Temple (middle region)
Production Quality:
- Smaller box than 4th Edition (similar to Elder Sign size)
- Stitched rulebook (like new HeroQuest)
- Full-size cards (no longer fit on board spaces)
- Plastic coins
- Quality standee cones return
Board Comparison:
- 5th Edition has fisheye perspective focused on Crown of Command
- River now properly on ground (not “sky river”)
- Inner region spaces retained (unlike 3rd Edition’s removal)
Characters (5th Edition):
Prophetess, Assassin, Ghoul, Sorceress, Wizard, Elf, Monk, Priest, Dwarf, Thief, Troll, Warrior
Daniel’s House Rules (continuing in 5th):
- 7 trophies = any stat upgrade
- Cards for movement/combat
- Close enough rule
- Exploding 6s in combat
Excited for the Alliance expansion’s co-op/solo/legacy direction!