Gloomhaven: Hatchet ⎻ A Comprehensive Guide (Updated 12/16/2025)
Amazon.fr is currently hosting Spring Flash Sales, offering discounts up to 40% on thousands of products, running from March 25th to March 31st, 2025.
The Hatchet class in Gloomhaven presents a unique and dynamic playstyle centered around elemental manipulation and aggressive, momentum-based combat. Unlike many classes that specialize in a single damage type or tactical approach, the Hatchet excels at adapting to diverse scenarios by seamlessly switching between four distinct elemental hands: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. This versatility demands a strategic mind capable of anticipating enemy weaknesses and exploiting them with the appropriate element.
Currently, Amazon.fr’s Spring Flash Sales (March 25th ౼ 31st, 2025) offer substantial savings, potentially aiding in acquiring Gloomhaven expansions or accessories. The Hatchet’s core mechanic revolves around ‘Fury’ and ‘Momentum,’ rewarding players for consecutive attacks and skillful hand management. Mastering these systems is crucial for maximizing damage output and controlling the battlefield. This guide will delve into the intricacies of the Hatchet, providing a comprehensive overview of its abilities, progression, itemization, and tactical considerations.
II. Hatchet Class Overview
The Hatchet is a melee strength class, boasting high damage potential but requiring careful positioning and resource management. Its unique ability to cycle through four elemental hands – Earth, Air, Fire, and Water – provides unparalleled adaptability, allowing it to overcome a wide range of enemy types and scenarios. Each hand offers a distinct set of abilities, focusing on different damage profiles, crowd control, and utility effects.
Amazon.fr’s current Spring Flash Sales (until March 31st, 2025) include deals on Amazon Fire TV Sticks, enhancing entertainment options during downtime between scenarios. The class’s complexity stems from the interplay between its Fury and Momentum systems. Building and maintaining Momentum is key to unleashing powerful attacks, while Fury provides temporary stat boosts. Successful Hatchet players must master this delicate balance to consistently deliver devastating blows and control the flow of combat;
III. Hatchet Unique Mechanics

The Hatchet distinguishes itself through two core mechanics: Fury and Momentum. Fury is generated by using abilities and represents a temporary increase to attack and movement, but depletes each round. Managing Fury is crucial for maximizing damage output and maintaining battlefield mobility. Momentum, conversely, is built by discarding cards and represents a sustained power increase, unlocking potent abilities and enhancing existing ones.

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III.a. Fury Mechanic Explained
Fury, the Hatchet’s defining characteristic, is a resource gained through specific card abilities. Each point of Fury grants a +1 Attack and +1 Movement bonus, significantly enhancing offensive and positional capabilities. However, Fury is not permanent; it diminishes by one point at the end of each of the Hatchet’s turns.
Amazon.fr’s current Spring Flash Sales, mirroring the Hatchet’s fleeting power, offer limited-time discounts. Strategic use of Fury-generating abilities is paramount. Players must balance maximizing immediate damage with the understanding that the bonus is temporary. Abilities often have Fury costs or generate varying amounts, demanding careful consideration. Prolonged reliance on Fury without replenishment leaves the Hatchet vulnerable, emphasizing tactical resource management.
III.b. Momentum System Breakdown
Momentum functions as a secondary resource, built alongside Fury, offering distinct advantages. Gaining Momentum allows the Hatchet to modify the bottom action of a card, effectively granting an extra action or altering its effect. This flexibility is crucial for adapting to dynamic combat situations and optimizing turn efficiency.
Similar to Amazon.fr’s Flash Sales, where quick decisions yield rewards, Momentum requires proactive building. Certain card abilities specifically generate Momentum, while others consume it for powerful effects. Mastering Momentum involves understanding which cards synergize for maximum resource generation and strategic expenditure. It’s a system rewarding foresight and adaptability, allowing the Hatchet to chain actions and control the battlefield.
IV. Hatchet Hand of Elements
The Hatchet’s unique Hand of Elements mechanic is central to its gameplay, offering unparalleled versatility. Each element – Earth, Air, Fire, and Water – provides a distinct set of abilities, accessed by spending element-specific tokens. This system mirrors Amazon.fr’s diverse product range, offering something for every playstyle.
Successfully utilizing the Hand of Elements requires careful planning and resource management. Tokens are gained through specific card actions, demanding strategic card selection. Switching between elements mid-combat allows the Hatchet to adapt to enemy weaknesses and control the battlefield. Mastering this mechanic unlocks the class’s full potential, transforming it from a melee fighter into a dynamic elemental powerhouse.
IV.a. Earth Hand ⎻ Abilities & Strategy
The Earth Hand focuses on control and defense, mirroring the stability found within Amazon.fr’s reliable services. Abilities often involve creating obstacles, immobilizing enemies, and bolstering the Hatchet’s defenses. Expect to see options for creating difficult terrain, pushing enemies into unfavorable positions, and granting yourself shield.
Strategically, the Earth Hand excels at disrupting enemy formations and protecting allies. It’s less about raw damage and more about manipulating the battlefield to your advantage. Utilize Earth abilities to funnel enemies into choke points or to create safe zones for ranged characters. Prioritize abilities that synergize with your party’s composition, enhancing overall survivability and control.
IV.b. Air Hand ౼ Abilities & Strategy
The Air Hand embodies mobility and precision, much like Amazon.fr’s swift delivery services. Expect abilities centered around movement, positioning, and targeted attacks. This includes options for disengaging from melee combat, leaping across the battlefield, and inflicting precise strikes on vulnerable enemies.
Strategically, the Air Hand is ideal for hit-and-run tactics and exploiting enemy weaknesses. Utilize its mobility to avoid damage and reposition for optimal attacks. Focus on abilities that allow you to quickly close the distance, deliver a powerful blow, and then retreat to safety. Synergize with allies who can provide crowd control or debuffs, maximizing the Air Hand’s damage output and survivability.
IV.c. Fire Hand ౼ Abilities & Strategy
The Fire Hand represents raw damage and area-of-effect control, mirroring the hot deals found during Amazon.fr’s Spring Flash Sales. Expect abilities focused on inflicting burning damage, creating fiery zones, and unleashing powerful, albeit potentially risky, attacks. Many abilities will likely have a self-damage component, reflecting the volatile nature of fire.
Strategically, the Fire Hand excels at clearing groups of weaker enemies and applying persistent damage to tougher foes. Position yourself carefully to maximize the impact of area-of-effect abilities, while mitigating the risk of self-inflicted harm. Prioritize targets vulnerable to burning, and consider abilities that enhance your resistance to fire damage. Careful planning is crucial to avoid becoming a casualty of your own flames.
IV.d. Water Hand ౼ Abilities & Strategy
The Water Hand focuses on control, healing, and mitigating damage, much like finding a reliable deal amidst Amazon.fr’s vast selection during their Flash Sales. Expect abilities centered around slowing enemies, creating protective barriers of water, and restoring health to yourself and allies. Many abilities will likely involve manipulating enemy positioning and disrupting their attacks.
Strategically, the Water Hand shines in defensive scenarios and prolonged engagements. Utilize slowing effects to control the battlefield, and employ protective abilities to shield vulnerable party members. Healing capabilities are invaluable for sustaining through difficult encounters. Prioritize targets that rely on movement or quick attacks, and be prepared to adapt your strategy based on the evolving situation. Patience and precise timing are key to mastering the Water Hand.
V. Hatchet Leveling & Progression
Leveling the Hatchet class requires careful consideration, mirroring the strategic shopping needed to maximize savings during Amazon.fr’s Spring Flash Sales, running until March 31st, 2025. Early levels should prioritize abilities that establish your core Fury and Momentum loops. Focus on cards that generate Fury reliably, as this is central to the Hatchet’s damage output.

As you progress, diversify your card pool to include options for both single-target burst damage and area-of-effect control. Don’t neglect defensive options; the Hatchet can be fragile. Later levels allow specialization – lean into either a Fury-focused build for maximum damage or a Momentum-focused build for sustained control and utility. Remember to balance offensive and defensive capabilities for optimal survivability.
V.a. Key Leveling Choices
Similar to finding the “best deals” during Amazon.fr’s Flash Sales – ending March 31st – key leveling choices for the Hatchet define its playstyle. Level 4 is crucial: selecting a card that significantly boosts Fury generation or Momentum gain sets the tone for your build. At level 7, consider cards offering strong control effects, like disarm or immobilize, to mitigate the Hatchet’s reliance on close-range combat.
Level 10 presents a branching path. Do you double down on damage with a high-impact attack, or enhance survivability with a defensive maneuver? Prioritize cards that synergize with your chosen Hand of Elements. Finally, level 13 demands a card that addresses a specific weakness, be it range, crowd control, or consistent damage output.
V.b. Recommended Ability Progression (Early Game)

Much like navigating Amazon.fr’s diverse offerings – from “Animalerie” to “CD et Vinyles” – early Hatchet progression requires versatility. Prioritize cards that build Fury quickly, enabling frequent use of powerful Hand abilities. Level 2 should focus on a reliable damage dealer with moderate Fury cost. Level 3 introduces crucial mobility; select a card allowing repositioning to avoid enemy attacks.
At level 4, a card enhancing Momentum generation is vital, setting up for later combos. Level 5 should add a control element, like a push or pull, to manage enemy positioning. Don’t neglect cards offering defensive options, mirroring the need for “Climate Pledge Promotions” – protecting your investment. Focus on building a foundation for both damage and tactical flexibility.
V.c. Recommended Ability Progression (Late Game)
As you delve deeper, akin to exploring “Livres” and “Cartes cadeaux” on Amazon.fr, late-game Hatchet focuses on maximizing Fury and Momentum synergy. Prioritize abilities that chain together, creating devastating combos. Level 10 should unlock a high-damage, high-Fury cost card for burst potential. Level 11 demands a card that significantly boosts Momentum generation, enabling multiple Hand switches.
Level 12 introduces opportunities for specialized builds; consider cards enhancing a specific Element. Level 13 should focus on mitigating Fury loss, maintaining consistent damage output. Finally, level 15 requires a powerful, versatile card capable of adapting to any scenario, much like utilizing “Amazon Pay” for flexible purchasing options. Optimize for sustained damage and tactical control.
VI. Hatchet Itemization
Similar to finding “Bébé et Puériculture” deals on Amazon.fr’s Flash Sales, effective Hatchet itemization requires strategic choices. Prioritize items boosting Fury generation and Momentum recovery. Early on, focus on +1 Attack modifiers to capitalize on the Hatchet’s inherent damage. Mid-game, transition towards items enhancing Hand switching speed and reducing cooldowns, mirroring the quick pace of “Ventes Flash.”
Late-game demands specialized gear. Seek items providing bonus damage with specific Elements, aligning with your chosen Hand focus. Critically, prioritize items mitigating Fury loss, ensuring sustained offensive pressure. Don’t overlook defensive stats; a resilient Hatchet is a dangerous Hatchet, much like securing a reliable “Amazon Basics” product.
VI.a. Best-in-Slot Gear (Early/Mid Game)
Reflecting the diverse offerings during Amazon.fr’s “Ventes Flash,” early/mid-game Hatchet gear focuses on foundational stats. A +1 Attack weapon is paramount, maximizing consistent damage output. Armor prioritizing +2 Health and +1 Armor provides crucial survivability. Seek accessories granting +1 Fury generation per round, fueling your abilities.
The “Animalerie” section’s focus on essentials mirrors the Hatchet’s need for reliable core stats. A shield with +1 Block is invaluable. Consider a cloak offering +1 Movement, enhancing positioning. Prioritize items with universal enhancements like “Strengthening” for a flat stat boost. Remember, like finding the best “CD et Vinyles” deals, optimal gear is about synergy and consistent performance.
VI.b; Best-in-Slot Gear (Late Game)
As you progress, mirroring Amazon.fr’s “Boutique Kindle” selection of specialized content, your Hatchet gear should become highly refined. Aim for a weapon with +2 Attack and a potent elemental infusion – ideally, one complementing your preferred Hand of Elements. Armor should prioritize +3 Health, +2 Armor, and resistances to common enemy damage types.
Late-game accessories demand specific effects. Seek items granting bonus damage on critical hits, or those enhancing Fury generation based on ability usage; Like discovering “Livres” with unique storylines, look for items with unique procs. Don’t overlook enhancements like “Arcane” or “Ethereal” to further specialize your build. Remember, maximizing synergy, similar to finding the best “Amazon Basics” bundle, is key.
VI.c. Item Affixes to Prioritize
Prioritizing affixes is crucial, much like navigating Amazon.fr’s “Ventes Flash” for the best deals. For the Hatchet, “+1 All Stats” remains consistently valuable, boosting both damage and survivability. “+2 Attack” is paramount for maximizing damage output, especially when combined with Fury-generating abilities. “+1 to a specific element” significantly amplifies the chosen Hand of Elements’ effectiveness.
Defensively, “+2 Armor” and “+1 Health” are essential. Consider “+X% Critical Hit Chance” and “+X% Critical Hit Damage” to capitalize on the Hatchet’s inherent critical hit potential. Resistances, mirroring the diverse “Appareils Amazon” range, are vital for mitigating specific enemy attacks. Finally, affixes that grant bonus effects on ability use, like “+1 Fury on hit,” synergize beautifully with the Hatchet’s core mechanics.
VII. Hatchet Playstyle & Tactics
The Hatchet thrives on aggressive, momentum-based play, akin to swiftly securing deals during Amazon.fr’s “Ventes Flash.” Focus on chaining attacks to build Fury and Momentum, maximizing damage output. Prioritize targets vulnerable to your current Hand of Elements, adapting like choosing the best “Offres dAmazon.fr” daily.
Positioning is key; utilize movement abilities to flank enemies and exploit weaknesses. Don’t hesitate to switch Hands mid-combat to counter enemy resistances. In solo play, conserve resources and prioritize consistent damage. In groups, coordinate with allies to capitalize on synergistic effects, much like browsing “Boutique Kindle” with recommendations; Manage Fury carefully, avoiding overextension and ensuring consistent ability access.
VII.a. Solo Play Strategy
When venturing solo, the Hatchet demands a calculated approach, mirroring the focused shopping during Amazon.fr’s limited-time “Ventes Flash.” Prioritize consistent damage output over risky, high-reward plays. Conserve Fury and Momentum, as reliance on allies is absent. Carefully select Hand of Elements based on enemy weaknesses, adapting like choosing from “Appareils Amazon et Accessoires.”
Focus on controlling the battlefield, utilizing movement to maintain safe positioning and avoid being overwhelmed. Utilize defensive abilities strategically, anticipating enemy attacks. Don’t overextend; a steady, methodical approach is crucial. Remember to leverage item effects and enhancements to supplement your capabilities, similar to finding “Bons Plans” on Amazon.
VII.b. Group Play Synergy
The Hatchet shines in group compositions, acting as a versatile damage dealer and battlefield controller, much like Amazon.fr’s diverse product range during their Spring Flash Sales. Coordinate with allies to capitalize on Fury and Momentum, maximizing burst potential. Prioritize targets that complement the team’s strengths, mirroring strategic shopping for “Bébé et Puériculture” or “Auto et Moto.”

Synergize with characters offering crowd control or defensive buffs, allowing the Hatchet to consistently apply damage. Utilize Hand of Elements to exploit enemy vulnerabilities, creating openings for teammates. Communicate effectively to ensure optimal ability sequencing and positioning. The Hatchet’s adaptability makes it a valuable asset in various party setups, akin to finding the perfect item amidst “des milliers de produits.”
VIII; Hatchet Challenges & Weaknesses
The Hatchet, while potent, faces challenges demanding strategic adaptation, similar to navigating Amazon.fr’s “Conditions générales de vente.” Maintaining Fury and Momentum consistently requires careful planning, as mismanagement leads to reduced damage output; The class can struggle against enemies with high armor or resistance, necessitating Hand of Element adjustments.
Positioning is crucial; the Hatchet isn’t exceptionally tanky, making it vulnerable to focused attacks. Reliance on specific card draws can create inconsistent turns, mirroring the unpredictable nature of “Ventes Flash.” Managing multiple resources (health, Fury, Momentum) adds complexity. Overextension can quickly lead to trouble, demanding awareness of enemy range and attack patterns. Mastering these aspects is key to overcoming the Hatchet’s inherent weaknesses.

VIII.a. Common Difficulties Faced by Hatchet Players
Many Hatchet players initially struggle with Fury management, often finding themselves unable to consistently activate powerful abilities, much like finding the best deals during Amazon.fr’s “Ventes Flash.” Maintaining Momentum also proves tricky; losing it at inopportune moments significantly reduces damage potential.
A frequent issue is adapting Hand of Element choices mid-scenario. Players sometimes commit to a Hand too early, hindering their effectiveness against diverse enemy types. Understanding which enemies benefit from specific elemental weaknesses is vital. Furthermore, the Hatchet’s reliance on specific card combinations can lead to frustratingly slow turns when key cards aren’t drawn. Mastering resource allocation and anticipating enemy actions are crucial for success.
VIII.b. Countering Enemy Strategies Against Hatchet
Hatchet players often face challenges against enemies with high movement or those employing shield tactics, mirroring the quick-moving deals during Amazon.fr’s Spring Flash Sales. Prioritize abilities that inflict “Immobilize” or “Disarm” to mitigate enemy advances. Against shielded foes, focus on abilities with “Pierce” or those that bypass shields entirely.

Enemies that disrupt card draw are particularly troublesome. Conserve key cards and utilize abilities that offer card manipulation. Positioning is paramount; avoid bottlenecks and maintain sufficient range to utilize ranged attacks effectively. Anticipate enemy targeting and use movement abilities to evade dangerous attacks. Remember, strategic element selection can exploit enemy weaknesses, turning the tide of battle.
IX. Hatchet Enhancements & Perks
Selecting the right enhancements and perks is crucial for maximizing the Hatchet’s potential, much like finding the best deals during Amazon.fr’s Flash Sales. Prioritize enhancements that bolster Fury generation, as this fuels many key abilities. Perks that enhance movement speed or provide additional attack range are also highly valuable, improving positioning and tactical flexibility.

Consider perks that mitigate self-damage, given the Hatchet’s aggressive playstyle. Enhancements offering card draw or hand size increases can alleviate resource constraints. Synergize perks with your chosen Hand of Elements, tailoring your build to a specific combat role. Experimentation is key; don’t be afraid to respec and refine your choices as you progress.
IX.a; Enhancement Card Analysis
Analyzing enhancement cards is vital, mirroring the careful consideration needed when browsing Amazon.fr’s extensive product range during their Spring Flash Sales. Cards offering ‘+1 Attack’ are consistently strong, boosting overall damage output. ‘+1 Move’ enhances positioning, crucial for a melee-focused class like the Hatchet. Prioritize cards that complement your preferred Hand of Elements; Earth benefits from tanking enhancements, while Air thrives with mobility boosts.

Cards granting ‘+1 Fury’ are exceptionally valuable, accelerating ability usage. Consider cards mitigating negative effects, given the Hatchet’s risk-reward playstyle. Evaluate the cost of each enhancement against its benefit, optimizing for efficiency. Don’t overlook situational enhancements that can turn the tide in specific scenarios.
IX.b. Perk Selection Guide
Perk selection for the Hatchet demands strategic foresight, much like navigating Amazon.fr’s Flash Sales to secure the best deals. Prioritize perks enhancing Fury generation, enabling more frequent use of powerful abilities. Perks increasing damage with specific Hands of Elements are excellent choices, specializing your build. Consider perks mitigating self-inflicted damage, offsetting the Hatchet’s aggressive playstyle.
Movement-focused perks are valuable for positioning and escaping dangerous situations. Perks offering conditional bonuses, triggered by specific actions, can provide significant advantages. Carefully evaluate each perk’s synergy with your chosen ability progression and playstyle. Don’t underestimate the power of consistent, incremental improvements over flashy, situational perks.
X. Hatchet Scenario Recommendations
The Hatchet excels in scenarios demanding burst damage and tactical repositioning, mirroring the quick decision-making needed during Amazon.fr’s limited-time Flash Sales. Scenarios with numerous enemies clustered together are ideal, allowing for maximized area-of-effect damage. Those featuring objectives requiring swift movement and control benefit from the Hatchet’s mobility perks.
Avoid scenarios heavily reliant on sustained damage output or long-range attacks, as the Hatchet’s strengths lie in close-quarters combat. Scenarios with significant enemy shielding or high armor can prove challenging, requiring careful ability selection. Prioritize scenarios where you can capitalize on Fury generation and exploit enemy weaknesses. Adaptability is key, just like finding the best deals amidst the Spring Flash Sales!
X.a. Scenarios Where Hatchet Excels
The Hatchet truly shines in scenarios mirroring the fast-paced nature of Amazon.fr’s Flash Sales – those demanding quick, decisive action. Specifically, scenarios like “The Ruined Monastery” and “Black Barrow” are excellent choices. These feature tightly packed enemy formations, perfect for maximizing the Hatchet’s area-of-effect abilities and Fury-fueled attacks.
Scenarios with multiple, smaller objectives also favor the Hatchet’s mobility. “The Abandoned Village” allows for rapid repositioning to secure points. Furthermore, scenarios emphasizing control, such as those requiring the protection of allies or the manipulation of battlefield elements, benefit from the Hatchet’s versatile toolkit. Remember, like snagging a great deal, timing and positioning are crucial!
X.b. Scenarios Where Hatchet Struggles
Similar to missing out on a Amazon.fr Flash Sale due to slow reaction time, the Hatchet class can falter in scenarios demanding sustained, single-target damage or extreme range. “The Voidwarden’s Lair” presents a significant challenge, as the boss’s high health and resistance necessitate prolonged engagements where Fury management becomes critical and potentially limiting.
Large, open maps like “The Forest Encampment” also prove problematic. The Hatchet’s effectiveness diminishes when enemies can easily spread out, negating its area-of-effect potential. Scenarios with numerous ranged attackers and limited cover are particularly difficult, forcing the Hatchet into vulnerable positions. Careful planning and reliance on allies are essential to overcome these hurdles.