Red Dragon Inn 2 vs 5 Character Trove: Which to Buy
By Frontline Gaming | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Buying Guides
Deciding between Red Dragon Inn 2 and the Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove? We compare player counts, character variety, and value to help you pick the right party game expansion.
Quick Answer
Choose Red Dragon Inn 2 if you want a complete standalone game with a classic mix of characters at a lower price. Choose Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove if you already own a base set and want to expand your roster with five new characters for more variety.
The Core Difference: Standalone vs. Expansion
Red Dragon Inn 2 is a standalone game that includes everything you need to play: characters, decks, and tokens. It's a great entry point if you're new to the series or want a self-contained party game. The Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove, on the other hand, is an expansion that adds five new characters, but you'll need a base game (like Red Dragon Inn or Red Dragon Inn 2) to use them.
If you're just starting your collection, Red Dragon Inn 2 gives you the full experience right out of the box. If you're a returning player looking to freshen up your game nights, the Character Trove offers more variety without requiring a new base set.
Player Count and Party Fit
Both products support the same core gameplay, but the number of characters you have affects how many players can join. Red Dragon Inn 2 includes four characters, which is perfect for a small group. The Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove adds five more, so if you combine it with a base game, you can host larger parties or swap out characters for different strategies.
Consider your typical game night size. If you regularly have six or more players, the extra characters from the Trove will be worth it. If you usually play with two to four, the standalone might be all you need.
Value and Investment
At a lower price point, Red Dragon Inn 2 offers excellent value for a complete game. The Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove costs more, but it's designed for players who already have a base set and want to expand without buying a full new game. If you're a collector or a frequent host, the Trove's additional characters can extend the replayability of your existing copy.
Think about your long-term plans. If you see yourself playing often and want more variety, the Trove is a smart investment. If you're just curious about the series, start with the standalone to see if you like it.
Decision Rules
- If you're new to Red Dragon Inn: Buy Red Dragon Inn 2. It's a standalone game with four characters, so you can play immediately without needing anything else. Start here to learn the game and see if you enjoy the party mechanics.
- If you already own a base game: Choose the Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove. It adds five new characters, giving you more variety and supporting larger groups. Check your current character count to see if you need more for your typical player number.
- If you want the best value for a complete game: Red Dragon Inn 2 offers a full experience at a lower price, making it a great entry point. Compare the cost per character to decide if the Trove's extra variety justifies the higher price.
Product Facts
- Red Dragon Inn: 2: Red Dragon Inn 2 is a standalone game where you and your adventuring companions party at The Red Dragon Inn, drink, gamble, and roughhouse while keeping an eye on your Gold. You get a complete game with everything needed for a full party game experience, making it ideal for new players.
Red Dragon Inn: 2 - Red Dragon Inn: 5, Character Trove: The Red Dragon Inn 5 Character Trove adds five new characters to your existing Red Dragon Inn collection, letting you mix up your party with fresh adventurers. It's a cost-effective way to expand your roster and increase player variety without buying a whole new base game.
Red Dragon Inn: 5, Character Trove
Who Should Buy Which
Best for
- New players wanting a complete, self-contained party game
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a full game without extra purchases
Not for
- Experienced players who already own a base set and want more character options
- Groups with more than four players who need additional characters to include everyone
