Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansions: Which One to Choose & What They Add to the Game

If you’ve ever dipped your toes into the world of board gaming, chances are you’ve heard whispers or perhaps screams about Betrayal at House on the Hill expansion. This cult classic has carved out a haunted corner of the hobby as one of the most beloved semi-cooperative horror strategy board games out there. Known for its unpredictable twists and replayability, it’s a staple on game night tables everywhere.

What truly keeps the game fresh, though, are the Betrayal at House on the Hill expansions. These add-ons introduce new haunts, characters, rooms, and even game mechanics, breathing new life into the eerie mansion with each release. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, exploring the expansions is a must if you’re looking to unlock the game’s full, spine-chilling potential.

As someone who’s spent countless nights navigating haunted hallways and backstabbing friends in the name of survival, I can tell you: the expansions are where the game really comes alive. In the words of game reviewer Tom Vasel, “Betrayal has always been about the stories and the expansions give you more stories to tell.”

What Is Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansion?

For those new to the spooky corridors of this fan-favorite, here’s a quick Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansion game overview.

At its core, Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansionis a semi-cooperative horror-themed board game where players explore a haunted mansion, uncovering creepy rooms, strange omens, and mysterious events. The twist? Midway through the game, one player betrays the group, triggering a unique “haunt” scenario where the rest of the team must survive—sometimes escape, sometimes defeat—the traitor.

What sets it apart is its story-driven gameplay. With dozens of different haunts, no two games feel the same. One session might have you battling a vampire lord, while the next sees you transforming into a werewolf or being dragged into another dimension.

The game’s replayability is one of its biggest draws. Thanks to its modular tile system and branching narratives, each playthrough feels fresh, unpredictable, and rich with storytelling potential. Whether you’re a strategist, a roleplayer, or just love a good plot twist, Betrayal offers something for everyone.

Official Expansions Overview

Widow’s Walk Expansion

Released in 2016, Widow’s Walk was the first official expansion for the classic board game, adding a significant amount of content for fans hungry for more horror. Designed exclusively for the 2nd Edition of the game, this expansion pack brings in 50 brand-new haunts, a rooftop level with 20 new room tiles, and a host of fresh items, events, and omens to shake up your sessions.

What truly set Widow’s Walk apart was its collaboration with notable horror writers. Contributors included Max Gladstone, Anita Sarkeesian, Pendleton Ward (of Adventure Time fame), and Mikey Neumann. These writers infused their unique narrative styles into the haunts, adding a rich layer of storytelling that resonated with longtime players.

As Polygon noted in its review: “Widow’s Walk breathes fresh life into a beloved classic without straying from the things that made it great.” However, it’s crucial to remember that this expansion is only compatible with the 2nd Edition, a detail many buyers miss.

Betrayal 3rd Edition & Blood on the Moon Expansion

The 3rd Edition of Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansion, released in 2022, brought updated artwork, streamlined rules, and a refreshed haunt system designed for better balance and accessibility. While it retained the core experience, the changes made it more appealing for both newcomers and returning players.

Soon after, the Blood on the Moon expansion followed. This newer addition introduces a brand-new playable character, several new cards, and a thematic twist with werewolf-inspired haunts, perfect for players who love classic monster tropes. The expansion also refines some mechanics introduced in the 3rd Edition, improving flow and pacing.

For anyone searching “Betrayal 3rd Edition expansion explained,” here’s the key: Blood on the Moon is designed specifically for the 3rd Edition and is not backward compatible with previous versions. The base game and expansion work hand-in-hand to create a fresh yet familiar experience for horror fans.

As one reviewer on BoardGameGeek puts it, “The 3rd Edition and Blood on the Moon feel like a modern reimagining, cleaner, tighter, and still creepy in all the right ways.”

Which Expansion Should You Get?

Choosing the right Betrayal at House on the Hill expansion depends on which edition you own and what kind of horror-filled experience you’re looking for. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

🔍 Expansion Comparison Table

Casual vs. Experienced Players

If you’re a casual player or new to Betrayal, the 3rd Edition + Blood on the Moon offers a more refined experience. The rules are clearer, the components feel more modern, and the haunts are easier to follow. It’s the best entry point if you don’t already own a version of the game.

For experienced players who already have the 2nd Edition, Widow’s Walk is a must. It vastly expands the haunted mansion’s lore with creative haunts written by renowned names in horror and adds depth without altering core gameplay. You’ll get more out of every session and keep the scares coming.

Best Value for Replayability

If your goal is maximum replay value, Widow’s Walk arguably offers the best bang for your buck—50 new haunts means dozens of hours of unique gameplay. However, if you’re just starting fresh, the 3rd Edition bundle with Blood on the Moon gives you both an upgraded base game and a solid expansion, which may be the smarter long-term investment.

So, which Betrayal expansion is best? The answer depends on what edition you own, but both expansions deliver spine-tingling value to match your playstyle.

Fan-Made Expansions and Custom Content

While the official Betrayal at House on the Hill expansions add plenty of thrills, the community has also created an incredible array of fan-made haunts and custom content, proof of just how beloved this spooky game really is.

Over on BoardGameGeek, fans have crafted hundreds of unique scenarios that take the base mechanics and push them in wild, often hilarious, or horrifying directions. From zombie weddings to time-traveling ghosts, the creativity knows no bounds.

Some top-rated community haunts include:

• “The House of Mirrors” – a psychological twist with shifting rooms and identity crises.
• “The Beast Below” introduces a custom underwater floor and a lurking deep-sea horror.
• “Eternal Haunt” Compilation Series – multiple packs curated by veteran fans, designed to balance with both 2nd and 3rd Editions.

📝 You can browse and download many of these directly from BoardGameGeek’s fan haunt database.

A Word of Caution

While these unofficial haunts can add variety and fun, they’re not always balanced or tested like official expansion packs. Expect some variability in quality and complexity. It’s a good idea to read user reviews and start with the top-rated files before diving into the deep end of custom chaos.

Still, for seasoned players looking for more content after finishing all the official haunts, fan-made expansions are a treasure trove of spooky surprises.

Where to Buy the Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansions

If you’re wondering where to buy Betrayal at House on the Hill expansions, there are plenty of reliable options for both new and experienced gamers.

🛒 Official and Trusted Retailers

You can find both Widow’s Walk and Blood on the Moon at these reputable retailers:

• Amazon – Often has competitive prices and bundles.
• Hasbro Pulse – The official store from the game’s publisher.
• Local game stores – Support your FLGS (Friendly Local Game Store); they often carry expansions and can special order if needed.
• BoardGameGeek Marketplace – Great for hard-to-find versions or gently used copies.

Always double-check edition compatibility before purchasing. Widow’s Walk is for the 2nd Edition, while Blood on the Moon is for the 3rd Edition only.

💻 Digital Options for Online Play

Prefer to play virtually? Good news, Betrayal at House on the Hill and many of its fan-made expansions are available through:

• Tabletop Simulator (Steam Workshop) – A popular platform for remote play. You’ll find custom setups for 2nd Edition, 3rd Edition, and even Widow’s Walk.
• Tabletopia – While not officially supported, some fan versions are available for solo or group play.

These digital versions are perfect for long-distance game nights or trying out expansions before buying physical copies.

Tips for Playing With Expansions 

Expansions add tons of replay value and spooky surprises, but they also introduce more complexity. Whether you’re a first-time traitor or a veteran survivor, these Betrayal expansion strategy tips will help you get the most out of your haunted game nights.

🧩 Mixing Expansions the Smart Way

When using Widow’s Walk with the 2nd Edition, make sure to:

• Shuffle expansion cards (Events, Items, Omens) thoroughly into the base decks.
• Keep the rooftop tiles separate at first, introducing them only when a room connects upward.
• Double-check haunt triggers, as Widow’s Walk haunts require the expansion’s rulebook.

For the 3rd Edition and Blood on the Moon, integration is easier, just mix in the new character and cards. The streamlined ruleset makes transitions feel seamless.

🧙 Best Character + Expansion Combos

While Betrayal is semi-random, some characters shine in certain expansions:

• In Widow’s Walk, high-speed characters like Jenny LeClerc or Madame Zostra are great for navigating the new rooftop level quickly.
• In Blood on the Moon, characters with strong Might stats (like Professor Longfellow) are especially useful during werewolf haunts, which lean more toward physical combat.

📝 Community-Approved House Rules

Want to level up your game night? Try these popular house rules:

• “Thematic Haunt Picking” – Instead of random haunts, choose one based on a spooky theme (e.g., werewolves for a full moon night).
• “Dual Trait Challenges” – Require players to pass two different trait rolls for certain big events, increasing tension and strategy.
• “Soft Traitor Reveal” – Delay the full traitor reveal by a round to keep the suspense going longer.

These tweaks can add depth and fun while still respecting the game’s core mechanics.

Mixing and matching expansions isn’t just about more content—it’s about shaping unique horror stories every time. Whether you’re optimizing characters or adding house rules, the right Betrayal expansion strategy tips can turn a good game into a legendary one.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re just stepping into the haunted halls or you’re a seasoned survivor of countless Betrayals, there’s an expansion tailored for your taste:

• New to the game? Start with the 3rd Edition + Blood on the Moon for a smoother experience and modern design.
• Already own the 2nd Edition? You’ll get the most out of the Widow’s Walk expansion, with its wild haunts and horror-writer flair.
• Want maximum variety? Dive into fan-made haunts for endless replayability, just be ready for some unpredictability!

No matter which path you take, the expansions keep the game terrifyingly fresh. 👻

Have you played an unforgettable haunt? Got a favorite expansion or a house rule that takes things to the next level? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, we’d love to hear your story!

And if you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with your gaming group or on social media. More haunts = more fun. 

About the Author

As a dedicated board game enthusiast, I’ve spent years exploring and enjoying a wide variety of tabletop games, with a particular love for semi-cooperative and horror-themed experiences. Having played Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansion and its expansions extensively, I’m always excited to share insights and tips with fellow gamers. Whether you’re new to the game or looking for ways to enhance your sessions, I’m here to help you navigate the eerie world of Betrayal and its endless twists and turns.

FAQs: Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansions

Can You Use Widow’s Walk with the 3rd Edition?

No, Widow’s Walk is only compatible with the 2nd Edition of the game. It introduces new room tiles and haunts that are designed specifically for the 2nd Edition rules. For the 3rd Edition, you’ll need Blood on the Moon instead.

Are the Expansions Worth It?

Yes, the Betrayal at House on the Hill expansions are definitely worth it for fans of the base game. Widow’s Walk adds 50 new haunts and room tiles, significantly increasing replayability. Meanwhile, Blood on the Moon refreshes the game with new characters, werewolf haunts, and updated mechanics, perfect for those who already enjoy the 3rd Edition.

How Many Expansions Does Betrayal at House on the Hill Have?

Currently, there are two major official expansions for Betrayal at House on the Hill:

1. Widow’s Walk (2nd Edition only)
2. Blood on the Moon (3rd Edition only) . Additionally, countless fan-made expansions can be found online, further expanding the horrors of the mansion.

What’s Different in the 3rd Edition Expansion?

The 3rd Edition expansion (Blood on the Moon) introduces several key changes:

• New character with special abilities.
• Werewolf-themed haunts, offering fresh gameplay experiences.
• Streamlined rules to make the game more accessible and faster-paced.

Can I Play Betrayal Online?

Yes! You can play Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansion digitally via platforms like Tabletop Simulator (Steam) or Tabletopia. These allow you to play with friends remotely and access a variety of official and fan-made expansions.

What Is the Best Betrayal at House on the Hill Expansion?

The best expansion depends on your edition of the game and playstyle:

• For newcomers, the 3rd Edition + Blood on the Moon is a great starting point.
• For 2nd Edition fans, Widow’s Walk adds a huge amount of content and excitement.
• For maximum replayability, Widow’s Walk offers 50 new haunts, making it a fantastic value.

Can I Mix Different Expansions?

Yes, you can mix different expansions, but it’s important to note the edition compatibility:

• Widow’s Walk works with the 2nd Edition only.
• Blood on the Moon is designed for the 3rd Edition and is not compatible with the 2nd Edition.
  

How Do I Choose the Right Betrayal Expansion?

To choose the best expansion, consider:

• Edition: Ensure it matches your base game edition (2nd or 3rd Edition).
• Gameplay preferences: If you enjoy a fresh narrative, Widow’s Walk brings new storylines. If you prefer streamlined mechanics, Blood on the Moon is perfect.

Replay value: Widow’s Walk offers more content, while Blood on the Moon brings a refined experience with fewer but more impactful additions.