Evolution of the Toad

by JR Godwin
originally published 18 November 2008

This November marks Talisman’s 25th anniversary. Through the next couple of weeks we will be showcasing the history of the game, and previewing the forthcoming Talisman Revised 4th Edition by Fantasy Flight Games.

To start, let’s watch the humble Toad evolve from its earliest incarnation into the spectacular amphibian it is today!

The first appearance of the Toad.

The Toad returned in the 2nd edition.

3rd edition was the first edition to see the Toad begin its evolution.

It wasn’t until 4th edition that the Toad got the recognition it deserved, gaining a card almost identical to that of the adventurer it represented.

Fantasy Flight Games’ Revised 4th Edition sees the Toad maintaining its adventurer status, both in card form and even getting its own plastic mini!


Here is a sneak peek at a card from The Reaper expansion. While the Crone may not have a very high Craft value, she has the power to turn unfortunate adventurers into slimy little Toads. Astute viewers will find a little Toad pictured on the bottom of the card’s illustration. Perhaps this is just one of the Crone’s many hapless victims that was cursed by her wicked spells.

Speaking of The Reaper, if you preorder the expansion at your local gaming store, you will be able to get the two promo cards, the Doppelganger and the Instructor. Download and fill out the following form. Take it to your local gaming store and present it with your pre-order to be eligible for these two promo cards! Supplies are limited so they will be handled on a first come first serve basis, so get your pre-orders in early.

Standard Pre-order Form (pdf, 229 kb)

Retailer Pre-order Form (pdf, 273 kb)