The Fellowship and the Free Peoples confront the overwhelming forces of Sauron in a struggle to determine the fate of Middle-earth.
Players: 2-4
Playtime: 150-180 mins
Age: 13+
Core Mechanics:
- Action Drafting
- Area Majority/Influence
- Area Movement
- Campaign/Battle Card-Driven
- Card Play Conflict Resolution
Themes: Adventure, Fantasy, Combat, Novel-Based, Territory Building, Wargame
Overview:
In War of the Ring, players immerse themselves in the epic struggle between the Free Peoples and the armies of Sauron. One player commands the Free Peoples, rallying reluctant nations to war with the help of Gandalf and other Companions. The other player leads Sauron’s Shadow Armies, seeking to conquer Middle-earth through military might or by capturing the One Ring.
Victory can be achieved in two ways: through a military conquest by capturing key strongholds and cities, or by fulfilling the Fellowship’s secret quest to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. While armies clash across the land, the Fellowship must evade Sauron’s relentless Hunt for the Ring, balancing stealth with the need to inspire the Free Peoples to take up arms.
The game revolves around Action Dice, which dictate possible actions each turn, such as moving armies, recruiting troops, advancing the Political Track, or guiding the Ringbearer on their perilous journey. Players can also draw and play Event Cards to trigger pivotal moments or unexpected turns, further shaping the outcome of battles and the overarching story.
With its rich narrative, strategic depth, and faithful adaptation of Tolkien’s world, War of the Ring captures the essence of the struggle for Middle-earth.
