War of the Ring: Battles of the Third Age

asmodee, Fantasy Flight Games, Fantasy Shop · Board game · 2006
2–4 · best 2 180 min Weight 3.7/5
9.4 rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Buy
9.4 rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're a fan of War of the Ring and crave more epic battles, this expansion is a must-have! It adds new units and a fantastic siege module.

Highlights
  • More miniatures and units
  • Tactical siege module
  • Expands the base game
  • New strategies emerge
Keep in mind
  • Requires the base game
  • Rulebook reading needed
  • High language dependency
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
If you thought the original War of the Ring was epic, get ready for more! Battles of the Third Age arrives to further boost your Middle-earth experience. This expansion doesn't skimp on new features: more incredible miniatures, like the fearsome Ents, Dunlendings, and even siege engines such as towers and catapults. And it doesn't stop there; we have Corsairs and Southern cavalry joining the fray, plus iconic figures like Galadriel and the Balrog!

But things get really serious when we talk about the siege battles. This expansion brings a complete companion game module for you to relive the most thrilling clashes of the late Third Age, such as Helm's Deep and Minas Tirith. Forget grand-scale strategy for a moment and dive into tactical battles, with new rules that completely change the dynamic. It's like having a new game within your favorite game!

For those who enjoy War of the Ring, this is a feast. The expansion adds depth and new tactical options while maintaining the essence we love. If you enjoy wargames with a fantasy theme, miniatures, and a good dose of strategy, you can jump right in. The only caveat is that, being an expansion, you need the base game. Oh, and be prepared for some rule reading, but the reward is worth every minute!
Expansion for
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 OK
4 REC
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Game details

Families

Authors: J.R.R. Tolkien Series: War of the Ring (Nexus/Ares Games)
Publisher asmodee, Fantasy Flight Games, Fantasy Shop, Nexus Editrice, Phalanx Games B.V., Phalanx Games Deutschland
Designer Francesco Nepitello, Marco Maggi, Roberto Di Meglio
Artist Bob Naismith, Fabio Maiorana, John Howe, Matteo Macchi
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the base War of the Ring game to play?
Yes, absolutely! Battles of the Third Age is an expansion, so the base game is essential to enjoy all the new content.
How many players are recommended?
Just like the base game, this expansion is designed for 2 players, but it can be played with up to 4, with each player controlling specific factions.
Does the game become much more complex with this expansion?
The expansion adds new rules and a game module focused on tactical battles. Complexity increases slightly, but it's nothing that will scare off players who already master the base game. The reward is a richer experience!
What are the main components added?
You'll find new army miniatures (Ents, Dunlendings, Corsairs, etc.), siege engines (Towers, Catapults), and a new board for the siege battles.
Does the expansion add significant new mechanics?
It deepens existing mechanics and introduces specific rules for siege battles, focusing more on tactical combat in smaller areas while maintaining the core hand management and area movement.
Is the siege module a separate game?
It's a module that integrates with the main game, allowing you to relive iconic battles like Helm's Deep and Minas Tirith on a more tactical scale, using new rules and a dedicated board.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, the expansion has a considerable language dependency. Access to rule and card translations is highly recommended for a complete experience.