War of the Ring: Lords of Middle-earth

Ares Games, Devir, GaGa Games · Board game · 2012
2–4 · best 2 180 min Weight 3.9/5
9.3 rating Ludopedia
8.7 rating BGG
Buy
9.3 rating Ludopedia
8.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

A must-have for those who already love the base game and crave more narrative and tactical depth. The visual and strategic upgrade is incredible!

Highlights
  • Stunning and detailed miniatures
  • New strategies with iconic characters
  • Optional rules that refresh the experience
  • Adds depth to the epic conflict
Keep in mind
  • Requires the base game to play
  • Increases the game's complexity
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ever wondered what would happen if Tolkien's story had taken a different turn? What if the Keepers of the Elven Rings had decided to use their power to directly challenge Sauron? Or what if the Balrog hadn't stayed trapped in Moria and instead unleashed fire and fury across Middle-earth? Lords of Middle-earth is the definitive expansion for those who want to explore these 'what ifs' and breathe new life into War of the Ring (Second Edition).

This expansion transforms the game by introducing iconic characters who were previously only mentioned in event cards. Now, figures like Galadriel, Elrond, Sméagol, and the terrifying Balrog of Moria get their own miniatures and specific rules, completely shifting the strategic dynamics. Additionally, you get alternate versions of characters like Gandalf and the Witch-king, allowing you to customize the match according to the desired challenge level.

For those who love customization, the expansion introduces the optional 'Council of Rivendell' rules, featuring new versions for all members of the Fellowship of the Ring. To top off the immersion, the box includes miniatures of Aragorn and Gandalf the White, which fans have been eagerly awaiting. New special action dice also enter the fray: Elven Ring Keeper dice for the Free Peoples and Lesser Minion dice for the Shadow, adding layers of tactics and new maneuver possibilities on the board. It's the perfect chance to shape the destiny of the Third Age with much more depth and detail.
Expansion for
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
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Game details

Families

Authors: J.R.R. Tolkien Series: War of the Ring (Nexus/Ares Games)
Publisher Ares Games, Devir, GaGa Games, Galakta, Geekach LLC, Heidelberger Spieleverlag, Nuts! Publishing, Planplay, Red Glove, Rexhry, Schwerkraft-Verlag, Sophisticated Games, Zhiyanjia
Designer Francesco Nepitello, Marco Maggi, Roberto Di Meglio
Artist Francesco Nepitello, John Howe, Jon Hodgson, Matteo Macchi
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the base game to play?
Yes! This is an expansion, so you must own War of the Ring (Second Edition) to use it.
Does the game become much harder with the expansion?
Complexity increases slightly due to new rules and characters, but nothing a seasoned base game player can't master quickly.
What are the coolest items in the box?
The Balrog, Galadriel, and Elrond miniatures are amazing, along with the new action dice that shift the game dynamics.
How much longer does a game take?
The base playtime remains similar, but the strategic depth might make decision-making take a bit longer.
Who do you recommend this expansion for?
Die-hard Lord of the Rings fans and wargamers who feel they've already 'solved' the base game.