The Games of Middle Earth
- Designer Howard Barasch , Richard H. Berg , Rob Mosca , Linda Mosca
- Publisher SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Tim Kirk , Redmond Aksel Simonsen
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
You play three hex-and-counter wargames set in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle Earth. War of the Ring features large armies and characters influencing the fate of the One Ring. Gondor covers the siege of Minas Tirith, while Sauron simulates the Battle of Dagorlad. The games involve strategic area control, dice rolling, and event-driven gameplay on a hex grid.
Who Is This Game For?
Suitable for experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy complex, thematic wargames. With a playtime of around 210 minutes, it requires patience and strategic thinking. Not a family game, it targets enthusiasts ready for long sessions and deep Tolkien lore.
How It Works
The games use Area Majority / Influence and Hexagon Grid mechanics. Players place units, roll dice for combat outcomes, and respond to events affecting the game state. War of the Ring can be played with or without the character game to adjust complexity and duration. A sudden death ending can abruptly conclude the game.
What Makes It Special
Designed in 1977 by Barasch, Berg, Mosca, and Mosca, this trilogy is directly based on Tolkien's works. It blends classic wargame elements with narrative depth. Although it won no awards, it is regarded as an early influential fantasy wargame. The games offer interconnected perspectives of Middle Earth conflicts.
Pro
- Deep thematic integration of Tolkien's universe
- Multiple scenarios with varied focus
- Combination of area control, events, and simulation
- Three-player variant including character gameplay
Contra
- Long playtime around 210 minutes
- Complex rules demanding learning effort
- Limited to 2-3 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The games immerse players in the epic fantasy world of Middle Earth from Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. Scenarios span from the Second Age to the siege of Minas Tirith and the war over the One Ring.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with the character game or smaller scenarios to learn the rules before tackling the full games.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, The Games of Middle Earth is designed for 2 to 3 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Typical playtime is about 210 minutes, making for an extended gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced wargamers comfortable with complex rules and long playtimes.
How does this compare to similar games?
The trilogy combines classic wargame mechanics with Tolkien-themed narrative across three distinct scenarios.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is less suitable for families and better for experienced players aged 12 and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
Area Majority / Influence combined with Hexagon Grid and event-driven gameplay provides strategic depth and variability.
Fazit
The Games of Middle Earth is recommended for Tolkien fans and strategists who enjoy long, complex wargames. Players seeking shorter or more family-friendly games should consider other options.
