The Lonely Mountain
- Designer Coleman Charlton
- Publisher 999 Games , Iron Crown Enterprises
- Illustration Terry Amthor , Gail McIntosh , Charles Peale
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The Lonely Mountain, each player controls a group of adventurers trying to sneak into the Lonely Mountain (Erebor) and steal treasure before the dragon Smaug awakens. The game board represents the mountain's interior with rooms and tunnels where treasures and Smaug reside. Four groups represent major Middle-earth races, plus independent freebooters, each with unique character roles like mage, ranger, and fighter.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 13 and up who enjoy fantasy settings and tactical wargames. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it requires patience and some familiarity with dice mechanics and hex grids, but prior experience is not mandatory.
How It Works
The Lonely Mountain combines Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid movement, and Role Playing. Players move characters on a hex-based map inside the mountain, resolve combat and events with dice, and manage different character roles. The goal is to loot as much treasure as possible and escape before Smaug awakens and attacks.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Coleman Charlton, The Lonely Mountain won the 1984 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Fantasy Board Game. It blends classic wargame tactics with role-playing elements and is deeply rooted in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth lore, offering diverse character roles and strategic depth.
Awards
- 1984 Charles S. Roberts Best Fantasy Board Game — Winner
Pro
- Strong Tolkien Middle-earth theme
- Combination of Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid, and Role Playing
- 1984 Charles S. Roberts Award winner
- Tactical depth through diverse character roles
Contra
- Relatively long playtime around 90 minutes
- Complexity suited for experienced players
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Middle-earth shortly after Smaug's attack on Erebor in Third Age 2770, the game focuses on adventurers raiding the Lonely Mountain and confronting the dragon threat.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the different characters and their abilities, focusing on flexible tactics instead of fixed plans.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, The Lonely Mountain is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, making it an extended session for a game night.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with tactical wargames, dice mechanics, and hex boards is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
The Lonely Mountain combines classic wargame elements with role-playing mechanics and is strongly themed around Tolkien's Middle-earth.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and recommended age of 13+, it is better suited for experienced players than younger family members.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid movement, and Role Playing offers tactical variety and character depth.
Fazit
The Lonely Mountain is recommended for players who enjoy complex fantasy wargames with role-playing aspects and tactical challenges. It is less suitable for novices or those seeking quick games.
