EditorialWD 286 · p. 120
Alessio Cavatore returns from New Zealand with an account of the design team’s visit to Weta and the film production. Seeing material from The Return of the King prompts reconsideration of fell beasts and reveals where the game’s scenarios may differ from the finished film. He explains that later supplements will help cover a story too large for one boxed release, while a photograph of a game with Peter Jackson connects the miniature project to its cinematic inspiration.
Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game
TacticsWD 286 · pp. 122–125
Matthew Ward compares the roles of Middle-earth’s spellcasters rather than treating magic as a single offensive tool. Gandalf and Radagast support and protect allies, Saruman disrupts distant opponents, and Nazgûl wear down courage and magical resistance. Shamans sustain ordinary troops, while Barrow-wights threaten powerful heroes through paralysis. The advice repeatedly matches each caster to a particular job and warns against wasting fragile or expensive figures in unsuitable combats.
Middle-earth Strategy Battle GameThe Fellowship
RulesWD 286 · pp. 126–127
David Smith begins a linked scenario series with the Nazgûl’s attempt to cross Osgiliath on their search for the Ring. Gondor’s defenders hold the western bank while Boromir and Faramir arrive as uncertain reinforcements. Darkness and surprise help the attackers, but the Ringwraiths must use the bridge while supporting Orcs can risk boats. Victory depends on enough wraiths escaping, turning the crossing, barricade and approaching defenders into connected tactical problems.
Middle-earth Strategy Battle GameGondor