TacticsWD 350 · pp. 42–47
Christian Byrne prepares both Good and Evil armies for his first Lord of the Rings Grand Tournament, with Adam Troke coaching the tactical transition from Warhammer 40,000. An Isengard defeat teaches the cost of too few warriors and exposing a Troll, while a Gondor victory demonstrates coordinated heroic actions. Painting remains a major motivation, and Christian explains how coherent colours and a strong presentation help an army attract attention at a tournament.
Middle-earth Strategy Battle GameIsengard
Battle reportWD 350 · p. 44
Christian’s 699-point Isengard army loses its carefully painted Troll early to Adam’s Dwarf shooting and finds itself outnumbered in a scenario where casualties can end the game. Saruman’s Sorcerous Blast and Gríma’s interference with enemy Might briefly improve the position, but the Dwarves eventually overwhelm the White Wizard. The printed army list makes clear why Christian resolves to bring more ordinary warriors instead of relying on a single spectacular monster.
Middle-earth Strategy Battle GameIsengard
PaintingWD 350 · pp. 46–47
Christian Byrne argues that a tournament army must first catch the passing viewer’s attention before its detailed brushwork can be appreciated. He then contrasts dark, weathered Uruk-hai armour with bright Minas Tirith plate: repeated black washes and brown recesses age the former, while silver panels and carefully redefined joints keep the latter clean. A finished gallery shows how these approaches sit alongside freehand markings and distinctive character models.
Middle-earth Strategy Battle GameIsengard4 paint colours