We recently announced The War of the Rohirrim is the first journal for this edition of the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. We caught up with writers Jay and Danny, to discover what Middle-earth fans can expect to find within its pages.
Jay: The War of the Rohirrim is an epic tale of overcoming the odds, with the people of Rohan thrown into hardship and war by the devious actions of Wulf and the Dunlendings. In a bid to avenge his father, Wulf vows to slaughter Helm Hammerhand and his entire bloodline, culminating in the Rohirrim being forced to flee to the Hornburg, where they are put under siege during the desperate Long Winter. It is here, when things look bleak and hopeless, that Héra, Helm’s daughter, becomes a true hero – dueling with Wulf for the fate of Rohan and its people.
This Middle-earth Journal follows this story, allowing you to play through the scenes from The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim with your collection of miniatures. There are 11 narrative scenarios, capturing the most iconic moments from the film. A personal favourite of mine is the Last Stand of Helm Hammerhand. This scenario has Helm try to get Héra back to the safety of the Hornburg, all while combating the fierce blizzards and being hunted down by the Hill Tribesmen, culminating in his defiant final stand upon the causeway of what would soon be known as Helm’s Deep. It’s an epic final moment for such an awesome character, and a scenario well fitting of his heroism!
Danny: I love the A New Threat on Rohan’s Borders scenario. It’s such a unique gameplay experience for players, with the Rabid Mûmak constantly trying to crush the heroes underfoot, even as Héra tries to lead it away from her allies – though by doing so will put herself in danger. It poses a real conundrum about who players should prioritise trying to protect, and can easily lead to disaster should things go awry!
There is also a linked campaign system allowing players to play through each of the scenarios in turn, where the result of one scenario will impact another one. This really adds to the fun of playing through the campaign as it’s not just about winning the current scenario, but also about how you are going to be affected in the future should you win or lose.
Jay: Alongside the Narrative Scenarios, there are a number of painting guides to show you how to paint your own Warriors of Rohan and Hill Tribesmen, with easy to follow steps. We also cover different colour schemes and heraldry for the various lords and provinces of Rohan. Personally, I’m looking forward to painting up some Warriors of Harrowdale to accompany Fréaláf, while I know Danny has already painted some Rohirrim Traitors sworn to Lord Thorne of the Wold!
Danny: There is also a wealth of hobby guides showing you how to create your own terrain and more! Step-by-step guides for damaged Rohan houses and the Rabid Mûmak will help you create your very own – though for me, I’m very fond of the guides to create Hill Tribes encampments. I can’t wait to get cracking on making a few, and playing some games fighting around the tents and campfires outside the walls of the besieged Hornburg!
The War of the Rohirrim is a 48-page softback journal supplement for the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. It’ll arrive for pre-orders – alongside some more characters from the film – in short order.
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