Objective of the Game:
The Lord of the Rings: The Decision is a strategic board game where players take on the roles of either the Free Peoples or the forces of Sauron. The objective for the Free Peoples is to safely guide the Fellowship of the Ring to Mordor to destroy the One Ring. The forces of Sauron aim to conquer the strongholds of the Free Peoples or corrupt the Fellowship.
Game Components:
- Game board featuring a map of Middle-earth
- Character cards
- Armies and dice
- Event decks for both sides
- Fellowship of the Ring marker
Setup:
- Place the game board in the center.
- Each player chooses a faction: the Free Peoples or Sauron's army.
- Place army units and characters as per the game instructions.
- Each player receives their event card deck and draws a set number of cards.
- The Ring-bearer is placed on the starting space of the journey.
Gameplay:
The game is played in rounds; each round consists of multiple phases: 1. Action Phase: Players roll action dice and use them to move armies, initiate battles, play cards, or track the Fellowship. 2. Events: Players can play event cards which have various effects and can be used strategically. 3. Sieges and Battles: Expanding control areas and conquests are carried out through battles. Dice and card effects influence the outcome. 4. Move the Fellowship: The Free Peoples can move the Fellowship of the Ring secretly, but Sauron attempts to reveal their position.
Winning Conditions:
- Free Peoples: Destroy the One Ring or defend their strongholds until Sauron is halted.
- Sauron's Forces: Conquer a specific number of strongholds or corrupt the Ring-bearer.
Strategic Tips:
- Free Peoples: Balance securing your strongholds and the steady movement of the Fellowship. Use your heroes and event cards efficiently.
- Sauron's Forces: Reinforce your armies at strategic points and use the hunt for the Fellowship to impede their progress. Use your powerful event cards strategically.
Conclusion:
The game ends when one side achieves its winning condition. Strategy, effective management of event cards, and the successful outmaneuvering of the opponent play a crucial role in determining the victor.
