Games Workshop The Lord of the Rings - Defence of the North Expansion Book

The Lord of the Rings - Defence of the North is a 112-page hardback expansion supplement for the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. It focuses on the northern theatres of war during the War of the Ring, covering the conflicts in Dale, Erebor, Mirkwood, and Lothlorien. The book allows players to explore campaigns that occurred simultaneously with the events in the south, providing a broader perspective on Middle-earth's conflicts during this pivotal time. The supplement is structured into several comprehensive sections. It includes an extensive historical background of the northern kingdoms, 18 narrative play scenarios with detailed board layouts and objectives, and rules for linking these scenarios into either one grand campaign or three individual smaller campaigns. Players will find rules for eight distinct armies that fought in Rhovanion, including the Garrison of Dale, Erebor Reclaimed, and the Dark Denizens of Mirkwood, each with specific unit rules, army bonuses, and tactical insights. Additionally, the book introduces six Legendary Legions, which are specialised army compositions with unique rules, such as the Army of Dale or the Assault on Lothlorien. This expansion is designed for players who already own the core Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game Rules Manual, along with the Armies of the Lord of the Rings and Armies of the Hobbit supplements. It is ideal for hobbyists looking to expand their narrative gameplay, explore new army lists, and delve deeper into the lore of Middle-earth's northern realms. The included showcase of Citadel and Forge World miniatures provides painting and modelling inspiration, while the appendix offers additional historical scenarios for replaying famous battles like the Battle of the Five Armies.