The Battle of Five Armies (2005) Board Game

The Battle of Five Armies is a board game based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel, The Hobbit. It was first released in 2005 and is designed for 2 players. The game is set in the fictional world of Middle-earth, where players take on the roles of either the forces of good (Elves, Dwarves, and Men) or the forces of evil (Goblins and Wargs) in a battle to control the Lonely Mountain.

Game Components of The Battle of Five Armies

Over 150 plastic miniatures, each approximately 10 mm tall.

Infantry stands made up of two strips of seven warriors.

Cavalry stands made up of two strips of two warriors.

Enough stands to make up 25 units and several characters.

Terrain pieces for the battlefield.

Expanded army lists for custom armies available in separate packs.

How To Setup The Battle of Five Armies

To set up the game, players carefully plan out the scenario, following specific instructions on the layout of the terrain, deployment of forces, and arrival of reinforcements. The battlefield is divided by a river that is only crossable at one small ford, effectively splitting both armies. The good side includes the men of Lake-town, dwarves of the Iron Hills, elves of Mirkwood, and other allies, while the evil side is composed of goblins and other creatures.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Order System: Units can be given orders, and if the order is successful, the unit can be moved again; if failed, the unit cannot move further that turn.

Reinforcements: Reinforcements arrive throughout the battle, tipping the balance at crucial moments.

Terrain Impact: The terrain plays a significant role in the battle.

Asymmetrical Forces: The evil side is larger in numbers but smaller in points cost.

Custom Battles: Players can create custom armies using expanded lists and additional miniatures.

Objective: The objective is to recreate the Battle of Five Armies, with the good side aiming to fend off the evil forces.

Player Experience

Players find The Battle of Five Armies to be a fun and engaging game that drips with theme. It is praised for its good mechanics and solid war game elements. The game captures the essence of the large-scale battle described in _The Hobbit_, with a focus on decisive actions and reactions. However, the unique order system takes some getting used to.

Pros

Thematic: The game is highly thematic, closely following the events of the Battle of Five Armies.

Detailed Components: Includes a large number of detailed miniatures and terrain pieces.

Customization: Allows players to create custom armies using expanded lists.

Engaging Mechanics: The order system and reinforcement mechanics add depth and excitement to the game.

Cons

Complex Setup: Setting up the game can be complex due to the detailed scenario setup.

Learning Curve: The unique order system requires some time to get used to.

Out of Production: Official miniatures and expansions are no longer in production, making them rare and hard to find.

Personal Thoughts on The Battle of Five Armies

This game is ideal for fans of JRR Tolkien’s works, particularly those who enjoy strategic war games. It offers a unique and immersive experience that closely recreates the epic battle from _The Hobbit_. However, due to its complexity and the rarity of some components, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to war games. For enthusiasts who appreciate detailed miniatures and intricate game mechanics, The Battle of Five Armies is a hidden gem worth exploring.

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