Shadow & Flame

Ow the memories, as this was the very first expansion book to the Lord of the Rings game, and now more then 17 years in my possession.

As I was flicking through all the old books during lockdown, to see what I can use for some solo gaming and what not, I had a fond memory of this book, because it was the one that brought Tom Bombadil to the game.

But that is of course not the main section of this 48 page supplement.  While we all read and saw the stories of the Balrog of Moria, and how the dwarfs dug to deep, this is the tale of that deep digging, and Balin's expedition to recover the lost mine of Moria for the Durinfolk.

The book also shows a lovely map of the mine, going under the mountains all the way from the Hollin road to the road leading to the gap of Rohan.

The first section details the stats of the brave dwarven warriors, complete with a painting guide, followed by the profiles and guide for the Goblins (or, as they are called in the book, Orcs).

The scenarios tell the tale of how the expedition entered and progressed into the realm of Moria,all the way unto the moment the Balrog arrives and dooms the folk of Durin.

The second part of the book details the new releases from back then, with the Tom Bombadil set and scenario to have him face off against the Barrow Wights, as well as the rules for other new characters from Rivendell and for Radagast, each with an additional scenario as well.

A lovely little book for sure, and it was a strong volume to kick the expansions line out of the starting blocks!