Lord of the Rings LCG Starter Decks - Unboxing, Analysis, Buying Recommendations

[@seileen1234]

I'm so happy to see this game having new life

[@VenVidiVici]

A few things, the first, all of this is invaluable information. I sat and watched this, and paused to reflect, twice at this point. I just got into the game maybe two days ago and your insight is really helping me form ideas for decks (something I've been afraid to do), I bought the elves and I'm going to get the others in time too. This all might seem a little much, but if I start a new hobby or game I like to deep dive and really understand things. The last thing is, your channel should be way bigger than this! Thanks for the info and help!

[@TheGameLocker]

Thanks a lot! You came, you saw, now go conquer ;)

[@VenVidiVici]

@@TheGameLocker I have! Well sort of... I got my ass handed to me in dol guldur :(

[@pb-bx1ll]

I truly appreciate your videos. I am new to this game and have all the repackaged expansions and all the starter decks. I love this game

[@ThatJakers]

It’s weird that you posted these videos and somehow echoed a lot of my sentiments! I really appreciate your deep dive of content and not speaking too fast or slowly. The thing that shocked and elated me the most was pointing out the cycle reprints we can assume almost safely are coming out! Many thanks, you’ve earned yourself a nice little second breakfast!

[@pb-bx1ll]

I really appreciate your videos. I am new to this game but have bought all the new repackaged releases, i truly enjoy this game

[@TheGameLocker]

There's nothing quite like it :)

[@oxnumbernine]

I bought these decks for my wife and son for when they want to play with me. They became familiar enough with the main deck they each play to customize it (using the extra cards in the packs) for specific scenarios. Deckbuilding is much less difficult and stressful for them when they have a limited number of cards to choose from and 82 cards is a good, manageable number.

[@oxnumbernine]

I forgot to add. I restrict my own decks to cards that were available when a specific scenario was released and hence these starter decks don't work for me personally.

[@mr.horseshoe2301]

Thanks for the overview. Recently bought all the available revised content so I’m trying to figure out the strengths of each card.

[@liambrozik5352]

I love these unboxing/analysis videos. I have watched this one twice. Please make more!

[@shaneannigans]

This channel has been so helpful. Really looking forward to your how-to-play video(s)!! 😊👍

[@zombie10q]

This was a super helpful video. I bought tbe LOTR LCG back in 2011, 2 core starters, all of Shadows of Mirkwood cycle, Khaza-dum, 2 sets of Dwarrowdelf and the hobbit saga over hill and under hill. I stopped buying basically because at that point in life gaming consistently became very difficult with friends and the luster of playing solo dimmed. Along the way i wanted to pick this back up but became simply overwhelmed with all of the product. With 2nd edition my interest has been fully renewed as has that of several friends. I'm really interested in picking this up again as well as the repacked cycles. I most likely will not hunt down anything of old with the exception of finishing up Dwarrowdelf and the second hobbit saga. But, if they reprinted sets I'd grab them. These starter sets I think are perfect for me and my friends to jump in and i am loving the campaign style of play they've introduced. Only issue is figuring out how to print the new 2nd edition core cards. I've got the file just need access to a printer now. I'd honestly rather spend the money on these 4 starters than a 3rd version of the core set for 20 or so new cards.

[@TheGameLocker]

Right on! As someone who had a full collection and wanted to scale back to a more "curated" collection, I'm really happy with the core + starter decks + repackaged content coming!

[@daem0nfaust]

Thank you for the product discussion. I am planning to get into this game again, and it looks like the current packaging formats are easier to acquire.

[@TheGameLocker]

They are certainly easier to acquire - everything else is out of print :)

[@daem0nfaust]

​@@TheGameLockerThat too! Though what I really meant to say was, the new packages are easier to collect. I'm not all out with expansion acquisitions, so these sets seem solid for gradual collecting.

[@TheGameLocker]

oh for sure - I battled a lot with the “desire to acquire” with this game and had massive “FOMO” while the game was still in print. I hated that, and realized I can’t ever get involved with collectible card games because of this propensity. On my second run of collecting this game I limited myself to just the revised content, and found it to be much more manageable. Still expensive by board game standards, but they’re really repackaging the best of the best content for this game, so you don’t have to feel like you’re really missing anything. You’ll get an amazing experience just buying the revised content :)

[@isaaca.3099]

Really good vid, learned some things as a new player, especially the deck archetypes. Thanks!

[@simounobrien9096]

Thanks to you, I bought the Defenders of Gondor Starter Set since I really like Boromir and Faramir but I am amazed Prince Imrahil got some love :D!!!! Update: I just ordered the Elves of Lorien and The Riders of Rohan. The Dwarves of Durin I plan to get in the future but I am more into Elves and Rohan and Gondor. The Defenders of Gondor Deck is Amazing :D!!!!! Cannot wait to try all of them eventually

[@thomasphillips6131]

Thanks for the video! New to core set. I'm struggling with Journey Down the Anduin and now looking to get the Elves of Lorien starter set. I fancy trying to build a deck from it and some core set cards.

[@Brissebrajan]

Foe-Hammer goes in "all" my decks that include legolas, and also Gimli, but mostly Legolas. And yes i mostly play with silvan deck(s).

[@cameronmckenzie4806]

I think Silvan Refugee is quite good even in a Silvan deck where allies are leaving play a lot. You just make sure refugee is the first ally to leave play (by chump blocking with it). With Galadriel and Celeborn, you can play it, have it commit 3 to the quest, and still be ready to chump block in the same round so you never have to worry about it leaving play from its ability. A chump blocker that commits 3 to a quest is good value. Even with Celeborn it's good. But it won't be good without Galadriel since you won't be able to quest and block in the same round.

[@TheGameLocker]

That’s an excellent point, I had never thought about that before!

[@AnaatthiGozo]

I've had the original core set for a long time, but getting just one starter deck really opened my eyes for what's possible to do with decks and deckbuilding in this game much more than the core cards ever did. Now I'm much more excited to look at other expansion to look at cards to adjust my Starter deck

[@meravl7615]

While not many Heroes will be exhausted during planning, Greenwood Archer can be (thematically unsurprisingly) very helpful when playing with Thranduil as one of your heroes, as he can put him into play during combat (really holding my fingers for an Ered Mithrin reprint).

[@TheGameLocker]

Agree 100%, Greenwood Archer is best with Thranduil. And it's been confirmed by the designer that the cycles that were absent from the starter decks are going to be repackaged in the future, so Ered Mithrin is almost certainly going to get the new 2-box repackaging treatment that Angmar is getting :)

[@colinoseltorres2857]

Your videos really helped me. I'm new to the game. Appreciate it.

[@TheGameLocker]

My pleasure! Glad I could help!

[@Major_Problems]

Would love more LOTR LCG content! Great video

[@Darddo0702]

Great job, I would implement some of your ideas. I would like to see more videos of this game from you, it have been too difficult to me to build my deck and confront the missions

[@igloboy]

You made me buy nearly all of the decks. Only need the dwarf one now. Joke aside. Very good videos =)

[@tuckleberryfinn5271]

I'm very much looking forward to your buyers guide before I dive into this game. There's so much content existing and being re-released, it's very confusing, but I'm very excited there is a new "jumping on point" with the revised core.

[@TheGameLocker]

That may be a while before I can get to a buyer's guide video, but I'm happy to give buying advice to you now! The main questions are: are you a completionist? How much money would you ideally like to spend on a game like this (up to $1300-$1800), do you have a budget? How patient are you to wait for the revised/repackaged products?

[@tuckleberryfinn5271]

@@TheGameLocker I'd like to say I'm a patient completionist. I've been playing marvel champions for a while now and acquiring heros and campaigns slowly as I find them on sale or have a real want for a specific character. I'm on a budget and in no hurry to build the collection. Also, I'm just now reading through the Hobbit with my sons. We'll eventually read the LOTR trilogy, but I think that will be a little while down the road.

[@TheGameLocker]

@@tuckleberryfinn5271 I would recommend you stick with the revised content then. If you're patient and on a budget, the revised content getting released over the next 2-3 years represents the BEST this game has to offer. I would caution against hunting any of the old packs that are now out of print. The business model is not as customer-friendly as Marvel Champions - getting one adventure pack will give you "incomplete" things that are only completed by buying 10 other packs. It's addicting, and turned me into a completionist when I didn't think I would be.

[@tuckleberryfinn5271]

@@TheGameLocker Thanks so much. When I saw the revised core set, I thought that would be a great time to get into it. Then I saw they were re-releasing campaigns in a repackaged format, and that was very appealing. Expensive, but at least you get the whole thing instead of bits and pieces.

[@TheGameLocker]

@@tuckleberryfinn5271 Definitely, it's a much better format to release the game in! As far as order of what to buy for the repackaged content, I'd definitely recommend Dark of Mirkwood, the 4 starter decks, and the Fellowship of the Ring Saga expansion. The Angmar Hero box and Dream-Chaser Hero box pair well together (giving you a complete Noldor Archetype), but if you had to choose between the two I'd get the Dream-Chaser box first.

[@Boss-zo4lw]

Wish they would make more off these themed starter packs, maybe some fan favourite ones too

[@TheGameLocker]

That'd be sweet!

[@Coffeemaker1978]

Thanks man! This was an awesome video, and I can only thanks you here. Huge thanks.

[@xseasd]

Really helpful video. Being a new player that just started with the revised core set, I was looking for something like the recommendations by the end but watched through the whole thing. The way you explained how some cards work together and some of their costs really made me start looking at the cards I was putting together a different way and maybe how I could start building some synergies on my own, at least to start lol. Great job

[@TheGameLocker]

Thanks so much! Glad it was helpful for you!

[@luke_holla3022]

Awesome video! Your content has been great as I get into the game as a new player. I wanted to ask, at 35:15 you said Errand-Rider was an incredible resource smoothing card, but right before that, you said Pelargir Ship Captain was “meh.” Is that because Captain’s effect is only a response, whereas Errand-Rider’s effect is a repeatable action? Or something else I am missing? Thanks!

[@TheGameLocker]

I think my reaction to Pelargir Ship Captain is only because Envoy of Pelargir and Errand Rider both exist. Envoy is neutral, which is extremely good for the flexibility, and Errand Rider is repeatable. The ship captain isn't bad though, I just usually don't need all three outside of a Gondor deck. Hope that helps!

[@luke_holla3022]

@@TheGameLocker Ah, that makes sense! Thanks for the clarification!

[@Zeratulo82]

Would love to see a video using the extra cards to optimize each of the starter decks.

[@TheGameLocker]

I’ve considered making that very thing! Other videos are a priority at the moment, but if I have the time between being a dad then I’d love to work on that!

[@waltercardcollector]

Hey I want to note that Envoy of Pelargir was misprinted in these starter decks - it is supposed to have only 1 hitpoint instead of 2. (Doesn't make it any less of a useful card to include.)

[@TheGameLocker]

Found that out after the fact :), thanks for pointing that out!

[@moieimaster5881]

Really good video for new player like me. Thanks!

[@steve1170]

Thanks! Great info for new player

[@robertthurman9866]

The sagas are being repackaged in pairs. The Fellowship of the Ring Saga Expansion is The Black Riders and The Road Darkens combined.

[@TheGameLocker]

Yep, that was announced after I made the video :)

[@charleskhw2471]

As a new player, I really enjoy your video. Keep going

[@thomazcunha1338]

Awesome information! Thank you very much!!!

[@burningspecter]

It seems like Fastred would be great for a Valor mode deck. Optionally engage the same small enemy and bounce it back every round or two to maintain your threat. Of course the shadow cards could bite you in the butt here and there.

[@TheGameLocker]

Yeah lots of ways to "maintain" your threat level, Fastred is good if you can boost his defense, the downside I see is that Valor is primarily a Leadership/Tactics thing, so throwing in a Spirit hero may not give you enough resources to pay for the expensive Valor events. Spirit Beregond (from the upcoming Return Of The King box) might be even better than Fastred for this idea; he can also reduce your threat, but he's Gondor and has better defense & hit points.

[@tbowne05]

Good video. I hope you do some more LOTR LCG videos. Maybe on the saga boxes.

[@Lichelf]

1:16:40 Which Hero would best to switch out for Gandalf in this case?

[@TheGameLocker]

Lots of combinations should work just fine, I think I used Ori, Nori, and Gandalf in one deck I tried. Having both Gandalf and Dain gets you a pretty high starting threat, so that might be a fun deck-building challenge to try to manage that initial high threat. Try out different combinations yourself!

[@ns2664philly]

What a great video. Thank you. What type of playmat do you use in your videos??? Thanks

[@TheGameLocker]

This is the official mat from Journeys In Middle Earth by Fantasy Flight Games, I think this mat is out of print sadly.

[@keikobad]

Excellent video as always, thank you. Is it so that this Elves of Lorien starter deck is the only way, to acquire the Hero Elrond and his ring of power, was it Vilya? And just to be sure, the Road Darkern the only way to get the Gandalf hero? The latter is out of print and seems unobtainable at least in Finland

[@TheGameLocker]

Everything in these four starter decks is a repackaging of previous content. Elrond + Vilya were originally in the Shadow And Flame adventure pack from the Dwarrowdelf cycle, which is out of print. The Elves of Lorien starter deck is the easiest way to get him now. Gandalf Hero was in the Road Darkens, but that has been repackaged together with the Black Riders in the new Fellowship Of The Ring Saga Expansion. Hope that helps!

[@keikobad]

@@TheGameLocker Ok, this is clear. I currently have the revised core edition and dark of Mirkwood, and the cards they include are easy to incorporete into the RIngs DB database, as they can be chosen from the adventure pack list. But now I also have the angmar awakened hero and campaign sets + waiting for the Fellowship of the Ring Saga expansion. So how can I know which boxes to tick in the RIngsDB, so that it records my collection properly. I understand that this goes beyond the scope of your video, but maybe there is an easy answer. Thanks again

[@TheGameLocker]

@@keikobad Yep for RingsDB, you basically need to know what the original packaging was for your new repackaged expansions. Angmar Awakened hero expansion combines the original Lost Realm Deluxe and the 6 Adventure packs in that Angmar Awakened cycle (starting with the Wastes of Eriador, ending with Dread Realm). The Fellowship of the Ring combines the first two saga boxes: Black Riders and Road Darkens. So if you select the original boxes in RingsDB you should be good to go. Hope that helps!

[@TheGameBubble]

Excellent video my friend, like plus sub from Spain!!

[@UrbanSelfSufficiency]

I have a question: If you use Galadriel's action ability, then play the Greenwood Archer, why ready Galadriel again if you can only use her ability once per round and she can't attack, quest, or defend?

[@TheGameLocker]

Because of her ring attachment - Nenya :)

[@UrbanSelfSufficiency]

@@TheGameLocker Oooh... Yes, this makes perfect sense now. Thank you!!!

[@richardmarriott-smith9517]

Really useful video. Thanks.

[@Kindlesmith70]

So this is a Silvan deck ... and this is Galadriel 🤣 One of these things is not like the other it seems. Just hearing the how the deck is supposed to play, I am already in love with it, and Galariel sounds just wonderful. I'm notciing a lot of personal assistants for Galadriel.

[@TheGameLocker]

Yeah they kind of had to fit all the elves into "Silvan" and "Noldor" for game purposes, unlike the books. But Silvan is definitely one of my favorite archetypes, super fun!

[@94fcr]

Fuckin great analysis men, especially for a complete new beginner like myself. Thanks a lot it helped a ton

[@williamlopes001]

I'm sorry, but you said at 55:27 that West Road Traveller can bypass a nasty travel effect. Why does a change in the active location do not trigger the location effect(s)? 🤔

[@williamlopes001]

I mean, switching is not considered as travelling to that location, and that is why it doesn't trigger the effects?

[@TheGameLocker]

@@williamlopes001 Correct, switching is not the same as traveling to a location during the travel phase. But, we need to be clearer when you say "location effect(s)". The only effects that are bypassed with West Road Traveller's ability are effects preceded by the word "Travel:" (because you're not actually traveling). Any other abilities may still trigger if the condition is met. For instance, there are many Forced effects on locations that may trigger when that location "becomes the active location", these would still trigger.

[@PlatoneHegel]

Love the video! I am new player and I struggle to find early cycles or The Hobbit saga available. How do these decks play in the LoTR saga? Are they strong enough to enjoy those quests? Thanks!

[@TheGameLocker]

It's been a while since my last LoTR saga play through, but I primarily used a hobbit deck the last time I played, using the cards that come in those boxes. These starter decks are good, but some of the saga quests are really challenging, so I can't say you won't have trouble with any of them if you play with the starter decks. What I CAN say is that the saga boxes were all play tested with just a core set, so they are all beatable with just the core set plus the saga player cards. Adding the starter decks on top of that will give you some additional deck building options that could improve ANY deck you bring to the sagas. But I'm growing on the notion that to really enjoy this game, just play any deck you want, and adjust the difficulty by adding extra resources or drawing extra cards on your first turn. Play the way that will help you enjoy the game most. Try out the starter decks and let me know how it goes!

[@PlatoneHegel]

@@TheGameLocker that's fantastic! Thank you so much for your answer! Love your channel, it deserves a bigger audience

[@ytubebrowser7560]

Foe hammer has a typo on the card, "hte"

[@TheGameLocker]

Wow, great catch!

[@ClaudevonRiegan_]

What would you recommend to me if I was to buy one more deck? I already own Elves and I am buying some expansions later this year that have all of the dwarf heroes so I am stuck between Rohan and Gondor

[@TheGameLocker]

Gondor deck has more general use staple cards than the Rohan deck, which is better for building other decks. Rohan is fun, but better in multiplayer and feels a bit similar to Elves in that your Allies jump in and out of play.

[@ClaudevonRiegan_]

@@TheGameLocker Thanks!

[@elzaberino9721]

I was asking me the exact same, thanks to both of you :)

[@nagredmoonstriker252]

Whoops! The flavor text for "Cram" needed more spelling "excercises"!

[@TheNicholaiMoeller]

A newbie here, and I have a question! At around 48:35 you say, "if an enemy engage and attack you in the questing phase and also in the combat phase", which makes me a bit confuse. Can an enemy attack you more than once in a round? And if so, how? Hope you can advise me! Thanks :)

[@TheGameLocker]

Welcome to the game! There are some encounter card effects in certain quests that force an enemy to engage you and make an immediate attack against you during the quest phase. Nasty buggers, so Coney In A Trap helps make sure to lock down that enemy for the whole round. Hope that helps!

[@MartinHN81]

Real Nice video, thanks alot, was vers helpfull!!

[@TheGameLocker]

Always a pleasure to help!

[@elqord.1118]

And well enough they will release the Fellowship as a saga next :)

[@opatxc78]

Awesoke video man. Any plans to unbox the fellowship and two towers?

[@TheGameLocker]

Maybe one day, but no current plans to due to life obligations :)

[@opatxc78]

@@TheGameLocker thanks for replying man. I know the life game all too well - kids have changed everything!

[@Kindlesmith70]

Nabbed me a bunch of stuff for the game. Sadly the ever popular Silvan starter deck ise sold out pretty much everywhere in AU so I had to dig outside for it. I found myself watching another vdeo series by another bloke that explained the various sets. Sure this cost a lot, but then I've paid for the everything of Arkham Horror. I didn't grab all of the revised campaign sets since some didn't sound interesting to me. Would be wild to play one epic campaign from Shadows of Mirkwood to the Vengeance of Mordor, although I bet the player deck would be godly way before reaching the very last scenario, unless there's some rule dictating how many boons you can have in any deck.

[@TheGameLocker]

Nice, I hope you enjoy it! As for one epic campaign, each one is intended to be standalone, with boons/burdens not carrying over from one campaign to the next, with one exception: The revised core set campaign (with or without the additional 2 quests in the Dark of Mirkwood expansion) allow you to carry over 2-3 boons into your "next" campaign only. They especially help with the Angmar campaign.

[@andysiegel725]

Great video! I learned a lot. I played LOTR LCG a lot a few years ago with the core set and shadows of Mirkwood cycle. When there was a sale, I got the Khazad-dum, Heirs of Numenor and Lost Realm expansions. I opened Khazad-dum, but not the other two. I recently got back into playing the game with a friend and rediscovering my love of it. Considering what I already have, do you think any of the Starter Decks are unnecessary for me to get? I think I’m going to get Elves of Lorien, but not sure on the others. Thanks for any advice!

[@TheGameLocker]

Glad the video was helpful! If all you have are the three deluxe boxes, and Shadows of Mirkwood cycle, then I don’t think any of the starter decks are unnecessary for you.

[@andysiegel725]

Good to know, thanks for the reply! Looking forward to more coverage on the game from you!

[@zifnabdr]

This was a great video! Only halfway through it but now I want a Ranged combat deck just to shoot everyone down :)

[@TheGameLocker]

It’s a lot of fun in multiplayer to have a lot of ranged characters, for sure :). Silvans with a tactics hero like Legolas from the core set can dish out SO much damage across the table.

[@ghstrdio]

So if I have two of the original core boxes am I good to go? Or do I need to buy the new core box?

[@TheGameLocker]

Generally speaking you’re good to go. The main thing you’re missing are all of the campaign cards with boons and burdens, but you can print those for free on FFG’s website.

[@redtailedhawkdude]

Now the question is do I get these or do I get the Angmar boxes first? I don't think I need to get the revised core set, I still have the original core set. I plan on buying any revised sets they make but if they for whatever reson don't remake them all I guess I'll have to go hunt down the old ones.

[@TheGameLocker]

It’s impossible to predict whether they will reprint all the content that’s not getting the repackaged treatment. I’d say the best way to get all the other content is to buy a used collection. There’s like 1-2 a month being sold on the Facebook group and subreddit. However, the repackaged content we are 99% sure is coming (based on designer interviews), will still amount to 50 quests! That’s enough to enjoy for many, many years.

[@bbblackwell]

I don't know what products like these means for the future of LOTR LCG... By offering mash-up decks and sets, is FFG telling us we'll never see re-releases of the original cycles?

[@stevenritchie3399]

Not like FFG to get Lore wrong, but Celeborn is a Sindarin Elf and not a Silvan Elf. But I love the art. :)

[@TheGameLocker]

The downside of trying to simplify down to only two elf traits for the game :)

[@lakshminarasimhanb2495]

Based on these decks, if they ever do a repackage of the Hobbit Saga (probably not very likely), it could be a campaign-only expansion, with added cards for Bilbo Baggins and the Magic ring (plus I guess campaign content that was not there in the original saga)?

[@flipsutter1]

With the gamezcenter not being able to sell any more pod I wonder if ffg is losing the license

[@tfg301]

Hi do you have a way to put the cards sleeved back in the case or do you have a special one for that ?

[@TheGameLocker]

The revised core set box will fit sleeved cards, so that's where I put mine. These clamshells the starter decks came in will not fit sleeved cards.

[@theMikeKop]

I never had a chance to get into it, was mainly into Marvel Champions and tried some of Arkham. If I’d get the revised core set and these decks, would you recommend trying to get any of the older stuff that would still be available, or going after the new/reprinted stuff if there would be more of it coming out?

[@TheGameLocker]

Sort of depends on whether you’re expecting to go all-in on a game like this (did you go all-in on Marvel?), or if you just want the *best* this game has to offer. The best content is almost certainly going to get repackaged in the new format (Angmar Awakened, Dream-Chaser, Ered Mithrin, and possibly the LOTR Sagas). The older stuff may or may not get reprinted, no guarantee.

[@theMikeKop]

I went all in up to the release of the second big expansion for Marvel before had to take a break, might go back into it at another time.

[@TheGameLocker]

Gotcha. I’d say if you can be patient, it’s probably going to be better for you to wait for the repackaged content. The two Angmar Awakened boxes release in June & July in the US, that with the Revised core and Starter decks is PLENTY of content to play for a long time and see if you really like it! I can also recommend the Dark Of Mirkwood if you want two more quests that are a bit easier, good for learning the game and the campaign cards are really great. Note that playing the new campaign mode makes the game much more enjoyable in my opinion, also easier (though this game is always hard)

[@andrewallen446]

Why do you think the Errand Rider is such a great card but the Pelargir Ship Captain isn't? I know the Ship Captain costs one more resource but you get 1 stats in Willpower & Attack whereas Errand Rider has 0 in all. And they both have the same ability... albeit you can only play it once with the Ship Captain. That bit confused me a little as I think both cards are a bit meh for what they cost 😆

[@TheGameLocker]

I think the better/closer comparison for Pelargir Ship Captain is Envoy of Pelargir. Honestly, if Envoy didn't exist I think I'd like the Captain a lot more. Envoy is neutral and ADDS a resource to any Gondor/Noble hero, essentially making the card cost 1 (note its also supposed to only have 1 hit point; the starter deck misprinted it as 2 hit points). Captain is leadership, and only MOVES a resource one time, so it still costs 2. The difference between a 1-cost neutral ally that smoothes resources and a 2-cost leadership ally that smoothes resources for almost the same stats (just 1 hotpoint difference) is really huge in this game.

[@TheGameLocker]

Errand Rider is great because he only costs 1 (!), and the effect is repeatable. This guy enables ANY multi sphere deck to function more efficiently. Getting your resources where they need to be when you need them is essential, and often allows you to play key cards 1-2 rounds SOONER than you would otherwise. Imagine running a tri-sphere deck with leadership/spirit/lore. On turn 1, you can play errand rider, use him to move the lore resource to spirit, and play a 2-cost spirit ally to help you quest without having to wait until round 2. Awesome. This guy's also an amazing support character in multiplayer. Pair him with Steward of Gondor and supply everyone else with resources wherever they're needed for the rest of the game.

[@Jackthetattedone]

Great analysis!

[@popgas3821]

I envy that you have Survive and Wits and Wagers chilling at the back 😂.

[@lordohnehelm]

Is it right, that if i put Gloin ally into play with help of e.g. sneak attack, he doesn't get is response ability?

[@TheGameLocker]

that’s correct, because sneak attack does not “play him from your hand”.

[@arrnorn6142]

@TheGameLocker how do you store your cards?

[@TheGameLocker]

I’ve used a bit of everything - revised core box, a core box with a broken token insert, a core box with a go7gaming insert (better than broken token imo), BCW boxes with foam and dividers, Tesseract Games dividers, deck boxes (dragon shield are my favorite), a SmartHive with many deck boxes, colored binders for player cards.

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

I realized recently that War Axe says attached characters get the +1 for each restricted attachment. Is that an errata, or does this actually give a bonus to each character with restricted attachments?

[@TheGameLocker]

It only applies to the character holding the axe ;)

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker Hm. That's very odd wording then. I don't understand why it says characters and not character. At least tactics allies can use it and it only costs 1. I have a question not about a card or rule. What is your favorite cycle? I'm also very curious as to why the A Shadow in the East deluxe expansion is near impossible to find. I noticed that it has some of the highest difficulty levels overall and the last adventure pack has the only 10 difficulty. Could that be why, or did that set have a lower print run? Do you have any ideas? That's the only one that I have yet to find aside from a couple ebay auctions that ended in $100+. I have all of the others aside from the ones for the cycles that are going to get a repackaging and the Voice of Isengard one because looking at the quests for that one after hearing your opinion, I don't think I'm going to like them either. I get the impression that you need to use rush decks, and I do not like rush decks. I find them to be rather boring and too straightforward. If my impression is accurate, then that means there's no room for replayability by using different decks. Not only that, but playing in groups means you need a rush deck for each player. Would you say that you need a rush deck to beat it without it being near impossible to beat?

[@TheGameLocker]

@@GuardianAngelEatos Funny, looks like you found a typo with the starter deck printing of War Axe - the original printing said "character". Shadow in the East and that cycle was the very last cycle released for the game, so it was in print the LEAST amount of time of all the cycles. FFG knew it was going to be their last cycle, so they really wanted to go out with a bang, challenging players to the maximum and giving them some incredibly powerful player cards and Contracts that really blew up deck building, allowing players to enjoy their large cardpool for literally decades. I REALLY enjoyed the quests in the last cycle, but they were designed to be the most challenging, and sort of assume you have a VERY large cardpool to build from. For the Isengard cycle, I don't think it requires rush decks - it just punishes you for bringing turtling decks, and the Dundland enemies punish you for drawing a bunch of cards. I'd say you can bring a good variety of decks to that cycle, I didn't find it that difficult (except for Dunland Trap). I REALLY enjoyed a couple quests in that cycle (trouble in tharbad, three trials but only in multiplayer), but most of the others were just okay, I'd rather play other cycles.

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker Oh! So it is an errata. I thought that wording was weird. Yeah, I'm aware it was the last cycle, and that does make sense why there would be less available, which is why I had the thought that maybe it had a lower print run since that seems to be normal for the last sets produced for card games. That sounds amazing, and I really hope I can manage to find all of them! I already got a couple of the adventure packs hoping that someday I'll find the deluxe set. I always love a good challenge! Okay, well that was my biggest concern about the Isengard ones. Yeah I can imagine the slower decks having a rough time as it gets worse over time with all of those timed effects. I forget the key word name for that mechanic. Dunland Trap if I recall had the highest difficulty level for that cycle? That seems to be the one that people like the most from the ratings that I've seen. Thank you for your opinion on that cycle. I have been unsure if to get that one to give it a go or just pass on it. Ah so you just liked those two? And one of those is impossible to find, and the other hard to find. That's interesting to me, because Trouble in Tharbad on lotr-lcg-quest-companion.gamersdungeon.net/ is the least liked. Granted it is a small portion of people that have played, and everyone has different tastes and opinions, and that is fascinating to me. If it weren't for the fact that the expansions are low in quantity and getting harder to find and prices going up quickly, I would just wait until I've played through all of the expansions that I have and then get the ones from the Ring-Maker Cycle, but by the time I do that, it very likely will be too late. Who knows how many repackages products there will be?

[@simounobrien9096]

May I ask, Does Elrond's Effect stack up to your healing? Like if I used Lembas to heal for 3 damage, would that mean Elrond's Effect boosts it to 4?

[@TheGameLocker]

correct

[@simounobrien9096]

@@TheGameLocker Thank you :D!!!! On an update, I played both the Elves of Lorien and Riders of Rohan Decks. I think your analysis about the decks themselves pretty much is on point. Celeborn's Combo with Host of Galadhrim one shots Ungoliant's Spawn and the Hill Troll like butter XD!!!!!!!

[@simounobrien9096]

Finally got ALL Starter Decks and I stand by my previous statement that your overall analysis is Perfection. The Dwarves of Durin play style is just super fun. A Deck that encourages Discarding your own Cards? Hahahah. Super Unique. Though personally, The Elves of Lorien are my favorite. I just love the Combo system it brings to the table that gives so many options and favorable Outcomes that can end an entire Questline in about 6-8 rounds in best case scenarios :D

[@TheGameLocker]

@@simounobrien9096 Yep, the Elves are pretty amazing!

[@chronicxhistories]

I love the Dwarves of During starter deck! I'm a freshling halfling to the game and this video convinced me to buy it. Lol I had the original core set and was using a single sphere deck and whatever quest I was on, I failed miserably 😂😂 But then a bunch of Dwarves landed on my doorstep.... And I haven't lost a game yet 😅 (I now own the revised core set and I've been playing campaign mode with my Dwarves. They smaaasssssh even more with the campagin features!) PS: Also Bombur does suck. I usually use him as a sacrifice with no reward, it's just nice seeing him die haha. 🤷 but im planning on replacing him soon haha which mark my first deck building experience (with one card lol)

[@TheGameLocker]

Very strong deck indeed, glad you're enjoying it! You should also try adding in Nori to include the spirit cards (especially Zigil Miner) to lean into the mining/delving mechanic, that's my favorite way to play the deck :).

[@chronicxhistories]

@@TheGameLocker I forgot about dear old Nori! I think you mentioned him in this video and I thought 'Dearly noted' but of course he slipped my mind once my deck came and I started winning haha. (I'm a fool of a Took!) I can see why you recommended Zigil Miner. It's perfect for mining! It's a really fun mechanic and you often feel OP when it starts to kick in! PS: I completed the Dol Goldur quest (Second Try) for the very first time tonight: thanks to my army of dwarves! Thanks for the tips! I'm def excited for more of your content man. I think a lot of us are! You make LOTR LCG less scary for us newbies, you're like a Gandalf for newbies haha.

[@simounobrien9096]

@@chronicxhistories I am about to get the Dwarves of Durin and I really like the Fili/Kili Combo Response. You get two allies for the prices of just Three Resources. Bombur is actually not that bad when you do Dwarrowdelf (Khazad-Dum). Then again, he is quite good for taking damage on your behalf so you can save your heroes and more important allies (Especially good when there are High Damaging Enemies). So I wouldn't necessarily say he is the Worst Card of the Starter Decks, I think he is just situational but that 3 Hitpoints is still pretty good. As for Dain Ironfoot. Oh boy, I think he is essential for any Dwarf Deck. Cannot wait to try the Deck out

[@jamie2015]

Which alternative to bomber you have?

[@TheGameLocker]

you mean which card do I use instead of Bombur in my deck? Pretty much ANY other card would be better, you pick :)

[@mihajlohranisavljevic6412]

If i litteraly buy one of those decks, and one standalone campaign, use some proxy tokens, download rules for game i can basically play without core set?

[@TheGameLocker]

Technically...it is possible. However, you'd have to manually keep track of your threat level, and resources/damage/progress. If you're already familiar with the game this could work, but if you're just starting out I think you'd do yourself a disservice by skipping the core set & Dark of Mirkwood quests, as these will really help you ease into learning the game before being dropped into one of the campaigns that will have many more mechanics and a lot more going on. I wouldn't start there as a new player.

[@TheGameLocker]

Plus, the core set has a TON of staple cards that are used in the strongest decks, even with a full cardpool.

[@mihajlohranisavljevic6412]

@@TheGameLocker Plus core box has Legolas which is my favorite hero in this game and has best artwork 😀

[@tfg301]

I play always solo and i play the Elves Deck. Can i attack with every ranged card the stage area? Or always with haldir

[@TheGameLocker]

Sadly the Ranged and Sentinel keywords do nothing in solo. Attacking into the staging area is not something ranged characters can normally do, it’s a special ability that only certain cards let you do. Haldir’s ability says “…exhaust Haldir to declare HIM as an attacker (and resolve his attack)…”. The text does not allow you to exhaust additional characters to join in Haldir’s attack, rather it says you must immediately resolve the attack with just Haldir. Hope that helps!

[@tfg301]

@@TheGameLocker Thanks

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

I just noticed you mentioned any deck with lore should include Daeron's Ruins. Can you not play a 0 costed card unless you have that sphere among your heroes? Can't you only get resources from Mablung's ability once per phase?

[@TheGameLocker]

You are correct on both. 0 cost cards still require a resource match to be played from your hand. However, you can bypass the resource match requirement if you can find a way to "put the card into play" (cards like Stand and Fight or Sneak Attack). Mablung's ability is once per phase, so it could potentially trigger multiple times per round depending on when enemies engage you.

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker I see. I missed that in the rulebook. I figured it could be bypassed by using effects that put into play like a lot of tcgs do. What about Mablung's effect? Reading it again I don't see how it can be used twice a round.

[@TheGameLocker]

“Once per phase” is different than “once per round”. Normally, enemies are engaged during the encounter phase. But some quests have enemies that engage you during the quest phase (like as soon as they are revealed from the encounter deck during staging). Some quests also have locations that force you to engage an enemy if you travel there during the travel phase. There are also player cards that let you engage enemies during the planning phase (like Son of Arnor). So in a perfect scenario, if you happen to engage an enemy during the planning phase, and another in the quest phase, and another in the travel phase, and another in the Encounter phase, Mablung’s response would trigger four times, since those enemies were all engaged in different phases. His ability is only limited to once per phase. Make sense?

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker Yes, I know they're different. If it said once per phase you could use in different phases. Oh! Okay, now that I know that, I see how you could use it multiple times. Thank you for clarifying that. I didn't even think of player cards that make you engage an enemy. I can't believe I didn't think of that!

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker I have another question. What expansions have more support for a trap deck? I don't think there is enough for a valid one between Agmar, the four starter decks, and the core set, but I would like to build a trap deck.

[@ratatat-tat6160]

In your overall analysis section you mentioned that the lead designer avoided printing cards that will be printed in the future, so does that mean that FF will not be re-printing ALL of the content, just a select few?

[@TheGameLocker]

FFG folks have said elsewhere that they do not currently plan to repackage all the content. Current indications from the starter deck makeup as well as other comments have led us to believe that Angmar Awakened, Dream-Chaser, Ered Mithrin, and the Lord of the Rings Saga expansions are the only content getting repackaged right now. That doesn't mean they won't keep reprinting the other content in the old format, but we just don't know right now.

[@ratatat-tat6160]

@@TheGameLocker awesome thanks for the reply! Also, random question: I have the old core set with all the saga expansions (hobbit and LOTR)… would you suggest any of the new starter decks to boost my current pool? Thanks!

[@TheGameLocker]

@@ratatat-tat6160 They're all great, you can see my final thoughts at the end of the video, but they all have useful cards to expand your cardpool.

[@TheLastPhoen1x]

No Thranduil in Silvan deck T_T

[@TheGameLocker]

Yeah - but they had already planned on reprinting the Ered Mithrin cycle though so folks will get him soon enough ;)

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

So were the sets re-printed like the starter decks? I just bought the digital game a few months ago and discovered the physical card game today, and love the digital game and would love to buy boosters if they are available for a reasonable price! You don't have to tell me twice a 0 cost draw 2 discard one is a staple! Haha! I should have watched the whole thing first. That's awesome that some of these sets are getting a re-print! I just wish they weren't so expensive. Getting them all would cost well over $1000.

[@TheGameLocker]

Right you are - it's between 1-2k for a complete collection of this game, but keep in mind that's over 10 years of developed content! Most players grew their collection as the game developed, spending on average less than $15 per month. There's a ridiculous amount of content, so just start with the re-released content and you'll have enough content to enjoy for years! Also, the digital game is very different than the physical game. Related, but different :) Also also, the physical game isn't a traditional CCG/TCG with randomized booster packs - it's marketed as an "LCG" with expansions that have a predictable fixed set of cards, so much less expensive than other CCGs/TCGs.

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker That is true. My one concern is that it won't be enjoyable after going through the quests once or twice. I'm not sure how the re-release content so far would be enjoyed for years. I guess I'll need to see the differences in the physical card game to find out. Oh really? I'll have to look through the how to play video that you made then. I wasn't expecting it to be that different aside from some obvious things due to being a card game and not digital. Yes, I learned that there aren't boosters after doing some searching. It's nice to have everything in one box and yes for sure it is much less expensive. Is there a way to buy everything but the player cards so I'm not spending so much money on the game for cards that I don't need? So, what does the L in LCG mean? I have seen the term before, but I don't know what the L is short for.

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker Oh by the way, I love your collection in the background! I recognize a lot of these games, and I also have an Amiibo collection myself and both the 8-bit Mario amiibos. Is that Lord of the Ring Trivial Pursuit on the left?

[@GuardianAngelEatos]

@@TheGameLocker Also, you were right I see on the sagas. They do not include any new content and are also getting repackaged, but you know that already I'm sure. I can't find the Black Riders expansion anywhere though, so it looks like my only option is to wait for the repackaged version that has both that one and The Road Darkens.

[@TheGameLocker]

@@GuardianAngelEatos Yeah the repackaged Fellowship Of The Ring box will probably be my #1 recommended first purchase for new players since the quests are all excellent, and really showcase just how DIFFERENT each one can feel, and how the mechanics of this game can translate the THEME of the story so well. I don't think you can get bored of the quests after only one or two plays - the game is SO customizable that playing through each quest with different types of decks, and different numbers of players really offers a different experience.

[@amsfountain8792]

Nice review.

[@metalblizzard6024]

What deck for true solo play would you say?

[@TheGameLocker]

I'd say the only deck that doesn't really work as well true solo is the Rohan deck. It's great in multiplayer (especially with a Sentinel defender on the table like Beregond from the Gondor deck), but struggles in true solo. All the others work great in true solo!

[@metalblizzard6024]

@@TheGameLocker Subbed for the thoughtful reply! Keep up the good content!

[@TheGameLocker]

@@metalblizzard6024 Anytime! Happy to help!

[@Alex-yy6oi]

Great videos!!

[@DanyRots]

This decks are all but not starter...every deck contains a lot of combo and tricks that are really really for advanced player.

[@RandoFromMars]

You want some complexity in starter products like this. If you give a new player a very straightforward deck without many decisions, yes they'll probably do better initially, but it makes for a less interesting time playing. You want to challenge them a bit, and let them have those "A-ha!" moments when they figure out a combo or a complicated timing/ interaction. Also, having a (relatively) high skill deck lets the player keep using it as they learn more about the game and become more confident; you don't outgrow the decks, instead, as you grow in skill, so too your deck becomes more potent. It's an awesome feeling. Anyway, as someone who played MtG for a while - who's starter decks were a joke - I love how these starter products are being built. Can't wait to get into LotR!

[@ytubebrowser7560]

Future videos, please say the names of the cards. Every card is "this guy"

[@TheGameLocker]

Oh my goodness, you’re right! Funny how you never notice your own personal quirks until someone points them out to you :)

[@ytubebrowser7560]

@@TheGameLocker Glad to help. Amazing channel here

[@ZoSoPage1977]

...second in line! lol : )

[@Grimmlocked]

Picked up all 4 decks, Mirkwood. And I told myself I can’t buy angmar until I beat all the missions

[@TheGameLocker]

There’s some motivation, haha. Enjoy!

[@RAWxxx07]

When adding Gandalf to the Dwarf deck, which of the Dwarf Heros should I remove for him? Any other adjustments to improve it?

[@TheGameLocker]

Try different combos! If you keep Dain your high starting threat may be a problem so you could add Nori. I also used Nori + Ori + Gandalf. See what works for you!

[@RAWxxx07]

@@TheGameLocker Ok thx :)

[@RAWxxx07]

I want to get into the Lotr with the revised Core box and then get the expansions. But I don't really understand all the expansions. Can I still buy them? Are they old and not revised like the core box? Will many of them get reprinted or do I have to spend a fortune on ebay?

[@TheGameLocker]

If you're a completionist and want to get everything for this game, your best bet is to buy a used collection on eBay, or join the Facebook group & Reddit communities and check daily as there will be collections posted multiple times per month. They have stopped reprinting all content in the OLD format (Deluxe boxes and Adventure Packs), and will only be printing the revised & repackaged content moving forward (revised core, Dark of Mirkwood, Starter Decks, Campaign boxes & Hero Boxes, etc.). Subscribe to the Gamezenter newsletter too as they have been reprinting the Nightmare Decks and Standalone scenarios roughly every 6 months it seems, so that's the best shop to get those expansions. Hope that helps!

[@TheGameLocker]

If you're not a completionist, I would highly recommend only buying the repackaged content, as it will give you the BEST the game has to offer. The Fellowship of the Ring Saga box that just came out is a fantastic "first" expansion to buy if you still want to try the game out first before diving in completely.

[@RAWxxx07]

Thank you very much. You got me into playing the LotR lcg. Got the core + Dark of mirkwood set and love it, especially the campagne mode. One last question I also want to get the Saga (revised ed has campaign mode) and the Hobbit Saga (not available as revised ed) Does the Hobbit Saga also have a campaign mode? So can I buy it as used product? Or should I wait and hope for a revised ed of the

[@TheGameLocker]

@@RAWxxx07 Cool! I'm so glad you enjoy it! And good news - all the original Saga expansions had a campaign mode to begin with, so the new repackaged version is IDENTICAL to the original products. If you find em used for a decent price (good luck), go for it!

[@RAWxxx07]

@@TheGameLocker I already bought the revised LotR box but will go for a Hobbit box hunt then :) Thanks a lot and keep up the nice videos coming :)