The Battle of Five Armies

[odin]

What about a BFA game/expansion? It's one of my favorite battles and I think that it is time that we get a new BFA game. (remember BFA from ICE?). Does the War of the Ring team have the rights to use The Hobbit materials?

[astartes]

An interesting idea, but how do you suggest adapting the current game for use with it? Only the Northern Nations took part, and it happened in the region of Erebor; not a particularly large area. I can see how it could be made in a way similair to the Gondor and Rohan games that will be part of the soon to be released expansion, but it would require several new Miniatures and Characters.

[madwoffen]

Adapting may not be so easy. The map/board and characters are the first "easy" elements but don't forget the things like game balance and event cards. It could take month to fit all together.

[odin]

it's a new game with new rules,new miniatures and a new map of course. By the way, does someone have played ICE Battle of five armies?(i have not but i am trying to get the game).

[astartes]

Yes, the ICE Battle of Five armies was my favourite. It had a full colour board (map of the Lonely Mountain and the surrounding land) and it gave the combatants a lot of individuality. It will be quite hard to get a copy now though, seeing as it was released in 1984. However, I would advise the Games Workshop version of the Battle. It is a full game in a box, and there are several additions that expand on the game, for example Elvish Cavalry, Storm Giants, Trolls, Bat Swarms and Smaug.

[odin]

I have the GW version and it is not bad but I heard that the ICE version is better and more true to the book. Can you confirm?

[madwoffen]

I do not know the particular laws in internet and the rights of ICE but since it is not more edited, can you maybe scan the rules ? After all, rules are also available for WotR on download...

[astartes]

I would post it if I could, but my copy of the game was lost in a fire a couple of years ago. I know you can find the map and token images on certain sites, and a basic summary of the rules. Take a look on Tolkien enthusiast sites for information. Also, I think it is true that the ICE game was more loyal than the GW product to the books.

[odin]

Hello, I just want to tell you that i have found(buy) ICE battle of five armies ;D and it cost me $85.00(US) plus shipping(more than $100.00 Canadian!) Hope it will be worth the $$. (I have found the game on NOBLE KNIGHT GAMES).