Francesca Viganò
In this review, we will talk to you about Realms of the Three Rings, a setting module for the roleplaying game The One Ring. The highly successful second edition of the TTRPG based on The Lord of the Rings has been updated with a new manual. This one focuses specifically on the elves who still lived in Middle-earth as the Third Age was coming to an end. We want to thank the Swedish publisher Free League Publishing for providing us with a digital copy of this beautiful manual.
If you would like to purchase the supplement after reading this review, you can find it directly on the publisher’s store. The physical version costs 438 Swedish kronor (US$ 43.80) and includes a digital copy. The same store also sells all products released to date for The One Ring by Free League. If you are interested in the game but are not yet familiar with it, you can read our review first.
Review of the Aesthetics of Realms of the Three Rings
The approximately 130-page supplement is disarmingly beautiful, confirming once again how successful the graphic choices of this editorial line are. Typeface, the borders framing the pages inspired by Elvish writing, and the illuminated initials are extremely elegant and immediately transport the reader into the innate grace of the creatures and places explored in the text.
The illustrations, starting with Antonio De Luca‘s wonderful cover, embellish the pages, punctuating them with visual references that perfectly combine roleplaying with Tolkien’s imagination. The maps, which are extremely useful given that this is a volume dedicated to specific territories, accompany the text without overwhelming it and provide perfect geo-spatial references to accompany the narrative.
Where the Elves of the West Still Linger
The book opens with this extremely evocative title. This chapter provides an very detailed description of the lands and dwellings of the Elves of Lindon, Rivendell, and Lothlorien. The text introduces an interesting overview of the history of the Elves through the Ages. Fans of The Silmarillion will find here some interesting details, especially about the creation of the Rings of Power and the influence they had on the Elven kingdoms of Middle-earth.
A beautiful map and an accurate, yet concise, description of the geography of each territory are provided. Places of interest and notable residents are listed. We discover, for instance, that Gaethel of the Anvils, one of the finest chainmail makers in Middle-earth, resides in Haelond. Some tables are seamlessly integrated into the text and provide a wealth of information, such as when exploring city markets. As if that were not enough, details on the climate, local produce, flora and fauna of each area are also included.
This chapter introduces new mechanics for characters who spend time in the Elven lands. For example, since time can pass differently for those who cross the threshold of these realms, it will be up to the Loremaster to determine how much time has passed for the group during their visit.
The Days Darken
The second chapter of Realms of the Three Rings presents a series of interesting details and ideas. These provide perfect inspiration for the Loremaster to incorporate elements, situations, antagonists and non-player characters (NPCs) into their own plot. In just twenty pages, we encounter figures such as Zagruk, the orc sorcerer whom Sauron intends to use to block the roads leading to the sea.
The Loremaster is never left alone when it comes to the game’s rich and solid setting. There are statistics and guidelines for each NPC, providing management and interpretation. The chronology is also detailed enough to provide a solid foundation for developing campaigns or shorter adventures independently. There are also suggestions for resolving conflicts between factions.
Landmarks: Twelve Scenarios Ready to Play
The third chapter of the manual provides twelve ready-to-play scenarios. Their structure is similar to that seen in other supplements for the game. Each landmark is first presented through rumours, and then through historical knowledge that can be gained about the place. This is followed by the scenario’s background, providing detailed information on its history and the circumstances that led to the current situation. Finally, the actual places are described in a basic but sufficient manner to enable effective management, with the support of the provided maps.
These pages tell the story of Elrond’s family and explain his attitude towards his daughter, Arwen. They also introduce characters such as Cauthlin, the spirit of deception who has inhabited Middle-earth since its creation.
Among the twelve scenarios, my favorite is undoubtedly the one dedicated to the Nimrodel waterfalls, located northwest of Lórien. In just a few pages, it outlines the places, history, and characteristic elements. If that weren’t enough, it also details the natural creatures that inhabit them, such as the raven-black deer with golden eyes, impossible to capture, so much so that it is considered an enchanted creature.
Appendices: an Element Not to Be Overlooked
Just like the work on which it is based, this supplement’s appendices are essential for interesting content management. These are not mere additions intended to add colour or summarise concepts. Rather, they are an integral part of the game, detailing additional rules. This enables players to create their own elf character and find rules for solo play as a powerful Lord of the Elves.
These valuable pages allow players to create their own Elf by selecting their territory of origin and unique characteristics and virtues. If inspiration is lacking, there is also a wide selection of male and female names to choose from. One intriguing detail is the rule on how the famous waybread, Lembas, works.
Conclusions of the Review of Realms of the Three Rings
The One Ring is a special game in many ways. It’s the kind of game you either love or don’t understand. Free League has done an exceptional job of making a complex text accessible, given that it is based on a deep and multifaceted setting. While a new supplement might seem contradictory or redundant in other contexts, here it serves to enhance an already outstanding product.
Realms of the Three Rings provides a comprehensive overview of the Elven kingdoms, delving into their themes and background. It also offers ideas and suggestions for hours of gameplay to satisfy even the most demanding players.
In short, if you are a fan of Middle-earth and appreciate The One Ring, this Realms of the Three Rings is a must-have for your collection.
