Each player has their own deck of cards, representing the strengths and weaknesses of the various factions involved in the war. The Free Peoples are desperate to complete the destruction of the One Ring while defending their lands from the devastating hordes of Sauron and his evil allies. The Shadow must strike quickly and decisively before the Ring-bearers succeed in their quest, or corrupt Frodo, damaging him with wounds, fatigue, and grief for the loss of his Fellows.
During a round, you alternate turns playing cards representing characters, armies, items and events from the War of the Ring. At the end of each round, battles between opposing cards on the same battlefield and roads are resolved. You earn victory points by winning battles.