Matched Play events can be a bit of an unknown quantity for those who haven’t been to one before. Despite that, they’re always great fun, and a brilliant way to meet like-minded players. We’ve prepared a few tips and tricks for anyone considering attending their first Middle-earth Strategy Battle Games event.
Read the Event Pack
Though this may sound obvious, many tournament attendees are guilty of not checking the event pack for any variations from the Matched Play Guide – particularly veterans! Keep an eye out in particular for the following:
The points level: It can be hard to write an army list without knowing how many points you have to play with… Knowing the points level will help with anticipating the forces that other people might take – as certain armies are particularly popular at different levels.
Changes to army composition: Some Middle-earth events require attendees to bring both a Good and Evil army, along with other restrictions or changes. Be sure to check if there are any differences to traditional Army List construction that you might need to factor in.
The scenarios: Knowing how the scenarios are determined is another factor to consider before deciding upon your army. If they are predetermined, spend some time thinking about what attributes your army might possess and how they can be used to tackle each one. If they are to be determined at the event, ensure your army is balanced and able to approach any situation. That being said, few armies are suited to every scenario…
The venue: Knowing the facilities on offer at the venue allows you to prepare things such as drinks, snacks and meals in advance. There is nothing worse than turning up, hoping for second breakfast, to find out they aren’t providing food until lunchtime.
What to Take with You?
It’s useful to write a list of what to take with you before you go, especially if you are travelling a long way from home. Here are some that we recommend, along with a few suggestions from folks around the Warhammer Studio:
Dice
Measuring tape or measuring sticks
Appropriate rules manual and supplements
Notepad and pen/pencil (very important for recording Might, Will and Fate points!)
25mm Objective markers
Printed army lists in an easy-to-read format
A drink and snacks
A phone charger (particularly helpful if you’re using e-publications)
Adhesive putty (great for making sure Objective markers don’t accidentally move)
Superglue (for the rare instances when something breaks)
Practice Makes Perfect
Getting a few practice games in beforehand can really help to improve your tournament experience. Not only are you going to be more confident in how your army works, but you’re also going to be able to play in a timely fashion without needing to consult the rules as much.
The Middle-earth Strategy Battle game is designed to be enjoyed by the most noble and gentle of Hobbits, the kind of folk Mr Bilbo would approve of having over for dinner. Even when your luck is down and victory seems uncertain, be sure to maintain a kind and friendly demeanour – it’s in the code of conduct after all!
The Middle-earth Throne of Skulls event is fast approaching, and we hope that this article has helped if you are thinking of attending. For more information on how a Matched Play event is run, or if you’re considering organising one of your own, be sure to pick up a copy of the Middle-earth Matched Play Guide.