What do people think of the 4th Age game?
How slow does it start? Are the artifacts scrambled?
How many turns does it generally last?
I really enjoy it and makes for a good team game. Some of the die hards look down on it but some prefer it to the chess of 1650. Artifacts numbers are randomised which I prefer. I enjoy the nation design aspect and then you only have yourself to blame if things go wrong and its better then getting the Woodmen to make up the numbers. Currently on t30 and t22 of current games and theres typically only one winner if you get that far in 1650.
Thx, Zanussi.
I bought the materials for this game a long time ago?
Are there changes or did the order numbers stay the same?
The setup has changed a lot in the last few years. You can download the “universal” rule book from middleearthgames.com I think 1.19 is the latest pdf.
I’m looking to get in to the next 4th Age game started.
Are the freeps, evils, and neutrals somewhat evenly accounted for?
What about nation locations? Has anyone tried the “any location” for the extra gold?
Great! I’m a big 4th Age fan and will be playing in the next game as well.
The mix between FP, DS and Neuts can vary from game to game, but something like 9/9/7 is common.
If you’re willing to play any region it’s a fine choice, but I usually pick regions that compliment my nation make up. If you do end up in a vulnerable location surrounded by enemies, you’ll certainly need to adjust your nation design in order to survive. ie don’t try to play a mage/agent nation in the middle of Rhovanion. And if you want a safer start, you can always go neutral, or if FP/DS put your capital in a mountain hex for a bit of added security.
The pace is pretty fast - you usually see a few capitals sacked by turn 10. There is definitely no ‘grace period’ for building up. Expect that neighbors with Hire for Free or Conjure Mounts, and 10+ starting war machines can come at you straight off.
Also the camp limit is usually hit by turn 3 or 4 so you’ll need to get out to post/create camps like crazy the first few turns to have a shot at building a solid economy.
Lastly, the same fundamentals apply: build strong characters, build up your economy, get on the offensive before you’re put on the defensive, communicate with all your allies and neutrals.
Great SNA’s are:
Hire for Free
Conjure Mounts
Agents/Emmys/Commanders @ 40
Double Scout
+20 Buy/Sell
Good Luck!
Adam
How does the sequence go for the start of the game?
I have turned in an alliance preference. What happens next?
I am aware that it will still be some time before it fills. I think it may be down to 6 nations remaining.
You should send MEG your 3 region preferences, or “any region” if that’s your choice.
Once they have enough sign-ups, they’ll assign allegiances and regions, after which you have a week or so to send them your nation design.
I recommend using the excel spreadsheet for doing the design.
Good Luck!
The 4th Age game is down to needing only 3 nations to fill up. Hope it is soon.