strider™

mode
R U L E S F O R S O L O R O L E P L A Y I N G
 STRIDER MODE

FACE THE WILDS

ALONE
“He is one of the wandering folk — Rangers we call them.
He seldom talks: not but what he can tell a rare tale when
he has the mind. He disappears for a month, or a year,
and then he pops up again. What his right name is, I’ve never
heard: but he’s known around here as Strider.”

rom the moment we meet Aragorn in The Lord of the The concept of solo pen-­and-­paper roleplaying originates
Rings, we feel drawn to his hard-­bitten stoicism and with the “choose your own adventure” novels of the ‘70s and
uncanny survivability. Who is this dark, hooded fig- the random dungeon generation tables in early editions of
ure subsisting on the edges of civilization, living in popular roleplaying games.
harmony with the shadowed wilds — and on what sorts of Solo tools have since evolved beyond those experiences.
adventures does he embark? Contemporary solo systems are designed to offer the same
With Strider Mode for The One Ring, players can set out on engaging narrative flexibility for a solo player as you experi-
solo journeys in the vein of Aragorn’s missions across Middle-­ ence in a game led by a Lore­master.
earth, facing danger and darkness with only steel, cunning, Since pen-­and-­paper roleplaying is typically a collabora-
and hope as companions. tive group activity, you might wonder what makes solo role-
playing worthwhile. While indeed a different experience, solo

WHAT IS STRIDER MODE?

play can be just as fun and rewarding.
If you aren’t sold on the idea, here are some things to
Strider Mode presents additional and modified rules to facil- consider.
itate solo play in The One Ring, as well as guidelines and tips ♦ Explore Tolkien’s world at your own pace, without
for solo players and a selection of random tables to help needing to coordinate schedules with others.
incite and inspire your lone wanderings across Middle-­earth. ♦ Enjoy sole control of the tone and focus of a campaign.
As with standard play in The One Ring, you play the game ♦ More deeply explore themes and subjects intriguing
and interact with the world from the perspective of your char- to you.
acter. You don’t need to talk out loud (though you can!), nor ♦ Put the spotlight on a specific character and focus on
are you writing the equivalent of a novel (though the occa- their goals, abilities, and challenges.
sional written note can help keep you on track). ♦ If you tend to play as the Lore­master, this is your
Instead, you envision the world, the figures and foes you opportunity to be a Player-­hero in the world of
encounter, and your character’s actions. The rules of The One Middle-­earth.
Ring help resolve those actions. When you need additional
guidance or inspiration for how the world responds to you, If you are already participating in a game led by a Lore­master,
or what you encounter in your journeys across Middle-­earth, you can use Strider Mode to explore other aspects of Tolk-
Strider Mode steps in to lend a hand. ien’s world. Perhaps you undertake independent adventures
with your Player-­hero while the members of the Company are

WHAT IS SOLO ROLEPLAYING?

away from one another, much as Gandalf does in The Hobbit.
Or you can experience the stories of a side-­character in your
Strider Mode does not require a Lore­master, allowing a sin- main campaign.
gle player to undertake journeys as a lone adventurer in the
perilous world of Middle-­earth.

2
 Introduction

HOW IT WORKS ADVENTURING PHASE

Strider Mode is supplementary to The One Ring — the core Much like the core experience of The One Ring, the flow of
rules are required for solo play, and familiarity with those play is broken up into various phases, chief of which is the
rules is assumed. Adventuring Phase. This experience differs slightly in Strider
Though in practice Strider Mode differs little from the Mode. You can find these expanded and modified rules on
core experience of The One Ring, there are some distinctions page 15, but the main differences are as follows:
that facilitate the solo experience and help drive the narra- ♦ No roles are assigned during Journeys. Instead, the
tive without a Lore­master at the helm. This supplement pro- sole Player-­hero reacts to situations as they arise, test-
vides options and tools to help guide your solo adventures ing their skills against hazards and obstacles.
in the Third Age. ♦ An expanded Journey Events Table (page 17) provides
a deeper and more varied experience for the solo
BASIC PHILOSOPHY player, offering just enough detail to help you envision
When you play The One Ring in Strider Mode, you guide the people, places, and foes in your path.
your Player-­hero as they undertake a quest. Your story can ♦ A new combat stance — the Skirmish Stance (page
be focused on missions assigned by a Patron, or on personal 15) — provides the lone Player-­hero an opportunity
goals or problems which compel your character to abandon to keep foes at a distance, staying one step ahead of
the comfort of home and hearth. the Shadow.
As a solo player, you imagine those adventures and take
action from the perspective of your Player-­hero. But you FELLOWSHIP PHASE
also interpret the consequences of those actions, introduce Little differs from the core rules in Strider Mode’s Fellowship
encounters, and portray other aspects of the world. You essen- Phase, during which your lone Player-­hero rests, recuperates,
tially act as both the Player-­hero and the Lore­master, using and undertakes downtime activities to heal, gather rumours,
your intuition and the tools in this supplement to retain the or commune with their Patron. Guidelines for the solo player
surprises, challenges, and opportunities that make roleplay- are provided on page 20.
ing as a character so rewarding.

CORE STRIDER MODE TABLES

Three new tables presented in this supplement are key to
playing The One Ring in Strider Mode. COOPERATIVE PLAY
♦ The Telling Table (page 10) helps answer simple ques- This supplement is geared for solo play, but can
tions about locations, people, creatures, and events. also be used for play with two or more players in
Use this table when you would normally ask the Lore­ a small Company, without the aid of a Lore­master.
master a yes/no/maybe question like “Is there light When you are playing in a group without a
in this passage?” or “Is there an herb-­master in this Lore­master, the normal conversation you would
village?” have with other players is expanded to include the
♦ The Lore Table (page 11) helps inspire answers to details of the world you inhabit. When a question
more complex, open-­ended questions or reveal new or situation arises which would normally be
events and situations. Use this table when you would resolved or depicted by the Lore­master, the group
normally ask the Lore­master for details about the can collaborate to decide what happens, or use
world around you, such as “Who do I see coming up tools such as the Telling Table (page 10) and Lore
the road?” or “What do I find in the Troll’s lair?” Table (page 11) to help come up with an answer.
♦ The Fortune and Ill-­Fortune Tables (page 8) offer With cooperative play, it’s imperative that
prompts for narrative outcomes when a rune or players share the narrative spotlight, allowing
icon is rolled on your Feat die. each participant to “take the lead” at times in envi-
sioning the world around the Player-­heroes. Stray
This supplement also includes other tables to help resolve from allowing one player to become the de facto
more specific situations and questions. See page 21 for the Lore­master, and take turns if necessary to foster a
collected set of Strider Mode tables. collaborative experience.

3
 STRIDER MODE

YOUR ADVENTURER

When you begin a Strider Mode campaign, create a single and experience afforded by their lone wanderings across
Player-­hero, much like you would in a traditional campaign Middle-­earth.
guided by a Lore­master. All Player-­hero cultures and callings
are available to you, and there are only slight considerations YOUR SAFE HAVEN
for Virtues as noted below. Without a Company at your side, the safe haven is a particu-
When creating your solo character, consider the kinds of larly important aspect of your Player-­hero’s story. It’s there you
stories you want to tell, and the themes you want to explore. find allies, friends, perhaps even family. Consider why your safe
Messenger, Treasure Hunter, and Warden are callings well haven represents not only sanctuary for your Player-­hero, but
suited to the Strider Mode experience, but any calling works. also home — a hearth always lit to guide you back from the wilds.

FELLOWSHIP SCORE
CRAFTING YOUR PLAYER-­
hERO As a solo player, you have a Fellowship score equal to 3 plus
any additional bonuses from Virtues, Cultural Blessings, and
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE your Patron. Your Fellowship score, rather than representing
When allocating your previous experience (page 46 in The the bonds between you and your Company, instead signifies
One Ring core rules), you have 15 points to spend, instead your connection to the communities you serve and the wilds
of 10. This represents your Player-­hero’s additional “grit” you roam — a hope that cannot be diminished by the Shadow.

4
 Y OUR A D V E NTUR E R

FELLOWSHIP FOCUS PATRON QUESTS

When playing as a solo Player-­hero, you are not a member In the following tables, each starting Patron is given a set of
of a Company and do not have a Fellowship Focus. You can quests fitting their agendas. Use these to help inspire the
ignore this aspect of character creation. nature of a Patron-­given quest as a starting adventure for your
character, or the next goal within a continuing campaign.
VIRTUES To select a quest from a Patron, pick one that interests you,
When selecting Virtues, read the description and look for any roll one 6-sided Success die for a random result, or accept
Company-­specific benefits. Since you aren’t travelling as part the missions in sequence starting with the first. Envision the
of a Fellowship, those abilities won’t factor into your story. details of the task as revealed by the Patron, and consider the
Some Cultural Virtues provide benefits solely for a Com- open questions posed by each. If the quest involves travel,
pany. For example, the Hobbit Virtue Three is Company offers identify the destination. If the destination is unknown to you
an increased Fellowship score and additional Fellowship and the patron, consider what you must do to locate your
Focus. A solo player benefits from extra Fellowship points, objective.
but not necessarily an additional Fellowship Focus, so this If you ask the Patron questions about the mission, you
virtue is not recommended in Strider Mode. can simply imagine their answer as appropriate to the nature
Other Virtues provide benefits for a Company, but are of the task, or use the Telling Table and Lore Table to help
also worthwhile for a lone character. For example, the Bard- inspire their response. Leave room for aspects of the quest
ing Virtue Dwarf-­friend provides a benefit for combat when which are unknown to both you and your Patron.
your Fellowship focus is a Dwarf, which would not be use-
ful in a Strider Mode campaign. But it also improves your
interactions with Dwarves during a council. It’s up to you to
decide if the trade-­off is worth it. Since you are a lone Player-­
hero, you don’t need to worry about balancing your abilities
against others in a Company. Choose what best fits the nature
of your character.

NEW DISTINCTIVE FEATURE: STRIDER

Wandering the wilds of Middle-­earth alone hardens the spirit PATRON QUESTS: BALIN, SON OF FUNDIN
and sharpens the senses as you are forced to remain ever-­ SUCCESS
DIE QUEST
watchful for perils in the periphery. Solo Player-­heroes receive
an extra Distinctive Feature: Strider. While journeying, the 1 Dark whispers plague a Dwarven territory.
Player-­hero is considered Inspired on skill rolls. What nameless Shadow lurks in the wilds?

2 This broken artifact could be a potent weapon

YOUR PATRON against the enemy. What is this item, and who
wields the skill to reforge it?
Perhaps the most important choice for a lone Player-­hero is
their Patron. A Patron can provide the motive for an errand 3 The Dwarven ruins hold great secrets — and
or quest, and help tether your Player-­hero to the larger world. weapons against the Enemy. What is the nature
Introducing a Patron can serve as a great way to kick off a of these ruins, and what treasures do they hold?
campaign for a new character, and meeting with them during
4 A powerful comrade has fallen in battle against
the Fellowship Phase offers an opportunity to report on your
the Enemy. Who are they, and what did they
progress or accept a new task.
carry vital to our survival?
In choosing your Patron, pay close attention to their
Favoured Callings, as well as their Agenda — ensure both 5 A Dwarven stronghold now lies with the Enemy.
support your intended goals with solo games. For Player-­ Who leads these foul creatures, and how have
heroes interested in undertaking missions against the Shadow, they defiled our sacred site?
Gandalf and Gilraen present enticing options. A Player-­hero
6 A powerful lieutenant of the Enemy grows in
seeking fame and lost relics might find Bilbo or Balin more
power. Who is this shadowy figure, and how
suitable.
have they amassed followers?

5
 STRIDER MODE

PATRON QUESTS: CIRDAN THE SHIPWRIGHT

SUCCESS
DIE QUEST

1 Supplies wane as the Enemy draws near. What

vital resource for the building of ships must you
deliver?

2 An ancient enemy of the Elves has resurfaced

and made themselves known. Who are they,
and what grudge do they bear?

3 Hope falters in these dark days, so travel to a

remote beacon and rekindle its flame. What
shadowy presence seeks to prevent this?

4 Our missives fall into the hands of the Enemy.

What fate befalls our messengers?

5 An artifact of great importance to the Elves is

carried by a servant of the Enemy. Who is this
creature, and why do they covet the artifact?

6 The ships of the Grey Havens are fashioned

from sacred wood. What malady taints these
trees?

PATRON QUESTS: BILBO BAGGINS PATRON QUESTS: GANDALF THE GREY

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE QUEST DIE QUEST

1 This particular delicacy is a rare treat. What is 1 The people need hope in these dark times.
this precious item, and where can it be found? Where is this remote settlement, and what
good news do you bring?
2 Scout the area and make a note of significant
landmarks to aid cartography. How has the land 2 Carry word of the Enemy’s movements to our
changed? trusted ally. Who is this ally, and how can they
aid us?
3 The roads grow dark and perilous. What vital
missive do you carry, and to whom must it be 3 A possible ally has made themselves known
delivered? to us. Who is this ally, and what must we do to
earn their trust?
4 An ancient text confounds attempts to decipher
it. What is the nature of this text, and who pos- 4 Our vision is clouded, our path uncertain. We
sesses the knowledge to translate it? must capture a servant of the Enemy. Who are
they, and what do they know?
5 The Enemy holds a map of special significance.
What secrets does this map hold, and why is it 5 News has reached us of a terrible weapon the
vital? Enemy means to bear. What is this weapon, and
who wields it?
6 An artifact of great importance has resurfaced.
What is this item, and why must we find it 6 The Shadow has captured an ally. Who is this
before the enemy does? ally, and where are they imprisoned?

6
 Y OUR A D V E NTUR E R

PATRON QUESTS: GILRAEN, EXPERIENCE MILESTONES

DAUGHTER OF DIRHAEL In The One Ring, Experience Points are earned according to the
SUCCESS passage of your gameplay sessions. By default, each player earns
DIE QUEST
3 Skill points and 3 Adventure points at the end of every gaming
1 A Ranger has gone missing. What has become session (see page 56 of The One Ring core rules). If this works
of them? for the format of your Strider Mode sessions, there’s no need to
adjust these rewards. But one advantage of solo pen-­and-­paper
2 A powerful servant of the Enemy lurks nearby.
roleplaying is flexibility — your sessions might last for a few
Who are they, and why do they target our
minutes or a few hours, which can make session-­based rewards
Rangers?
disconnected from events and achievements in your story.
3 Enemy patrols prowl along the road, targeting If you prefer to earn Skill points untethered from the
merchants and supply wagons. Who leads these structure of specific sessions, you can instead mark the growth
deadly patrols? of your character through Milestones.
Milestones are key events, experiences, and accomplish-
4 A settlement has come under the eye of the
ments for your hero. When you achieve a milestone shown
Shadow. Why is this place significant?
in the table below, gain the listed amount of Skill points or
5 Monstrous servants of the Enemy encroach. Adventure points.
What manner of weapon do they carry? If more than one milestone applies to a scene or chal-
lenge, select only one. For example, if you defeat a band of
6 We’ve received no word from a remote Ranger
Orcs as part of a Noteworthy Encounter, you could take the
refuge. What fate has befallen our allies?
milestone as either a Noteworthy Encounter or a dangerous
combat, but not both.
Experience Points are otherwise managed as per the stan-
PATRON QUESTS: TOM BOMBADIL dard The One Ring rules. Your Player-­hero earns a number of
AND LADY GOLDBERRY additional Skill points equal to their WITS rating during each
SUCCESS Yule Fellowship Phase (see page 120 of The One Ring core rules).
DIE QUEST
Experience points are spent on training and growth during the
1 Creatures of the wilds have come under a dark Fellowship Phase (see page 119 of The One Ring core rules).
affliction. What is this sickness, and what rare
ingredient holds the key to a cure?
EXPERIENCE MILESTONES
2 A sacred spring runs black with some malady of
MILESTONE REWARD
the Shadow. What taints this source, and what
manner of foul creature guards it? Accept a mission from a patron 1 Adventure Point

3 A group of travellers seeks escort through the Achieve a notable personal goal 1 Adventure Point
wilds. Who are they, and what is their vital and 1 Skill Point
mission? Complete a patron’s mission 1 Adventure Point
4 The Shadow corrupts a sacred site. What is this and 1 Skill Point
place, and what foul presence now taints it? Complete a meaningful journey 2 Skill Points
5 A precious flower blooms for the first time in Face a Noteworthy Encounter during 1 Skill Point
many years. What is this plant, and why is it so a journey
vital?
Reveal a significant location or 1 Adventure Point
6 An ancient, sacred tree hosts a foul presence. discovery
What is this shadow, and can it be purged?
Overcome a tricky obstacle 1 Skill point

Participate in a Council 1 Skill Point

Survive a dangerous combat 1 Adventure Point

Face a Revelation Episode 1 Adventure Point

7
 STRIDER MODE

THE SYSTEM

ACTION RESOLUTION includes the Gandalf Rune or Eye of Sauron icon to

As a solo player, you must decide when rolls are necessary, represent circumstances and events beyond the control of
a task that usually falls to the Lore­master. It might seem your Player-­hero.
counter­intuitive to challenge your own Player-­hero’s success, ♦ Rolling the rune means a successful action was
but consider that each roll of the dice in The One Ring pres- bolstered by fortune, such as unexpected aid, advan-
ents equal opportunity for triumph and despair. tageous terrain, or a foe’s folly. To help inspire a ran-
Roll when risk is involved — when the possibility of fail- dom result, roll on the Fortune Table.
ure affects the narrative. For further guidance, see “When to ♦ Rolling a failure with the icon means a failure was
Roll” on page 16 of The One Ring core rules. complicated by ill-­fortune, such as a broken weapon,
difficult terrain, or enemy reinforcements. To help
SETTING THE TARGET NUMBER inspire a random result, roll on the Ill-­Fortune Table.
Using the alternative presented in The One Ring core rules
(page 18), solo players should set the Target Number (TN) Keep in mind that you’re free to gloss over a or result.
by subtracting their Attributes from 18 instead of 20. This will Just consider the nature of the success or failure in the con-
make your Player-­hero more capable and self-­reliant when text of the situation, and move on. For worthy challenges and
they must face the challenges of Middle-­earth alone. key actions, the Fortune and Ill-­Fortune tables can help reveal
new complications, twists, and unexpected boons.
READING THE FEAT DIE
When you are taking action, and want to give the challenge
additional focus in a dramatic moment, use a result that ILL-­F ORTUNE TABLE
FEAT DIE RESULT

Your actions catch the Eye of the Enemy.

FORTUNE TABLE
Increase Eye Awareness by 2.
FEAT DIE RESULT
1 You draw unwanted attention
The Eye of the Enemy focuses elsewhere.
Decrease Eye Awareness by 1. 2 Your actions are observed by someone of
ill-­intent
1 You may bypass a threat without attracting
notice 3 Unexpected enemies emerge or are sighted

2 You gain the attention of a potential ally 4 You are hindered by difficult terrain or an unfa-
vourable environment
3 An enemy inadvertently reveals their position
5 You find yourself ill-­equipped for the
4 You gain favoured ground
circumstances
5 Enemies run afoul of danger
6 A favoured weapon or item is lost, broken, or
6 You locate or learn of a useful item sacrificed

7 Your success instils new hope or renewed 7 You are plagued by troubling visions or
resolve thoughts

8 You find a moment of comfort or safety 8 An old injury or stress resurfaces

9 You learn or realize something which gives 9 You learn or realize something which adds a
helpful insight into your mission new complication to your mission

10 You encounter an opportunity suited to your 10 You face a test which is contrary to your nature
nature or abilities or abilities

An unexpected ally appears or sends aid An ally becomes a hindrance or liability

8
 THE SYSTEM

SKILL SPECIAL SUCCESS TABLE

SPEND 1 SUCCESS
ICON TO… DESCRIPTION

Gain Insight You gain additional information, not necessarily related to the task at hand. For example, while helping a
sick individual with a HEALING roll you discover the trace of poison. Or you spot a sentry while sneaking
into a ruin with a roll of STEALTH .

Go quietly You achieve your goal noiselessly or without otherwise attracting attention.

Make haste You complete the attempted task in a shorter time (about half the expected time).

Widen Influence You can influence more than the specific number of subjects originally targeted by the action. As a
general rule, each Success icon spent corresponds to one additional subject or group of subjects. For
example, following a roll of INSIGHT , you spot a second person acting suspiciously at an inn; a roll of
ENHEARTEN aimed to affect half a dozen individuals allows you to influence a full dozen.

Build advantage You carry forward your success to improve your position or confidence for a related task; gain (1d) on your
next skill roll.

Cancel a Failure If playing co-­op with other players, you help another Player-­hero who failed within the scope of the same
skill roll; the failed roll is considered a success.

SPECIAL SUCCESS IN STRIDER MODE USING RISK LEVELS

When a successful action also produces one or more Elvish For Strider Mode, it is recommended to use Risk Levels (page
symbols on your Success Dice, this is a superior result (see 131 of The One Ring core rulebook) when visualizing and resolv-
page 18 of The One Ring core rules). Unlike the whims of for- ing a risky action. This will add more variety to the outcome
tune and ill-­fortune indicated by a rune or icon on the of a failed action and aid you in resolving the consequences.
Feat Dice, this outcome can be interpreted as a direct result Most actions you take should be at a Standard Risk Level.
of your character’s preparedness and skills. This is the default unless you decide the situation warrants
If you want to detail the nature and benefits of a superior otherwise before making a roll. If appropriate to the cir-
result for solo play, you can use the table above, which is an cumstances, and if it aids in moving your story forward, you
alternative to the Special Success table on page 19 of The can choose to trade failure on a Standard action for success
One Ring core rules. As with that version of the table, you can marred by a negative occurrence.
specify what your superior result means by ‘spending’ your Risk Levels can help manage the intensity of your adven-
rolled icons to trigger a number of special results. Choose tures. As dangers and failures mount up, increase the Risk
one of the options listed for each rolled. Level to make the situation more perilous.
In combat, icons are instead used to trigger special The three Risk Levels and the consequences of a failed
results based on the war gear of the attacker (see page 99 of outcome for each are summarized in the table below.
The One Ring core rulebook). Also, some Cultural Virtues pro- If you are ever unsure about the Risk Level of a challenge,
vide specific benefits for icons. If a result for a is already use the Telling Table (see next page). Ask the Telling Table
detailed by other rules or a character ability, use that instead “is this a Standard Risk Level?”, making the result “likely”. If
of the Special Success table. the answer is “no”, make it Hazardous. If the answer is “no”
with an icon, make it Foolish.
RISK LEVELS
RISK LEVEL THE FAILED ROLL RESULTS IN… EXAMPLES

Standard Simple Failure, Eluding the watch of a Bounder in the Shire, entertaining a crowd of inebriated
OR Success with Woe patrons at an inn, climbing a tall tree.

Hazardous Failure with Woe Stealing mushrooms from a farm guarded by ferocious dogs, climbing atop a
crumbling tower, or trying to swim the waters of a swift-­running river.

Foolish Disaster! Picking the pockets of a hungry Troll, playing a riddle game with a Dragon, or
bandying words with an angry Wizard.

9
 STRIDER MODE

THE TELLING TABLE TRUST YOUR GUT

One of the most useful and versatile tools at a solo player’s You needn’t roll on the Telling Table and/or Lore
disposal is the Telling Table. Use the Telling Table when pos- Table each time you ask a question during your
ing questions answerable by “yes” or “no.” This table helps solo play. Oftentimes, the answer will be obvious
resolve questions normally answered by a Lore­master, reveal- to you, based on the narrative thus far, the context
ing details of the world and the intent or actions of other char- of the question, the nature of your Player-­hero and
acters. If you are asking a question with results favourable and the Middle-­earth they inhabit. The Telling Table is
unfavourable (from the perspective of your character), ask it a tool for when you earnestly don’t know, when
in such a way that “yes” is the positive outcome. you can’t decide, or when the possibilities of yes,
After posing your question, set the chance of a “yes” using no, or something in between each present equal
the range shown in the Telling Table: certain, likely, middling, opportunities for fun.
doubtful, or unthinkable. If unsure, make it middling. Then, When in doubt, even with tools like the Telling
roll one 12-sided Feat die to learn the answer. Table and Lore Table at your disposal, trust your
♦ Ask your question, with “yes” being the positive gut — oftentimes your first instinct is the right one.
outcome.
♦ Set the chance (with “middling” as the default).
♦ Roll one Feat die and consult the Telling Table for
your answer.

Note also that rolling either the rune or icon results in

an automatic yes or no, respectively, with an extreme result
or twist.

TELLING TABLE
ROLL A FEAT DIE.
CHANCE THE ANSWER IS YES IF YOU ROLL...

Certain 1 or greater

Likely 4 or greater

Middling 6 or greater

Doubtful 8 or greater

Unthinkable 10

: Always yes, with an extreme result or twist

: Always no, with an extreme result or twist

For example, your Player-­hero wanders into a roadside inn

and you wonder if they recognize anyone from previous vis-
its — a friendly face would be a welcome sight after these
long days in the wilds. You ask, “Do I see anyone I know?”
You set the chance to doubtful and roll.
You roll a , which according to the Telling Table is
“always yes, with an extreme result or twist.” You determine,
perhaps with help from the Lore Table (page 11), that your
Player-­hero does see a friendly face: a friend they thought lost
to the Shadow, who yet now sits alive and well in this inn.

10
 THE SYSTEM

THE LORE TABLE Depending on the situation, the result might be taken liter-
Use the Lore Table to help reveal details when asking an ally, or interpreted as an abstraction. Part of the fun of solo
open-­ended question about a situation or event. The table roleplaying is deciding how these enigmatic riddles relate to
includes three columns: Action, Aspect, and Focus. You can your current situation. If a result doesn’t fit or is hard to inter-
roll on one column for a single word prompt, or two or pret within the context of the current situation, roll again or
more to construct a prompt phrase. The Lore Table is par- check adjacent rows for your answer.
ticularly useful for generating patron quests, or determin-
ing Distinctive Features for characters encountered on your
journeys. For example, your Player-­hero enters a roadside inn and recog-
To roll on the table, use one 12-sided Feat die to deter- nizes among the patronage a friend they thought dead. Roll-
mine the section, and one six-­sided Success die for the row. ing on the Lore Table to determine the Player-­hero’s connection
The Lore Table can answer questions such as: to the person, you roll an Action of “Break” and a Focus of
♦ “What is the nature of these woods?” (Aspect) “Fellowship.” You decide that the Player-­hero once travelled
♦ “What mission does my patron have for me?” (Action, with this person in a Company, and together fought many
Aspect, Focus) battles and journeyed many leagues — but also that this per-
♦ “What do I find within the ruins?” (Aspect, Focus) son’s disappearance led to the fracturing of your Fellowship.

FEAT DIE: FEAT DIE:

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Abandon Corrupted Curse 1 Believe Flourishing Courage

2 Attack Cruel Despair 2 Bolster Beautiful Duty

3 Betray Deceptive Enemy 3 Defend Good Fellowship

4 Corrupt Fell Fear 4 Forgive Kind Hope

5 Defeat Ruined Shadow 5 Resist Gentle Love

6 Weaken Treacherous War 6 Strengthen Wondrous Peace

FEAT DIE: 1 FEAT DIE: 2

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Aid Active Battle 1 Change Cold Darkness

2 Arrive Ancient Border 2 Chase Concealed Death

3 Await Bold Burden 3 Command Dangerous Defence

4 Breach Bright Council 4 Control Dark Depths

5 Break Broken Court 5 Create Dead Doubt

6 Capture Cheerless Creature 6 Defy Defended Dreams

11
 STRIDER MODE

FEAT DIE: 3 FEAT DIE: 4

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Demand Desolate Fate 1 Explore Far-­reaching History

2 Discover Destroyed Fire 2 Find Fierce Honour

3 Disguise Dreadful Folk 3 Focus Foreboding Journey

4 Endure Empty Followers 4 Gather Forgotten Kindred

5 Escape Evil Greed 5 Guard Fragile Knowledge

6 Evade Faded Haven 6 Guide Ghastly Land

FEAT DIE: 5 FEAT DIE: 6

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Hide Gloomy Leader 1 Lead Isolated Message

2 Hinder Growing Legend 2 Learn Lofty Might

3 Hoard Hidden Life 3 Leave Lost Nature

4 Hold Ill-­fated Light 4 Lose Menacing Pain

5 Hunt Impenetrable Luck 5 Mourn Mighty Path

6 Journey inspiring Memory 6 Move Mysterious Patron

FEAT DIE: 7 FEAT DIE: 8

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Persist Noble Peril 1 Replenish Restored Riddle

2 Preserve Obstructed Plan 2 Restore Sheltered Ruins

3 Prevent Old Power 3 Scheme Silent Rumour

4 Refuse Ominous Prophecy 4 Search Simple Secret

5 Reject Open Quest 5 Seize Small Skill

6 Remove Peaceful Refuge 6 Share Sombre Song

FEAT DIE: 9 FEAT DIE: 10

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Slay Stony Story 1 Transform Veiled Truth

2 Steal Stout Strength 2 Trap Vigorous Vengeance

3 Summon Stricken Time 3 Trick Weary Wealth

4 Surrender Stubborn Tool 4 Uncover Wild Weapon

5 Surround Twisted Treasure 5 Uphold Wretched Wilds

6 Threaten Unnatural Trust 6 Withstand Young Wish

12
 THE SYSTEM

THE EYE OF MORDOR RESETTING EYE AWARENESS

A lone Player-­hero draws less attention than a full Company, The Eye Awareness score does not increase during a Fellow-
but may still catch the Eye of the Enemy. Use the optional ship phase. At the beginning of the following Adventure
Eye Awareness score as described on pages 169–171 of The phase, reset the score to its starting value.
One Ring rulebook to track your visibility to the Enemy and
the actions of dark forces in Middle-­earth. HUNT THRESHOLD
Although these rules are optional, they are recommended The Hunt threshold for a lone Player-­hero is the same as that
for use with Strider Mode as a means of making the campaign for a Company, as described on page 172 of The One Ring core
more dynamic and reinforcing the Enemy and the minions rulebook. Use the Region Table and Hunt Modifiers Table
of Shadow as ever-­present and cunning threats. to set the threshold.

STARTING EYE AWARENESS HUNT THRESHOLD REGION TABLE

Calculate your starting Eye Awareness score as described on THE REGION TRAVERSED IS A… HUNT THRESHOLD
page 170 of The One Ring core rulebook. Start with an Eye
Border Land 18
Awareness of 0, and adjust as follows.
♦ Add 1 if you have a VALOUR rating of 4 or more Wild Land 16
♦ Add 1 if you are a Dwarf
Dark Land 14
♦ Add 2 if you are an Elf or Dúnedain
♦ Add 3 if you are a High Elf
♦ Add 1 for each Famous Weapon and Armour you carry HUNT MODIFIERS TABLE
HUNT
INCREASING EYE AWARENESS MODIFIER DESCRIPTION

Use the guidelines detailed on pages 170–171 of The One Ring +4 The Player-­hero is protected by the blessing
core rulebook, as described below. of a Wizard, or another powerful character
♦ Whenever a die roll made outside of combat produces
+2 The Player-­hero is travelling under a false
an icon, regardless of whether the roll resulted in
name, treading paths that are seldom trod-
success or failure, raise Eye Awareness by 1 point
den, or otherwise taking actions to be discreet
♦ Whenever the Player-­hero gains 1 more shadow points
and unobtrusive
outside of combat, increase the Eye Awareness level by
that amount −2 The Player-­hero has gained great renown in
♦ Magical successes using a marvellous artefact or won- the area thanks to some exceptional deed
drous item might increase Eye Awareness, as per the
−4 The Enemy is actively looking for the Player-­
guidelines on page 171 of The One Ring core rulebook.
hero, or their mission or goal is known to
them
Also, an result on the Ill-­Fortune Table (page 8) will
raise the Eye Awareness Score by 2. This is in addition to the
increase from the initial result which triggered a roll on
that table. The Eye is fixed upon you!

13
 STRIDER MODE

REVELATION EPISODES REVELATION EPISODE TABLE

When your Eye Awareness matches or exceeds the current FEAT DIE EPISODE
Hunt threshold, you must face a Revelation Episode.
Internal strife or an external threat puts your
In Strider Mode, a Revelation Episode represents the
Safe Haven in peril
influence and actions of the Enemy or other sinister or hate-
ful powers. 1 Unexpected danger arises on the path ahead,
To determine the nature of the episode, roll on the Reve- forcing you to seek a new route
lation Episode Table, choose a result from the table, or imag-
2 Nature is corrupted and turns against you
ine a threat which best represents the current situation. Some
episodes might create an immediate danger or complication 3 Spies of the Enemy carry word of your mission
for your Player-­hero. Others trigger dire events in the world
4 Enemy minions launch an ambush or lay a trap
which the Player-­hero is (for now) unaware of, but which will
cause future complications. If you set a Revelation Episode 5 Enemy minions pick up your trail
in motion outside the perception of your Player-­hero, make
6 An important location is overtaken by an enemy
note of it and consider how it may later reveal itself.
Once you have triggered a Revelation Episode, reset your 7 An item you carry holds a curse, or is hunted by
Eye Awareness to its starting value. an enemy

8 You are tempted by something greatly desired,

to the detriment of your mission

9 Malicious lies cause others to mistrust or

fear you

10 Conflict brews between allies

An important ally is put in danger

14
 A D V E NTUR I N G P H A S E

ADVENTURING PHASE

COMBAT GAIN GROUND — SKIRMISH STANCE

In Strider Mode, rather than facing foes shoulder-­to-­shoulder Combatants on the move can attempt to gain an advantageous
with your Company, you must stand alone against the enemy. position against their foes, ambushing enemies or firing from
Strider Mode offers some tools for the solo Player-­hero, an overlook. To do so, the acting player makes an ATHLETICS
including a new stance to give lone, bow-­wielding Player-­ or SCAN roll as the main action for the round.
heroes a fighting chance. On a successful roll, the attacker gains (1d) on their next
ranged attack, plus another (1d) for each Success icon
rolled. These bonus dice can be used on a ranged attack
roll to escape from combat (see Skirmish Stance).

OUTNUMBERED, OUTMATCHED COMPLICATIONS AND ADVANTAGES

The solo experience in The One Ring is often Without a Lore­master, the solo player must decide whether
fraught with peril, and never is this more apparent their Player-­hero and any adversaries fight with complica-
than during combat. Alone, an adventurer can eas- tions or advantages.
ily become overwhelmed by foes. Utilize tools like Sometimes it’s clear based on the environment and the
the Skirmish stance, and its associated task, Gain circumstances of the battle — the Player-­hero fights in knee-­
Ground, to stay on the move. And when things deep water or unleashes arrows over a great distance. Roll-
look dire, don’t hesitate to flee combat to live to ing a rune or icon can also serve as a trigger for a
fight another day. complication or advantage to make a fight more complex
and interesting.

ADVERSARY ACTIONS
In Strider Mode, the solo player finds themselves in the
SKIRMISH STANCE unique position of controlling both their Player-­hero and
Combat in Strider Mode operates much the same as in the adversaries in their path.
The One Ring core rules, with a number of opening volleys In combat, an adversary uses the weapon best suited to
(depending on the distance between combatants) preced- the situation, depending on the stance of the Player-­hero. If
ing close combat. multiple weapons apply, the adversary uses the one which
But for Player-­heroes who prefer bows and thrown weap- gives them the biggest advantage or greatest chance of deal-
ons, the Skirmish stance allows a solo Player-­hero to fight “on ing damage.
the move,” exchanging ranged attacks while seeking advan-
tageous positions from which to strike. SPECIAL DAMAGE
When spending icons to trigger special damage from an
SKIRMISH STANCE (RANGED COMBAT) adversary, use the Heavy Blow special damage result unless
You fight on the move, navigating the terrain and exchanging the adversary lists a special damage option in its stat block.
volleys with pursuing or fleeing foes.
♦ You can only attack your adversaries using ranged FELL ABILITIES
weapons. Adversaries that attack you with melee weap- If using an adversary’s Fell Ability would give them a clear
ons lose (1d), while those who attack you with ranged advantage in combat, they use it, spending any Resolve/Hate
weapons suffer no penalty. required. If the ability would come at a cost or pose a risk
♦ For ranged attack rolls, you lose (1d). to the adversary or their allies, you can ask the Telling Table
♦ To escape from combat, roll for your ranged attack (page 10) to determine the enemy’s behaviour.
(without losing (1d) on the roll). If you succeed, you
do not inflict any damage but instead leave the battle-
field — otherwise you remain engaged.
♦ Combat Task: Gain Ground

15
 STRIDER MODE

BATTLING YOURSELF JOURNEYS

Running enemies as a Lore­master against your own In The One Ring, journeys are a key aspect of undertaking
Player-­hero can sometimes feel forced, but consider quests and errands. For a solo Player-­hero, these journeys
that the point of a combat is not to “win,” but rather offer an opportunity to explore Tolkien’s richly imagined
to present an exciting, interesting, or important bat- world, face uncertainties and danger, and put your abilities
tle — something that adds to the narrative and chal- to the test. The structure of journeys in The One Ring are
lenges your Player-­hero, regardless of the outcome. perfect for Strider Mode adventures, because they tend to
When in doubt, follow the “rule of cool.” Make introduce encounters and obstacles organically, and offer a
interesting, dynamic things happen. Stage a battle clear objective for your character.
that would be exciting to witness. Lean on your Journeys for a lone Player-­hero are resolved mostly as
favourite epic battles and action set-­pieces from described in The One Ring core rulebook (page 108), with a
film and literature. And the Telling Table and Lore few changes as detailed below. Player-­heroes also have access
Table are always tools at your disposal. to the Strider Distinctive Feature (page 5).

WHEN TO USE THE JOURNEY RULES

As described in The One Ring core rulebook (page 109), the
rules for journey resolution should be used when travelling
to a specific destination across dangerous lands. If there is
enough uncertainty or danger to warrant a skill test, but the
COUNCILS journey is not worthy of the full journey rules, you can see
Councils involve your Player-­hero standing before important how you fare with a TRAVEL roll. For mundane travel within
figures in a formal setting. They represent social events of safe territory, or when returning home along the same path,
considerable import, often involving discussion of vital events the fate of your journey can be resolved without any rolls.
or tense negotiations.
Councils for a lone Player-­hero are resolved as described SETTING OFF INTO THE UNKNOWN
in The One Ring core rulebook (page 104), with some further When playing The One Ring as part of a Company with a Lore­
guidelines detailed below. master, you would normally have limited knowledge of your
destination and what lies along your path. As a solo player,
SETTING RESISTANCE you must balance the information needed to manage the
As with The One Ring core rules, you begin a council by setting journey with the viewpoint of your character.
the resistance, based on your Player-­hero’s intended goal in To resolve a journey and imagine the places and people
the interaction — 3 for a reasonable request, 6 for a bold you encounter, use the tools The One Ring provides for Lore­
request, or 9 for an outrageous request. masters, including maps, random tables, and region informa-
If you’re not sure what resistance your goal entails, choose tion. In addition, you can rely on the Telling Table (page 10),
two of the options, make one of them likely, and roll on the Lore Table (page 11), and other tables provided in this sup-
Telling Table (page 10) to see if the answer is “yes” for the plement to help bridge the gap between your knowledge as a
likely option. If not, it is the other. character and that which a Lore­master would normally provide.
If your Player-­hero is particularly well travelled and experi-
ROLEPLAYING INTERACTIONS enced, there will be more overlap of the information needed
As a solo player, it might feel strange or unintuitive to role- to manage the journey with your character’s knowledge. If
play with yourself. But it’s important that your councils do your Player-­hero is new to adventuring and unfamiliar with
not devolve into a series of dice rolls. Think through the dis- the world beyond their home, you will rely on Lore­master
cussions happening — the different motivations at play, and tools without letting that information impact decisions from
the disagreements that might arise. the perspective of your character.
When you have a specific question about a character’s
response during a Council, you can ask the Telling Table JOURNEY ROLES
(page 10) for a “yes” or “no” response. If you have a more Journey roles are not used in Strider Mode. Instead, your
general question about the nature of a topic or response, use Player-­hero must tend to all aspects of travel; you will still roll
the Lore Table (page 11) and envision what the answer for journey events (see below), but those events are keyed
means in the context of the characters and conversation. directly to skills instead of roles.

16
 A D V E NTUR I N G P H A S E

SOLO JOURNEY EVENTS

FATIGUE POINTS
FEAT DIE EVENT CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL GAINED

Terrible Misfortune If the roll fails, you are Wounded. 3

1 Despair If the roll fails, gain 2 Shadow points (Dread). 2

2–3 Ill Choices If the roll fails, gain 1 Shadow point (Dread). 2

4–7 Mishap If the roll fails, add 1 day to the length of the journey, and gain 1 addi- 2
tional Fatigue.

8–9 Short Cut If the roll succeeds, reduce the length of the journey by 1 day. 1

10 Chance-­meeting If the roll succeeds, no Fatigue is gained, and you may improvise an 1
encounter favouring your Player-­hero.

Joyful Sight If the roll succeeds regain 1 Hope. —

SOLO JOURNEY EVENTS Take a moment to envision the nature of the incident or
To resolve journey events for a lone Player-­hero, skip the opportunity using the Event Detail prompt. If you need more
event’s target step (page 112 of The One Ring core rulebook). information, you can use the Telling Table (page 10) or
Instead, you are always the target of the event, and the chal- Lore Table (page 11) to answer questions about the event.
lenged ability is determined by the event’s nature. Once you have imagined the event and your character’s
As described on page 113 of The One Ring core rulebook, response, make the indicated skill roll. As described in the
roll on the Journey Events Table to determine the event type. standard journey rules, if the event takes place in a hex sug-
Your current location affects this roll as follows: gesting a hard terrain, lose (1d) on this roll. If the event hap-
♦ If it is within a Border Land, make a Favoured Feat die roll. pens along a road, gain (1d).
♦ If it is within a Wild Land, roll one Feat die. Finally, resolve the scene using the consequence and
♦ If it is within a Dark Land, make an Ill-­favoured Feat die roll. Fatigue Points gained or lost as shown in each Event Detail
table.
The Journey Events table above is slightly modified from the
version in the core rules to put the focus on a lone Player-­hero. EVENT DETAIL: TERRIBLE MISFORTUNE
Once the event type is determined, choose one of the fol- SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME
lowing options to help envision the nature of the event and
the challenge or opportunity your character faces. 1 Dire confrontation Noteworthy Encounter
♦ Based on the result from the Solo Journey Events
2 Rival Predator HUNTING to avoid
Table, imagine an incident or opportunity in a way
becoming the hunted
that fits the current situation and surroundings. Then,
make a test using an appropriate skill: EXPLORE , 3 Violent weather EXPLORE to find shelter
AWARENESS , or HUNTING . Check the Solo Journey
4 Hidden hazard AWARENESS to avoid
Events table for the consequences of this skill roll.
stumbling into danger
♦ Reveal the nature of the event using an Event Detail
Table (see below). 5 Dangerous terrain EXPLORE to find a safer
route
EVENT DETAIL
6 Stalking enemy AWARENESS to spot the
To help envision the nature of an event, use an Event Detail
foul presence
table to expand on the information provided by the Solo Jour-
ney Events Table. CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, the target
First, select the appropriate table for the type of event, is Wounded.
and check your result by rolling one Success Die. To speed
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 3
things along, you can roll this Success Die alongside your
Feat Die when first rolling on the Solo Journey Events Table.

17
 STRIDER MODE

EVENT DETAIL: DESPAIR EVENT DETAIL: MISHAP

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME DIE EVENT OUTCOME

1 Servants of the Enemy Noteworthy Encounter 1 Sparse wildlife HUNTING to forage

what you can
2 Torrential weather EXPLORE to find the
least exposed path 2 Lost direction EXPLORE to find your
way
3 Nightmarish presence AWARENESS to sense
the danger 3 Obstructed path AWARENESS to spot a
way around
4 Fading vigour HUNTING to gain
sustenance 4 Elusive quarry HUNTING to track it
down
5 Corrupted site EXPLORE to find your
way out 5 Rough terrain EXPLORE to safely
traverse
6 Grisly scene or fore- AWARENESS to be
boding portent forewarned 6 Wandering enemies AWARENESS to sense
their coming
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, gain 2
Shadow points (Dread). CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, add 1
day to the length of the journey, and gain 1 additional
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 2
Fatigue.

FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 2

EVENT DETAIL: ILL CHOICES

SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME EVENT DETAIL: SHORT CUT
1 Mismanaged HUNTING to replenish SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME
provisions stores
1 Game trail HUNTING to traverse
2 Wayward path EXPLORE to retrace
the path
your steps
2 Secluded path EXPLORE to navigate
3 Overlooked hazard AWARENESS to escape
the wilds
safely
3 Helpful tracks AWARENESS to follow
4 Lost quarry HUNTING to follow its
the tracks
tracks
4 Animal guide HUNTING to follow at a
5 Disorienting environs EXPLORE to find your
distance
way
5 Favourable weather EXPLORE to make the
6 Haunting visions AWARENESS to over-
most of it
come darkness
6 Familiar waypoint AWARENESS to recog-
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, gain
nize the landmark
1 Shadow point (Dread).
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll succeeds,
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 2
reduce the length of the journey by 1 day.

FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 1

18
 A D V E NTUR I N G P H A S E

EVENT DETAIL: CHANCE MEETING NOTEWORTHY ENCOUNTERS

SUCCESS A Noteworthy Encounter result on an Event Detail table indi-
DIE EVENT OUTCOME
cates an event which should not be resolved with a single
1 Lone hunter HUNTING to trade skill roll. Instead, give this event additional focus by treat-
stories ing it as an extended encounter or scene. This scene might
incorporate skill rolls, combat, a council, or a Skill Endeav-
2 Fellow traveller EXPLORE to learn about
our as appropriate.
the path ahead
You can also choose to translate any of the detailed event
3 Discreet watcher AWARENESS to spot results into a Noteworthy Encounter instead of using a single
them skill test. In this way, you give a specific challenge or opportu-
nity more focus if it is interesting to you or especially relevant
4 Noble beast HUNTING to commune
to your Player-­hero or their quests. Overcoming a significant
5 Secluded encampment EXPLORE to find your challenge as part of a Noteworthy Event can then provide
way off the beaten experience as a Player-­hero milestone (page 7).
path
RESOLVING EVENTS
6 Auspicious gathering Noteworthy Encounter FOR A NOTEWORTHY ENCOUNTER
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll succeeds, no For a noteworthy encounter which is not decided using a sin-
Fatigue is gained, and you may envision a favourable gle skill roll, you still need to determine the overall outcome
encounter. when applying the consequences for your journey event. To
do so, decide if the event was ultimately favourable for your
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 1
character.
♦ If you managed to overcome a challenge or had an
overall positive event, treat it as a successful skill roll.
EVENT DETAIL: JOYFUL SIGHT ♦ If you failed to overcome a challenge, or faced severe
SUCCESS hardship or complications, use the failed result.
DIE EVENT OUTCOME

1 Majestic creatures HUNTING to observe MAKING JOURNEYS COME ALIVE

without startling them For a solo Player-­hero, there may be a tendency to move
through the journey sequence without giving focus to the
2 Inspiring vista EXPLORE to reach a
ongoing narrative. Avoid this by taking the time to plan your
vantage point
navigation as your character would, with the limited infor-
3 Benevolent being AWARENESS to sense mation available to them. Then, after each marching test
their presence or event, imagine the details of the adventure. What is the
weather? What is the nature of the terrain and path? What
4 Abundant foraging HUNTING to replenish
do you see or encounter? Where do you make camp and
your rations
how do those surroundings inspire you or put you on edge?
5 Ancient monument AWARENESS to recog- Use the maps, area descriptions, and tables provided in
nize its significance The One Ring core rulebook and supplements to help reveal
the nature of your surroundings. If you have a specific ques-
6 Peaceful sanctuary Noteworthy Encounter
tion, use the Telling Table (page 10). If you want inspiration
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll succeeds, for the nature of an encounter or your surroundings, use the
regain 1 Hope. Lore Table (page 11).

FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: — JOURNEYS IN COOPERATIVE PLAY

When playing cooperatively without a Lore­master, a small
Company of two Player-­heroes can use the Strider Mode ver-
sion of the journey rules described in this supplement. You
will not select roles, but should each describe your focus

19
 STRIDER MODE

during the journey and resolve events accordingly. Take care In either case, use the original version of the Journey
to balance the focus of the events across both Player-­heroes. Events Table when playing cooperatively (page 112 of The
If you are unsure which Player-­hero is the target of an event, One Ring core rulebook) to properly include the Company
make a random roll to decide. in the consequences of an event. As with solo play, you can
A larger Company of three or more Player-­heroes should use the Event Detail tables for more insight into the nature
use the journey roles and sequence as detailed in The One of an event.
Ring core rulebook. This includes assigning journey roles.

Fellowship Phase

The Fellowship Phase is a player-­driven segment of the game Take the time to imagine your Player-­hero’s interactions
where a Player-­hero visits a safe haven to reflect on their and activities during the Fellowship Phase. For the solo adven-
adventures, rest and recover, and undertake personal projects. turer, this is a welcome opportunity to bask in the warm glow
The structure of the Fellowship Phase, as described on of community before setting off alone once again into the
pages 118–120 of The One Ring core rulebook, is unchanged wilds. Much of what defines the story of your character is how
for solo players. You can set the duration and location of the they relate to others, and what personal goals they pursue
Fellowship Phase as appropriate to your current situation, with the comfort of safety and time.
with a longer break for Yule approximately once every three
Fellowship Phases. You will perform updates to spend accu-
mulated Experience Points gained through milestones, and
select one or more Undertakings.
SPIRITUAL RECOVERY
FOR SOLO PLAYER-­H EROES
As detailed on page 119 of The One Ring core
rulebook, the Lore­master would normally deter-
mine the number of Shadow points to remove
during the Fellowship Phase. As a solo player,
you instead decide how many Shadow points to
remove based on how your actions have impacted
the fight against the encroaching Shadow.
♦ If your actions have at least marginally
interfered with the return of the Shadow,
recover 1 Shadow point;
♦ If your deeds have actively hindered or
damaged the Enemy, remove 2 Shadow
points;
♦ If you have committed feats that would
gain the attention of the Dark Lord himself,
or at least one of his major servants, remove
3 Shadow points

20
 A ppe n d ix : C o lle c t e d Tables

Appendix: Collected Tables

EXPERIENCE MILESTONES ILL-­F ORTUNE TABLE

MILESTONE REWARD FEAT DIE RESULT

Accept a mission from a patron 1 Adventure Point Your actions catch the Eye of the Enemy.
Increase Eye Awareness by 2.
Achieve a notable personal goal 1 Adventure Point
and 1 Skill Point 1 You draw unwanted attention

Complete a patron’s mission 1 Adventure Point 2 Your actions are observed by someone of
and 1 Skill Point ill-­intent

Complete a meaningful journey 2 Skill Points 3 Unexpected enemies emerge or are sighted

Face a Noteworthy Encounter during 1 Skill Point 4 You are hindered by difficult terrain or an unfa-
a journey vourable environment

Reveal a significant location or 1 Adventure Point 5 You find yourself ill-­equipped for the
discovery circumstances

Overcome a tricky obstacle 1 Skill point 6 A favoured weapon or item is lost, broken, or
sacrificed
Participate in a Council 1 Skill Point
7 You are plagued by troubling visions or
Survive a dangerous combat 1 Adventure Point
thoughts
Face a Revelation Episode 1 Adventure Point
8 An old injury or stress resurfaces

9 You learn or realize something which adds a

FORTUNE TABLE new complication to your mission
FEAT DIE RESULT
10 You face a test which is contrary to your nature
The Eye of the Enemy focuses elsewhere. or abilities
Decrease Eye Awareness by 1.
An ally becomes a hindrance or liability
1 You may bypass a threat without attracting notice

2 You gain the attention of a potential ally

TELLING TABLE
3 An enemy inadvertently reveals their position ROLL A FEAT DIE.
CHANCE THE ANSWER IS YES IF YOU ROLL...
4 You gain favoured ground
Certain 1 or greater
5 Enemies run afoul of danger
Likely 4 or greater
6 You locate or learn of a useful item
Middling 6 or greater
7 Your success instils new hope or renewed
resolve Doubtful 8 or greater

8 You find a moment of comfort or safety Unthinkable 10

9 You learn or realize something which gives : Always yes, with an extreme result or twist
helpful insight into your mission : Always no, with an extreme result or twist
10 You encounter an opportunity suited to your
nature or abilities

An unexpected ally appears or sends aid

21
 STRIDER MODE

THE LORE TABLE

FEAT DIE: FEAT DIE:

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Abandon Corrupted Curse 1 Believe Flourishing Courage

2 Attack Cruel Despair 2 Bolster Beautiful Duty

3 Betray Deceptive Enemy 3 Defend Good Fellowship

4 Corrupt Fell Fear 4 Forgive Kind Hope

5 Defeat Ruined Shadow 5 Resist Gentle Love

6 Weaken Treacherous War 6 Strengthen Wondrous Peace

FEAT DIE: 1 FEAT DIE: 2

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Aid Active Battle 1 Change Cold Darkness

2 Arrive Ancient Border 2 Chase Concealed Death

3 Await Bold Burden 3 Command Dangerous Defence

4 Breach Bright Council 4 Control Dark Depths

5 Break Broken Court 5 Create Dead Doubt

6 Capture Cheerless Creature 6 Defy Defended Dreams

FEAT DIE: 3 FEAT DIE: 4

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Demand Desolate Fate 1 Explore Far-­reaching History

2 Discover Destroyed Fire 2 Find Fierce Honour

3 Disguise Dreadful Folk 3 Focus Foreboding Journey

4 Endure Empty Followers 4 Gather Forgotten Kindred

5 Escape Evil Greed 5 Guard Fragile Knowledge

6 Evade Faded Haven 6 Guide Ghastly Land

FEAT DIE: 5 FEAT DIE: 6

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Hide Gloomy Leader 1 Lead Isolated Message

2 Hinder Growing Legend 2 Learn Lofty Might

3 Hoard Hidden Life 3 Leave Lost Nature

4 Hold Ill-­fated Light 4 Lose Menacing Pain

5 Hunt Impenetrable Luck 5 Mourn Mighty Path

6 Journey inspiring Memory 6 Move Mysterious Patron

22
 A ppe n d ix : C o lle c t e d Tables

FEAT DIE: 7 FEAT DIE: 8

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Persist Noble Peril 1 Replenish Restored Riddle

2 Preserve Obstructed Plan 2 Restore Sheltered Ruins

3 Prevent Old Power 3 Scheme Silent Rumour

4 Refuse Ominous Prophecy 4 Search Simple Secret

5 Reject Open Quest 5 Seize Small Skill

6 Remove Peaceful Refuge 6 Share Sombre Song

FEAT DIE: 9 FEAT DIE: 10

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS DIE ACTION ASPECT FOCUS

1 Slay Stony Story 1 Transform Veiled Truth

2 Steal Stout Strength 2 Trap Vigorous Vengeance

3 Summon Stricken Time 3 Trick Weary Wealth

4 Surrender Stubborn Tool 4 Uncover Wild Weapon

5 Surround Twisted Treasure 5 Uphold Wretched Wilds

6 Threaten Unnatural Trust 6 Withstand Young Wish

SKILL SPECIAL SUCCESS TABLE

SPEND 1 SUCCESS
ICON TO… DESCRIPTION

Gain Insight You gain additional information, not necessarily related to the task at hand. For example, while helping a
sick individual with a HEALING roll you discover the trace of poison. Or you spot a sentry while sneaking
into a ruin with a roll of STEALTH .

Go quietly You achieve your goal noiselessly or without otherwise attracting attention.

Make haste You complete the attempted task in a shorter time (about half the expected time).

Widen Influence You can influence more than the specific number of subjects originally targeted by the action. As a
general rule, each Success icon spent corresponds to one additional subject or group of subjects. For
example, following a roll of INSIGHT , you spot a second person acting suspiciously at an inn; a roll of
ENHEARTEN aimed to affect half a dozen individuals allows you to influence a full dozen.

Build advantage You carry forward your success to improve your position or confidence for a related task; gain (1d) on your
next skill roll.

Cancel a Failure If playing co-­op with other players, you help another Player-­hero who failed within the scope of the same
skill roll; the failed roll is considered a success.

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 STRIDER MODE

RISK LEVELS
RISK LEVEL THE FAILED ROLL RESULTS IN… EXAMPLES

Standard Simple Failure, Eluding the watch of a Bounder in the Shire, entertaining a crowd of inebriated
OR Success with Woe patrons at an inn, climbing a tall tree.

Hazardous Failure with Woe Stealing mushrooms from a farm guarded by ferocious dogs, climbing atop a
crumbling tower, or trying to swim the waters of a swift-­running river.

Foolish Disaster! Picking the pockets of a hungry Troll, playing a riddle game with a Dragon, or
bandying words with an angry Wizard.

SOLO JOURNEY EVENTS

FATIGUE POINTS
FEAT DIE EVENT CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL GAINED

Terrible Misfortune If the roll fails, you are Wounded. 3

1 Despair If the roll fails, gain 2 Shadow points (Dread). 2

2–3 Ill Choices If the roll fails, gain 1 Shadow point (Dread). 2

4–7 Mishap If the roll fails, add 1 day to the length of the journey, and gain 1 addi- 2
tional Fatigue.

8–9 Short Cut If the roll succeeds, reduce the length of the journey by 1 day. 1

10 Chance-­meeting If the roll succeeds, no Fatigue is gained, and you may improvise an 1
encounter favouring your Player-­hero.

Joyful Sight If the roll succeeds regain 1 Hope. —

EVENT DETAIL: TERRIBLE MISFORTUNE EVENT DETAIL: DESPAIR

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME DIE EVENT OUTCOME

1 Dire confrontation Noteworthy Encounter 1 Servants of the Enemy Noteworthy Encounter

2 Rival Predator HUNTING to avoid 2 Torrential weather EXPLORE to find the

becoming the hunted least exposed path

3 Violent weather EXPLORE to find shelter 3 Nightmarish presence AWARENESS to sense

the danger
4 Hidden hazard AWARENESS to avoid
stumbling into danger 4 Fading vigour HUNTING to gain
sustenance
5 Dangerous terrain EXPLORE to find a safer
route 5 Corrupted site EXPLORE to find your
way out
6 Stalking enemy AWARENESS to spot the
foul presence 6 Grisly scene or fore- AWARENESS to be
boding portent forewarned
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, the target
is Wounded. CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, gain 2
Shadow points (Dread).
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 3
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 2

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EVENT DETAIL: ILL CHOICES EVENT DETAIL: SHORT CUT

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME DIE EVENT OUTCOME

1 Mismanaged HUNTING to replenish 1 Game trail HUNTING to traverse

provisions stores the path

2 Wayward path EXPLORE to retrace 2 Secluded path EXPLORE to navigate

your steps the wilds

3 Overlooked hazard AWARENESS to escape 3 Helpful tracks AWARENESS to follow

safely the tracks

4 Lost quarry HUNTING to follow its 4 Animal guide HUNTING to follow at a

tracks distance

5 Disorienting environs EXPLORE to find your 5 Favourable weather EXPLORE to make the
way most of it

6 Haunting visions AWARENESS to over- 6 Familiar waypoint AWARENESS to recog-

come darkness nize the landmark

CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, gain CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll succeeds,
1 Shadow point (Dread). reduce the length of the journey by 1 day.

FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 2 FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 1

EVENT DETAIL: MISHAP EVENT DETAIL: CHANCE MEETING

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE EVENT OUTCOME DIE EVENT OUTCOME

1 Sparse wildlife HUNTING to forage 1 Lone hunter HUNTING to trade

what you can stories

2 Lost direction EXPLORE to find your 2 Fellow traveller EXPLORE to learn about
way the path ahead

3 Obstructed path AWARENESS to spot a 3 Discreet watcher AWARENESS to spot

way around them

4 Elusive quarry HUNTING to track it 4 Noble beast HUNTING to commune

down
5 Secluded encampment EXPLORE to find your
5 Rough terrain EXPLORE to safely way off the beaten
traverse path

6 Wandering enemies AWARENESS to sense 6 Auspicious gathering Noteworthy Encounter

their coming
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll succeeds, no
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll fails, add 1 Fatigue is gained, and you may envision a favourable
day to the length of the journey, and gain 1 additional encounter.
Fatigue.
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 1
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: 2

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 STRIDER MODE

EVENT DETAIL: JOYFUL SIGHT REVELATION EPISODE TABLE

SUCCESS FEAT DIE EPISODE
DIE EVENT OUTCOME
Internal strife or an external threat puts your
1 Majestic creatures HUNTING to observe
Safe Haven in peril
without startling them
1 Unexpected danger arises on the path ahead,
2 Inspiring vista EXPLORE to reach a
forcing you to seek a new route
vantage point
2 Nature is corrupted and turns against you
3 Benevolent being AWARENESS to sense
their presence 3 Spies of the Enemy carry word of your mission

4 Abundant foraging HUNTING to replenish 4 Enemy minions launch an ambush or lay a trap
your rations
5 Enemy minions pick up your trail
5 Ancient monument AWARENESS to recog-
6 An important location is overtaken by an enemy
nize its significance
7 An item you carry holds a curse, or is hunted by
6 Peaceful sanctuary Noteworthy Encounter
an enemy
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SKILL ROLL: If the roll succeeds,
8 You are tempted by something greatly desired,
regain 1 Hope.
to the detriment of your mission
FATIGUE POINTS GAINED: —
9 Malicious lies cause others to mistrust or
fear you

10 Conflict brews between allies

HUNT THRESHOLD REGION TABLE
THE REGION TRAVERSED IS A… HUNT THRESHOLD An important ally is put in danger

Border Land 18

Wild Land 16 PATRON QUESTS: BALIN, SON OF FUNDIN

SUCCESS
Dark Land 14 DIE QUEST

1 Dark whispers plague a Dwarven territory.

HUNT MODIFIERS TABLE What nameless Shadow lurks in the wilds?
HUNT
MODIFIER DESCRIPTION 2 This broken artifact could be a potent weapon
against the enemy. What is this item, and who
+4 The Player-­hero is protected by the blessing
wields the skill to reforge it?
of a Wizard, or another powerful character
3 The Dwarven ruins hold great secrets — and
+2 The Player-­hero is travelling under a false
weapons against the Enemy. What is the nature
name, treading paths that are seldom trod-
of these ruins, and what treasures do they hold?
den, or otherwise taking actions to be discreet
and unobtrusive 4 A powerful comrade has fallen in battle against
the Enemy. Who are they, and what did they
−2 The Player-­hero has gained great renown in
carry vital to our survival?
the area thanks to some exceptional deed
5 A Dwarven stronghold now lies with the Enemy.
−4 The Enemy is actively looking for the Player-­
Who leads these foul creatures, and how have
hero, or their mission or goal is known to
they defiled our sacred site?
them
6 A powerful lieutenant of the Enemy grows in
power. Who is this shadowy figure, and how
have they amassed followers?

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PATRON QUESTS: BILBO BAGGINS PATRON QUESTS: GANDALF THE GREY

SUCCESS SUCCESS
DIE QUEST DIE QUEST

1 This particular delicacy is a rare treat. What is 1 The people need hope in these dark times.
this precious item, and where can it be found? Where is this remote settlement, and what
good news do you bring?
2 Scout the area and make a note of significant
landmarks to aid cartography. How has the land 2 Carry word of the Enemy’s movements to our
changed? trusted ally. Who is this ally, and how can they
aid us?
3 The roads grow dark and perilous. What vital
missive do you carry, and to whom must it be 3 A possible ally has made themselves known
delivered? to us. Who is this ally, and what must we do to
earn their trust?
4 An ancient text confounds attempts to decipher
it. What is the nature of this text, and who pos- 4 Our vision is clouded, our path uncertain. We
sesses the knowledge to translate it? must capture a servant of the Enemy. Who are
they, and what do they know?
5 The Enemy holds a map of special significance.
What secrets does this map hold, and why is it 5 News has reached us of a terrible weapon the
vital? Enemy means to bear. What is this weapon, and
who wields it?
6 An artifact of great importance has resurfaced.
What is this item, and why must we find it 6 The Shadow has captured an ally. Who is this
before the enemy does? ally, and where are they imprisoned?

PATRON QUESTS: CIRDAN THE SHIPWRIGHT PATRON QUESTS: GILRAEN,

SUCCESS DAUGHTER OF DIRHAEL
DIE QUEST
SUCCESS
DIE QUEST
1 Supplies wane as the Enemy draws near. What
vital resource for the building of ships must you 1 A Ranger has gone missing. What has become
deliver? of them?

2 An ancient enemy of the Elves has resurfaced 2 A powerful servant of the Enemy lurks nearby.
and made themselves known. Who are they, Who are they, and why do they target our
and what grudge do they bear? Rangers?

3 Hope falters in these dark days, so travel to a 3 Enemy patrols prowl along the road, targeting
remote beacon and rekindle its flame. What merchants and supply wagons. Who leads these
shadowy presence seeks to prevent this? deadly patrols?

4 Our missives fall into the hands of the Enemy. 4 A settlement has come under the eye of the
What fate befalls our messengers? Shadow. Why is this place significant?

5 An artifact of great importance to the Elves is 5 Monstrous servants of the Enemy encroach.
carried by a servant of the Enemy. Who is this What manner of weapon do they carry?
creature, and why do they covet the artifact?
6 We’ve received no word from a remote Ranger
6 The ships of the Grey Havens are fashioned refuge. What fate has befallen our allies?
from sacred wood. What malady taints these
trees?

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 STRIDER MODE

PATRON QUESTS: TOM BOMBADIL

AND LADY GOLDBERRY
SUCCESS USING OTHER TABLES
DIE QUEST
The One Ring core rulebook and supplements pro-
1 Creatures of the wilds have come under a dark vide a variety of region-­specific tables useful for
affliction. What is this sickness, and what rare your Strider Mode campaigns. Use those tables to
ingredient holds the key to a cure? inspire locations, encounters, quests, and more.

2 A sacred spring runs black with some malady of

the Shadow. What taints this source, and what
manner of foul creature guards it?

3 A group of travellers seeks escort through the

wilds. Who are they, and what is their vital
mission?

4 The Shadow corrupts a sacred site. What is this

place, and what foul presence now taints it?

5 A precious flower blooms for the first time in

many years. What is this plant, and why is it so
vital?

6 An ancient, sacred tree hosts a foul presence.

What is this shadow, and can it be purged?

L E A D WRIT E RS
Shawn Tomkin and Matt Click

T H E ON E RIN G ™ RU L E S D E S IG N
Francesco Nepitello and Marco Maggi

ART
Alvaro Tapia, Jan Pospíšil, Melissa Spandri,
Luca Sotgiu, Federica Costantini

GR APH IC DESIGN PR OJ EC T M A NA GER

Dan Algstrand, Christian Granath, Tomas Härenstam

Niklas Brandt
B R A ND M A NA GER

PR OOFR EADING Robert Hyde / Sophisticated Games

Brandon Bowling
PLAYT EST ER S

LINE MANAGER S Martin Takaichi, Sofia Vargas,

Francesco Nepitello, Martin Takaichi Matt Kay, Lorenzo Perassi

Strider, The One Ring, Middle-earth, and The Lord of the Rings and the characters, items, events, and places therein
are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Saul Zaentz Company d/b/a Middle-earth Enterprises (SZC)
and are used under license by Sophisticated Games Ltd. and their respective licensees. All rights reserved.

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