Customer Reviews

Middle Earth Role Playing, Second Edition (MERP #2001)

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Among my circle of geeky friends, this was our favorite system after AD&D. This is a simplified version of the RoleMaster system, but I prefer MERP. Rolemaster adds complexity, such as separate results tables for each individual weapon, which only slows gameplay. MERP uses one result table for each type of weapon, e.g., cutting or crushing, with modifiers for the individual weapon.

The bloody and imaginative "critical hit" tables are a blast. The whole system makes it more fun to play a warrior or thief than a magic using character. Magic users are woefully under-powered and the spells lack the imagination of the combat and skills system. Magic characters select "Spell Lists" rather than individual spells as in D&D. Each list consists of ten themed spells (e.g., fire), but first level characters can only use the first and weakest spell. At each level, they gain access to the next spell and the earlier spells become more powerful. Sounds promising, right? It isn't. A first level wizard who selects Fire Law is only able to boil one cubic foot of inanimate liquid. I kid you not. The full Rolemaster rules only add more unimaginative and underpowered spell lists.

That said, we had a lot of fun hacking our way through Shelob's Lair and the other adventures. And we adopted the critical tables for D&D.

This is one of the most comprehensive and realistic RPG systems I've encountered. I love it, and not just because it lets you adventure in the amazing realms of Middle-earth. The system is detailed and difficult to get to grips with at first but it is certainly worth the effort.

I finally figured out this game! It took me a while but I did it! What a great system! Plenty of races to choose from and very in touch with Tolkiens world. I now fully recommend it to all roleplayers! Bravo! Bravissimo!

Middle-Earth Role Playing is a very detailed game and game setting, it probably is too much if you just want to grab something quick and fun for a dungeon bash, but if you want something a little deeper or more serious, or use some of the setting information, it would be ok. Some complex and lethal mechanics here.

I love this system, it captures the flavor of Tolkien while making for an efficient roleplaying system. Great for fans of Tolkien, even if they aren't interested in roleplaying. The supplements for this game are some of the best RPG supplements I've seen. Loads of fun!

tolkien middle-earth will coming alive for you if you enjoy roleplaying games... you'll love it....

If you love Tolkien and role playing, then this is a great game for you>