Welcome to another exciting installment of Faction Focus, where we delve into the eerie depths of Middle-earth to uncover the sinister forces that dwell within Moria. Join us as we unveil the treacherous secrets of this subterranean realm.
Moria’s Haunting Halls
Once the grand halls of Dwarves, Moria now lies shrouded in darkness, devoid of life, save for marauding Goblin patrols and fearsome lurking creatures. The Goblins of Moria are a horde, relying on sheer numbers over finesse in combat. Their unique Moria Army Bonus, “We cannot get out, they are coming,” grants a +1 Fight value bonus to Moria Goblins when facing Trapped enemies.
Terrifying Heroes
No expedition through Moria is complete without a spine-chilling encounter with the Balrog, known to Dwarves as Durin’s Bane. This fiery Monster wreaks havoc on the battlefield, requiring the bravest Heroes to challenge it. Even renowned figures like Aragorn, Glorfindel, or Boromir must resort to Heroic Strike to contend with the Balrog’s Fight value of 10. Bringing down this fiery foe is a monumental task with its Defense of 9 and a staggering 10 Wounds. The Demon of the Ancient World rule allows the Balrog to declare a free Heroic Combat each turn, and its Flame of Udûn special rule can set opponents ablaze while rendering it immune to fire-based attacks.
Formidable Warriors
Moria Goblin Warriors, with their low points cost, enable you to amass vast hordes. Those equipped with shields take the front lines, while spear-armed Goblins provide support. Despite their modest Shoot value, their sheer numbers make them a significant ranged threat. Cave Trolls, with their Burly special rule and Strength of 6, can inflict substantial damage when victorious in combat. Their Fight value of 6 poses a formidable threat to both Warriors and Heroes.
Strategic Prowess
Moria armies rely on overwhelming numbers and formidable Monsters for victory. Use your numerical superiority to encircle enemy shield walls, trapping their models. This capitalizes on your Army Bonus, boosting your Goblins’ Fight value. In scenarios with impassable terrain, employ Monster models to break deadlocks using Barge and Hurl Brutal Power Attacks, creating opportunities for your Goblins to swarm.
Bat Swarms: An Airborne Advantage (love these models)
Bat Swarms are valuable additions to Moria armies. Their Blinding Swarm special rule halves the Fight value of enemy models in base contact. Additionally, their ability to Fly allows them to swiftly seize objectives or contest distant markers.
Army Lists
GW prepared two example army lists for you. The first reflects the perils faced by The Fellowship in Moria and serves as a foundation for the Depths of Moria Legendary Legion. The second list, designed for higher points, includes a diverse selection of models, such as Moria Blackshields, Bat Swarms, and the formidable Watcher in the Water.
And remember, Frontline Gaming sells gaming products at a discount, every day in their webcart!
