ColonelHardisson
What? Me Worry?
Thanks for reading. My entire reason for writing it originally was to point out how well the Fourth Age would work for a game, so have at it. I've been thinking of expanding that post, since I've thought of some material to add since I wrote it years back. Places like Moria are obvious draws, but I'm especially taken with the idea of the restoration of the Northern Kingdom of Arnor. There are entire ruined cities, haunted burial grounds, and even the Shire itself had to deal with remnants of evil that moved north.
Restoring the Northern Kingdom of Arnor could involve a "points of light" campaign, as Aragorn enlists pioneering Gondorian citizens and local Eriadorans in rooting out ancient evils and fugitives from Sauron's (and Saruman's) defeat. Places like Fornost Erain would start out as base camps as knights and other lords from Gondor are sent north to recolonize and tame lost lands. It might have a touch of an Old West feel. I also think exploring Carn Dum, the old capital of Angmar, could make for an entire Fourth Age campaign in itself. Dunadan Ranger villages near Annuminas would also be good bases for PCs to foray into the wild places of the north, as well as give opportunities to rub shoulders with famous characters who visit the resurgent kingdom of Arnor. Those who distinguish themselves in the service to Gondor may be granted land in the north, so you might see knights of Dol Amroth or simple soldiers from Minas Tirith heading up to stake their claim in the old fallen kingdoms. A number of the MERP books I review could be used "in reverse," depicting things as they are slowly restored.
It's a great era for gaming.
