Free League Publishing makes Saruman the center of the upcoming adventures of the One Ring and the 5E version of The Lord of the Rings
The Lord of Isengard
The two titles, The hands of the white magician (TO The One Ring) Yes Trials of Saruman (TO The Lord of the Rings Role-playing gamecompatible with 5E), will offer the same narrative content adapted to each system. These stories take place between the year 2965 and the dawn of the War of the Ringjust as the former wise advisor to the kings begins to succumb to his pride.
In this phase, Saruman rules Isengard with the aura of a wise scholar… even if the first shadows of corruption They are already lurking. Players will be able to do this serve you, monitor you, or challenge youinfluencing one of the most decisive moments of the Third Age.
A story that offers hours of adventure
The adventures are made up of six chapters which follow the white magician’s evolution from his role as a student of the knowledge of the Rings to his fall into ambition. According to Free League, this collection will allow players Decide if your fate is sealed or if there is still hope for him and for Middle Earth.
Featured content includes:
- “To serve or to spy”where the heroes must choose between serving Saruman or discovering his secrets.
- “Lore of Isengard”an expansion with new characters, enemies and mysteries of the Valley of In Curunir and the tower Orthanc.
- “A turning point in old age”a unique opportunity to rewrite, or witness, the beginning of his betrayal.
While Free League has not confirmed the release dateeverything indicates that the books will arrive spring 2026following the publisher’s usual pace.
A return to origins
Along with these volumes focusing on the white magician, The One Ring you will also receive Hobbit Talesa compendium of five adventures set in Quarter. This book will bring together material previously published in Initial set of the second edition, but now in a single physical editionwith leading stories Primula and Rory Brandigamo, Paladino Tuk or his Bilbo Baggins.
These stories are designed for players who want it experience the daily life of hobbits before the darkness comes to Middle-earth, with lighter games, focusing on rural life, hospitality and, of course, endless meals.
A key moment for fans of the role
Free League Publishing, also responsible for hits such as Alien RPG or Blade Runner: the role-playing gamecontinues to expand its catalog of literary adaptations with a almost reverential respect for Tolkien’s work. The inclusion of Saruman as a protagonist represents a change of focus– For the first time, players will be able to do this dive into your mind and motivationsdeciding whether the white magician deserves redemption or damnation.
Furthermore, this parallel expansion for The One Ring and its d20 version demonstrates the publisher’s commitment to keep both communities aliveoffering options for both those who prefer narrative immersion as for those who enjoy themselves classic tactical combat.
What if Saruman’s fate was not written?
This is the big question posed by this new adventure saga. Can players change the course of history? Or will they end up witnessing the inevitable fall of the proudest Istari? Whatever the choice, the truth is this Middle-earth reopens its doors for adventurers to write their own version of the myth.
With Isengard in its splendor and the Shire as a refuge, 2026 promises to be a busy year on the roleplaying forums.
