The first base set that introduced the core mechanics of the game. The cards were divided between Dwarves, Elves, Gandalf, Gondor and Shire cultures on the Free People sides and Isengard, Moria, Ringwraith and Sauron cultures on the Shadow side. The set is notable for having the largest number of Ally type of cards, characters who did not travel with the Fellowship and only provided aid through special abilities. Each subsequent set would see fewer and fewer Ally cards released, until they were completely phased out.