The world of jigsaw puzzles for adults is vast and varied, offering countless options that can sometimes be overwhelming. One effective way to narrow down your choices is by focusing on puzzles that feature themes or franchises you're passionate about. Choosing a puzzle that showcases your favorite stories or characters not only makes the puzzle-solving experience more enjoyable but also results in a finished product that's often worthy of display.
A prime example of a franchise with excellent puzzle options is The Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien's expansive universe, which has been brought to life through books, films, and even LEGO sets, naturally extends into the realm of jigsaw puzzles. Here, we've curated a list of the top five Lord of the Rings puzzles currently available online, each offering a unique way to engage with Middle Earth.
TL;DR — These Are the Best Lord of the Rings Puzzles
2000 pieces### Ravensburger Lord of The Rings: The Return of The King
2See it at Amazon
1000 pieces### theory11 Lord of The Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
2See it at Amazon
204 pieces### Lord of The Rings Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
2See it at Amazon
1000 Pieces### Aquarius Hobbit Map Puzzle
2See it at Amazon
100 Pieces### MyPuzzle Hobbit House
2See it at Amazon
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Puzzle
Best Overall
2000 pieces### Ravensburger Lord of The Rings: The Return of The King
2See it at Amazon
For fans of the Lord of the Rings movies, the Return of the King puzzle is a standout choice. This puzzle captures iconic scenes and characters from the trilogy's final film, including Frodo's struggle at Mount Doom, Gandalf's battle prowess, and Aragorn's ascension to the throne. The puzzle's design is enhanced by a decorative border, making it a visually appealing option. Crafted by Ravensburger, a brand renowned for its high-quality puzzles, each piece is uniquely shaped and fits perfectly, ensuring a satisfying assembly experience.
theory11 Lord of the Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
Coolest Design
1000 pieces### theory11 Lord of The Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
2See it at Amazon
The theory11 puzzle stands out for its stunning design, reminiscent of J.R.R. Tolkien's original illustrations. With its 1,000 pieces, the puzzle features a harmonious blend of green and gold hues that complement the illustrated style beautifully. This puzzle is perfect for those who appreciate the artistic elements of the Lord of the Rings books and would love to frame and display their completed work.
Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
Best 3D Puzzle
204 pieces### Lord of The Rings Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
2See it at Amazon
While traditional jigsaw puzzles are fantastic, 3D model kits offer a unique challenge. The 4D Build kit of Sauron's tower, Barad-Dur, is an excellent example. Comprising 204 pieces across 14 sheets, this model requires no glue or tools, making it an accessible yet engaging project. It's also a cost-effective alternative to the larger LEGO Barad-Dur set, priced at under $40.
Hobbit Map of Middle Earth Puzzle
Best Map Puzzle
1000 Pieces### Aquarius Hobbit Map Puzzle
2See it at Amazon
For those who appreciate cartography, the 1,000-piece Hobbit Map of Middle Earth puzzle is a must-have. Centered around the Shire, this puzzle showcases key locations from the story. While it doesn't cover every corner of Middle Earth, it's the best Lord of the Rings map puzzle available. For a more comprehensive view, you can explore the interactive map online.
Hobbit House Puzzle
Best for Beginners
100 Pieces### MyPuzzle Hobbit House
2See it at Amazon
Not everyone is ready for the challenge of a large puzzle. The 100-piece Hobbit House puzzle is perfect for beginners or casual puzzlers looking for a quick and enjoyable project. The image depicts a charming Hobbit home in New Zealand, which is actually a visitable location, adding a real-world connection to the puzzle.
Tips for Choosing the Best Puzzle for You
If you're new to puzzles or buying one as a gift, consider these factors:
How many pieces is it?
The number of pieces directly affects the puzzle's difficulty. A 100-piece puzzle suits beginners or children, a 500-piece puzzle is ideal for intermediate puzzlers, and a 5,000-piece puzzle is a significant challenge. For a relaxing afternoon activity, opt for puzzles with 300 pieces or fewer.
What size is it?
Consider the space you have available. Even smaller puzzles can take up considerable room, and larger puzzles might require a dedicated space. Puzzle boards or mats can be invaluable for managing space and keeping your puzzle intact during assembly.
Roll-up Storage### Becko Puzzle Mat
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Up to 1000 pieces### Ravensburger Puzzle-Store Storage
17See it at Amazon
Includes 6 Drawers### PlayVibe Puzzle Locker
13See it at Amazon
Titls and rolls### All4Jig Puzzle Table
10See it at Amazon
What does the picture look like?
Choose a puzzle with an image that resonates with you. Also, consider the image's composition; puzzles with distinct elements are easier to assemble than those with uniform colors or large areas of similar patterns, like a clear blue sky.
