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. There's something uniquely satisfying about piecing together a puzzle that showcases your favorite stories or characters, and the finished product often becomes a display-worthy piece of art.
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, I'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 Amazon1000 pieces### theory11 Lord of The Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
2See it at Amazon204 pieces### Lord of The Rings Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
2See it at Amazon1000 Pieces### Aquarius Hobbit Map Puzzle
2See it at Amazon100 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 2,000-piece puzzle captures iconic scenes and characters from the trilogy's final film, including Frodo's struggle at Mount Doom, Gandalf in battle, and Aragorn's ascension to the throne. The puzzle's design is enhanced by a decorative border, making it a visually appealing challenge. 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 Lord of the Rings puzzle stands out for its stunning design, reminiscent of J.R.R. Tolkien's original illustrations. With 1,000 pieces, this puzzle features a captivating blend of green and gold hues that complement its illustrated style. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate the artistic elements of the Lord of the Rings books and would love to frame and display their completed puzzle as a piece of art.
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 twist on the puzzle experience. The Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit by 4D Build brings the ominous tower of Sauron to life without the need for glue or tools. Comprising 204 pieces across 14 sheets, this kit is a cost-effective alternative to the more expensive Barad-Dur LEGO 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 and the lore of Middle Earth, the 1,000-piece Hobbit Map puzzle is a perfect choice. This puzzle showcases key locations from the story, with the Shire prominently featured. While it doesn't cover every location in 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 puzzle depicts a charming Hobbit home in New Zealand, which is actually a visitable destination, adding a real-world connection to the puzzle experience.
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 determines the puzzle's difficulty. A 100-piece puzzle suits beginners or kids, 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 may require a dedicated space. A puzzle board or mat can be invaluable for managing your workspace.
Roll-up Storage### Becko Puzzle Mat
22See it at AmazonUp to 1000 pieces### Ravensburger Puzzle-Store Storage
17See it at AmazonIncludes 6 Drawers### PlayVibe Puzzle Locker
13See it at AmazonTitls and rolls### All4Jig Puzzle Table
10See it at Amazon
What does the picture look like?
Choose a puzzle with an image you love, but 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.