The world of jigsaw puzzles for adults is vast and varied, offering countless options that can sometimes overwhelm even the most dedicated enthusiasts. One effective way to narrow down your choices is by focusing on puzzles that celebrate your favorite franchises. Selecting a puzzle that features beloved 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.
For fans of epic fantasy, The Lord of the Rings franchise presents some of the most compelling jigsaw puzzle options available today. J.R.R. Tolkien's richly detailed universe, brought to life in books, films, and even LEGO sets, has inspired a range of captivating puzzles. Below, we've curated a list of the top five Lord of the Rings puzzles you can find online.
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 films, this puzzle depicting scenes from The Return of the King is a stellar choice. It showcases key moments from the trilogy's final film, including Frodo's struggle at Mount Doom, Gandalf's battle prowess, and Aragorn's ascension to the throne. Encased in a distinctive border, this puzzle is not only a challenging endeavor but also a beautiful piece of memorabilia.
Crafted by Ravensburger, a brand renowned for its quality, this puzzle ensures that each of its 2000 pieces is uniquely shaped and fits perfectly, making it a top pick for both its thematic appeal and superior craftsmanship.
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 striking design, echoing the style of J.R.R. Tolkien's original illustrations. With its 1000 pieces, this puzzle combines green and gold hues in a way that evokes the illustrated charm of the Lord of the Rings books. Ideal for those who appreciate art, this puzzle transforms into a display-worthy piece once completed.
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
Venturing into the realm of 3D puzzles, the Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron model kit from 4D Build offers a unique challenge. Comprising 204 pieces across 14 sheets, this kit allows you to construct the iconic tower without the need for glue or tools. It's an affordable alternative to the more expensive 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 cherish the geography of Middle Earth, this 1000-piece map puzzle from Aquarius is a must-have. Centered around the Shire, it captures key locations from The Hobbit. While it doesn't cover every corner of Middle Earth, it's the finest Lord of the Rings map puzzle available. For a more comprehensive view, you can explore an 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. This 100-piece Hobbit House puzzle is perfect for beginners or casual puzzlers looking for a quick and enjoyable project. The image features a charming Hobbit home in New Zealand, a real-life destination that adds an extra layer of delight to the puzzle.
Tips for Choosing the Best Puzzle for You
When selecting a puzzle, especially if you're new to the hobby or buying one as a gift, consider these key 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 for assembling the puzzle. Even smaller puzzles can take up considerable room, and larger ones might require a dedicated space. Puzzle boards or mats can be invaluable for managing space and keeping your puzzle intact during the process.
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?
Finally, consider the image itself. Choose a puzzle that features a subject you love, but also pay attention to the image's composition. Puzzles with distinct elements are easier to assemble than those with uniform colors or large areas of similar patterns, such as a clear blue sky.