I get the sense that TOR has great huge interlocking gears, which normally excites me but also is daunting because of my 8-10 session absolute upper limit. So Darkening is just never gonna happen, and I know it.

I’m skeptical of the interface between “you have reasons for adventuring” and “here, do this prewritten scenario.” That makes character motivation sound like bullshit. My players are definitely more okay with being told to go do a thing because it’s what’s prepped than I am.

Also deeply skeptical the game is really that exciting without some deep Tolkien fandom getting and keeping you excited.

Probably it’s a mood thing. Taking a couple weeks off will be nice.