i think the level of the player and what they call fun. pirates is a fun game good shots and toys. Has a great walk up and play level. i would say it is a great game for beginner to intermediate player. great call outs and humor. lotr can be a lot to consume rule wise. its an intermediate to advanced player. both hold their value. so what is a better game for you? well only you know that because its your decision on what is fun. what we like will change as we grow with skill an knowledge. What i liked when i first got into the hobby is way different than what i think is fun now.

the good thing is that you have 2 really good games to choose from. play both if you can. spend 20 bucks on each. see what makes you want to play 1 more game ever time.