The only Archer minion in Fellowship Block (besides Lurtz, Servant of Isengard), Orthanc Assassin is among the stronger minions in the format with a base strength of 10. With the damage bonus shared with most Uruk-Hai and a stout 3 vitality, Orthanc Assassin is also a good choice for exertions from cards like Cloud of Arrows, Saruman's Power, Beyond the Height of Men, or weather conditions.

A solid addition to archery shadows in Towers Standard and beyond, Orthanc Assassin is somewhat limited by his uniqueness, though he can be replayed by Uruk Captain or even Evil-Smelling Fens if appropriate. His twilight cost can be reduced by Ranged Commander in the Towers Standard format.

• 3 vitality for exertions, such as from Cloud of Arrows, Beyond the Height of Men, or weather conditions
• Base strength beats most companions and allies without skirmish pumps (besides Treebeard and Tom Bombadil, the Master)

• Unique minion with a relatively high twilight cost
• Weaker than Lurtz and significantly more expensive than Uruk Lieutenant or (possibly) Uruk Ravager