I am a new player but already have fallen in love with this game.

Sadly it seems really hard to get hold of the older cycles.

Any advise on this ?

also , I heard later cycles get quite hard , ... do I and any chance facing the newer scenarios using only what I have from the core set? Or do I really need to build up my strength by buying several older cycles ?

advise would be much appreciated !

as I mentioned I really love this game and would like to enjoy it for many years to come... hopefully by expanding the game with many more scenarios and cycles.

There is a nice blog out there by @Authraw which answers the question, which cycles you can play with a core set only: https://darklingdoor.wordpress.com/path-less-traveled/

For buying advice: Check ebay or the Lord of the Rings LCG Players facebook group, sometimes you will find other players who want to sell their collection.

@Amicus Draconis thank you !

I will read this blog right away.

I recommend below for "minimum purchase" suggestions: (btw this whole website is brilliant!)

https://talesfromthecards.wordpress.com/2013/09/13/new-player-buying-guide/

@zeawater : thank you . Very useful site indeed.