As part of the story line and for their different style of play, I initially liked them. I can not bring myself to repeat and grind them out for more points because, for me, being able to load the rocks faster doesn't connect to the rest of the game play. I am curious as to whether some of you are drawn to these.
When playing alone, the big battles can be pretty difficult and boring. As you move forward in the trait tree system they become a lot more interesting, and they're also really fun with larger groups and there are some new ones that have been added such as the new minas tirith big battle.