We are extremely excited about the open world game Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. First discussed here, Shadow of Mordor is a next-generation, third-person action game that takes place in Middle-earth, set before the events of The Lord of the Rings, exploring a new story of vengeance and redemption. After watching the below video we are desperate to start playing this game. Monolith Productions looks to have finally given us a quality Lord of the Rings game.
Courtesy of IGN we have our Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor First Game Footage. We get to see some real gameplay, and more specifically the “nemesis” system that everyone is raving about.
In Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, gamers take on the role of Talion, a valiant ranger whose family is slain in front of him the night Sauron and his army return to Mordor, moments before his own life is taken. Resurrected by a Spirit of vengeance and empowered with Wraith abilities, Talion ventures into Mordor and vows to destroy those who have wronged him. Through the course of his personal vendetta, Talion uncovers the truth of the Spirit that compels him, learns the origins of the Rings of Power and ultimately confronts his true nemesis.
The Nemesis System
During your adventures, some enemies may survive encounters with you, some may flee before you can slay them, and some will probably kill you. In any case, the survivor can rise through the ranks of Mordor’s armies, recruit followers, and hold one heck of a grudge against you. This is the new Nemesis system that Monolith has introduced. An enemy thrown into a roaring fire might have half of its face scarred the next time you meet. It’s a cool idea that builds the history between you and your foes.
Talion is only one person, yet with his wraith abilities, he’s able to dominate his enemies and spread his influence across Mordor’s various lands. In the example shown in the video above, Once a brawl begins between Talion and an enemy, some may stay to fight and some may choose to run, in this case Ratbag the coward fled. As he ran, Talion teleported to his enemies and caught up with Ratbag and was able to kill him. But once a enemy flees, the fight’s intensity is instantly cranked up. If Ratbag were to escape, he’d probably be even stronger and have more followers the next time you meet. There’s actually a reason to want your enemy dead other than “because the game said I do.”
Even in the early stages of this game, the visuals, human/wraith combat, and the nemesis system all showed signs of a great Lord of the Rings game.
