This month,Amazon Prime Gamingmembers are able to grabMiddle-earth: Shadow of Warfor their GOG libraries as Amazon expands the world of Middle-earth through its brand-new seriesThe Rings of Power.Whether this is Amazon’s way of getting new fans into J. R. R. Tolkien’s world or not,Amazon Prime Gamingmembers should consider picking up this fun action-RPG set in the world ofLord of the Rings.
Middle-earth: Shadow of Waris the second title in Monolith Productions’Middle-earthseries, continuing the tale of Talion between the events ofThe HobbitandLord of the Rings.The story itself is not canon within the greaterLord of the Ringsuniverse, but these titles are still one of the best ways to experience Tolkien’s world. It provides hours of fun for franchise fans and newcomers, and it should just be the start of Amazon Prime Gaming’sLord of the Ringsofferings.
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Middle-earth: Shadow of War is Free on Amazon Prime Gaming
Middle-earth: Shadow of Warreleased in 2017, following aranger of Gondor named Talionwho had been bound to the wraith of the elf lord Celebrimbor. This connection gives Talion special powers that he can utilize to destroy the armies of Sauron. The story follows as they forge a new Ring of Power, and then go on a mission across Mordor to build their own army to destroy Sauron.
The gameplay and story ofMiddle-earth: Shadow of Warare solid, but the realhighlight of this game is the Nemesis Systemintroduced inShadow of Mordor. This system makes enemies far more dynamic and realistic, as each Uruk is tracked based on their in-game actions. If an Uruk kills the player or survives an encounter, they will remember it. They will be promoted in Sauron’s army and become harder to best the next time around, and sometimes they will seek revenge on Talion for scarring them. It is a unique system that was only given more depth throughShadow of War.
Amazon Should Add Even More Lord of the Rings Games
Middle-earth: Shadow of Waris a nice addition to Amazon Prime Gaming, and it may result in a couple newLord of the Ringsfans. This comes at a perfect time for Amazon since it is currently airing the first season ofThe Rings of Power, which expands the world of Middle-earth even more in the age of Arda that has not yet appeared in live-action. While it has not been perfect, it has brought Middle-earth back into the spotlight.
There are many Middle-earth adventures that that could get new life if they were included in Amazon Prime Gaming. For one, Amazon could offer the first title in theMiddle-earthseries to complete this package. Those who have never played the series will probably want to check out the first game, and Amazon should deliver. The service could also offerLEGO The HobbitorLEGO The Lord of the Ringsso users can experience the original stories in LEGO form, or go further back by providing members access to games likeThe Lord of the Rings: War in the North.
Middle-earth: Shadow of Warshould only be the start of Amazon Prime Gaming’sLord of the Ringsofferings. The release ofThe Rings of Powermakes it the perfect time for Amazon to capitalize on renewed interest in Middle-earth through the gaming world. Not only could it pull new fans into J. R. R Tolkien’s world, but it could also give fans something to do while they wait for the next episode.
Amazon Prime Gamingmembers can grabMiddle-earth: Shadow of Warfor PC until October 31.
