Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor

 PC
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2369 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,686 out of 2369
  2. Mixed: 489 out of 2369
  3. Negative: 194 out of 2369
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  1. ZeroWaitState
    Oct 24, 2015
    9
    The rest of the game is so good, the boss fights are disappointing and anti-climactic. That's literally the only complaint I have about this game. It's that good. Go play it.
  2. Matuka
    Dec 11, 2020
    7
    It's a solid game, it really is a good game. Good graphics and gameplay. No major shortcomings. Nemesis system is cool. The problem is, there are no difficulty settings (difficulties to choose from) and this game is surprisingly hard. Or even more accurately, frustrating. If you die the enemies get stronger as well, it's kind of souls-like (Soulsborne) in that aspect. It feels like yourIt's a solid game, it really is a good game. Good graphics and gameplay. No major shortcomings. Nemesis system is cool. The problem is, there are no difficulty settings (difficulties to choose from) and this game is surprisingly hard. Or even more accurately, frustrating. If you die the enemies get stronger as well, it's kind of souls-like (Soulsborne) in that aspect. It feels like your sword barely does damage, you have to slice and dice (hit) the enemies so many times before they die. When you're surrounded by 40-50~ Uruks it feels impossible to kill them all, or at least it takes skill and most importantly A LOT of time. It's tedious. The most frustrating thing is when you knock an enemy on the ground and you go for the execute on em, WELL the other enemies can INTERRUPT that execute completely!!! And of course they can damage you as well, when they interrupt the execute! Super frustrating when you've earned an execute kill and they don't even let you do that in peace! No invulnerability/invincibility frames when executing.

    It's just pretty frustrating and tedious at times. The story is generic. Overall it just ain't no masterpiece. BUT! It's most certainly not a bad game. It's in that 6-7/10 range for me. (Very) Good, but not great. If it had adjustable difficulty and/or changes to executions etc. to make it less frustrating, it'd be 7-8(+). It's more like a 6.5 now, leaning towards a seven. Worth buying and playing but it ain't no super impressive heavy hitter.    … Expand
  3. julius98
    Aug 29, 2016
    10
    Pure fun. Although the ending is definitively not ideal, the main bulk of the game is extremely entertaining, if not entirely refined. Well optimized for play on PC, a must buy for any gamer interested in action RPGs.
  4. kiwijinxter
    May 20, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wowsers. I came into this game without any expectations whatsoever. Boy, I was blown away. Hot off Dragon Age: Inquisition which in itself is an Action RPG, I found Shadow of Mordor's combat (which is important in any ARPG) to be most satisfying. I must admit I found it a bit difficult at the start - I died a lot at the beginning due to lack of experience (going for a whole bunch of orcs like a superhero) but over time as I added more skills, I became more adept at handling orcs, warchiefs and all (yes I still died, but quite a bit less!). It's a game that does stealth MUCH more smoothly and seamless than Assassin's Creed, combat movements MUCH more fluid than Dragon Age: Inquisition and introduces a fun "Nemesis" system.

    The Nemesis system introduces you to the idea of enemy progression e.g. each time an orc or uruk kills you, he gains 1 rank up. There are Warchiefs who are stronger versions of orcs/uruks, surrounded by some bodyguards which require a bit more careful planning. Later in the game when you can brand uruks and turn them into your side, the Nemesis system becomes more fun where you can brand bodyguards and get them to betray Warchiefs (with you helping them), essentially creating traitors within Sauron's orc army ranks.

    As I said before, combat is super fluid and reminds me of the Batman series of games.

    There's heaps of variety in the game, including the ability to ride Caragors (the fierce dog monsters) and Graugs (the huge golem like monster). You also have a mix of sword, bow-and-arrow and stealth dagger skills you employ throughout the game to rid of your enemies. Stealth executions and branding are actually fun and very smooth. Later on you can purchase higher end skill sets which makes you a stronger killing machine for a limited time. There are the main quests and never ending side-quests to enable you to grind a bit to increase your skill sets.

    If there's one thing I'd improve, I'd like the sometimes "sticky" situations where you're stuck climbing on a wall and can't jump down quick enough. But generally you can survive without having to do this.

    Story-wise, it's pretty straight forward, and has ties to Tolkien's Lord of the Rings lore (as re-imagined by Peter Jackson). Familiar characters like the ring, Sauron, Saruman, Gollum either make an appearance in person or in the text.

    After playing this, games like Assassin's Creed will need to improve their combat! I'm certainly looking forward to the sequel, Middle Earth: Shadow of War. It's truly a worthy game.    … Expand
  5. Arcon
    Nov 20, 2014
    9
    Pros: Best fighting gameplay mechanics around, Immersive atmosphere, Fun stealth mechanics, At least 50 hours of gameplay if you do everything, Very nice graphics, Interesting Nemesis function

    Cons: You get too powerful by the end, Your ability by end to just walk through Mordor killing everything in your path disagrees with canon, The Nemesis system(while listed as a pro or concept)    Pros: Best fighting gameplay mechanics around, Immersive atmosphere, Fun stealth mechanics, At least 50 hours of gameplay if you do everything, Very nice graphics, Interesting Nemesis function

    Cons: You get too powerful by the end, Your ability by end to just walk through Mordor killing everything in your path disagrees with canon, The Nemesis system(while listed as a pro or concept) was sort of lacking in its potential, Final battle lacks intensity

    Other Thoughts: Get it if you enjoy the Batman Asylum or Origins fighting mechanics as this is more of the same but in LoTR universe. Well worth the money.    … Expand
  6. tab531
    Jan 7, 2015
    9
    game is great! the animations are great!... the battles are great ! the roaming giant beasts that are interacting with other beasts and fighting them! great game
  7. Caligamy
    Nov 22, 2014
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I didn't expect this game to entertain me as much as it did, but I was pleasantly surprised.

    The combat system takes a little while to get accustomed to but once you figure it out you can fly through this game with ease. The AI can be a little bit dumb however, most of the time you can evade pursuit by just climbing onto some small building or wall for a minute. The Nemesis system I was very fond of once I realized what was going on in it, and the variety of orc characteristics, faces, armor, etc was very impressive as I saw very few repeats after dozens and dozens of defeated captains (and I was actively looking for them.)

    You finally get a break from the cramped muddy confines of Mordor a little over halfway into the game when you get to the second area which is more lush, and the story although not an exact copy of LoTR it offers an interesting spin on the tale once you figure out exactly who your wraith counterpart is.

    Once you get up to the point in the story where you can brand enemies and control them to build an army you don't feel the constant need to have to fight through every inch of the map, as by this point it becomes pretty easy to fight large crowds of enemies and easily kill them or capture them under your control.

    Pros
    Very diverse enemy features, and characteristics unique to each one that develop further as they level.
    Enemy ranking system of Captains and Warchiefs offers something new/unique to action games
    Runes (which you equip to your weapons) lighten the strain in combat a lot once you learn how to get them
    Combat becomes increasingly fast paced as you unlock the higher tier skills and learn how to chain them all together
    Multiple methods (poisoning, luring cragars, blowing up fires or grog, etc) to kill enemies breaks up the constant hack and slash feeling usually associated with action games

    Cons
    Story has a lot of gaps where your just left kind of wondering what happened there
    The maps you roam around in feels small and cramped a lot of the time
    They have mounts in game that are more of a nuisance to be around than a bonus (mainly because you eventually will travel faster and easier than any ridden mount after developing your character a bit)
    Lack of loot or equipment in game is a little dull and the rune system doesn't really expand it by much, reforged weapons do exist in game by completing the quests associated with each weapon but does not really do anything for them except change their looks slightly.

    *Spoiler* You have the impression that this game is going to be longer than it actually is with the amount of remaining bosses left in Saurons army but nope.. It just kind of ends suddenly and abruptly leaving you feeling like you just watched a LoTR movie with an open ending that's meant to setup the sequel. Some of the big bosses in game practically feel like they kill themselves and aren't challenging at all leaving the ending feeling very rushed.    … Expand
  8. Rex_richards
    Jan 16, 2015
    10
    So some bstd orc kept coming after me and trashing me when my health was low. Each time he taunts me and makes me look even worse. Each time I died he got more powerful. Eventually I had to hunt him down instead. I killed another orc captain, got some intel on my target and found out he was terrified of carragors/death dogs. So i trailed him for a while, set some carragors free (they areSo some bstd orc kept coming after me and trashing me when my health was low. Each time he taunts me and makes me look even worse. Each time I died he got more powerful. Eventually I had to hunt him down instead. I killed another orc captain, got some intel on my target and found out he was terrified of carragors/death dogs. So i trailed him for a while, set some carragors free (they are caged up) and at the same time dropped a hornet nest on his bodyguards and knocked down a wall onto some others. My target runs off screaming in panic, his bodyguards are freaking out over the hornets, so I get after him and get him on his own for once and cut his head off. REVENGE!
    So yes shadow of mordor is about kllling orcs but it's totally unique and completely excellent..    … Expand
  9. Rogyapa
    Nov 22, 2014
    8
    + I love this game not for the main story (which is pretty boring imo) but for the combat (which is excellent) and the nemesis system. These two aspects allow emergent gameplay to happen and man is it awesome.
    Here's an example that happened to me: I creep along the rooftops shadowing my prey, he's surrounded by bodyguards which could make this fight quite hard. He comes to a stop and I    + I love this game not for the main story (which is pretty boring imo) but for the combat (which is excellent) and the nemesis system. These two aspects allow emergent gameplay to happen and man is it awesome.
    Here's an example that happened to me: I creep along the rooftops shadowing my prey, he's surrounded by bodyguards which could make this fight quite hard. He comes to a stop and I dive on top of him, trying to stealth kill him. I panic when he grabs me in mid air and throws me, then summons a bunch of enemies. I hack my way through a hundred orcs and finally manage to get the warchief low enough for me to kill him. As I'm about to deliver the killing blow I'm struck by a spear and die. The killer taunts me. Good thing I can't die, but he can. I chase him across the map, find him, and proceed to remove his head from his body.
    +The combat gives you a wide range of options from stealth to swordfighting to ranged and actively encourages you to change your tactics depending on the enemies ( just like Arkham Asylum).
    There are some nice little touches such as how when you level up your weaponry, runes are carved into them and eventually transform the weapons into better versions.
    +Combat has a nice meaty feel. The executions are brutal and have very convincing death animations/sound effects too.
    +There's a nice variety to the roster of enemies (which is randomized every game/ new ones are added if you advance time)

    -My biggest complaint is that the game introduces some interesting supporting characters but really only gives backstory/ any character development through collectibles.
    -The game has some really weird bugs such as climbing a building only to end up inside of it and floating corpses.    … Expand
  10. mugen_is_here
    May 11, 2022
    8
    Great game! Reminds me of assassin's creed!

    Lots of variety in the gameplay. Extremely lengthy. Story is quite emotional and powerful (though it's laced with the LOTR elements that are just plain dumb). Difficulty was quite high after a while. The captains were incredibly difficult to defeat because they would keep regenerating health. But great characters all of them. Their    Great game! Reminds me of assassin's creed!

    Lots of variety in the gameplay. Extremely lengthy. Story is quite emotional and powerful (though it's laced with the LOTR elements that are just plain dumb).

    Difficulty was quite high after a while. The captains were incredibly difficult to defeat because they would keep regenerating health. But great characters all of them. Their dialogues brought out how gruesome they were.

    Overall loved it!    … Expand
  11. birdman3
    Aug 6, 2017
    8
    I've got mixed feelings about this game- on the one hand, it's got a lot of very similar stealth and combat moves from the Arkham series, which I love in the LOTR setting. I like the story, and a few of the characters even stood out to me (I really loved the dwarf, even if the rest of the 2nd act characters were forgettable). I liked the interplay between Talion and the wraith, which madeI've got mixed feelings about this game- on the one hand, it's got a lot of very similar stealth and combat moves from the Arkham series, which I love in the LOTR setting. I like the story, and a few of the characters even stood out to me (I really loved the dwarf, even if the rest of the 2nd act characters were forgettable). I liked the interplay between Talion and the wraith, which made for some interesting contrasting sequences. I liked that the game started off challenging (although, a bit too challenging- I died a lot very quickly and some of the captains got really powerful, and I found myself running from many, many battles early on). I dlisked that the game got too easy once you gained the ability to Brand the orcs- every battle from that point on became a war of attrition, where I simply attacked until I could Brand, then I Branded over and over again until my orcs overwhelmed the enemy. In the last half of the game, I died only once, compared to the 20+ times in the 1st act. I additionally disliked some of the tedium of the side quests, fetching, and challenges- I felt like they added very little to the game overall, so their scope should have been reduced.

    As has probably been mentioned, the best part of the game is the Nemesis system wherein orcs fight each other and develop, thereby becoming stronger and adapting. While I thought that controlling orcs in individual skirmishes made the game too easy, controlling captains made the game into a fun pokemon-style level-up system wherein you babysit your pet captains, making them grow stronger and have achievements and rank advances. That was fun.

    Overall, the game achieves more successes than failures, and I appreciate the use of the license. Makes me want to re-watch some of the movies.    … Expand
  12. Alsmir
    Apr 8, 2015
    9
    Quick version:
    It's like an Assassins Creed that doesn't suck.
    I bought this game for 2 reasons: 1. It was cheap - around 15$. 2. There is one more week untill GTA 5 and I have nothing to play. I' ve read some reviews before, watched a couple of videos. I've heard it's good but at the same time it didn't look like a game I'd enjoy. Surprise, surprise. It is good and I'm loving    Quick version:
    It's like an Assassins Creed that doesn't suck.

    I bought this game for 2 reasons:
    1. It was cheap - around 15$.
    2. There is one more week untill GTA 5 and I have nothing to play.

    I' ve read some reviews before, watched a couple of videos. I've heard it's good but at the same time it didn't look like a game I'd enjoy.
    Surprise, surprise. It is good and I'm loving it.

    First of all, my 2 cents about issues mentioned in negative reviews:
    It's not for hardcore LoTR fans. Mostly because they can't be pleased by anything other than the book trilogy. Personally, I don't care if the lore is perfect. The story if fine, I enjoyed it.

    PC controlls. I'm playing it with mouse + keyboard and it works well. No issues with camera or weird controlls. It's quite intuitive and easy to learn. You have bloody tutorials with explaination + video for every single move, so I can't understand why some people say that they can't learn it.

    Combat isn't difficult, nor is it too easy. You can get overwhelmed by enemies, some bosses are a pain in the ass. It gets better as you progress your character.

    What I enjoyed the most:
    Combat.
    The game is mostly about fighting and the combat is really fun. A whole bunch of different moves, fluid, interesting, challenging. On top of that SoM has one of the best animations, I've ever seen.

    Progression system is interesting and keeps the game interesting. You always have some new upgrades waiting for you, my fighting style was changing with every new unlocked ability.

    Side quests give you decent rewards. Most of them are quite enjoyable with multiple ways of finishing them. There aren't tons of similar missions that feel like a chore. It's not as repetitive as AC series.

    Overall I'm very happy with this game, especially for that price. ~30-40 hours of entertainment.    … Expand
  13. Ne42
    Jan 5, 2015
    5
    Very overrated game IMO. The game actually could be fun, but, unfortunatelly, was ruined by some strange design decisions. The main being is constant regeneration of orc forces, even in same session, even in same fortress. You can't possibly clean up area in the game which is ridiculous! But even this could be OK, but even Captains and Warchefs are regenerating constantly, which makes youVery overrated game IMO. The game actually could be fun, but, unfortunatelly, was ruined by some strange design decisions. The main being is constant regeneration of orc forces, even in same session, even in same fortress. You can't possibly clean up area in the game which is ridiculous! But even this could be OK, but even Captains and Warchefs are regenerating constantly, which makes you feel that your efforts are useless. There is no need to lears any weknesses and earn bonuses, since it's a cheap thing, just do it one more time.. Basically after some 8 hours of play (which feels fun) world apparently becomes artifical and not fun. Combine this with subpar story, and I stopped playing the game then I moved to the second area. Couldn't bare more of the same.. potentially fun game, ruined by it's own creators.… Expand
  14. jackhunter
    Apr 6, 2016
    8
    A very good beat them up set in Tolkien'slore. Well made fights, where you cut and slash your enemies with a lot of pleasure.The stgory is decent and could be integrated to the canon of the universe if you want my opinion.The only flaw of this game may be the lack of epicness of some fights against bosses. Definitely worth a try when you see it on sale.
  15. Rahza
    Feb 11, 2015
    10
    Great Combat, Great Audio, Great Graphics, Great Mechanics, Great Atmosphere, Great Story, Great Execution, Great Roleplay, Great Customization... Should I continue? I'll just say that it's a great game, worth the full price (although understandable if you want to wait until it goes on sale, because it *is* expensive. I reccomend the Season Pass, because it gives access to *a lot* ofGreat Combat, Great Audio, Great Graphics, Great Mechanics, Great Atmosphere, Great Story, Great Execution, Great Roleplay, Great Customization... Should I continue? I'll just say that it's a great game, worth the full price (although understandable if you want to wait until it goes on sale, because it *is* expensive. I reccomend the Season Pass, because it gives access to *a lot* of stuff; Costumes for your guy, New Quests, new Runes for your Weapons, new Challenges, ect.)… Expand
  16. JJRambo
    Oct 18, 2017
    4
    the game looks fun, but it's a repetitive bottom smashing fest. Climbing walls it's so frustrating. The fighting is just smash one button with the occasional use of other buttons, you can fell satisfied for what you see on screen but the game tricks you while you smash that one button till your hands get numb.
    And then there's the micro transaction that don't even lets you play the game    the game looks fun, but it's a repetitive bottom smashing fest. Climbing walls it's so frustrating. The fighting is just smash one button with the occasional use of other buttons, you can fell satisfied for what you see on screen but the game tricks you while you smash that one button till your hands get numb.
    And then there's the micro transaction that don't even lets you play the game as it's intended, and day one DLC. So this game just sucks.    … Expand
  17. kuroishi_x
    Nov 23, 2014
    9
    This game is pretty damn enjoyable. I was spending hours just doing random side missions, just because of the nemesis system. And that is also this game's downfall, the story is mediocre at best and the characters, even if they are memorable, it would have been great if they would have some more screen-time and character progression.

    Overall the game looks nice, the sound is great and    This game is pretty damn enjoyable. I was spending hours just doing random side missions, just because of the nemesis system. And that is also this game's downfall, the story is mediocre at best and the characters, even if they are memorable, it would have been great if they would have some more screen-time and character progression.

    Overall the game looks nice, the sound is great and the combat is fun and just the right difficulty (expect some of the quick time events which aren't always entirely logical and/or fun). I finished the game 100%, the collectathon was enjoyable, the side missions were varied and fun and I thoroughly enjoyed the game for 30-40 hours, which solidly justifies the price.    … Expand
  18. veyron2222
    Aug 13, 2016
    10
    I started playing this game thinking I would probably hate it at least as much as I hate LOTR (and I hate it a lot), but then I started playing it and just fell in love with the game, the game-play was great ,it was so fun, the reactions of the generals and the things they say when you come back after they killed you just made me love it. It was the first game I have ever played that II started playing this game thinking I would probably hate it at least as much as I hate LOTR (and I hate it a lot), but then I started playing it and just fell in love with the game, the game-play was great ,it was so fun, the reactions of the generals and the things they say when you come back after they killed you just made me love it. It was the first game I have ever played that I loved so much that i just couldn't stop playing it until I got 100% of the game completed.… Expand
  19. Acton_Lobo
    Jan 20, 2015
    10
    Tudo é magnífico e bem feito. Um excelente game! As cenas de combate são épicas e extremamente violentas. A trilha sonora é impecável e original. A Warner Bros superou-se!
  20. melodymoony
    Feb 23, 2016
    9
    I really enjoyed Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, it’s a well-adapted LoTR / Middle earth open world action game which combines both Batman and Assassin’s Creed gameplay and style in a nice way as combat and game progression are well implemented and fun. If you enjoyed those games, you are gonna like this one then.
    The story itself is strong enough, with some nice fan service (you will    I really enjoyed Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, it’s a well-adapted LoTR / Middle earth open world action game which combines both Batman and Assassin’s Creed gameplay and style in a nice way as combat and game progression are well implemented and fun. If you enjoyed those games, you are gonna like this one then.
    The story itself is strong enough, with some nice fan service (you will even find Gollum in it), but definitely one of the best features the game has is the Nemesis system, which is extremely good. Maybe at first you’ll think it’s nothing really special, but trust me, it is! and it works very well, the way orcs can remember the encounters you have and how they talk to you when they meet you again is really effective and credible and it’s going to arouse your emotions, especially when they kill you and grow in power because of that.
    You can get your revenge and also avenge people in your friend list if you want. Eventually you will have your own story of vengeance and confrontation.
    The orcs have their own ranks of influence and power which are always changing not only based on your own actions, but on their own and oh boy! they are selfish and ambitious and will do everything, even betray their own, to gain more power.
    The Nemesis System is actually so good that I hope they implement more things like that in other games, it makes the game feel alive.
    As you play you will gather information about your enemies so you can always have the advantage (if you want) of knowing which their weaknesses are and even turn them against each other and have a lot of fun with your powers as they increase.
    There are other activities which are not part of the main quests and they can also be fun and challenging.
    Killing so many orcs can become a bit repetitive at some points, but you won’t get bored easily, the combat system is fun and intuitive and there are a lot of options to engage and kill your enemies, I’m sure you will find some very creative ways to get the job done. If you like the stealthy approach or the kick the door and kill them all style both are gonna work in different situations.
    You earn ability points that can be assigned the way you want and get runes that can be applied to your weapons to customize your gameplay even more.
    The graphics are really good and well optimized for PC specially with the HD textures (By the way, you don’t actually need the 6gb vram to run them, but the more you have, the better - obviously).
    Finally, I would recommend to play with a gamepad, it’s amazing! the keyboard and mouse combo works , but it is just not as intuitive nor as comfortable.
    At the end Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is a great game with a AAA production value, a precious one!    … Expand
  21. makan8
    Dec 8, 2014
    10
    Probably the best open world experience since Just Cause 2 (I don't like GTA V you can't be a overpowered super god) the gameplay is great and has beautiful animations and gritty ''FINISH HIM'' scenes, the story is meh but that not really anything you care about.
    The open world(s) look great and all of the maps have a distinct feel and style, the parkour is harder than Assassins creed    Probably the best open world experience since Just Cause 2 (I don't like GTA V you can't be a overpowered super god) the gameplay is great and has beautiful animations and gritty ''FINISH HIM'' scenes, the story is meh but that not really anything you care about.
    The open world(s) look great and all of the maps have a distinct feel and style, the parkour is harder than Assassins creed which also makes it more rewarding, the stealth is simple but good and the nemesis system is flawless! Buy it.    … Expand
  22. WillG027
    Dec 5, 2015
    9
    Much more polished than a lot of other games out these days. The production and attention to detail is top notch.
    Features a super fluid 'Batman' fight system that has a plethora of ways to kill your enemy: the 'Uruks'.
    Outstanding music and very good voice work add to the atmosphere created by the Tolkien lore. Good graphics are the cherry-on-top, and really the only negative, for me    Much more polished than a lot of other games out these days. The production and attention to detail is top notch.
    Features a super fluid 'Batman' fight system that has a plethora of ways to kill your enemy: the 'Uruks'.
    Outstanding music and very good voice work add to the atmosphere created by the Tolkien lore.
    Good graphics are the cherry-on-top, and really the only negative, for me personally, is that it's all action; whereas the Tolkien lore cries out for a more adventure/exploration based game.
    Still, a game this playable and rich in sound and detail, especially compared to other buggy releases, deserves a 9.    … Expand
  23. musicmaniac
    Jan 29, 2020
    2
    Very lackluster. The first game was a solid 7 but this didn't change too much from the original except throwing more enemies at you which just makes for an unfun experience.
    The game feels utterly redundant as well, felt like I was doing the same thing just in different areas. Couldn't even make it 5 hours in... just was do this over and over and over...
  24. NShep53
    Dec 16, 2016
    9
    Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor uses the Batman Arkham series style of game-play and takes it up a notch. Combat is so fluid and well-done. It might be too easy overall, but it is just so fun. Very violent, even more than the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Films. And just like the Arkham series, there is an open world to explore and gather various side quest items. The Nemesis system that has youMiddle Earth: Shadow of Mordor uses the Batman Arkham series style of game-play and takes it up a notch. Combat is so fluid and well-done. It might be too easy overall, but it is just so fun. Very violent, even more than the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Films. And just like the Arkham series, there is an open world to explore and gather various side quest items. The Nemesis system that has you take on a whole army of Uruks (orcs) is a shining highlight.

    Story-wise, the game starts off a little derivative, with a revenge story that you have heard a thousand times before. But it gets better and better the more you play. Fans of the films will especially love it, while hardcore Tolkien fans may cringe at the lore inconsistencies. The voice acting is well done as well.

    Overall, this is an amazing game even if you aren't a fan of Middle-Earth. I was a casual viewer of the films before, but now after playing the game, I want to own the films and read the books. If that isn't a glowing recommendation, I don't know what is.    … Expand
  25. monkeyking95
    Jul 23, 2015
    10
    Literally the greatest game set in Tolkien's rich universe. If you've been waiting for an enticing, unique and dark game with an innovative "Nemesis" system, look no further than Shadows of Mordor.
  26. Escafoides
    Feb 15, 2015
    6
    So, we received a new, refreshing sandbox game, Monolith promised us that it wont be "The Same as the others" and in some point they are right.

    They managed to create a story that is immersive, original and that isn't damaging the Middle Earth of Tolkien. The game has a battle dynamic that is really incredible, you can feel the brutality of killing and slaughter orcs, but there is a    So, we received a new, refreshing sandbox game, Monolith promised us that it wont be "The Same as the others" and in some point they are right.

    They managed to create a story that is immersive, original and that isn't damaging the Middle Earth of Tolkien.

    The game has a battle dynamic that is really incredible, you can feel the brutality of killing and slaughter orcs, but there is a bad thing in that, the game is really easy to complete, even at 100% with all the collectibles, but that's because the game itself is short.

    In the other hand the gameplay is really repetitive, and despite of being original and new it becomes monotonous and boring.

    The Nemesis mechanic also is affected in that, In the first hours of game-play its really a thing to point out but while the hours are running, the boredom kills all that innovative experience, making the gameplay a suffering.    … Expand
  27. Barnews
    Dec 16, 2015
    8
    Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is definitely one of the best action games in last years. You can expect very high quality combat system, good animations, day and night cycle, fair weather system, interesting gameworld full of different enemies and much more...

    The gameworld is not very big but it doesnt matter. It is full of enemies, quests and other things to do. Storyline is simple    Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is definitely one of the best action games in last years. You can expect very high quality combat system, good animations, day and night cycle, fair weather system, interesting gameworld full of different enemies and much more...

    The gameworld is not very big but it doesnt matter. It is full of enemies, quests and other things to do. Storyline is simple but not bad at all. It surprised me a bit.

    Graphics and Sounds are very high quality and another good thing is you do not need High End computer to play it. Mainstream PC will be enough.

    PROS
    - Sounds and Graphics
    - Combat system, Animations, and everything else with combat
    - Captains and warchiefs system where every captain has strengths and weaknesess. Captains can fight each other. You can force one captain to murder another captain etc...
    - World is not big but full of things to do.
    - Freedom. You can do what do you want and how do you want. You can fight your way, etc...
    - Day night cycle + weathers

    CONS
    - Longevity (20 - 40 hours average, which is not bad)
    - Camera (sometimes)
    - Controlls (sometimes)    … Expand
  28. Poishawk
    Nov 26, 2017
    8
    Middle-earth™: Shadow of Mordor™ боевик с элементами рпг. Игра разробатывалась WarnerBros., что сразу заметно по геймплею, чувствуется родство с играми серии Бэтман, особенно боевка. Сюжет рассказывает о жителях Мордора, до истории первой книго "Властелин колец". Хотя если вырвать игру из вселенной Толкина, разницы не сразу заметишь. Присутствуют некоторые персонажи из фильмов, что даетMiddle-earth™: Shadow of Mordor™ боевик с элементами рпг. Игра разробатывалась WarnerBros., что сразу заметно по геймплею, чувствуется родство с играми серии Бэтман, особенно боевка. Сюжет рассказывает о жителях Мордора, до истории первой книго "Властелин колец". Хотя если вырвать игру из вселенной Толкина, разницы не сразу заметишь. Присутствуют некоторые персонажи из фильмов, что дает какую то ностальгию, захотелось даже пересмотреть трилогию. Немного не проработана система захвата командиров, не до конца понятно, зачем это, если геймплейно никак не влияет. Платное ДСЛ добавляет некоторые функции, которых не хватало в оригинале. Чувствуется, что эти фишки были вырезанны или не продуманы вначале. Сюжет прост и без всяких поворотов, в открытом мире есть чем заняться на несколько часов, уйдя от основной сюжетной линии. Прокачка очень проста, маши себе мечом да получай XP. Очень понравилось разнообразие приемов и добивания, что хоть как то разбовляет постоянный сражения. В общем игра получилась хорошая, на пару вечеров и не больше.
    7/10 Урук-хаев!    … Expand
  29. whatever523
    Mar 28, 2015
    8
    Shadow of Mordor really surprised me. After I was initially put down by the slow and boring beginning, the game constantly picked up speed and got better and in the end I really enjoyed it. It also has quite a few issues though, so I'd recommend buying it on sale.

    + nice graphics and animations + game mechanics are a mix of Assassin's Creed, Batman and Tomb Raider and work well +    Shadow of Mordor really surprised me. After I was initially put down by the slow and boring beginning, the game constantly picked up speed and got better and in the end I really enjoyed it. It also has quite a few issues though, so I'd recommend buying it on sale.

    + nice graphics and animations
    + game mechanics are a mix of Assassin's Creed, Batman and Tomb Raider and work well
    + missions are mostly entertaining
    + awesome photo mode
    + some cool supporting characters

    - very boring and frustrating start (warchief missions) until you get better runes and skills
    - infinite enemy reinforcements
    - story could be better
    - boss introduction sequences can't be skipped
    - most of the time the voice volume is too low
    - fighting orcs does become a bit dull after a while
    - no safehouse or some kind of neutral areas. would be a welcome change from the constant fighting
    - field of view is too narrow
    - some unnecessary bugs    … Expand
  30. Futureops
    Dec 12, 2014
    9
    Thankfully, Middle-Earth: Shadow Of Mordor is a stable release. I was pretty surprised to see that this game launched so fast, it was just revealed a few months ago so I didn't really hope it to be that good but guys, Shadow Of Mordor is simply a fun, immersive and a challenging game.
  31. tiirik27
    Nov 24, 2014
    9
    Gameplay:9.5/10
    Story 8.5/10
    Graphics:8/10
    Combat:9/10
    On of the best Action-RPG game last years, and one of the best games this year.
    Felt quite like Assassins's Creed in Lord Of The Rings lands.(The game take place in Middle-Earth, same place with Lord Of The Rings)
  32. maxs
    May 18, 2019
    9
    A great game, just a little repetitive in the long, but that will remain indelible in the memory
  33. PublicNuisance
    Dec 25, 2019
    8
    I’m not a huge LOTR fan so the lore didn’t really grab hold of me and make me want to run out and buy Shadow of Mordor. I thought the movies were decent but nothing more. When my buddy described to me the “nemesis” system that the game uses now that did make me take notice and buy the game when I could. That is a system in the game that helps to give you more of a personal connection toI’m not a huge LOTR fan so the lore didn’t really grab hold of me and make me want to run out and buy Shadow of Mordor. I thought the movies were decent but nothing more. When my buddy described to me the “nemesis” system that the game uses now that did make me take notice and buy the game when I could. That is a system in the game that helps to give you more of a personal connection to the game that many open world games lack. Throughout the game you hunt down and kill Uruk Captains to help hinder their war effort. If you fail to kill them and they run away they will remember that and mention it the next time you meet along with wounds and scars you inflicted on them. If you get killed by a Captain they grow stronger because of it and are harder to kill next time. This made the game a lot more fun for me, made things less grindy and gave more personality to characters that would have been duller otherwise.

    The combat in the game is a great take on the Arkham combat from the Batman games. It is all based around timing and chaining together attacks and combos. There are a lot of different finishers you can use depending on whether you are in stealth, hanging from a ledge, or using your sword or bow. You can upgrade your sword, bow and dagger with a variety of runes that will add special abilities and chances of events happening such as setting an enemy on fire or regaining health from a kill. You can find more of these by killing warchiefs or captains. You may get extra special ones if you use enemies weaknesses against them. You can gather intel on captains by finding documents and interrogating other Uruk. You can find out what attacks won’t work on them as well as what they fear and are weak to. There is so much that, while optional, can add such depth to the game as a whole. The game could get very hectic with a couple dozen enemies attacking at once. It got difficult when you had ranged attackers shooting stuff at you that you may not even notice. There are a lot of environmental attacks you can use such as using your bow to ignite a camp fire or to shoot a flies nest that will scare off enemies.

    The story to the game was decent overall. You play a Ranger named Talion who is killed along with his wife and son when the Uruks assault the Black Gate where they are stationed. He doesn’t totally die as his body and soul are tied to that of an Elf who needs to remember his past and helps Talion in getting his revenge as well as recover his past memories. You uncover much of the story through side missions, finding relics and artifacts and completing main missions. The voice acting was great and and the story had a nice flow to it. My only complaints would be that the end of the game fight was basically a QTE event which felt like a cop out. Also many of the missions either force you into playing a certain way, such as riding a mount during, or had a time limit. I don’t like to be pigeon holed and like to figure out my own strategy to finish a mission. The graphics are awesome. The detail on a characters face is fantastic and the game area has some great vistas.

    I played Shadow of Mordor on Linux. I played version 1.3 of the game and used the Vulkan beta. The game did have one crash when loading the game but no other issues at all. The Game has nine graphics settings as well as FXAA, four settings for AO and the ability to scale resolution to 200% of your monitor. I had all settings on highest with motion blur turned off and my resolution at 1080P. The framerate was usually 70 or above but could dip to the mid 50’s or go as high as 100 depending on my location and what was going on. The game used at most 8.5GB of RAM, 25% of my CPU, 100% of my GPU and 5.2GB of VRAM. The Vulkan beta ran much better than the OpenGL version. I got about 30FPS higher on average than on OpenGL.

    Overall this was a great game. The combat is fantastic; the story is worth a playthrough even if you’re not an LTOR fan; the graphics are gorgeous; and it runs great. It has a few things I wish were different but nothing that made me angry or soured my fun. I paid $14.14 for the game and would say it was easily worth $40. I finished the main story; about half of the side missions and all of the collectables hunt in about 27 hours.

    My Score: 8/10

    My System:

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600X | 16GB DDR4-3000 CL15 | MSI RX 580 8GB Gaming X | Mesa 19.2.7 | Samsung 850 Evo 250GB | Manjaro 18.1.4 | Mate 1.22.2 | Kernel 5.4.2-1-MANJARO    … Expand
  34. DawnofAaron
    May 20, 2015
    8
    You are Talion, the ranger of Gondar who is trying to stop the uruks and orks from taking over. The gameplay is very fun with an added stealth element which allows the player to choose how to tackle a mission. The graphics are extremely good on the PC but I enjoy the blue-ish colored world. One thing that I did not like that how easy the game was. As long as the player presses theYou are Talion, the ranger of Gondar who is trying to stop the uruks and orks from taking over. The gameplay is very fun with an added stealth element which allows the player to choose how to tackle a mission. The graphics are extremely good on the PC but I enjoy the blue-ish colored world. One thing that I did not like that how easy the game was. As long as the player presses the spacebar, they will continuo to dodge and cannot be hit. The average amount of time to beat a boss is around 1:30 minutes MAX!! In conclusion, I recommend this game to all gamers who want open world rpg fun but I do not recommend this game to players looking for a challenge because it is too happy. If you want an rpg challenge, play Dark Souls 2 or Bloodborne.… Expand
  35. SpiderPlayer
    May 15, 2015
    10
    Spectacular game despite his copy concepts seen in other games, he simultaneously innovates with its Nemesis system, has a great history besides having several references of Middle-earth universe, the game play is good but the drive becomes muddled through the times.
  36. AndreRLZ
    Sep 17, 2015
    5
    Ci saranno spoiler. Questo gioco non ha soddisfatto le mie aspettative, che erano abbastanza alte visti i voti delle varie testate videoludiche.. Partiamo dal suo più grande pregio: il Nemesis System. Questo sistema casuale fa si che tu debba farti strada tra la "gerarchia" di guerrieri orchi per poter, prima uccidere dei comandanti e poi anche reclutarne altri. Funziona davvero bene e laCi saranno spoiler. Questo gioco non ha soddisfatto le mie aspettative, che erano abbastanza alte visti i voti delle varie testate videoludiche.. Partiamo dal suo più grande pregio: il Nemesis System. Questo sistema casuale fa si che tu debba farti strada tra la "gerarchia" di guerrieri orchi per poter, prima uccidere dei comandanti e poi anche reclutarne altri. Funziona davvero bene e la gente fa bene ad acclamare questa novità, è veramente ben fatta e l'idea è ottima. L'aspetto tecnico è veramente eccezionale, notevolissimo, sia in termini di video che di audio. Doppiaggio italiano non male, anche se inferiore a quello inglese secondo me. Questi erano i pregi. I difetti sono tanti, troppi per farmi apprezzare veramente questo gioco.. Innanzitutto la storia principale è composta da sole 20 missioni, di cui almeno 5 sono praticamente introduttive. Questa cosa rende il gioco estremamente breve da un punto di vista narrativo: tutto viene spiegato e buttato al giocatore come se non ci fosse tempo! Veramente, la trama da una sensazione di "fatto in fretta" allucinante! Questo è un gioco che, vista l'enormità dell'universo di Tolkien, avrebbe meritato il doppio delle cutscene e della profondità narrativa. Inoltre il gameplay è, onestamente, piuttosto ripetitivo. Anche se i combattimenti sono fluidi e ben fatti, e le abilità siano abbastanza carine, il modo in cui il giocatore deve procedere nel gioco è ripetitivo: uccidi le guardie, uccidi i servi del comandante, uccidi il comandante. Questo dall'inizio alla fine del gioco. Le abilità dei comandanti sono poche, sempre quelle: è vero che puoi informarti sulle abilità di ognuno, ma personalmente l'ho trovato inutile (superfluo) o comunque noioso.. Altro grande, enorme difetto è il level design: la mappa di gioco è piatta. E' un mondo desolato proprio come nel film, al quale tiene abbastanza fede. Peccato che per un videogioco ciò sia di una noia mortale, non c'è nulla da vedere, nessun paesino da visitare, nessun villain da intervistare o mini-gioco da fare.. non c'è niente se non orchi su orchi e qualche graug o altre bestie varie ogni tanto sparse a caso. Viaggiare è noioso, lo si fa praticamente sempre col viaggio rapido. Uccidere certi comandanti è tedioso, alcuni sono decisamente più forti di altri, indipendentemente dal livello. L'intelligenza artificiale ha qualche lacuna, almeno da quel che ho visto io: il mio orco livello 19, potentissimo, ha deciso a un certo punto di andare da solo contro 1 comandante e 2 guardie: è morto, chi l'avrebbe mai detto! Si è praticamente suicidato senza il mio consenso, dopo che avevo fatto molta fatica a reclutarlo. La qualità stessa della trama, oltre che essere brevissima, è scarsa: banale fino alla fine, a parte un singolo cliff-hanger che comunque non ha nessun risvolto poi.. Un gioco dal quale mi aspettavo tanto tanto di più, buono solo per la grafica e il Nemesis System, per il resto decisamente mediocre.… Expand
  37. Tomle1202
    Nov 28, 2022
    8
    Shadow of Mordor's Nemesis system added so much depth to an otherwise fairly decent game.
  38. scythe_pl
    Dec 4, 2014
    9
    Surprisingly good. The best from assassin's creed placed in fantasy environment with some extended RPG elements. Lots of things to do in a large open world. Beautiful graphics. Immersing storyline, great voice acting. This game really has it all, and is definitely worth its price.
  39. AliasAndrew
    Dec 7, 2020
    5
    Generic in almost every aspect except for the nemesis system, which gets boring after a while. It heavily borrows elements from other, much better games and never does them as well as they do. I found surprising how (again) generic and boring the story was, considering it is a game set inside Tolkien's world. A soulless experience
  40. CBlue413
    Dec 9, 2014
    10
    I infiltrated a stronghold and built up a small army of uruks loyal to my cause.

    I grew tired of their banter and made all of their heads explode simultaneously. I'm giving this a 10/10 for exploding heads. You should buy this game if... you are sick of AAA titles with epic hype that fail to deliver. And if you have a card that can run DX11. And if you find it on sale (50%    I infiltrated a stronghold and built up a small army of uruks loyal to my cause.

    I grew tired of their banter and made all of their heads explode simultaneously.

    I'm giving this a 10/10 for exploding heads.

    You should buy this game if... you are sick of AAA titles with epic hype that fail to deliver.

    And if you have a card that can run DX11.

    And if you find it on sale (50% off or more).    … Expand
  41. jelikey
    Nov 19, 2017
    9
    At first glance this game seems like Batman meets Assassin's Creed with Witcher elements mixed in. I wasn't really sold on it until I realized how robust the Nemesis system is. I was messing around fighting a Graug and my health was down to about 1/4. Then out of nowhere a Captain that I identified in the Army of Sauron as being in the next zone over appears. He says "OH IS NOW A BAD…
  42. Lenzie
    Apr 7, 2015
    8
    There is a moment reasonably early on in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, for me this was about 6-8 hours in after an initial learning curve, where everything just clicks, comes together and this game has you grinning ear to ear and really enjoying yourself!

    Combat is an attack, counter, special combo and dodge affair similar to the combat of the Batman games, weapons and abilities are    There is a moment reasonably early on in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, for me this was about 6-8 hours in after an initial learning curve, where everything just clicks, comes together and this game has you grinning ear to ear and really enjoying yourself!

    Combat is an attack, counter, special combo and dodge affair similar to the combat of the Batman games, weapons and abilities are all upgradeable and make a real difference to gameplay, the parkour and stealth mechanics are superb, and the nemesis system is something different that I've not seen before in a game. I enjoyed planning and thinking through the best means to take out high level Uruk-hai / Ork captains and warchiefs to both advance the story and to obtain high level runes (weapon upgrades).

    Similar to the FarCry and Assassins Creed games you are given a lot of freedom on what to do and in which order to tackle various quests or objectives available on the map. I particularly enjoyed the 'weapon completion' missions which force you to approach mission scenarios using only specific skills or combat tactics and give you bonus objectives to achieve. At times these missions opened my eyes to new or different ways and gameplay mechanics that are available to you to approach main-game combat, the main campaign missions and options for taking out powerful Uruk-hai or other beasts.

    To me this game has a very similar feel to the recent Batman games with some Assassin’s Creed style elements but obviously in the Middle-earth fantasy setting.

    Brilliant combat, parkour, stealth etc. aside the reason I didn't give this game a 9 or 10 score is that it did feel a bit 'hollow' at times, almost somehow like the story was tacked on to a combat / parkour / exploration 'system' versus pulling you forward in the game. And many of the missions, in fact pretty much all of them, are combat centric which while fun at the start become somewhat repetitive towards the end of the game. That said, I was very happy to have experienced this game and would certainly recommend that you give it go.    … Expand
  43. EarlyGameReview
    Jan 27, 2015
    9
    Its **** man asdasdpdgaskozxcxzc.......................................................................................................................... 12414121241525
  44. Joem33
    Jan 12, 2015
    10
    This is the only game I have ever (and probably will ever) rate a 10/10, and deservedly so! I have never played a more entertaining, engrossing, and satisfying game in my entire gaming life! Honestly! This is the only game I ever made up my mind to finish (and succeeded in doing so) with a 100.0% play-through.
    I can only say "Great job, Monolith Productions!"
    Now, what's all this talk    This is the only game I have ever (and probably will ever) rate a 10/10, and deservedly so! I have never played a more entertaining, engrossing, and satisfying game in my entire gaming life! Honestly! This is the only game I ever made up my mind to finish (and succeeded in doing so) with a 100.0% play-through.
    I can only say "Great job, Monolith Productions!"
    Now, what's all this talk about Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor's game-play being directly COPIED from the Assassin's Creed series?! Or its combat system being the same as the Batman: Arkham series?! Have you guys (I mean, those who say so) actually played any of those games?! I've played Assassin's Creed, AC: Revelations, and Batman: Arkham Origins, and while those are also good games, PLEASE don't make the mistake of putting them in the same light as Shadow of Mordor; they are absolute not on the same level!
    Right now, my advice to Ubisoft is to completely scrap the AC series and come up with something new, fresh, because (personally) I'm just tired of their recycled s**t! For me, Assassin's Creed isn't the great tale it set out to be; I abandoned the franchised many sequels ago (at AC III), and gladly so! And although Arkham origins was very okay for me, it certainly had its own drawbacks. (Like, how could its story have unfolded in just one night, and way too many lame collectibles.)
    All I want to say is, more often than not, great ideas are simply remodified versions of already existing not-so-great ideas. There are a plethora of concepts used in Shadow of Mordor which I can personally point out were directly borrowed from other games, but that doesn't count. The beauty of this game lies in the fact that, for my entire play-through, it had its own uniqueness; I never once felt I like was doing something even remotely familiar. Going through some users' reviews and their scores here, it makes me wonder: if you see it fit to rate Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4/10, which game will ever manage (at least) an 8/10 from you?
    If you are in for having ONE OF THE BEST (if not THE BEST) gaming experience ever you can get from a video game, Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor is just what you need. Believe me, I know.    … Expand
  45. Xaule
    Feb 1, 2015
    9
    It is the rare game that I stretch to 100 % completion. Many open world games offer side missions but they tend to be repetitive and generic. Not this game: the side missions vary from stealthy one-kill missions to outright Orc blood bath terror. The combat system is great! There are so many ways to kill the enemy and the notion that this is a button mashing game is inaccurate.

    Once    It is the rare game that I stretch to 100 % completion. Many open world games offer side missions but they tend to be repetitive and generic. Not this game: the side missions vary from stealthy one-kill missions to outright Orc blood bath terror. The combat system is great! There are so many ways to kill the enemy and the notion that this is a button mashing game is inaccurate.

    Once the subtleties of the system are mastered, combat becomes a graceful dance of death, pushing hit streaks into the 50's and 60's with just the right timing of critical strikes and parries. Yes, you could mash your way through this, but why not parry a blow, knock the enemy to the ground and execute it just in time to block an Orc's strike? Or just grab your enemy and toss him off a bridge to his death? Perhaps a quick arrow between the eyes if getting close is not your thing.

    My only gripe is the weak ending. I expected so much and received so little. That's why I rated it a 9 instead of a 10.    … Expand
  46. Amiga1200
    Nov 7, 2014
    7
    This is generally a solid game. It a bit lacks in depth in a sense that only combat matters. However, the combat system is very good because of its versatility. There are many ways to fight your enemies and finish them off. So even though a player is closed in this combat box it is still entertaining. The character progression system is quite interesting as higher tier abilities unlock notThis is generally a solid game. It a bit lacks in depth in a sense that only combat matters. However, the combat system is very good because of its versatility. There are many ways to fight your enemies and finish them off. So even though a player is closed in this combat box it is still entertaining. The character progression system is quite interesting as higher tier abilities unlock not only more powerfull blows or combination but let you combat orcs in a different and more sophisticated way. Thus the game as it progress is not boring because you discover something new with each new tier and region.

    The downside of the game is the enemy AI which makes sneaking ridiculously easy. The enemies are almost blind and you have a plenty of time to take cover and dissapear. The orcs will only see you if you want them to or when you are engulfed in a fight against hordes of orcs.

    Good optimization makes it run on middle rigs so system requirements are exagerrated. The graphics are beatiful and run well on weaker rigs. Core I 3, GTX 750 TI, 8 giga runs on high setting at 1200x1024. Controls are very good and allow you to direct your character smoothly. No choppy experience like in Dark Souls II **** PC port.    … Expand
  47. VGJ
    Nov 16, 2014
    9
    Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is one of the best action games in this year. Monolith takes a risk doing a game in the universe of the Lord of th Rings with the combat from the Batman Arkham saga to probe that they can do awesome games in the future.
  48. n3Kro
    Nov 14, 2014
    8
    This is really nice game maybe world is little small (You need to fight or run from orcs like all time), maybe history is not great, still fights are great and i mean wow great after getting to the end I still loved to slice orcs. I can recommend this game to all ppl that like this type of games (assassins creed etc.)
  49. Ferrelicious
    Nov 24, 2014
    9
    Shadow of Mordor my own opinion
    +Gameplay
    +Graphics
    +Controls (Xbox360 wire)
    - repetitive quest
    60+ FPS all the time with high/ultra setting: Gtx 770 i5-4670K
    I Recommend this game to you all
  50. Ranulph
    Nov 19, 2014
    9
    Really enjoyed this game. Expect a cross between assassin's creed and the arkham series with respect to combat, but far more responsive. The story is actually the weak point, as it is generic and I personally found it a bit rushed towards the end of the plot. The much vaunted Nemesis system is really the star of the show. I spend most of my time, manipulating the intricate politics inReally enjoyed this game. Expect a cross between assassin's creed and the arkham series with respect to combat, but far more responsive. The story is actually the weak point, as it is generic and I personally found it a bit rushed towards the end of the plot. The much vaunted Nemesis system is really the star of the show. I spend most of my time, manipulating the intricate politics in Mordor, turning Uruks against each other, wreaking havoc in strongholds, releasing beasts, hunting them, etc. There is really a lot to do in this game. I thoroughly recommend it.… Expand
  51. durwel
    Nov 18, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Graphics: 9
    Production value: 10
    Glitches/Bugs: 8
    Combat system: 9
    Replay Value: 7
    Storyline: 10

    Having played 10 hours and halfway through the story and 25% completion, I'd give this game a 9.

    Graphically the game is competent for a next-gen game. Nothing too special, but there was definitely a lot of time and effort spent on the environment. Rain makes things slick and shiny, a day and night cycle is very well considered, though ultimately this isn't mind-blowing graphics. I could see similar graphics on a PS3, but I have had no graphical hiccups even when surrounded by torches, lighting, and hordes of enemies.

    The only bugs I've encountered are odd moments running into a wall or not being able to turn around.

    On to the good stuff. I first saw this game watching E3, and the combat system was intriguing. A pretty typical horde-killing game using swords, counters, and special abilities, but this game took RPG elements that are fairly mundane but appropriate and incorporated one of the most interesting mechanics I've ever seen (described below). The combat is somewhat sluggish, but offset by 'focus,' though the camera angles can be pretty difficult to maneuver as you are trying to counter, swing, use combos, you may end up staring at the ground, this coming from an FPS-frequenter. You can unlock certain moves and abilities, (some of which are locked until further storyline completion). Overall, however, I found it welcome and able to be catered to each unique playstyle. I don't find myself low on focus as I am more likely to be in the fray than stealthily picking off the enemy, so my runes (found from dead captains and warchiefs) have been specific to health regen and higher damage at melee. This type of customizability makes this game awesome, though I have not found myself unable to perform moves based on my abilities. A bit of catch-all and not my cup of tea (I prefer having to unlock moves and abilities by focusing on mastering them).

    All that to say, the seamlessness of the albeit small map makes it seem enormous. Similar environments in a small world using assassin-style moves shouldn't be downvoted: that is how this game is meant to be played. It wouldn't make sense to unlock all of Middle-Earth or something as this game is specifically meant to be an attack at the heart of Sauron's Army and forts. Assassin's Creed did a lot of things right that this game took into consideration, but it is all in the style of Lord of the Rings, mixing magic and combat with stealth-tactics. You're a ranger. A ranger will use stealth, hiding, arrows, and free-running to get where he needs to be. No need to downvote for that. We are at a point where games will recycle styles based on working mechanics.

    This game took a huge leap with what is my favorite part of the game: the Nemesis system. It's amazing. Basically there are ranks from Warchief down to low-level captains. Upon killing a captain, the ranks move according to who died, meaning an uruk moves up into his spot. The coolest part of this is that when one gets a killing blow on you, just a normal enemy, let's say, they are given a name, a list of strengths and weaknesses, and a nickname. I was killed by a random enemy. He was instantly named Torz and was then promoted to Captain and is now named: Torz the Advisor. They are also given armor and moved up. At this point, they can take place in power struggles that you can leave unchecked or intervene. Intervening powers other enemies or removes them from power, and upon your death or advancing time, you can see the power struggles play out. Intel should not be ignored, however, as it can help you instantly remove captains and find their location. If you don't gain enough, you can easily find yourself in a situation where there are 8 unknown captains, and you come across 5 of them at once. My favorite newly unlocked ability is to place death threats on the captains and warchiefs allowing better drops. This is a cool system and makes every encounter epic and meaningful.

    At this point, I am loving this game, and I can spend hours just running around Mordor killing captains and putting my skills to horde-loving tests or placing death threats on the armies of Mordor.

    This isn't the largest or most impressive game I've played in a long time, but I absolutely love this game and can see myself playing for a while. Once I finish, though, I can see losing the thrill of combat and putting it down indefinitely. I am already about to have all abilities unlocked and my weapons at a high-level so I can't see myself playing much unless I just feel the need to crush some skulls.    … Expand
  52. sexonyou
    Nov 18, 2014
    8
    Gameplay is great, the only problem I have with this game is that the campaign isn't long enough and the assissants of the Black Hand of Sauron are WAYYYY TOO EASYYYYYYY. Not only that, but you don't even get to fight the Black Hand of Sauron!!! You have some finisher moves to take him down, but not a real fight, the rest of the game was great, but they should've made the campaign wayGameplay is great, the only problem I have with this game is that the campaign isn't long enough and the assissants of the Black Hand of Sauron are WAYYYY TOO EASYYYYYYY. Not only that, but you don't even get to fight the Black Hand of Sauron!!! You have some finisher moves to take him down, but not a real fight, the rest of the game was great, but they should've made the campaign way longer and the real bosses harder and more of them. The Captains and Warchiefs were WAY harder than the actual bosses which was very disappointing.… Expand
  53. StoneV94
    Dec 26, 2014
    9
    OMG is this game great. I heard great things of it but it is way better then i expected. The graphics are great even on low (sadly i can only run on low), The AI is great, and i love the nemesis system. I highly recommend this game, even if you can just run on low with 30fps it's worth it, but for me i don't really care about the graphics, the gameplay makes the game
  54. mbadboyp
    Nov 20, 2014
    9
    Awesome game! I probably gonna stall this game and stretch my playing time as much as I can just to enjoy it! Dare you Monolith to make one more like this one! :)))
  55. jvmcnk
    Nov 20, 2014
    9
    This is a great game, fun, satisfying. What more you want?
    The physics are bit unpolished, like small gaps will make your character stuck. But that's it all.
  56. seveian
    Nov 22, 2014
    9
    This game is fantastic. I usually stay away from any billion dollar franchise-turned-game, but I took a chance with this one and was very pleasantly surprised.

    There are elements to this game that I have never seen in any other game before. The idea that each and every bastard orc who gets a kill on you can himself experience progression is wonderful. The fact that their hates and fears    This game is fantastic. I usually stay away from any billion dollar franchise-turned-game, but I took a chance with this one and was very pleasantly surprised.

    There are elements to this game that I have never seen in any other game before. The idea that each and every bastard orc who gets a kill on you can himself experience progression is wonderful. The fact that their hates and fears are shaped by the experiences you have with them, is fantastic.

    The combat is extremely fun to watch. I have found myself making mistakes a few times just because of the awesomeness of how I possibly pulled that last move off. I had an epic battle with "Nazkuga Hot Tongs", a war chief, that lasted about 45 minutes and ended with me getting killed. The chanting of "Nazkuga, Nazkuga, Nazkuga!!!" haunts me still!

    If I had to say one bad thing about the game, it would be that if you go without dieing for a while and kill lots of captains/warchiefs, it can take FOREVER for all of the enemy progression to take place. Should be a way to skip it which I haven't found.    … Expand
  57. dragon496000
    Dec 2, 2014
    9
    This game is brilliant, a mix of Assassin's Creed and the Batman Arkham series. The controls are simple, and solid, a counter button, an attack button, and a dodge roll, not counting the bow and combo attacks. The nemesis system is awesome, I have yet to get someone who comes back to life though. Talion and Celembrimbor are excellent together, and an Uruk you meet early on is hilarious!This game is brilliant, a mix of Assassin's Creed and the Batman Arkham series. The controls are simple, and solid, a counter button, an attack button, and a dodge roll, not counting the bow and combo attacks. The nemesis system is awesome, I have yet to get someone who comes back to life though. Talion and Celembrimbor are excellent together, and an Uruk you meet early on is hilarious! Some of the quips and names from some of the captains rock too, a captain who's nickname was "The Friendly" greets you with a "My Boy", eliciting a laugh from me. Some don't even speak and chuckle and bite at you, paired with an iron jaw mask can make you shiver the first time you see it.… Expand
  58. LostSandwich
    Dec 5, 2014
    9
    A lot of people including me doubted this game on its release, with the nemesis system sounding slightly far fetched and developers from AC 2 claiming code was stolen from that game. But god did this game ever exceed expectations. The Nemesis system combined with the games amazingly fast paced and gory action makes for a one of a kind experience that will give you hours on end of fun.A lot of people including me doubted this game on its release, with the nemesis system sounding slightly far fetched and developers from AC 2 claiming code was stolen from that game. But god did this game ever exceed expectations. The Nemesis system combined with the games amazingly fast paced and gory action makes for a one of a kind experience that will give you hours on end of fun. There is not very much to complain about with this game, good graphics, good performance, good gameplay. The only negative thing i have to say about Shadow of Mordor is its story is rather lackluster. Just the typical revenge plot, with all the innovation in this game you would think the story would be innovative as well but sadly it isn't. But that is only one bad thing, the story isn't horrible, but it could have been better, and there are tons more amazing things that make up for the mediocre at best story line. Easily one of the best AAA releases of the year.… Expand
  59. jorgejs
    Dec 8, 2014
    10
    This is a game that all Lord Of The Rings fans (and not fans also) will love. It as so many amazing things like the Nemesis system, i haven't seen that before in a game. And the best thing is that i have played almost 30 hours and didn't notice any bug. Well done Monolith, well done!
  60. Cornelius7C5
    Dec 10, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Even though the game can get slow on weaker computers, and the slashing can get repetitive, many ways of getting rid of "the orc scum" is much more than enough to to keep you in the seat. After the final credits I got really bummed that it ended. And I'm talking about getting it to almost 99% completion before the final mission, but it wasn't enough. Maybe people who play games using the one trick they learned on the way, are getting bored, but with a bit of creativity in killing you can achieve enormous amounts of fun. You can just slash through, execute by piercing them to the ground, mark silently and start a riot, mark in fight to create a little squad, move like a shadow from foe to foe, use your surroundings, shoot the all out by your archers, and even, at the end reduce their number by half a a combo of 7 moves, or pulverize with about 10, without breaking a sweat (but that's for when you are in a hurry).… Expand
  61. Seraphmk
    Dec 14, 2014
    6
    The good:

    Impressive graphics, visually fluid combat and runs perfectly on my pc with no frame drops lags or anything like that. Overall an eye candy that makes you feel more awesome a player than you really are. The bad: The combat: once you realize how the game fighting mechanics work you see that you are in fact invincible right from the beginning. It is way too easy to abuse    The good:

    Impressive graphics, visually fluid combat and runs perfectly on my pc with no frame drops lags or anything like that. Overall an eye candy that makes you feel more awesome a player than you really are.

    The bad:

    The combat: once you realize how the game fighting mechanics work you see that you are in fact invincible right from the beginning. It is way too easy to abuse the parry and stealth mechanics and make the game difficulty totally trivial.

    The story: overall mediocre, nicely presented but nothing really stayed with me after finishing it. No memorable characters and no real development in the interesting aspects of their situation. No food for thought at all.

    Endgame: the nemesis system seems more like a gimmick. I like it, I am glad that it is there but its impact is like meh. I would rather have prescripted story driven bosses that make me wanna fight them for some reason other than just being some bad orcs in some base that happened to level up to warchiefs and remember how our last fight together was like. It is good that they do but overall you cannot beat the emotional investment of a story behind a fight and here there is none. I m the good guy, you re the bad guys, I kill you or possess you, simple as that.

    Overall. I m glad I played the game, I finished it pretty fast (couple of days). I enjoyed the visuals and the fluidity of the combat but I was disappointed by the story, the difficulty and an open world endgame that leaves me there with nothing meaningful to do.    … Expand
  62. krj38
    Dec 18, 2014
    10
    I usually just play through a game. Considering my current busy 'real life,' I don't have much time to play games. This is especially true with big, open-world games with dozens of side activities. That's why I couldn't get through with Skyrim. That's my problem with new Assassin's Creed games.

    But how does this relate to Shadow of Mordor? The game is the best game I played this year    I usually just play through a game. Considering my current busy 'real life,' I don't have much time to play games. This is especially true with big, open-world games with dozens of side activities. That's why I couldn't get through with Skyrim. That's my problem with new Assassin's Creed games.

    But how does this relate to Shadow of Mordor? The game is the best game I played this year and the biggest positive surprise I've experienced since Dishonored.

    I had many doubts before starting the game. Open world? Nemesis system and repetitive uruk-slaying? The plot?! A ranger possessed by a wraith?! That doesn't make sense in Tolkien's universe!! It must be awful.

    Yet, despite my concerns, I gave the game a try... And I can't express how grateful I am. The game is just awesome. Firstly, the technical aspects. The game looks beautiful, the animations are amazing, the barren landscapes of Mordor are spot on. The orcs! Their little chit-chats, their 'personalities', the rendering of their society - great stuff, building even greater atmosphere. Secondly, the gameplay. I'm often quickly tired by all the nonsensical, repetitive actions one must take. But killing the uruk captains was surprisingly satisfying. I even felt sometimes sorry for them. Also, the side quests (weapon challenges) were side indeed: they were entertaining, but at the same time, a player doesn't lose much by skipping them. The combat system is very intuitive, very rewarding and nicely balanced. Sometimes you feel all-powerful, but the next moment you make a mistake or meet a super resistant villain and you die after suffering two blows.

    But the best, absolutely best thing about the game is its plot. My worries were unjustified. The plot... oh, I'm still excited about it. Every little piece made sense after all (though, it stood in opposition to the LOTR canon). It was great to see how the game designers managed to cramp so many characters from Tolkien's universe and from Jackson's adaptations to the game. These little bits and pieces and the way they were seamlessly inserted in the game made my week, as it took me 4-5 days to finish the game (main plot + some side quests in around 14 hours).

    So, if you're a Tolkien's fan, try it. You just have to see it for yourself, what they did to the plot and filled the gap between the events in "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" and how well the game plays.    … Expand
  63. Mistoreath
    Dec 19, 2014
    10
    It's like they made one the best choice ever....................a crossover with assassin's creed and lord of the rings :D. Well anyways for anyone who enjoys the batman game franchise, this game is for you. Great graphics and cinematic, the combat is very satisfying, for the story well...........let's just say it has potential so yeah.
  64. littleshieh
    Dec 29, 2014
    9
    A mixed bag of LotR storyline, batman arkham fighting system, assassin's creed free-running, and little so-called new feature "Nemesis system."
    Somehow it's great. it's better than i thought.
    The graphic is good, the control is almost perfect, the game play is great(yes i love Batman and AC, but this game fixed some annoyed parts in those two). The storyline is...actually believable. And    A mixed bag of LotR storyline, batman arkham fighting system, assassin's creed free-running, and little so-called new feature "Nemesis system."
    Somehow it's great. it's better than i thought.
    The graphic is good, the control is almost perfect, the game play is great(yes i love Batman and AC, but this game fixed some annoyed parts in those two). The storyline is...actually believable. And even Nemesis System doesn't work as i would appreciate, it still changed your game play in a good way.
    And most importantly, the performance is extremely great. Many studio f**k this up.
    I don't think this game is 10/10 perfect due to some problems, but it really deserved a 9.    … Expand
  65. Judethe
    Dec 29, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is a fully immersive, well detailed, blend of the Arkham series with Assasins Creed set in Middle Earth. The action is fluid, with each encounter unique, the Captain/Warchief system is like something I have never played before and each death becomes meaningful with your victor remaining in the game until you defeat them.

    The game isn't just a standard 3rd person combat only game but it is much more with the ability to ride Shadow of Mordor's unique animals into battle. You also have the option of stealth, which, granted isn't as in depth as in other games like Thief or Dishonoured but it is just as enjoyable.

    The levelling up system is well made with the player able to increase their arsenal of powers as the game continues. One great feature tying in with the captain system is that for every Captain or Warchief killed in the game the player receives a rune which can be added to Talion's Sword Dagger or Bow.

    Shadow of Mordor is one of the greatest games I have ever played, it is fully immersive and I felt myself willing to be back playing when I wasn't. The story isn't the greatest I have ever played but the quality of the graphics, the detail in the side-quests and the range of collectibles more than make up for this.

    9/10    … Expand
  66. sderstine12208
    Dec 24, 2014
    10
    I really enjoyed the game and the story that monolith had to tell with Talion and his revenge against the Black Hand. While the game does draw heavily upon another WB property for it's sense of control and combos, as well as the obvious comparison to Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed series for the protagonist's free running abilities, I found that the merging of the two felt like a naturalI really enjoyed the game and the story that monolith had to tell with Talion and his revenge against the Black Hand. While the game does draw heavily upon another WB property for it's sense of control and combos, as well as the obvious comparison to Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed series for the protagonist's free running abilities, I found that the merging of the two felt like a natural step. The only real complaint I'd have about the game is how powerful Talion can become at the end of the game. It can trivialize the encounters with some Lieutenants...the challenge then can become creating an adversary with a number of immunities. In all I found the game to be among of the best I played in 2014, and I look forward to the next steps that monolith will take in upcoming DLC content and any future middle earth titles that the series may bring forth.… Expand
  67. Harall
    Dec 25, 2014
    8
    Great, great animations, fighting is engaging, fun and smooth. Man I had so much fun with this game, much better than AC. And of course I love fantasy setting. I'm giving it strong 8 because after a few hours it can get a bit repetitive. If this happens to you, just go and slash some orcs, feels really refreshing.
  68. Agentsmithy
    Dec 26, 2014
    8
    Killing and brainwashing orges have never been so fun and addictive . The story is though abit short but engaging. Batman style of fighting works well though camera is awkward at certain times . Still better than Assassin's Creed in my opinion .
  69. vyperlook
    Dec 28, 2014
    10
    for me, it's the best RPG game ever. It's amazingly well made, perfect graphics, incredible moves and superb cinematics. As for LOTR, if you're a fan of the series, you will surely love it! worth buying!
  70. MrMayhem94
    Feb 27, 2015
    10
    It's good to finally see an amazing LOTR game hit the shelves a lot of the last entries have been boring and lacklustre, This game combines mechanics from both assassins creed and the batman series and binds together very fluidly creating is own unique feel my only problem is that the story could have been better but the gameplay mechanics make up for it.

    Story: 6/10 Gameplay: 10/10    It's good to finally see an amazing LOTR game hit the shelves a lot of the last entries have been boring and lacklustre, This game combines mechanics from both assassins creed and the batman series and binds together very fluidly creating is own unique feel my only problem is that the story could have been better but the gameplay mechanics make up for it.

    Story: 6/10
    Gameplay: 10/10
    Graphics 10/10
    Sound 10/10

    Final 10/10

    Middle Earth Shadow of Mordor is must buy for any Fantasy or Action Game Fan.    … Expand
  71. ireviewthings1
    Feb 18, 2015
    8
    A pleasent suprise. The AC-Batman comparison is fair. I enjoyed arham asylum, but more for it's lore. Got bored of AC2 after 15h and never touched the franchise prior or after again. (I'm also not a Lord of the Rings fan. Not quite my universe. Liked the movies but saw them only once.)

    The mechanics are essentially the same, yes. But somehow intigrated more purposefully and focused. The    A pleasent suprise. The AC-Batman comparison is fair. I enjoyed arham asylum, but more for it's lore. Got bored of AC2 after 15h and never touched the franchise prior or after again. (I'm also not a Lord of the Rings fan. Not quite my universe. Liked the movies but saw them only once.)

    The mechanics are essentially the same, yes. But somehow intigrated more purposefully and focused. The Nemesis System is the star though. That, and the way Uruks interact with you. The way they trashtalk and reference prior battles is amazingly invigorating. Uruks are portrayed in such a way that you will want to just shank each and every one of those you come across.

    Sound is very good... *slice*...
    Graphics are as good as you can hope for for a title that is available for 360 and PS3 as well. Nice detail up close, not so pretty enviromental geometry. But hey, it's Mordor. It is a pisshole anyway. On the FPS/detail correlation is definetly well optimized.

    Result: this game shoots straight. It uses a few core mechanics but does what it does very well. Very good pace troughout and good total playing time.

    It is 30 € on amazon as off now and at that price point you will never regret buying it.    … Expand
  72. eRKingslayer
    May 7, 2015
    10
    Shadow of Mordor is one of those games that just gets it perfect in every aspect, The combat and movement feels like Batman and Assassins Creed got together and made a baby to be set within Middle Earth and also for a chance to expand on Tolkien’s universe. Voice acting is top notch with the likes of troy baker and so are the graphics. All I can say is if you like Tolkien’s work then thisShadow of Mordor is one of those games that just gets it perfect in every aspect, The combat and movement feels like Batman and Assassins Creed got together and made a baby to be set within Middle Earth and also for a chance to expand on Tolkien’s universe. Voice acting is top notch with the likes of troy baker and so are the graphics. All I can say is if you like Tolkien’s work then this game is for you… Expand
  73. Antor457
    Sep 2, 2015
    10
    Here is my review:
    Music:9/10
    Combat:8/10
    Stealth Combat:9/10
    Bow Combat:8.5/10
    Enemies:Goblins etc...so 9/10!
    Variety:10/10
    Total Game:10/10
    Best Game Ever!
  74. Dabandaid
    Jun 8, 2015
    6
    Game has been out for almost a year now and I am still getting the same bugs that happened when the game first released. Sure WB released a lot of DLC, but what good is that DLC when your game losses its saves? Would be a 8 game if they ever fixed their bugs, but dont hold your breath on that.
  75. CanyonsGaming
    Jun 17, 2015
    10
    One of the best LOTR game to date, it takes all the best bits of Assassins Creed and Batman and it turns it into the best game of 2014 (in my opinion). It sets a new level for graphics, and the anti-aliasing effect is wonderful. The people who are giving this game a low score is because they probably haven't played games of this genre before or have never played AC or Batman. Overall IOne of the best LOTR game to date, it takes all the best bits of Assassins Creed and Batman and it turns it into the best game of 2014 (in my opinion). It sets a new level for graphics, and the anti-aliasing effect is wonderful. The people who are giving this game a low score is because they probably haven't played games of this genre before or have never played AC or Batman. Overall I give this game a 10 for one of the best games of 2014.… Expand
  76. bskierys
    Jun 4, 2019
    8
    Oh, Oh how it is fun to slay hordes of orcs. The combat mechanics, that is a copy-paste of Batman Arkham satisfying villain-punching system provides enough satisfaction so you can still keep playing, even knowing how repetitive the gameplay of this title is. Do you remember how you hate taking over bandit camps in all these open-world games? So here, you will be doing just that for wholeOh, Oh how it is fun to slay hordes of orcs. The combat mechanics, that is a copy-paste of Batman Arkham satisfying villain-punching system provides enough satisfaction so you can still keep playing, even knowing how repetitive the gameplay of this title is. Do you remember how you hate taking over bandit camps in all these open-world games? So here, you will be doing just that for whole the campaign over and over again. With the small difference, that this time you are going to love it. And it all thanks to Nemesis system.
    The Nemesis system creates a hierarchy in the army of Orcs. They have ranks and when one dies, the other gets a promotion. Your task is to kill the top ones. The great thing is that you don't always have to kill the chieftain. You can force them to reveal to you some vulnerabilities of another orc, you can send him to sabotage another orc commander. The best part - it is all generated for you during your playtime, so every player has a slightly different experience.
    I mentioned vulnerabilities. Every orc has some and finding it is the simplest way to defeat them.
    What about a story? Is it faithful to the LOTR lore? Well, no. It is a fan-fiction story. And the sooner you will accept it, the better.    … Expand
  77. pratikgorasia
    Aug 25, 2015
    10
    oh my god game is awsome.it consumes you into middle earth.what a magic,controlling brains excellent combat,breathtaking graphics,give some more game like this.there is eagernes when the finale of game will come and i take my revenge
  78. I3ordo
    Jul 27, 2015
    7
    TIPS for the DEVS for the sequel:

    Very good start for a new IP, unless they want to stall like batman series, i am expecting them to add: Better animation technology like "endorphin engine" for throwing orcs, off the cliff. Could be shorter and more effective at what it is, it did spare some missions as "optional". Dwarf missions for example, could be optional, post game. More    TIPS for the DEVS for the sequel:

    Very good start for a new IP, unless they want to stall like batman series, i am expecting them to add:

    Better animation technology like "endorphin engine" for throwing orcs, off the cliff.

    Could be shorter and more effective at what it is, it did spare some missions as "optional". Dwarf missions for example, could be optional, post game.

    More animation variations so the "skating" effect be less apparent.

    Less "speed up" and "slow motion" moves to help appreciate the move set.

    Less OverPowered protagonist for the "Brand" system to actually beneficial.

    Less snappy animation system for natural motion.    … Expand
  79. bdng09
    Oct 18, 2015
    10
    Absolutely brilliant! The mechanics are challenging, and create a beautiful fluidity to the combat. The voice acting is superb, the narrative is intriguing and exciting, and the whole idea of this game is new and so much fun!
  80. Wiebe
    Feb 26, 2020
    5
    More meaningless repetitive content in an open world, it's fun until it gets boring.
  81. muzmuz
    May 3, 2018
    5
    Shadow of Mordor has that entertaining cinematic combat gameplay that will leave you satisfied in every swing of the blade. But in all honesty, the eye-candy fighting, slashing and execution animations is the only thing this game can boast. It implemented a very repetitive formula in an empty, desolate open-world setting that most likely would shove you away from ever seeing the credits roll.
  82. wonderirani
    Nov 21, 2015
    9
    The Best Game I had ever played was and is this one. Amazing Graphic, smooth, well controlled and developed environment, great missions and great story. Best of the Franchise.
    Well Done.
  83. ApexPhilosopher
    Oct 23, 2019
    3
    Boring, repetitive gameplay with no plot. It takes mechanics from Assassin's Creed and waters them down. Total cash-grab.
  84. MattEzekiel
    Apr 2, 2016
    9
    I really need more of this game, When you get really OP you wanto to fight against everybody. It's really enjoyable I don't regreat all the hours played it on this game.

    WORTH IT

    for me
  85. Vicente_ao
    Apr 13, 2016
    8
    Shadow of mordor es un juego bien logrado. La jugabilidad entretiene(a pesar que es una jugabilidad ya conocida en otros juegos), las peleas se dan fluidas y entretenidas, siempre dan ganas ya sea de infiltrarte e ir matando orcos sigilosamente, o hacerles frente y pelear contra turbas enormes. La música está muy bien lograda. ENTRETIENE mucho, sobre todo si eres amante de la saga.Shadow of mordor es un juego bien logrado. La jugabilidad entretiene(a pesar que es una jugabilidad ya conocida en otros juegos), las peleas se dan fluidas y entretenidas, siempre dan ganas ya sea de infiltrarte e ir matando orcos sigilosamente, o hacerles frente y pelear contra turbas enormes. La música está muy bien lograda. ENTRETIENE mucho, sobre todo si eres amante de la saga.

    Pros:
    -Jugabilidad entretenida
    -Muchas misiones secundarias
    -Banda Sonora
    -Universo Tolkiano

    Contras:
    -Misiones repetitivas
    -Historia nada del otro mundo
    -Mordor es demasiado alegre en colores

    8.5/10    … Expand
  86. Jesburger
    May 2, 2016
    9
    This game is easily on of my all-time favourites. The combat is great, punishing and rewarding at the same time, graphics and animations are the best I have ever seen in a game, the story is good with some LotR characters making appearances and the nemesis system is a great addition. The only downside is the story witch sometimes felt a bit uninspiring.

    + Graphics + Animations, I    This game is easily on of my all-time favourites. The combat is great, punishing and rewarding at the same time, graphics and animations are the best I have ever seen in a game, the story is good with some LotR characters making appearances and the nemesis system is a great addition. The only downside is the story witch sometimes felt a bit uninspiring.

    + Graphics
    + Animations, I though Assassin's Creed had nailed animations and the parkour system, but this game took it a step further
    + Combat is by far my favourite aspect of the game, the battles with bosses have a really epic feeling, and the nemesis system makes it even better

    - Story fits the game well, but it didn't quite drag me into it like some other games

    In short, this game is what Assassins Creed games should be. Climbing up walls of forts inspecting the area and planning your attacks, riding caragors, blowing up masses of orcs, exploring the open areas, taking on a boss and 20 minutes later finding yourself surrounded with orcs and four bosses after you, shooting headshots with the bow in slow motion, everything in the game makes you feel like a bad-ass, while being challeging at the same time. Can't wait for a sequel to this game!    … Expand
  87. GreK4
    Jul 27, 2021
    8
    I passed this game on 100%. I have 30+ hours, maybe some a few. Newer mind. I love this game, this mechanics, even this plot. But really, game is so dirty, so filth and so sad. Mordor is bad it is true. And authors could get me this sad mood. But I think, I don't want kive in Mordor) So sad nature.
    Game is cool.
  88. veedub
    Jul 14, 2017
    9
    This game manages to take a bunch of things I hate from other games and somehow make them awesome.

    Open world generally sucks. It's a stupid way to shove a bunch of filler in between missions and story, by making you have to walk across a bunch of stuff before you can get to the mission. Boring, long, repetitive, unnecessary. But Shadow of Mordor manages to make it not only *not    This game manages to take a bunch of things I hate from other games and somehow make them awesome.

    Open world generally sucks. It's a stupid way to shove a bunch of filler in between missions and story, by making you have to walk across a bunch of stuff before you can get to the mission. Boring, long, repetitive, unnecessary. But Shadow of Mordor manages to make it not only *not boring filler* but actually fun and interesting, perhaps because the meat of the game is *about* the world instead of just sort of crammed on to the game to check off a box. There's a system to the world that's constantly happening and evolving all around you, and you're dropped into it for the sole purpose of screwing with that system. That makes it better than just about any other open world game out there.

    I generally hate the brawler-style combat where you mash the attack button to win, as featured in Assassin's Creed and Batman. But this one somehow manages to be fun and satisfying in a way that the others never achieved. A lot of it comes from balancing the rhythm and combo scoring against some deliberate choices -- for example, in Batman and AC enemies only die by just hitting them enough times, but in SoM you are given abilities to make it feel more deliberate -- knock-down ground executions, executions from charging up combos, draining enemies to recover ammo, stun + flurry attack, etc. -- in short, it feels like things are happening because of *your* decisions, not the results of mashing the same button over and over.

    Another review on my screen as I type this up complains that the game has no choice of direction. That's absolutely untrue. It's largely nonlinear, and I was never "told" where to go next. Yeah, there's a "main mission" thing but it's not begging you to complete the main mission and trying to make you feel bad for screwing around -- and it also doesn't make you feel like you're doing something other than what you're supposed to be doing when you decide you just want to go screw around. A big problem with Assassin's Creed is that it's trying to be open world but it's mission-based, and the way it's all structured it feels like everything besides the main mission is a waste of time. That's not a problem in Shadow of Mordor -- you have *real* choices on where to go and what to approach next, and it doesn't feel like it's "in between" what you're supposed to be doing.

    Another thing I hate about a lot of modern games is quick time events. While they're still not the ideal mechanism, Shadow of Mordor manages to make them a frantic but fair struggle, and limits them only to appropriate places of gameplay instead of shoving them into things that should be watch-only cinematics.

    My only real complaint about the game is that in the process of making everything work as perfectly smooth motion-captured animations to look like a LotR movie, the controls aren't as responsive and precise as I'd prefer. I have very brief moments of frustration where Talion does something other than what I precisely intended to do, but it's minor enough to knock only one point off.

    Oh, then there are reviews that complain about the story . . . I don't play games to pretend that they're interactive movies. Movies are better at that a lot of the time. The only way I dock points for story is if the story is so bad that it actively interferes with the game -- i.e. I can no longer like the character I'm playing as, or the way the character plays is at complete odds with how the character is portrayed in the story. And Shadow of Mordor's story is fine. It's not the greatest and I don't think it would make a compelling movie, but it's fine. No cringey moments, no poorly written dialog, etc., so no points lost.

    Last point: The Nemesis system. Fantastic. Yeah, the randomly-generated strengths and weaknesses don't make everything magically whatever, but the way your enemies remember your past interactions makes it *sooo* much more satisfying when you kill them than if they were standard video game bosses. It's not just something the game tells you to do, it's personal. YOU KILLED ME! NOW **YOU** DIE! But it's not *just* the Nemesis system -- it's how the entire game pays attention to the way you play and is frequently making references to it. Hearing the orcs ramble about how they want to ride a Caragor because they saw the Ranger do it. Hearing them make fun of you if you've died a lot. Hearing them whine about some chief you just killed, or celebrate because they hated that chief, or say how they wish their chief (by name!) would get killed. Etc. The game is aware of your decisions and lets you know that it's aware. It's an incredible touch that makes the whole thing feel *alive*.    … Expand
  89. Jayme_lara
    Nov 23, 2017
    9
    Podri describir este juego como un Assasin´s Creed bien hecho el sistema nemesis te hace sentir la personalidad de algunos rivales y mas aun cuando aparecen varios a la vez. Muy recomendado y divertido
  90. vicccp
    Mar 26, 2017
    10
    Игра очень понравилось. Рекомендую для любителей Трилогии "Властелин колец".
    Давно не вышло что то из этой темы, так что это игра самое то. Оценка 10 из 10.
  91. Krzych
    Feb 19, 2017
    8
    Cutting Orc heads is still enjoyable. I got through the game 3 times and had a good time each time. There are some limitations, game is linear, open world doesn't really matter because of that. There is also little variety and a lot of repetitiveness, second map really saves this game and adds some variety. Nonetheless the game is good, story is good, as well as graphics. Dialogues andCutting Orc heads is still enjoyable. I got through the game 3 times and had a good time each time. There are some limitations, game is linear, open world doesn't really matter because of that. There is also little variety and a lot of repetitiveness, second map really saves this game and adds some variety. Nonetheless the game is good, story is good, as well as graphics. Dialogues and voice acting is great. Combat is very enjoyable, especially in if you are advancing quickly with XP and have some great skills unlocked quickly so you can enjoy them for longer before game ends. There are issues that are preventing me from giving this game more than 8, and those rather disappointing DLCs, especially Bright Lord, are only confirming that this game does not belong to the best ones, but I also cannot give it less than 8 for much good time I had with it.… Expand
  92. FromKanga
    Jul 9, 2017
    8
    Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor is a flawed but really fun game.
    I didn't know if I was going to like this game because it reminded me of a series of games I despise and that is Assassin's creed, the gameplay looked the same to me but Shadow of Mordor is superior to Assassin's creed in almost every way.
    The story was a bore, that's probably because I'm not a lord of the rings fan, I    Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor is a flawed but really fun game.
    I didn't know if I was going to like this game because it reminded me of a series of games I despise and that is Assassin's creed, the gameplay looked the same to me but Shadow of Mordor is superior to Assassin's creed in almost every way.

    The story was a bore, that's probably because I'm not a lord of the rings fan, I like these films but not to the point where I wanted to know the lore behind it, the main character was well acted but he was boring as well, he had a very rushed back-story in the first minutes of the game and it is tragic what happened to him but the game fails at making me care about him and his goal.
    And the other characters were also not interesting, the villains were boring as hell, since this game is a prequel I thought that would give an opportunity to give a motivation to the main villain, that would have made the story so much more interesting but it's just villains who want to take over the world...
    And this game has one of the worst endings I've seen in a long time, the final boss is a quick time event and the game just abruptly ends...? The game failed at making me care about the story and characters.

    But the gameplay did redeem the lackluster story, the stealth sections is like assassin's creed and the combat is like the batman arkham games and it's really fun, it never gets repetitive with the power ups and the environnemental attacks and the best element in this game is being able to control the orcs, you can help them become chief and have your own army of orcs.
    It gives you a reason to play more even when you finished the story.

    The presentation and sound design are really good, like I already mentioned, the acting is really solid but the graphics and atmosphere are even better, this does feel like you are playing a lord of the rings game.

    So my real problem with this game is the story, I thought it was terrible but it's one of those games where it's gameplay over story and since the gameplay was a success, I can forgive it.
    It is a really fun game and I do reccomend it.    … Expand
  93. xRabia
    Dec 3, 2017
    7
    Podríamos definirlo como "Un juego entretenido", gran temática un sistema de juego que bien entretiene un poco pero tampoco es nada del otro mundo. Nada rejugable pero para disfrutar con la temática y disfrutar unas horitas.
  94. Mitya64
    Jan 14, 2018
    8
    Шикарный геймплей. Система немезида интересная. Графон на высоте. орки выглядят уродские. Музыка и звуки отличные. Сюжет короткий и не интересный. Бегал убивал орков
  95. Billydju
    Nov 16, 2017
    8
    The gameplay is really nice, its really fun to make those orcs working for us. Sadly this game has 1 of the shortest story in any AAA-tier game.

    Overall its worth and only cost $5 on sales.
  96. kevinbrown
    Jul 15, 2018
    4
    The entire game is disappointing. Basically it's a melt of every game out there but badly done. Nothing makes sense, whether it is the gameplay, game mechanics, level design, overall progression, story...

    So Mordor really is 'that' big? Actually it is one of the smallest open world maps ever and I haven't mentioned the cheap level design; repetitive and empty, but first and foremost it    The entire game is disappointing. Basically it's a melt of every game out there but badly done. Nothing makes sense, whether it is the gameplay, game mechanics, level design, overall progression, story...

    So Mordor really is 'that' big? Actually it is one of the smallest open world maps ever and I haven't mentioned the cheap level design; repetitive and empty, but first and foremost it is pointless again.

    The gameplay itself look like it was rushed by developpers. Every mechanic introduced lacks a missing part. The system behind the gameplay is useless (eg: Sauron's army). You can just kill everyone on your path the same way and repeat it until the end of times. The powers, upgrades or anything else are useless.

    Don't waste your time, this is not the ultimate Lord of the Rings video game that you have been dreaming of for the past 15 years. Someday perhaps.    … Expand
  97. KittyWhisky
    Aug 19, 2017
    6
    This game is just about killing orcs. In Shadow of Mordor has good graphics, nice combat system, but the dull open world does not encourage the passing game. Heath is very sad, besides annoying endless respawns of orcs. The game has a nice feature - system Nemesis. It is working out great. The plot of the game completely dull. Please only nice video (especially Gollum). The orcs are veryThis game is just about killing orcs. In Shadow of Mordor has good graphics, nice combat system, but the dull open world does not encourage the passing game. Heath is very sad, besides annoying endless respawns of orcs. The game has a nice feature - system Nemesis. It is working out great. The plot of the game completely dull. Please only nice video (especially Gollum). The orcs are very cool looking and well voiced. They are nice to destroy. But in addition to Stripping the card and the endless destruction of the orcs in the game do nothing.
    This game is bare mechanics. Waiting for the second part and good gameplay, advanced system Nemesis and PLOT.    … Expand
  98. marcelus
    Mar 17, 2017
    8
    Since I knew this game wasn't going to be online I didn't expect nothing about it. At its release moment I was tired of Assassins Creed or this kind of games (at least for a while). But finally, I stumble with a different game that has a lot of well applied ingredients.

    Pros: - Of course you heard about the famous "Nemesis System". It's really REALLY fun and it makes the game shine.    Since I knew this game wasn't going to be online I didn't expect nothing about it. At its release moment I was tired of Assassins Creed or this kind of games (at least for a while). But finally, I stumble with a different game that has a lot of well applied ingredients.

    Pros:
    - Of course you heard about the famous "Nemesis System". It's really REALLY fun and it makes the game shine. You have a kind of board with all the Uruks (captains and warchiefs) and simply you start killing them (if you can). I find myself just killing these guys before starting even the third mission of the Main Missions xD and it was really satisfiying. I really recommend to don't pay much attention at the story at the beggining and start developing Talion upgrades.
    - Continueing with the Nemesis System related "pros". It wonderful the number of animations and recorded voices from the Uruks. I didn't hear any repetition in my 27hs of gameplay.
    - There're so many interesting mechanics. For instance: the death threats, the duels, betrayal, recruitment, execution etc....
    - The intel and the domination of course!
    - The combat (Batman alike) is well balanced. You're OP in 1 on 1, 1 on 2, 3 etc...but most of the time a nromal situation is 1 on 10+ xD I find interesting the key binding for controller where you find enemies hard to finish and counter because they change their approaches.
    - Captain vulnerabilities are fun to use at your advantage.
    - Developing good / bad feelings to an Uruk that maybe is only on your playthough and fighting against him for a second, third or even fourth time after die again and again.
    - Diying is not a good thing. Is not just "Retry". You're helping your enemies to be stronger and even go up in the ranks (because the Nemesis System is active each time you do a mission and Uruks fight against each others).
    - Ratbag the Coward! :D
    - Some orc said to me "I will kill you until you're dead" :O
    - You can revenge the death of friends. That's the only major interactivity "online". So you fight against the enemy who killed your mate.
    - The stealth is at the right amount. Not flawless but is not annoying or forced.
    - As I mentioned before. Talion upgrades makes you feel a total badass. It's great to defeat an old enemy in seconds and see him retreat or beg for his life :P
    - It doesn't feel repetitive during 99% of the game.
    - Visually it looks really good. You need to see it for yourself, not on YouTube. Is not perfect but its well optimized even on Ultra. The lighting its great during the day. During the night is not that great but when it rains it shines!!The vegetation looks nice in the whole picture maybe (not in detail). The amount of details on closeups during cutscenes is good and well planned. The only downside about visuals is the abuse of some speculars and instances of ambient particles (too repetitive). The DOF looks nice but it needs better motion blur.
    - It rains A LOT! :3
    - The musicalization reminds me to some Dante's Inferno ambient sounds with those intense vocals. Is not the best part of the game but it fits most of the time.

    Cons:
    - The story feels incomplete. I mean we barely developed some of the characters from the game and they are protagonist of sentimental scenes at the end. But is ok, I'm ok with the ending (no spoilers) and with the presentation of this character.
    - Troy Baker acting was good as always but it could have shine a bit more with more main missions. There're only 20. I think they could have had other 20 more.
    - Escort missions feels boring (but is not a long game).
    - The bad compresion of pre-redered in-engine cutscenes. The CGI ones don't feel that bad .
    - The didn't abuse of Gollum cameo :)
    - The animals / beast during the game are not bad and they can be mounted. It can be fun but there're only
    a few.

    I don't think it deserved the GOTY for 2014 but it's a must play game for this kind of open world games. It's nice to see they made their work well without too much hype and expectations.
    Kudos for Monolith Productions!

    “Not all those who wander are lost.”
    J.R.R. Tolkien    … Expand
  99. Laer
    Mar 14, 2017
    8
    Uno de los mejores juegos del Señor de los anillos sin duda, si eres fan de este mundo, te gustara sin dudarlo.

    El juego en casi todos sus apartados es bastante bueno, quizás en lo único que se queda atrás es en la historia, que no es que sea de lo peor que he visto, pero se ve que no le han dado mucha importancia, al menos a mi parecer. En cuanto a gráficos, el juego luce muy bien,    Uno de los mejores juegos del Señor de los anillos sin duda, si eres fan de este mundo, te gustara sin dudarlo.

    El juego en casi todos sus apartados es bastante bueno, quizás en lo único que se queda atrás es en la historia, que no es que sea de lo peor que he visto, pero se ve que no le han dado mucha importancia, al menos a mi parecer.

    En cuanto a gráficos, el juego luce muy bien, y una de las cosas que mas resaltan es la gran optimización que tiene.

    Su jugabilidad, se podría decir que puede llegar a ser repetitiva, pero si te gusta, tiene las suficientes opciones como para que dentro de su repetitividad no llegue a cansar en ningún momento y siempre puedas jugar a tu manera.

    Lo mejor sin duda es el sistema nemesis, que te da mucho juego, es sin duda de lo mas divertido que tiene, aunque bajo mi punto de vista tiene un fallo, y es que según te vas acercando al final este va mejorando añadiendo distintas opciones, que creo que deberían estar desde el principio.

    En cuanto a duración no es muy largo, aun haciendo las cosas que hay repartidas por el mapa (encontrar objetos, retos, marcas...). Yo he completado el juego al 100%, y me ha llevado 25 horas.

    En definitiva, es un juego muy muy recomendable, que a pesar de no ser una obra maestra, merece ser jugando aun si ni siquiera conoces el mundo del señor de los anillos.    … Expand
  100. Diegochocho
    Jul 5, 2018
    8
    Se nota que el sistema de combate esta sacado de los Batman, pero aun así logra adaptar perfectamente al mundo del Señor de los Anillos.
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Awards & Rankings

23
#23 Best PC Game of 2014
11
#11 Most Discussed PC Game of 2014
10
#10 Most Shared PC Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. PC PowerPlay
    Nov 1, 2014
    90
    Solid action wrapped in a fascinating simulated Orc society. [Nov 2014, p.52]
  2. Game World Navigator Magazine
    Oct 25, 2014
    72
    After you get used to the world of Shadow of Mordor understanding comes: there is nothing to do in it. Chieftains – pretty serious opponents at first – in the end due to the lame balance become the whipping boys. Storyline is buried under muddy reasoning about rings, elves and dark lord. As a result you like the Shadow of Mordor gameplay but you do not want to go to the finish. [Nov 2014, p.64]
  3. Riot Pixels
    Oct 19, 2014
    70
    Only thanks to the Nemesis system stinky orcs from Peter Jackson’s movies rise above being cannon fodder and turn into actual characters. If this cool system weren’t here, no one would have looked twice at this hybrid clone of Batman: Arkham City and Assassin’s Creed.
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