Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2699 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,017 out of 2699
  2. Mixed: 474 out of 2699
  3. Negative: 208 out of 2699
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  1. DrakeGarrison
    Aug 26, 2015
    8
    Fight your way through Mordor and reveal the truth of the spirit that compels you, discover the origins of the Rings of Power, build your legend and ultimately confront the evil of Sauron in this new story of Middle-earth.
  2. kimmkonyi
    Aug 24, 2015
    10
    This is an amazing a game, its a little late for a review but i can honestly play it over and over. the fights, the difficulty, the enemy progression, the deaths, the graphics are simply well put. there are so many options in combat its simply cinematic all the way through a combat scene.
  3. AbstractCat
    Aug 21, 2015
    8
    Fight your way through Mordor and reveal the truth of the spirit that compels you, discover the origins of the Rings of Power, build your legend and ultimately confront the evil of Sauron in this new story of Middle-earth.
  4. rhysmyself
    Aug 18, 2015
    8
    Great all rounder. Combat felt repetitive (although mechanically very good) and upgrade system felt lacking towards the end of the (relatively short) campaign. BUT as a fan of Middle Earth was pretty engaged from start to finish. Good time to pick it up pre owned.
  5. MrXhedo
    Aug 11, 2015
    9
    This game borrows some concepts from other games and gets the best out of them, with a satisfying progression system, beautiful graphics, a unique and entertaining Nemesis system and responsive combat. Make one of the most satisfying and must play games of this generation.
  6. ConorIrwin001
    Aug 9, 2015
    8
    As a big fan of the Lord of the Rings universe I had high hopes for this game on announcement and largely they have remained intact. The beautiful combat system which draws primarily on Arkham Asylum's revolutionary fluidity and an increase of freedom of movement through a variety of skills ensures that it looks and plays beautifully. The character progression is spot on, and in the lateAs a big fan of the Lord of the Rings universe I had high hopes for this game on announcement and largely they have remained intact. The beautiful combat system which draws primarily on Arkham Asylum's revolutionary fluidity and an increase of freedom of movement through a variety of skills ensures that it looks and plays beautifully. The character progression is spot on, and in the late -game environment I felt both incredibly powerful but also very aware that I could still be challenged in the form of the larger Uruk strongholds. The main fault of Shadow of Mordor is its story which appeared to be hard to invest in, and despite drawing on a variety of LOTR lore, I couldn't shake the feeling that more could have been done in this regard. Overall, a fun and worthwhile game that deserves your time.… Expand
  7. amcorne1
    Jul 31, 2015
    8
    I'm so mixed about this game. I really do like the game but they could have made it a little easier in my opinion. The nemesis system is so cool but I wish it didn't make life so hard. Its such a turn off when your beating down your target and another captain or an insane amount of urks come just cannot hold them off. Another huge problem is captains magically surviving after you killI'm so mixed about this game. I really do like the game but they could have made it a little easier in my opinion. The nemesis system is so cool but I wish it didn't make life so hard. Its such a turn off when your beating down your target and another captain or an insane amount of urks come just cannot hold them off. Another huge problem is captains magically surviving after you kill them. I have watched all the IGN videos and the guys playing make it look so much easier than it is. Even following their advice its is extremely difficult. I play for enjoyment and I am not an all out gamer but this game puts me on the edge of frustration that makes it not really worth playing. For the hardcore gamer who is devoted to conquering every aspect this is it....for the average gamer...not so much.… Expand
  8. pwills2009
    Jul 29, 2015
    7
    Game play was fun. Most enjoyable abilities were only able to be acquired near the end of the game, however. The final two boss battles were TERRIBLE. One included no fighting, just sequential button pushing. I liked the game, but the last hour of game play was overwhelmingly disappointing.
  9. saif99
    Jul 28, 2015
    7
    as an obsessed person with middle earth movies, i was really excited for this game, and i can't say i was quite disappointed but it's just that i expected more....the story is good but how the game ends was disappointing actually, but the gameplay is really enjoyable and that what gives the game all the positive reviews
  10. odahima
    Jul 23, 2015
    7
    It is a good game only if you didn't play other games because this is nothing but stealing from batman, assassin's creed, other good games combined with stupid mechanics and poor story. You just keep pressing square to attack and triangle to counter-attack and that is very much the whole game. The critics' rating was very misleading and I regret ever buying it.
  11. Lazlo21
    Jul 17, 2015
    9
    Middle earth: shadow of mordor is a damn good game. I enjoyed every second of playing it (on PS4).

    The gameplay is a mix between the batman arkham games, and the assassin's creed games. The combat is derived from the arkham side. You can slash, counter, and perform brutal finishing moves in your Orc enemies. Those finishers, for me, never get old. The movement is where the assassin's    Middle earth: shadow of mordor is a damn good game. I enjoyed every second of playing it (on PS4).

    The gameplay is a mix between the batman arkham games, and the assassin's creed games. The combat is derived from the arkham side. You can slash, counter, and perform brutal finishing moves in your Orc enemies. Those finishers, for me, never get old. The movement is where the assassin's creed portion comes in. The way talion climbs and free runs feels just like AC. In other words, the gameplay is amazing.

    The main feature that shadow of mordor introduces is the nemesis system. It contains of an entire hierarchy of orcs, all constantly battling for higher positions of power. Every time you die by the hands of a captain, they get promoted, amongst other orcs across mordor receiving titles. Another feature introduced is the ability to brand orcs. This means that you brainwash them, and insert them back into the regular Orc society. So if you brand a captain, you can help him rise up to power, and manipulate events within the hierarchy of orcs.

    The story is also great. It follows talion, who was killed by sauron, being ressurected by a wraith, and setting off on his quest for vengeance, along the way, you meet a few familiar faces from the LOTR books and movies, along with many interesting new characters. Most missions involve taking on different tasks, with much variety in gameplay and mission objectives. Although, the final boss battle is EXTREMELY anticlimactic.

    This may be my favorite game on the PS4 so far. I love it, and would play it again, anyday. 9/10    … Expand
  12. Jollukka1
    Jul 10, 2015
    8
    Shadow of Mordor: stylish combat, epic fighting and well-created enemies are salt of the game. Shadow of Mordor is the best action/adventure game of 2014. // 8 points
  13. Thomabaddon
    Jul 1, 2015
    8
    Good game. a potpurri of proven combat mechanics with a poor and uninspired story. Slashing orcs is really satisfying but it gets boring after a while.
  14. gramwgre
    Jun 11, 2015
    9
    Loads of fun contained in a really good looking, open world. Very interesting enemy system, with Captians leveling up and planning revenges. Got about 60 hours of gameplay out of it and enjoyed every second.
  15. TuttiTooFruity
    Jun 5, 2015
    8
    After seeing gameplay for this I was definitely determined to get it while on special.
    At first I loved it, the combat is a lot of fun and it's not too easy or difficult. As you upgrade to get new abilities, combat gets even better. However it does get quite repetitive and the story doesn't grab at you, levelling up is very linear and there isn't really any customization.
    There are    After seeing gameplay for this I was definitely determined to get it while on special.
    At first I loved it, the combat is a lot of fun and it's not too easy or difficult. As you upgrade to get new abilities, combat gets even better. However it does get quite repetitive and the story doesn't grab at you, levelling up is very linear and there isn't really any customization.
    There are unique things about the game that do make it appealing, but the game didn't satisfy for long. I bought the premium edition and I haven't even bothered to finish the game or the expansions because it is so repetitive.
    But overall if you can get this game on special below $80 for the full game with expansions, I would recommend it.    … Expand
  16. Animator97
    Jun 4, 2015
    8
    If you like sword action games. If you like games that are extremely fun. If you love the Lord of the Rings lore. You have found your correct game. This Is not your ordinary slasher. It is a unique game style with great story, setting, lore and gameplay. If the one thing you love about games are boss fights, then you should play this game and Bloodborne. Warner Brothers, as, always, hasIf you like sword action games. If you like games that are extremely fun. If you love the Lord of the Rings lore. You have found your correct game. This Is not your ordinary slasher. It is a unique game style with great story, setting, lore and gameplay. If the one thing you love about games are boss fights, then you should play this game and Bloodborne. Warner Brothers, as, always, has injected there unique style into
    this game. It has the smoothest gameplay and the smartest AI. Great game. The world is so unique and real. The game also has that unique hand drawn style that is so rare anymore, to see a game that looks like a game. A game that had a lot of work put into it. One of the very few games that feel next gen.    … Expand
  17. Dartek
    Jun 4, 2015
    9
    I finish the complete game with DLC included, maybe the problem is that the fights are repetitive but anyway good looking and challenging and the way you go trough the story is lineal but anyway you love the character, great graphics and some enemies are a real deal but you will have a lot of fun fighting 10 orcs at the same time.
  18. K5000i
    Jun 3, 2015
    8
    well this was my 1st ps4 game & it was a good intro into the new system, cant say it was a very long game as blast through it within 2 weeks ,.,, but i did have a great time with it. very much as mix of assassin's creed & batman ,., but light on story ,., still chasing down the orcs was a story on its own :) not too much replay value , but it is open ended for a pick up & play at any timewell this was my 1st ps4 game & it was a good intro into the new system, cant say it was a very long game as blast through it within 2 weeks ,.,, but i did have a great time with it. very much as mix of assassin's creed & batman ,., but light on story ,., still chasing down the orcs was a story on its own :) not too much replay value , but it is open ended for a pick up & play at any time so well worth the £25 paid for it… Expand
  19. PuffyPufferFish
    Jun 1, 2015
    9
    Shadow of Mordor is an amazing piece artwork with few flaws.

    Positives + Amazing skills/skill tree with interesting and fun skills Second island has amazing terrain Amazing graphics Fun enjoyable missions Great Characters Negatives - 1st island kind of flat and boring missions could have more variety This game is so much fun and so addicting if you don't already have it    Shadow of Mordor is an amazing piece artwork with few flaws.

    Positives +
    Amazing skills/skill tree with interesting and fun skills
    Second island has amazing terrain
    Amazing graphics
    Fun enjoyable missions
    Great Characters

    Negatives -

    1st island kind of flat and boring
    missions could have more variety

    This game is so much fun and so addicting if you don't already have it go and get it!    … Expand
  20. buggy226
    May 30, 2015
    9
    In my opinion, this game was the best game of the year.

    The flaws in this game are: occasional control issues when hanging from ledges; rare graphical errors; and a complete misunderstanding of a few aspects of the lore in sections of the menus. The good points about the game are: the game looks good, controls are responsive and accurate, both combat and stealth are viable options,    In my opinion, this game was the best game of the year.

    The flaws in this game are: occasional control issues when hanging from ledges; rare graphical errors; and a complete misunderstanding of a few aspects of the lore in sections of the menus.

    The good points about the game are: the game looks good, controls are responsive and accurate, both combat and stealth are viable options, and there is a decent story.

    The best thing about the game is the nemesis system. You can raise a level 1 orc to a level 20 warchief, just by allowing him to kill you, and defeating his superiors. Enemies that you have defeated may return with horrible scars and a thirst for revenge. Enemies that you face more than once will remember your previous encounter and comment on it.    … Expand
  21. tsakiym
    May 25, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I do not have to say anything. But i need to write one hundred and fifty characters. i think my score can describe it.................................… Expand
  22. TEDD95
    May 19, 2015
    9
    Polished game for recycling project on old
    mechanics, one big miss on game scale and story
    time ratio. But further more intense characters
    and good spin off on the LoTR plot. Great ending
    for a sequel... Hope to see SoM 2 soon :)
  23. HenriqueV
    May 17, 2015
    6
    2014 was a quite year for video gaming. You realize that when Shadow of Mordor get many game of the year awards.

    Its only a okay game. Combat is fun, but the game is really repetitive. Some missions is only about collecting herbs and following a specific character to point 1 to point 2. Story is really weak. As a Tolkien fan, I can't get Celebrinbor playing as a goodguyspectre in    2014 was a quite year for video gaming. You realize that when Shadow of Mordor get many game of the year awards.

    Its only a okay game. Combat is fun, but the game is really repetitive. Some missions is only about collecting herbs and following a specific character to point 1 to point 2.

    Story is really weak. As a Tolkien fan, I can't get Celebrinbor playing as a goodguyspectre in this game, it just doesn't make any kind of sense. Main character Talion feels generic. Gollum is completely out of place. Scenario is uninspiring and incredible repetitive.

    I mean, I played this one in 2015, in a moment that PS4 launch window include games like Bloodborne, Project Cars, Witcher 3 and Arkham Knight, its really hard to care about a game like this. Just a little better than mediocre.    … Expand
  24. L_Coops
    May 17, 2015
    8
    The full potential of this game was not realized. Despite that, it's still good fun.

    A few things annoyed me with Shadow of Mordor: - The game starts off too hard but then becomes far too easy once you unlock a few of your better abilities - The nemesis system could have been so much more with a little extra depth - The final boss battle is very underwhelming - The story is    The full potential of this game was not realized. Despite that, it's still good fun.

    A few things annoyed me with Shadow of Mordor:
    - The game starts off too hard but then becomes far too easy once you unlock a few of your better abilities
    - The nemesis system could have been so much more with a little extra depth
    - The final boss battle is very underwhelming
    - The story is uninspired

    Overall though, it's still a great game. It has very satisfying combat mechanics, the nemesis system is engaging and satisfying and the graphics are pretty. It's just lacking some much needed depth to boost it to a 9/10 or even 10/10 game.    … Expand
  25. Gamedetector
    May 11, 2015
    7
    Nemesis system is great, the graphics are nice, they do not bother at all, tasks, war is fun, but the scenario is boring. The game does not have a decent boss battle. Especially the last boss is a complete disgrace.
  26. Ghoster
    May 10, 2015
    10
    Didn't expect much from this game because I'm not really fan of genre. Story is good but nothing special, but gameplay is what make this game awesome. Good fighting, level up and upgrading character. Side missions are repetitive, but it's very fun to kill orcs and warchiefs. There are few things which could be improved, but in luck of good games lately it deserve 10+ !!!
  27. Meolac
    May 5, 2015
    9
    Hey. Just one though: 2014 Game of the year.
    The most suprised, this is best version, dont play x360 or ps3 cause loading time is disaster ////
    Graphic 8.5
    Sound 9
    Gameplay 9.5
    Total 9
  28. DSouls_guy
    Apr 30, 2015
    10
    Wow, why didn't I play this sooner. At first I wasn't sure if shadow of Mordor was a good purchase, but all that doubt went to rest when I started playing this adventure. The graphics, music, combat, voice acting is all amazing. The story is well written as well, there are a few problems in shadow of Mordor some times the frame rate can get jumpy but nothing game breaking. Over all this isWow, why didn't I play this sooner. At first I wasn't sure if shadow of Mordor was a good purchase, but all that doubt went to rest when I started playing this adventure. The graphics, music, combat, voice acting is all amazing. The story is well written as well, there are a few problems in shadow of Mordor some times the frame rate can get jumpy but nothing game breaking. Over all this is the best action RPG game to be on the ps4 besides bloodborne.… Expand
  29. robinzvak
    Apr 24, 2015
    8
    Good suprise. Game is mix from Batman game and assasins series, with one new element - nemesis system. The best game from LOTR world. If you are fan, absolutly must buy.
  30. HungryHippo123
    Apr 14, 2015
    9
    Great game and had fun with it, i 100% it but i only wish the main character was more interesting, but i really enjoyed the story and the combat and listening to the artifacts memorys.
  31. gamingfanatic
    Apr 9, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game that Middle-earth fans have been waiting for, or at least i have been waiting for. When they first announced this i was kinda disappointed because it just didn't seem that sort of game that was going to really capture Middle-earth but i was far from wrong as this game is stunning, fantastic and if there is to be a sequel or even better a new Lord of the Rings game then i want it to be just like this because this formula they have created is outstanding and i think that any fan of the books,films games should buy a copy of this game if you haven't already.

    Fans will not be disappointed with the experience. The only problem i had with the game is at then end when Talion fights Sauron i would have loved a more open fight instead of a couple of button mashes but it doesn't take away from how great this game looks    … Expand
  32. devils3way
    Apr 7, 2015
    0
    Worst game ever made for this amount of money! If your going to spend a million dollars to produce a game give it a story to follow.Any story like the last of us or fallout not this running around with a sword god of war crap. Nobody want to play the same fight scene over and over! MY MONEY BACK PLEASE?
  33. notlaw
    Apr 7, 2015
    9
    A game worth playing, Shadow of mordor is a great follow up to the last lotr game. its mechanics do feel like a cross over between assassins creed and batman leaning a little closer to batman and in no way is that a bad thing. the battles when you are fighting hoards of uruks are epic and is has a decent story to it as well, My only peevs with the game are that the boss battles with theA game worth playing, Shadow of mordor is a great follow up to the last lotr game. its mechanics do feel like a cross over between assassins creed and batman leaning a little closer to batman and in no way is that a bad thing. the battles when you are fighting hoards of uruks are epic and is has a decent story to it as well, My only peevs with the game are that the boss battles with the tower and the others were to easy the parkour could have been abit better hear and there like instead of jumping to a ledge thats across from me talion would do a massive jump to the ground and a bigger area would have made this perfect in my book.… Expand
  34. Kondorp96
    Apr 6, 2015
    9
    This game is very well crafted, i enjoyed playing this game for hours on end, the nemesis system is a very cool concept, any random grunt that gets lucky enough to kill you, gets promoted to a captain and gets a name, so it adds a sense of personality to the normally nameless NPCs in other games, i really rather like that! the camera can be annoying at times but for the most part it hasn'tThis game is very well crafted, i enjoyed playing this game for hours on end, the nemesis system is a very cool concept, any random grunt that gets lucky enough to kill you, gets promoted to a captain and gets a name, so it adds a sense of personality to the normally nameless NPCs in other games, i really rather like that! the camera can be annoying at times but for the most part it hasn't bothered me. I've logged quite a few hours into this game and i have not found anything that i don't like. the graphics are pretty nice, but they are not the pinnacle of next gen consoles, i'd recommend this game to anyone who enjoys the lord of the ring movies, and enjoy the story. because it wasn't there for me, I've never watched any of those films, maybe other than the hobbit, but that didn't make me dislike playing, it just made me feel like i didn't quite understand exactly what was going on, or who this new talking NPC was. it made me feel a little out of place, but not enough to bring my rating to anything under a 9… Expand
  35. woodelf
    Apr 6, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wonderful, the authors of this game are Tolkien fans, they have read Tolkien's books (and not just Lord of the Rings but the Silmarillion too). They knew what they were doing, and they did it with lots of passion and skill.
    The combat system is so varied and well done that you never get tired of slaying orcs in stealth attacks or slaughter them in melee, it's liberating. Many missions require a lot of strategy and tactics and the artificial intelligence of NPCs is very good.    … Expand
  36. Levin
    Mar 29, 2015
    9
    I knew very little of this title, but needed something for my new ps4. I was totaly blown away. The nemesis system is brilliant. The many characters show lots of variation. Great story. Amazing gameplay. I look forward to the next title from this studio. Add just a little more variation to the environment and its a slam dunk.
  37. LordMacBeth22
    Mar 26, 2015
    10
    Huge LotR Fan, and this game nailed it. After completing it once, I went back to play it a second time through. Knowing how to better use the abilities made for more enjoyment. The main quest thread is well written and keeps you guessing. Hours and hours of worth wild game time. Enemies will pop up that supposedly bested one of your online friends (unconfirmed). The only possibleHuge LotR Fan, and this game nailed it. After completing it once, I went back to play it a second time through. Knowing how to better use the abilities made for more enjoyment. The main quest thread is well written and keeps you guessing. Hours and hours of worth wild game time. Enemies will pop up that supposedly bested one of your online friends (unconfirmed). The only possible downside is that the same ‘challenges’ pop up (over and over) but with different enemies who have different Strengths/Weaknesses which forces you to not use the same killing moves.

    By far the most enjoyable PS4 game I have played to date. Give it a try, if you don’t enjoy it trade it in.    … Expand
  38. bugalugz
    Mar 25, 2015
    10
    What a fantastic game easy to pick up and hard to put down a very underated game i would recommend it to anybody and its easy to platinum for the trophy hunters.
  39. SidfriegM2928
    Mar 21, 2015
    6
    Interesting mechanics make up for a game that lacks in story and overall immersion. Interesting game, but not much else to it as a whole. Get it cheap.
  40. edwardashton07
    Mar 20, 2015
    9
    Great game. The amount of the detail is astonishing and the way that the story is set out is incredible. It's a bit like Assassins Creed though. I'm a massive fan of Assassins Creed but this game looks like it could match to how much I like Assassins Creed.
  41. Confo
    Mar 17, 2015
    8
    One of the best gameplays and mechanics I have experienced in a game. Its a Middle-Earth game that every fan deserved. it gives you emotion, excitement combating with tons and tons of Uruks.
  42. AbominationV
    Mar 16, 2015
    10
    Simply, AMAZING definitely the best game I have played in the whole of 2014 and with so many disappointing games in 2014 this game really did take the cake, from the game play to the graphics, it may not be the best looking game but damn it looks good, especially when it's raining and water falls onto Talion's outfit, it looks really stunning not to mention easily the best part of thisSimply, AMAZING definitely the best game I have played in the whole of 2014 and with so many disappointing games in 2014 this game really did take the cake, from the game play to the graphics, it may not be the best looking game but damn it looks good, especially when it's raining and water falls onto Talion's outfit, it looks really stunning not to mention easily the best part of this game for me, the Nemesis System, it allows players to create a story of their own with battles against Captains-Warchiefs being both extremely challenging at times but always a blast. Simply put this game is a must buy for fans of the Batman Arkham games and or the Assassin's Creed games.… Expand
  43. SuperAC
    Mar 16, 2015
    5
    Extremely fun combat and story but the rate at which enemies spawn completely ruins the games, it's no fun taking on a captain and then all of a sudden have a group of orcs and other captains spawn from absolutely nowhere resulting in you dying instantly. Good idea, poor execusion
  44. tormentor55
    Mar 14, 2015
    9
    Just buy this game. As a LOTR this game is awesome. As an assassin's creed fan, this game is awesome. As a Batman Arkahm fan, this game is awesome. It has the combat of Arkahm and the parkour/exploration of Assassin's creed. Why is this game not called rip-off of the year you may ask? That's because it adds a little something to the table that propels it beyond AC Unity and gives it'sJust buy this game. As a LOTR this game is awesome. As an assassin's creed fan, this game is awesome. As a Batman Arkahm fan, this game is awesome. It has the combat of Arkahm and the parkour/exploration of Assassin's creed. Why is this game not called rip-off of the year you may ask? That's because it adds a little something to the table that propels it beyond AC Unity and gives it's identity. The Nemesis system. It allows for dynamic relations with you and the baddies and makes this game 'Next-gen' for gameplay AND graphics. The story is ok but what makes it so great is the fact that you can LITERALLY make a story of your own by tampering with the orcs around you and just having a good time. Shadow of Mordor second next-gen game that truly shows what these new consoles can do. (First being Battlefield 4.)… Expand
  45. masonthemofo
    Mar 10, 2015
    9
    you might say this game stole from: batman or assassin's creed. but it's okay because this game is more a assassin's creed game then assassin's creed is. and the combat is phenomenal. this game is a hidden gem and i hope a lot of people find it. P.S. there are no lore breaking moments
  46. DMD
    Mar 10, 2015
    5
    I wonder if all the positive reviews played the same game I did. I don't deny it has its fun moments, and it has wonderful graphics and sound, but there are so many negatives that I only play the game now in short bursts.

    -Bow is underpowered, designed mostly to shoot down the middle-earth equivalent of exploding barrels. -Talion's default walk is very slow, so you're constantly    I wonder if all the positive reviews played the same game I did. I don't deny it has its fun moments, and it has wonderful graphics and sound, but there are so many negatives that I only play the game now in short bursts.

    -Bow is underpowered, designed mostly to shoot down the middle-earth equivalent of exploding barrels.
    -Talion's default walk is very slow, so you're constantly holding X down to dash. If in stealth, r2 and X.
    -Pointless grinding for upgrades that aren't all that useful.
    -bad combat. hit o to stun, x x x x, hit triangle to counter. If there are more than two bosses, run away.
    -TOO MANY ENEMIES. 20-30 normal orcs, and up to 5 bosses weren't all that uncommon. You can sometimes use stealth to thin the odds, but that's only for some missions; in the open world, it felt like most of the time you'd race to kill the boss before more linked.

    There were more issues, but the game felt grindy and unfun. The cool little Gollum missions and moments like riding a catagor seemed few and far between, as opposed to walking from point a to point B trying to kill an endless supply of respawning orcs who taunt you if they kill you. And those boss orcs are either randomly easy (die to a single headshot, can be stealth killed) or resist everything (can't be stunned, can't be flipped over, invulnerable to ranged attacks...) It's a gorgeous game, but not one I can play in long spurts without getting annoyed at.    … Expand
  47. Muzzle131
    Mar 9, 2015
    9
    So off the bat: This game is good. We could leave it that but I'm not that type of person so first off is the story: For me it's the weakest part, I'm no giant fan of Lord of the Rings so I have only a simple idea of whats going on which is you are Talion a man who is part of band of other soldiers called hunters who are the first defense against the Sauron's return, however a siege on theSo off the bat: This game is good. We could leave it that but I'm not that type of person so first off is the story: For me it's the weakest part, I'm no giant fan of Lord of the Rings so I have only a simple idea of whats going on which is you are Talion a man who is part of band of other soldiers called hunters who are the first defense against the Sauron's return, however a siege on the gates takes place and you are captured and killed making you an undead unable to live or die, now it's up to you and your Wraith companion to seek vengeance. So simply put it's a vengeance story and it doesn't (seem) to greatly impact anything of the over-arching story so you would probably come here only for gameplay. The gameplay is a bit of a touchy subject, it's like Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkham , you stealth around finding ways to slice an enemy and combat is your simple attack and counter attack, simple right? WRONG! The combat at least is super difficult creating situations of intense focus as it punishes you for any wrong move you do. That being said it's a good thing creating something of a Dark Souls feel where you have to quickly assess a situation and execute a plan, in the first hours of the game it's pretty difficult as your entirely weak and helpless using intelligence and the environment to your advantage against the most unrelenting Uruks. Which I should mention is probably the greatest reason on this games success: normal Uruks are nothing special except they do seem to have intelligent AI that know that ganging up on you is the best way to kill you, but it's the captains that take the cake as each one of them has a unique name and personality that constantly evolve as they level up making combat more intense if one joins in. They also serve as a vital role within game as the nemesis system works against you and is always in motion, for instance captains will try to complete their own challenges in order to level up and become that much more powerful making you want to intervene and instead you level up, which is another thing: leveling up does make you stronger however it becomes that more clear that it still wont stop the local population to pave the road in your blood as a simple 1 v 5 can turn into a much more **** of what is going on!? Like the Neo vs Smith fight in Matrix: Reloaded and probably ending up the same way and that is: you running like hell. In the end this is a solid amazing game creating lots of fun and replay value thanks to the nemesis system.… Expand
  48. RobertoAmigo
    Mar 5, 2015
    9
    This game is different than the games I usually play. What I like about is are the fighting mechanisms. Slaying orcs becomes a great experience and when you improve your skills you will find out that you get stronger every time. I recommend to do the side missions and collectables as well. With these missions you can get many ability points to improve your character. You can go on and rushThis game is different than the games I usually play. What I like about is are the fighting mechanisms. Slaying orcs becomes a great experience and when you improve your skills you will find out that you get stronger every time. I recommend to do the side missions and collectables as well. With these missions you can get many ability points to improve your character. You can go on and rush the game, but you wouldnt get the whole experience and you'll find out that improving your character takes much longer.

    The graphics are very nice as well, and all the orc captains and warchiefs have unique personalities and appearance which give you the impression you're not fighting the same enemy over and over. Also the Nemesis system works great. The only downside of this system is that you can't skip the changes when orcs are getting promoted or new orcs become captain. After several times you know how the system works and it's not necessary to be forced to watch every change in the Nemesis System.

    Overall this game has a good story and it feels good to walk around in Mordor. Also the return of a specific character (not going to spoil this one) is very nice and gives you the impression you are one of the characters who actually lived in Middle Earth.    … Expand
  49. Mr_Wednesday
    Mar 4, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Awesome game, but the last boss should be an epic battle, not a Quick Time Event. Totally anticlimatic. I don´t know who would think that is OK. Did the playtesters enjoy this?… Expand
  50. sidshah23
    Feb 25, 2015
    10
    one of the best game of 2014.. smooth gameplay decent story lovely gore.. good graphics.. must play game.. and great treat for lotr fans.. after its succes waiting for the sequel,,
  51. tiagodantas
    Feb 24, 2015
    4
    Super repetitive! There are not another words to describe this game. You have to be a super patient person to complete it. Even for a Lord of The Rings based game, is dispensable.
  52. thegadfly44
    Feb 24, 2015
    8
    This game is awesome. That's as simple as it can be put. The Nemesis system is phenomenal and provides a very welcome challenge and innovation to an industry that's been severely lacking in both. It's a beautiful game with a compelling story and is a crap load of fun to play.

    This game would have been a nine except I can't forgive the final boss battle. For a game that goes out of it's    This game is awesome. That's as simple as it can be put. The Nemesis system is phenomenal and provides a very welcome challenge and innovation to an industry that's been severely lacking in both. It's a beautiful game with a compelling story and is a crap load of fun to play.

    This game would have been a nine except I can't forgive the final boss battle. For a game that goes out of it's way to be challenging in a whole new unique way, is was a HUGE let down and disappointment that the final boss was a quick time event. And not even a good one at that. I spent a lot of time and energy in building my character up to have all these skills and abilities, and for what? Just to continue playing against war cheifs and captains? That is fun and all but the final point is so that my character would be strong enough to face the final boss. I mean that's the point right? This was a stupid and lackluster mistake on their end. Also, the season pass feels like a huge waste of money, don't bother.

    Other than that and a few glitches that were annoying but not game breaking, AWESOME AWESOME GAME AND A MUST PLAY.    … Expand
  53. EsvaDark
    Feb 22, 2015
    9
    Definitely one of the best game i've played on the PS4. Excellent graphics and amazing combat system definitely want to do execution over and over again. The nemesis system offer new experience too. I had a captain who came from the dead up to two times before i slayed him for eternity and i feel like he was a best friend for me, such a memorable moment. The only drawback on this game isDefinitely one of the best game i've played on the PS4. Excellent graphics and amazing combat system definitely want to do execution over and over again. The nemesis system offer new experience too. I had a captain who came from the dead up to two times before i slayed him for eternity and i feel like he was a best friend for me, such a memorable moment. The only drawback on this game is short mission and final boss battle that were too easy.… Expand
  54. SenseyZ
    Feb 19, 2015
    10
    This game is what you really want as an rpg, it can be really fun trust me.
    It has the feeling of open world, and danger in every corner. it's just the type i like
  55. LadiesMan217
    Feb 19, 2015
    9
    I'm giving it a solid 9. If you hate sandbox, Asassin's Creed-style games you may not like this one. However, the fighting style, super creative enemies, gripping story and jaw-dropping graphical quality merit a high score. It's a game that sorta creeps on you. The beginning of the story pits you right in the middle of middle-earth. While it'd be cool to see some hobbits and the combat isI'm giving it a solid 9. If you hate sandbox, Asassin's Creed-style games you may not like this one. However, the fighting style, super creative enemies, gripping story and jaw-dropping graphical quality merit a high score. It's a game that sorta creeps on you. The beginning of the story pits you right in the middle of middle-earth. While it'd be cool to see some hobbits and the combat is a wee bit confusing off the bat, you soon get used to it and virtually immersed in the amazing world the designers built. Word of warning, don't do as I did and get whooped repeatedly early in the game. If you do, you'll find yourself battling level 20 dudes that are nay impossible to defeat without a lot of luck.

    Some of the battles in this game feel ripped right out of a movie scene, with baddies teaming up and talking ork-crap to each other and you. It's great.    … Expand
  56. Abdulbaqr
    Feb 17, 2015
    10
    Very stable game, incredibly good combat system. Only thing that bugged me was that I spent a LARGE amount of time crouched down so that i wouldn't accidentally alert one of the millions of baddies roaming around. But if I were just more badass, I guess I wouldn't have to bother. Definitely pick this one up.
  57. lggregorio
    Feb 17, 2015
    8
    A very nice game with fun missions and history, I believe this is one of the best games I have played in the last years and trully stands up to the hype. I am giving 8 because it can be really frustrating at the beginning until you find what you have to do and where you should go. The fighting can get boring after some time, all captains work the same way: you find them, tons of enemiesA very nice game with fun missions and history, I believe this is one of the best games I have played in the last years and trully stands up to the hype. I am giving 8 because it can be really frustrating at the beginning until you find what you have to do and where you should go. The fighting can get boring after some time, all captains work the same way: you find them, tons of enemies appear out of nowhere and you have to find a way to get rid of the mess.… Expand
  58. kenmil
    Feb 15, 2015
    7
    A strange thing happened to me whilst playing this game - I got bored with it after playing about 75%. This has never happened before and I always play to the end, but this one just lost me. Sure there are some weaknesses, such as a weapon upgrade rune system that keeps rewarding me with useless runes way below my current level, and an inability to keep my character focused on the opponentA strange thing happened to me whilst playing this game - I got bored with it after playing about 75%. This has never happened before and I always play to the end, but this one just lost me. Sure there are some weaknesses, such as a weapon upgrade rune system that keeps rewarding me with useless runes way below my current level, and an inability to keep my character focused on the opponent during combat, but I think it was the repetition in every location and every quest that finally drained me of any interest.
    The graphics are very nice though.    … Expand
  59. Krawbeard
    Feb 14, 2015
    8
    Take all the good mechanics of assassins creed and batman arkham city, then put in a nemesis system... and a lil spice of well polished graphics and you have yourself a great lord of the rings style game.

    Is it the greatest game ever? no! But however it is an awesome stand alone single player title that will keep you entertained for hours to come. The game isn't lacking in any    Take all the good mechanics of assassins creed and batman arkham city, then put in a nemesis system... and a lil spice of well polished graphics and you have yourself a great lord of the rings style game.

    Is it the greatest game ever? no!

    But however it is an awesome stand alone single player title that will keep you entertained for hours to come.

    The game isn't lacking in any way so I would say I am happy they didn't chop this game and sell the rest as DLC like most games that have been coming out lately. The DLC feels like an option for if you really love this game and want more rather than.. "hey you wont enjoy this game until you fork over money for the season pass". With that I may buy the DLC once I have beaten the game.

    I can truly get lost playing this game.
    There are a few bugs in the game like where Celembrimdors spirit will stay frozen in spots you left wraith mode but its not game breaking.

    There are quick time events however it doesn't take away any immersion what so ever like a lot of quick time events do.

    Its definitely one of the better games out and I believe if you buy this game which you can find $40-$50 deals at best buy and the internet then you can be assured your money was well spent on an entertaining fun game.

    The story is interesting but honestly I just love the gameplay. you have free roam to go wherever and the scenery in the game changes as you progress. Grinding for upgrades is minimal and the side missions aren't dragged out and boring like assassins creed.

    If you get this game I would recommend upgrading your elf shot as much as you can and your wraith abilities because you will use it a lot and will be most helpful.

    The game is very rewarding and yet not too challenging. you can't go hacking and slashing in a fight expecting to button mash your way through. it takes some combat strategy much like batman arkham city. The side missions make it rewarding to complete as you find new runes to play with the customize your ranger/wraith the way you want him to fight. which is very unique... some runes can be burned to upgrade quicker.

    All in all i feel like the game catches up with my skill level to where its not too easy to where i can get bored easily.

    I enjoy having that feeling of revenge if an uruk kills me and I see him get promoted, then i go stalk him and hunt him down or I possess him so i can use him as my puppet to get me a big uruk army. Sometimes i just let an uruk kill me just to watch the events unfold for him.

    My only disappointment (SPOILER SCROLL DOWN) is they killed off my favorite character Ratbag the Coward early in the game. Was feeling attached to the little guy.

    There are also some moments that get annoying like trying to get talion to hang on one side of the wall then hangs on the opposite side where the uruks are however it still isn't game breaking.

    I do wish they would've gotten deeper into the hunting.

    However I will say this.. If you are curious about this game and you love assassins creed and the batman games then this will be for you. Its one of the better games out there and monolith/WB did a great job releasing a game that feels like you got your money's worth. GREAT JOB.    … Expand
  60. bfgallo
    Feb 12, 2015
    6
    Great inovative game but has its problems:

    - sometimes you get too many enemys on screen/ makes strategy combat impossible.
    - camera issues.
    - boss presentation interrupts fight everytime.
  61. Ocosu
    Feb 11, 2015
    7
    What to say about this game... My rating was tricky. I honestly loved the game and it's gameplay. What brought down my score as much as it did was the fact the game's actual story was so short. On top of that, the last two 'bosses' was very disheartening for me. The first boss was actually challenging and was fun to play against... The second boss? It felt like a child's game of hide&seek,What to say about this game... My rating was tricky. I honestly loved the game and it's gameplay. What brought down my score as much as it did was the fact the game's actual story was so short. On top of that, the last two 'bosses' was very disheartening for me. The first boss was actually challenging and was fun to play against... The second boss? It felt like a child's game of hide&seek, with the final boss? You don't even get to do anything but watch. For a game I had considered to be as good as it was before that, it was sad to say the least.

    I understand there is a lot of content to game in terms of side missions and quests you can do. I'm not by any means saying it lacks in content. What I am saying though is the actual story ended up lacking. Way to short for my liking.

    I'd still recommend this game. If you like exploring areas, getting really involved in it's awesome side missions and quest, this is the game for you. Great fighting system... Great systems in general. If you're someone who doesn't often bother in side quest stuff and just want a nice story mode? I can't say this will provide that. It didn't exactly for me. It has a cliffhanger ending which is nice and all since I would actually buy a sequel to this game... But I just hold they go further with the story and don't make it as brief as they did in this one.

    Overall, good game.    … Expand
  62. LumacJax
    Feb 10, 2015
    8
    the gameplay is very enjoyable and the nemesis system is very good, but can be repetitive. We are really closes to assassin's creed about the conception: Reach towers to synchronize the area, sneaky mission and huge fight when you are detected. During the fight, you push the attack button until someone attack you back. And icon will pop-up (Usually, the triangle for PS4) and you willthe gameplay is very enjoyable and the nemesis system is very good, but can be repetitive. We are really closes to assassin's creed about the conception: Reach towers to synchronize the area, sneaky mission and huge fight when you are detected. During the fight, you push the attack button until someone attack you back. And icon will pop-up (Usually, the triangle for PS4) and you will block.

    The game is fluid, even when you have 20-30 enemies around you.

    The video of introduction is breathtaking!    … Expand
  63. avirius
    Feb 10, 2015
    2
    This game is like so many other pretty things: it looks nice but that's the only good thing you can say.

    The Controls) The controls for this game are without doubt the most atrocious, ill-conceived random mishmash of nonsense that I have ever seen in a game. Button definitions are contextual, nothing new there, but the context changes so often that there is no way to memorize the    This game is like so many other pretty things: it looks nice but that's the only good thing you can say.

    The Controls)

    The controls for this game are without doubt the most atrocious, ill-conceived random mishmash of nonsense that I have ever seen in a game. Button definitions are contextual, nothing new there, but the context changes so often that there is no way to memorize the controls. The Square attacks, but if you hold down the stealth and tap some other button then it drops down from a ledge. I count 15 button type controls on my PS4 stick, not counting the system control/option buttons. As a game designer, if you have to resort to 3 button combinations to achieve your goals then you need to step back and reconsider your mappings and whether this game is really going to be playable.

    I can't stress this enough. This game is so complicated to play that I just eject the disc after 10 minutes or so and put it away for another month hopping it will improve with age. It doesn't.

    The Gameplay)

    Poor control layout aside, the game does look very nice which just serves to antagonize me since I know I will never see very much of it. So far, I have seen Orcs, slaves, and some cat-like thing. The Orcs are easy enough to fight in 1s and 2s but they tend to come in packs once you get them riled up. Good luck there. My ranger gets beaten nearly to death (probably since I can't remember to R1+tap R2 while pressing X or some nonsense) and then the game pauses momentarily to give me some chance to do something. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do but it draws a circle on the screen and puts an arrow and I think it wants me to do something with the left or right stick. Who knows. I see that a lot and it's my warning that I'm going to die in about 5 seconds. Time to get a sandwich and wait for the silly Nemesis system to promote and Orc. I read a lot about what a wonderful thing the nemesis system is. Maybe, but I see a lot of Orcs getting promoted (read more powerful) and I don't seem to be getting any better with these game mechanics.

    The camera and the stealth (and the camera while stealthed) are also troubling. The camera wants to re-center as I move and I find myself constantly fighting with he right stick. This has the effect of making the movement a little sickening around corners and it makes the game feel numb. That's a shame but wouldn't keep me from playing the game.

    Stealth is darned handy but darned difficult to maintain. You have to hold down a button constantly to stealth. Wow, who thought that was a good idea. Stealth is a necessity in this game since the wild array of randomly assigned controls is useless, kills mostly come from sneaking up on something and hitting it. So I stealth a lot. However, to stay stealthed, you must hold down R2 (I think it's R2) all the time. That's amazing, though in a very bad way.

    The Story)

    Honestly, I can't say much about the story. I can't get far enough into the game to really know if there is a story or not. I'm playing in Story Mode, though I don't know if there is a free exploration mode or not. Regardless, all I have seen are Orcs, slaves, and cat-like things.

    Conclusion)

    I've played games with marginal graphics and great controls that were fun but I can't say that I have ever played a game with great graphics and poor controls that was anything but a waste of money and time. Shadow of Mordor is a fine example of a pretty game with ill-thought, poorly implemented controls.

    Don't waste your time or your money unless your idea of a fun game is figuring out esoteric controls that are nearly impossible to remember and require vast dexterity (think hold down two buttons while tapping a third).    … Expand
  64. angrywombat
    Feb 10, 2015
    5
    About halfway through the game I felt I had done everything is has to offer. It's fun to be a ranger/wraith running around middle earth killing orcs for a while.... but the story is uninspired, and the game-play gets repetitive fast. Reminds me very much of Assassin's Creed with a new skin. I'd only recommend this if it's in the bargain bin.
  65. Slappyjigg
    Feb 9, 2015
    9
    Tons of fun. Combat is great and very fluid...the developers made it very easy for you to feel like a complete badass in combat. The nemesis system is fun and honestly drags me away from the main campaign, seeing as how I want to either avenge my death or the death of a friend, or eliminate another captain/settle a dispute/spoil a feast lol. It's just so enjoyable! And the voice acting!Tons of fun. Combat is great and very fluid...the developers made it very easy for you to feel like a complete badass in combat. The nemesis system is fun and honestly drags me away from the main campaign, seeing as how I want to either avenge my death or the death of a friend, or eliminate another captain/settle a dispute/spoil a feast lol. It's just so enjoyable! And the voice acting! You know you get anxious when a game is announced with full voice acting, seeing as how most voice acting is awkward, if not horrid at best. The acting, voice work, character movement (I'm assuming motion capture) and just everything else is so polished and well thought out. You can tell they took care and wanted the smallest aspects of their game to really shine on their own. Even though the story line doesn't necessarily fall exactly in line with the Lord of the Rings story, it does an excellent job of interweaving it into their tale, and more importantly is convincing. Whatever your reservations about the game are, throw them in the pool and play it...or better yet, buy it!… Expand
  66. rodericrinehart
    Feb 7, 2015
    9
    Yes, it is a mix of Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkham Asylum, and maybe even Tomb Raider,, but it is better than all of those games, AND it adds the Nemesis system, which is definitely going to be copied by many games in the future.

    Shadow of Mordor has excellent parkour, sweet graphics, truly interesting and story-drive collectibles, and really good and varied combat. The combat of    Yes, it is a mix of Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkham Asylum, and maybe even Tomb Raider,, but it is better than all of those games, AND it adds the Nemesis system, which is definitely going to be copied by many games in the future.

    Shadow of Mordor has excellent parkour, sweet graphics, truly interesting and story-drive collectibles, and really good and varied combat. The combat of Assassin's Creed is absolutely horrible in comparison.

    They have a gem on their hands here. I thoroughly enjoyed myself from start to finish and will eagerly pre-order the next game in the franchise!    … Expand
  67. JayLightBar
    Feb 6, 2015
    7
    This game is great! There is a lot of fun to be had in the slashing and murdering of nasty old wankers that ruined the life of our main hero. Not only does the game look beautiful on the ps4, but it runs just perfectly. Never had a single drop in frame rate through my entire playthrough. There's a lot to do here, and well keep you busy. The story itself wasn't terrible...until the last fewThis game is great! There is a lot of fun to be had in the slashing and murdering of nasty old wankers that ruined the life of our main hero. Not only does the game look beautiful on the ps4, but it runs just perfectly. Never had a single drop in frame rate through my entire playthrough. There's a lot to do here, and well keep you busy. The story itself wasn't terrible...until the last few moments, which completely ruined the 3RD Act of the game for me. Sound design is good, nothing really that great though. No song from here well be remembered. Overall, it's fun. Shadows of Murder could very well be the first step into a great game series. But next time, step it up in the story department please.… Expand
  68. alexmanea
    Feb 5, 2015
    9
    This game is simply awesome! I was skeptical at first because of the other LOTR games but I was surprised by how good this game can be. The graphics were beautiful and the story just hypnotises you with its amazing plot. I loved the fact that it combined elements from both Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkham. Even the side quests were fun to play but after a while these can get a littleThis game is simply awesome! I was skeptical at first because of the other LOTR games but I was surprised by how good this game can be. The graphics were beautiful and the story just hypnotises you with its amazing plot. I loved the fact that it combined elements from both Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkham. Even the side quests were fun to play but after a while these can get a little repetitive. Another reason why I love this game so much is because it is fun and enjoyable. Also, I've achieved near 80% of the trophies not even trying to achieve them, but only by beating the game 100% .… Expand
  69. masterjohnson1
    Feb 5, 2015
    10
    What a game, running through mordor Killing hordes of orc's and urak's. The skills and runes you get are amazing and the kill animations when you kill a war chief or captain are just the best in any game to date.
    This is one of the best games in 2014 if you have not tried it you should, you will not regret it
  70. Dokkodo
    Feb 5, 2015
    8
    This game blatantly rips off AC2 and the Arkham Games and it is so damn fun that you won't care. Sure it might steal a lot of it's mechanics but it also implements new ones and makes it really fun.

    The combat is fun and from start to finish you are pretty much engaged in it. There isn't a whole lot of waiting for something to happen, even when you're traveling from point A to point B    This game blatantly rips off AC2 and the Arkham Games and it is so damn fun that you won't care. Sure it might steal a lot of it's mechanics but it also implements new ones and makes it really fun.

    The combat is fun and from start to finish you are pretty much engaged in it. There isn't a whole lot of waiting for something to happen, even when you're traveling from point A to point B you are probably going to get tempted by that small patrol waiting to get their throats cut.

    The biggest downside is that the game is pretty short, you can easily finish it in a day. If you want a challenge you basically have to create your own challenge because the story mode isn't going to give you one, but you can play with the generals to boost their power and make them a threat.

    I also found the story more interesting than those boring long-winded movies, that Gollum thing annoys the piss out of me though.    … Expand
  71. Taltos
    Feb 3, 2015
    9
    Great fun.
    Interesting story, but the combat or kill sections are a blast.
    Yes it is a bit repetitive in places but overall a great game to spend a few days with.
  72. Hank704
    Feb 2, 2015
    5
    I'm almost sorry to give this game this score because the first half was amazing, but the 3rd act of the game will leave you with a terrible taste in your mouth. Its starts out fantastic and challenging, but the ending of the game was obviously rushed and included quick time event boss fights. A game that should pride itself on finding the weaknesses of your opponent and then engaging themI'm almost sorry to give this game this score because the first half was amazing, but the 3rd act of the game will leave you with a terrible taste in your mouth. Its starts out fantastic and challenging, but the ending of the game was obviously rushed and included quick time event boss fights. A game that should pride itself on finding the weaknesses of your opponent and then engaging them in combat ends up having a quick time event for the final bosses! What!?
    The only thing else I can say is that you will put effort into the game because the beginning makes it seem like it has so much potential, but you will soon see (and by soon I mean SOON! Really Short Main Campaign) that your effort will reap no rewards or lasting feel of accomplishment.    … Expand
  73. Rymac44
    Jan 30, 2015
    9
    Really good game. The nemesis system is great, as is the gameplay itself. The plot isn't anything amazing, but is interesting enough, although the ending isn't very good. Only other complaint is the camera angle which can get very annoying . Even still, it's a very fun game with cool customization options such as skills and weapon ruins.
  74. Dionysus777
    Jan 27, 2015
    8
    This is my least favorite type of game. I cant stand assassins creed with its mindless systematic gameplay and simple challengeless mechanics. That being said this is what assassins creed would be if it were good. Graphics are all right. Orc models look great.Nemesis system adds replay.Combat is good but its kind of convaluted and doesnt present much challenge. I like lor but dont careThis is my least favorite type of game. I cant stand assassins creed with its mindless systematic gameplay and simple challengeless mechanics. That being said this is what assassins creed would be if it were good. Graphics are all right. Orc models look great.Nemesis system adds replay.Combat is good but its kind of convaluted and doesnt present much challenge. I like lor but dont care about the story in this. Just to honest though dont really care about the story in the movies either i just like the epic scale and visuals. This is a good game overall coming from a guy who thinks these types of games are kind of a mindless chore.… Expand
  75. mph82
    Jan 27, 2015
    10
    Best gaming experience I have had yet on PS4!! So addictive, and so many fun and unique elements of game play. Breathtaking graphics, intriguing story line, and lots of cool powers. I played every day for a month straight whenever I had free time. One of the most fluid and smooth controller interfaces for a modern game, and no glitches. BUY IT!
  76. Brendon6446
    Jan 21, 2015
    10
    Loved this game! The combat is so fun i just played for hours when i first got all i did was kill uruks and level up to upgrade my power. This game makes you feel invincible (not in real life). Now i do suggest getting it on the next gen because they made it for next gen. They just came out with it on the old gen to make more money. Its not the same on the old gen. To get the bestLoved this game! The combat is so fun i just played for hours when i first got all i did was kill uruks and level up to upgrade my power. This game makes you feel invincible (not in real life). Now i do suggest getting it on the next gen because they made it for next gen. They just came out with it on the old gen to make more money. Its not the same on the old gen. To get the best experience buy it on the new gen.… Expand
  77. Darko84
    Jan 20, 2015
    7
    Middle-earth Shadow of Mordor is an interesting game worth playing but never to be considered as best game of 2014.

    The game is clumsy mainly due to the camera and the "stealth" system (very poor). Orcs cannot see you when you are standing next to them but they can see you if you are hidden in the bushes! Game play is very similar to AC and Batman Arkham series (as many people have    Middle-earth Shadow of Mordor is an interesting game worth playing but never to be considered as best game of 2014.

    The game is clumsy mainly due to the camera and the "stealth" system (very poor).
    Orcs cannot see you when you are standing next to them but they can see you if you are hidden in the bushes! Game play is very similar to AC and Batman Arkham series (as many people have already noticed), which for me it a good dynamic for this kind of games. The story development is interesting and the Nemesis system make this game worth playing it (specially if you are a LOTR fan).

    Positive Things:
    + Nemesis system.
    + Story.
    + Graphics.

    Negative things:
    - Camera.
    - Stealth system.    … Expand
  78. kyazlar
    Jan 16, 2015
    9
    This game has good graphics and fast gameplay but the worst senaryo.
    Nemesis is a great system. I think Shadow Of Mordor is the best game of the year.
    2. the game has to be better.
  79. Red-Opposom-098
    Jan 15, 2015
    6
    After looking at what this game looked liked, well it looked fun and it was for the first hour. Now the nemesis system is probably the best part of this game next to seeing the stupid names the enemy's have. The combat system in this game is great and isn't to easy to counter everything but it can be way to tricky when fighting 10+ enemy's. But at times the game can be way to boring.
  80. 670Gamer
    Jan 14, 2015
    6
    Fighting mechanics is kool, environment is okay, and enemies are okay; thus, the 6 rating.

    Same view about the game in regards to "go there,kill then go there and kill". I would have loved this game if there was no enemy respawn. Instead, give the player the benefit of conquering the whole map. Would have really like to conquer a section and then after that, human/elf/and dwarf allies    Fighting mechanics is kool, environment is okay, and enemies are okay; thus, the 6 rating.

    Same view about the game in regards to "go there,kill then go there and kill". I would have loved this game if there was no enemy respawn. Instead, give the player the benefit of conquering the whole map. Would have really like to conquer a section and then after that, human/elf/and dwarf allies would settle there, but no, you kill then they come back to get killed again. You end up using stealth wherever you go if you don't want to fight forever. Yes, the # of missions sucks. The upgrades are okay, but require multiple button smashing and timing. Story is hardly there unless you want to get all the collectibles and see if they are relevant to the story. Only watched the Lord of the Rings trilogy (not the Hobbit ones cause I am not interested in those) and don't see a strong connection.    … Expand
  81. electriclight41
    Jan 14, 2015
    9
    Whenever I go out of my way to get all the achievements in a game, you know I think it’s good. Shadows of Mordor is one of those games.

    There is nothing more satisfying than taking down orcs with style. The learning curve is a little steep, but once you get it, it’s pretty easy to slaughter scores of enemies or get revenge on your nemesis. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience, but    Whenever I go out of my way to get all the achievements in a game, you know I think it’s good. Shadows of Mordor is one of those games.

    There is nothing more satisfying than taking down orcs with style. The learning curve is a little steep, but once you get it, it’s pretty easy to slaughter scores of enemies or get revenge on your nemesis. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience, but would probably refrain from a 10 because it doesn’t have a ton of replay value.    … Expand
  82. Frederik
    Jan 13, 2015
    10
    Exquisite game. I have been captivated since the moment I started the game and now I want to finish it. The story moves at a good pace and the graphics are very well done. Especially the cut-scenes are worth a watch.
    The combat system is fluid and gratifying; certainly during the second half of the game you feel quite powerful as you have an extensive arsenal of moves and executions at    Exquisite game. I have been captivated since the moment I started the game and now I want to finish it. The story moves at a good pace and the graphics are very well done. Especially the cut-scenes are worth a watch.
    The combat system is fluid and gratifying; certainly during the second half of the game you feel quite powerful as you have an extensive arsenal of moves and executions at your disposal.
    Surely, this is not an overly difficult game. Be prepared to die several times at the beginning, however, when you haven't leveled up on health.
    When you die, several Uruks gain a higher rank and become a bit more difficult to kill, but overall I haven't had many difficulties slaying the wretched orc leaders or war chiefs.
    You can also decide how to approach a battle: either you take individual orcs down one by one by killing them from stealth with your bow or dagger or you can attack them head-on with your sword.
    For the completionists, there are also objects and herbs to collect, a grand puzzle to solve and kill challenges to complete, so if you want to beat the game entirely, you will easily invest over 40 hours in it.
    My conclusion: the outstanding graphics, captivating world and lore (if you're a LOTR fan), satisfying gameplay and interesting Nemesis-system make this game a must-buy in my opinion. It has been a long time since I have been so excited by a game.    … Expand
  83. overkoell
    Jan 12, 2015
    8
    Shadow of Mordor is exactly what it wants to be. Assassins Creed in Middle Earth.
    It does not reinvent the wheel. But it doesn't have to.
    It looks good, sounds good feels good and most important is fun to play. The long time fun is questionable because even if you go for a 100% play trough it wont take you 30 hours and there is simply no reason to ever play it again. The game    Shadow of Mordor is exactly what it wants to be. Assassins Creed in Middle Earth.
    It does not reinvent the wheel. But it doesn't have to.
    It looks good, sounds good feels good and most important is fun to play.
    The long time fun is questionable because even if you go for a 100% play trough it wont take you 30 hours and there is simply no reason to ever play it again.
    The game difficulty is way to easy and it does not force you to think about what to do because you can always get out of tricky situations with your sword or just... walk away... and i mean WALK away because no one in Mordor is following you anyhow.
    Shadow of Mordor is a very good Assassins Creed Clone and for LOTR fans it definitely is worth a look.    … Expand
  84. that_paulrus
    Jan 12, 2015
    4
    The Nemesis system is a great mechanic but the rest of the game is a big miss for me. The plot is at sub-Destiny levels, and the main story can be finished in about 6 hours without rushing. The small supporting cast is comprised of throw-away stereotypes and although Troy Baker is always good, Talion is just another boring white bread protagonist. Others have mentioned camera issues,The Nemesis system is a great mechanic but the rest of the game is a big miss for me. The plot is at sub-Destiny levels, and the main story can be finished in about 6 hours without rushing. The small supporting cast is comprised of throw-away stereotypes and although Troy Baker is always good, Talion is just another boring white bread protagonist. Others have mentioned camera issues, which I also agree with. The combat is deeply unsatisfying and devolves into a button masher pretty quickly. Ranged combat can be fun but is overpowered, and the stealth mechanic is horribly broken; most of the time you can "stealth" kill an enemy right in front of their pals and no one notices. I played this directly after finishing DA:I and the entirety of the SoM area is about the size of the starting area in DA:I.

    The problem for me is that there's nothing to do once you beat the very short "story." Running from stronghold to stronghold fighting the same two enemy types by button mashing gets old quickly, especially given the insane respawn rate of enemies after you clear an area out. Picked it up at a good discount so it was still worth the money, but overall this is a forgettable, mediocre experience hiding behind its fun Nemesis system.    … Expand
  85. hemmo1986
    Jan 12, 2015
    7
    While an enjoyable game, it borrows heavily from the Batman and Assassins creed games; while this isn't necessarily a bad point as those games are undoubtedly great titles, it does however create a feeling of " haven't I been here before?".

    The one saving grace is the new nemesis system that has been quite astonishing and it will be interesting to see how its implemented in future    While an enjoyable game, it borrows heavily from the Batman and Assassins creed games; while this isn't necessarily a bad point as those games are undoubtedly great titles, it does however create a feeling of " haven't I been here before?".

    The one saving grace is the new nemesis system that has been quite astonishing and it will be interesting to see how its implemented in future games; something people should truly be excited about.

    Overall this game is good just don't expect a revolution in game design.    … Expand
  86. Manjisan13
    Jan 11, 2015
    9
    Surely one of my top picks of 2014.

    Overall good story.not clearly understood why gollum was there?

    Not a rip-off from AC series. Thanks to the awesome nemesis system, the world around you feels alive and how you confront the enemy is splendid well done.
  87. JAX85
    Jan 11, 2015
    10
    Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4. Best Game on PS4.
  88. Megadonx92x
    Jan 8, 2015
    10
    Let me start off by saying that I don't understand how anyone can give this game a bad review. Shadow of Mordor is by far the funnest game I've played on the new consoles. It pretty much is the Batman Arkham and the Assassin's Creed series mixed. I never really played much of the Batman's but as a fan of Assassin's Creed, I'm a big fan of this game. The game play is smooth, counters lookLet me start off by saying that I don't understand how anyone can give this game a bad review. Shadow of Mordor is by far the funnest game I've played on the new consoles. It pretty much is the Batman Arkham and the Assassin's Creed series mixed. I never really played much of the Batman's but as a fan of Assassin's Creed, I'm a big fan of this game. The game play is smooth, counters look awesome, and the game play is very fun and addictive. There's nothing more fun than going around and slicing orcs' heads off and the animations make it that much better. The graphics look great and the story is pretty interesting. I think this game is very well put together and, to me, is the best game of the year for the new systems. If your true gamer there's no excuse not to have this game in your life.… Expand
  89. AylanChaos
    Jan 5, 2015
    4
    I really wanted this game to be good. I tried playing it on three different occasions (thinking it was just me), but each time I played it - the game went completely flat after a couple of hours.

    The gameplay mechanics are downright ripped off from Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkam - yet they aren't done as well. The open world could not be more boring and disappointing. In the end,    I really wanted this game to be good. I tried playing it on three different occasions (thinking it was just me), but each time I played it - the game went completely flat after a couple of hours.

    The gameplay mechanics are downright ripped off from Assassin's Creed and Batman Arkam - yet they aren't done as well. The open world could not be more boring and disappointing. In the end, this is a fighting game disguised as an open world adventure.

    At it's very best, it's fun to hit the buttons for an hour to see some cool animations. Without that single component, I would have rated this game a 1. The graphics and sound are last generation polished up with stale overused voice acting. The story, well, there is none. Just an intro cliche revenge setup style cutscene and a "go get em tiger." Everything after that will put you to sleep.

    The gameplay I would only recommend to someone entirely new to the gaming scene or a child who is easily entertained. Every single thing this game does has been done (years ago) and done much better. The nemesis system is a cool concept, but only leads to the same repetitive "kill this guy, kill that guy" scenario.

    My gut told me that this game was going to be iffy, but it got so many good reviews from review sites. IGN gave this garbage a 9.3 and it's what led me to wasting 40 U.S. dollars on a game that I had to force myself to play multiple times only to come to the same conclusion that other negative reviews on metacritic have.

    Ultimately, this is the 2014 version of an old school hack and slash that goes nowhere in the end.    … Expand
  90. Snowe
    Jan 4, 2015
    7
    This game is SO much fun throughout the story mode, but that's why I gave it a 7. After story mode, like allot of other games, the replay value dies WAY down. It truly was a fun game when I played it though, I didn't wait for any DLC, just beat it and traded it in. Great game though!
  91. jedi5diah
    Jan 4, 2015
    3
    Going past the hype and many so called "true, unpaid reviewers" recommended this game i went ahead to try it. i couldn't believe that anyone could actually complete this game. its extremely repetitive since the very beginning, esp the raved nemesis system. it just pops out anywhere and everywhere interrupting and was extremely irritating. Making the system redundant to have any realGoing past the hype and many so called "true, unpaid reviewers" recommended this game i went ahead to try it. i couldn't believe that anyone could actually complete this game. its extremely repetitive since the very beginning, esp the raved nemesis system. it just pops out anywhere and everywhere interrupting and was extremely irritating. Making the system redundant to have any real meaning because another one will spawn over n over again.

    Graphics
    Seriously just a better old gen version. it just look like any other game i played on PS3 esp on big led tv it just look pathetic.

    Art Direction
    its LOTR well, there's anything fresh or interesting anymore. so where are your companions? A ghostly elf is not!

    Gameplay
    i have no idea that pple can actually enjoy this, i cannot fathom. they simply swarm you with enemies and pops out a captain out of nowhere and one hit you again n again n again...    … Expand
  92. Type4101
    Jan 3, 2015
    7
    Fight the controls as you battle across a small section of Middle Earth! A wonky control scheme makes mistakes, random leaps off of things, and button-mashing combat commonplace in this game. Be prepared to fail many, many missions because of the controls, that will send you leaping into the line-of-sight of an orc on the countless stealth-only missions. Frustration aside, the game isFight the controls as you battle across a small section of Middle Earth! A wonky control scheme makes mistakes, random leaps off of things, and button-mashing combat commonplace in this game. Be prepared to fail many, many missions because of the controls, that will send you leaping into the line-of-sight of an orc on the countless stealth-only missions. Frustration aside, the game is otherwise a solid stealth-action game (when the controls cooperate), that is light on story and narration, but will fill the gap as we wait for (hopefully) better games, like the Witcher 3. Shadows of Mordor suffers from the plight of many open-world games....namely, repetitive missions and collectibles that are there for filler. Kill orcs...then kill some more...then some more...and then again. Still, in a year when games ranged from horrible-to-mediocre, it stands out as better than many. Beautiful graphics (for those that care about such things) and excellent voice acting (for the very few lines of dialogue). A solid game, but too frustrating and repetitive to be an instant classic.… Expand
  93. Jellybean15
    Jan 2, 2015
    9
    Shadow of Mordor is a game that didn't have a lot of hype leading up to it. Many wrote it off as another cash in of a famous license that ripped of gameplay from popular franchises while promising what many thought the game couldn't deliver. Despite this, Shadow of Mordor not only lives up to it's promise, but it also rises as one of the best game's of 2014.

    SOM's story centers around    Shadow of Mordor is a game that didn't have a lot of hype leading up to it. Many wrote it off as another cash in of a famous license that ripped of gameplay from popular franchises while promising what many thought the game couldn't deliver. Despite this, Shadow of Mordor not only lives up to it's promise, but it also rises as one of the best game's of 2014.

    SOM's story centers around Talion, a Blackgate ranger who's brutally murdered along with his family in a ritualistic killing committed by the Black Hand of Sauron, in the hopes of summoning the spirit of Celebrimbor from beyond the grave and absorbing it's power. Celebrimbor instead merges with Talion, bringing him back from the dead in a quest for revenge against Sauron and his allies.

    It's an interesting start to a game, but what really makes SOM shine is the brand new Nemesis system, a mechanic that centers around the Uruk hierarchy. Through your actions, you'll see Uruks rise in power, die, and even fight each other. If an Uruk kills you, they'll rise in rank and power. If you kill the Uruk, another will take his spot, or he'll come back later with scars caused by your last encounter. What truly makes the Nemesis system stand out is that every Uruk remembers you and your actions. If you defeated them, fled, or even died at their hand, the Uruk will remember your actions when you meet again.

    Besides their unique names and titles, the Uruks also have their own set of strengths, weaknesses, and fears. Some Uruks have to be taken down using stealth, while others are impervious to it. The same goes for combat and your ranged attacks, with some being weaker to certain attacks and more immune to others. Also, if an Uruk has a fear, you can exploit that to put them in a weakened position, and all of these factors force you to plan accordingly, changing up the gameplay with each enemy you face.

    This mechanic truly hits its stride when you get the ability to brand, which gives you control of an Uruk's mind and free will, allowing you to turn him against his allies, which in turn spawn events that you can get involved with directly, or let them play out by themselves. The simple ability to brand makes the Nemesis system more fun than it already was because it allows you to bend the Uruk hierarchy to your will. Ultimately, the Nemesis system is an amazing, innovative mechanic that makes SOM the first truly next gen title. It's a system that promised way too much but ended up delivering so much more.

    Of course, none of this would matter if the gameplay wasn't good, and fortunately, it is. The combat is a blast to play with, mainly because it's simple to understand but has so much substance behind it, especially when you start upgrading and unlocking new moves. Admittedly, the combat and a lot of the extra mechanics are lifted straight from the Batman Arkham franchise with SOM taking it's own spin on it with sword based combat, with all of the blood and brutality that Batman would never resort to. The game does add its own spin by allowing you to instantly switch to your bow, causing time to slow down and allowing you to line up precision shots or blow up explosives. However, the counters, stuns, and vaulting are all reminiscent of Arkham, with the only real complaints being that the vaulting is a somewhat wonky mechanic and that some of the more unique enemies have overpowered cheap attacks, but these issues get easier to deal with as the game progresses.

    The stealth and climbing mechanics also highly resemble the Assassin's Creed franchise, which let you scale walls, navigate beams and ledges, and dive from high spots, just like AC. However, the stealth gameplay is what truly shines and actually manages to surpass the AC franchise, making stealth so much more accessible and fun than AC ever has. In all honesty, the stealth and parkour mechanics are actually a step up from the AC franchise.

    Finally, the last thing this game did an outstanding job on was the graphics. The game looks absolutely amazing, with beautiful colors, amazing detail, fantastic rain/hail effects, and a consistently smooth framerate from start to finish. This game is an absolutely technical marvel.

    The only place this game falls flat is with the story and characters involved. Although the story starts out strong, and immediately captures your attention, the game never really manages to reach that height of excitement again. Many of the characters are boring, Talion and Celebrimbor included, and the few interesting characters included aren't that important to the story. Plus, it doesn't help that relationship between Talion and Celebrimbor lacks any real chemistry or interesting dynamics. Finally, the ending is a weak sequel-bait conclusion with a disappointing boss fight to top it all off.

    Despite that, Shadow of Mordor is an amazing game, with gameplay that'll keep you hooked from start to finish. I don't care what kind of game you're into. You cannot pass this game by.    … Expand
  94. TragicShow
    Jan 1, 2015
    8
    Two words- Nemesis system. Shadow of Mordor lets you create your own story as you fight unique orcs. It is so satisfying to kill an orc after he had bested you before. The story is short, but you can find yourself invested in your own as you continually hunt down orcs/build an army. It has an excellent combat system and level/perk system. However, the story is too short, and should onlyTwo words- Nemesis system. Shadow of Mordor lets you create your own story as you fight unique orcs. It is so satisfying to kill an orc after he had bested you before. The story is short, but you can find yourself invested in your own as you continually hunt down orcs/build an army. It has an excellent combat system and level/perk system. However, the story is too short, and should only take about sixteen hours to complete. There are quite a few side missions, but they are very similar and can be finished quickly. There are two maps, but they are only as big as they need to be. Don't expect to traverse through all of Mordor and visit all of the iconic places from the book or movies. While pretty, the landscape is pretty much the same thing everywhere. The story is also uninteresting and the final boss battle is an incredibly anti-climatic cutscene. You will likely find yourself far more invested in your own story other than the one that is presented. The game rates so highly because as far as gameplay goes, it's perfect.… Expand
  95. SIPPIO
    Jan 1, 2015
    9
    UNDECIDED GAMERS READING REVIEWS= a l w a y s click the persons name to see if they are a legit reviewer...

    -MY REVIEWS ARE TO HELP THE UNDECIDED = D E C I D E. --This game should be in Game o' The Year running. -facts- -The game was released just prior to all the super heavyweights like Halo,GtaV,AlienIsolation,SunsetO,DragonAge etc etc. So like most next gen gamers I didn't    UNDECIDED GAMERS READING REVIEWS= a l w a y s click the persons name to see if they are a legit reviewer...

    -MY REVIEWS ARE TO HELP THE UNDECIDED = D E C I D E.

    --This game should be in Game o' The Year running.
    -facts-
    -The game was released just prior to all the super heavyweights like Halo,GtaV,AlienIsolation,SunsetO,DragonAge etc etc. So like most next gen gamers I didn't hesitate as this was considered a highly anticipated game,.
    --pros + Cons
    -The combat has the Batman Arkham City style- AWESOME!
    -Story- MEDIOCRE AT BEST! ESP for a Lord of the Rings game. LOTR was always far-fetched but a str8^shost is taking it to the ridiculous..
    --Main Character/Protagonist= Talion is gpGREAT voice acting,,But what annoyed me sooo much was The Writing of Talions personality..He is so thuggish,thug is the ultimate word to describe him. For a good deed,,help innocents,yadda yadda yadda type= he sure gives off the aura of "" I'm going to help you,,but I'm gonna complain about it & my huffy puffy posturing says I'm SOO annoyed to help you""...this drove me nuts the whole 4-5 weeks I played..every night!

    ---OPEN WORLD PLAYGROUND--AWESOME! The bread & butter of this game.. It is soooo addicting to find the random bad guys in green, identical to Batman-Riddler-Informants. you hit a button instead of killing them and they reveal info about the boss war Chiefs..or you can put a bounty on ANY war chief/Captain
    --the bounty--Think of tLking smack about somebody before a fight,,when you see that person they repeat you're sh!t talking but in question form. "sooo, you're going to rip out my blah blah blahs?""" Lol---But it mainly raises the captains rank/level and thus makes the automatic rune he drops better, possibly epic..

    --Runes-just a simple weapon attachment. You can put 5 into you're 3 weapons. And the 3 are auto equips. Only 1 bow,,1 longs word,1 dagger.. Dagger is ONLY used for stealth kills,,bow= ranged, sword-Melee basic combat.. The runes are the way you're weapons are "custom"....a common rune is ""this blah blah regenerates at double the speed,,,or you run twice as fast blah blah...

    --the games main positive coulda been sooo much more. the open world and fun combat coulda been SOO much more had they're been more to do.. If this open world had Farcry/or Fallout3/VegasStyle side missions then I woulda kept playing it...

    --the future looks bright for gamers because this style of combat is sooo much better then the Skyrim style of block,then attack.combo multipliers are just rewarding.. See more games using this style. Woot!!!

    ---bottom line--Game of the year is pushing it.. I realized that typing my review.. But it IS a keeper, not a rental. Cause I did so much toyBox'n that I never even finished the main campaign. I already returned once to the game and was happy that I retained ALL the controls via memory..
    ---oh yeah--- THE DEVELOPERS DLC AND $1.99 runes are such a sweeeeeet perk. We all know that when we are sucked in deep to a game that a $1.99 something cool & interesting is a good thing for us....
    ---I also fealt too powerful at the 1/2 way point,..because I side-quested SOO much,,and had fun killing for weeks etc= Talion quickly leveled up every single perk to the point that it became pointless to kill for exp or for gold..gold buys certain kind of perks, and exp buys the other kind..I easily maxed both waaaay too early...

    A METACRITIC 83-87 is a ACCURATE Rating......    … Expand
  96. BBoondocks
    Dec 30, 2014
    10
    To me, Middle-earth: Shadow Of Mordor is the game of the year for 2014. Set in a fantasy world, made famous by the Lord Of The Rings books/movies, it is a combat orianted open world, action-adventure game where you control a hero, named Tallion, who was murdered along with his family, but got brought back from the afterlife by a mysterious elf, whose ghost powers give you incredibleTo me, Middle-earth: Shadow Of Mordor is the game of the year for 2014. Set in a fantasy world, made famous by the Lord Of The Rings books/movies, it is a combat orianted open world, action-adventure game where you control a hero, named Tallion, who was murdered along with his family, but got brought back from the afterlife by a mysterious elf, whose ghost powers give you incredible strength. It takes some great ideas from other video game classics, like the Batman Arkham series or the Assassin's Creed, but it's also original enough, with some awesome ideas, to make it a classic on it's own as well. One of these ideas is the Nemesis System, which basically allows you to play the game as YOU want it. You can choose to hunt down and massacre all the orc captains and warchiefs or you can brand them and create your own orc army. The story is also very cool, a revenge story with some fun, flamboyant characters, who help the generally dark story to be interesting enough to play through. The main focus is on fighting, Tallion is a master of brutalizing enemies with his sword, his dagger and with his bow. You can upgrade your moves as you progress, by the end making Tallion a close to unbeatable warrior. Killing warchiefs is not always easy though, as some of them are combat masters with very few weaknesses (these weaknesses you can find out by gaining intel from other orcs and then use that info to kill them - some are scared of fire, monsters, betrayal, etc and by realizing them you can execute them easier). It is also a sandbox game, so you can go around the world freely, whether on foot or by riding beasts, and choose side missions or main story missions in any order you wish. There are also plenty of things to collect and challenges to complete. As I mentioned before, the fighting is very similar to the Batman Arkham games, except it is a LOT more violent. The finishing moves and the executions are always satisfying and you can also use the environment to help you kill your opponents. You can also use stealth to mix things up or destroy orcs with caragors. The free running is a lot like we got used to in the Assassin's Creed series, it is smooth and easy, and Tallion can not die by falling, thanks to his elf powers. So all in all, this a must buy for everyone, I haven't played a game this great and addictive in a long time.… Expand
  97. cbe
    Dec 29, 2014
    9
    Great game! The PC controls could definitely use some work; but if you haven't played Assassin's Creed (to death), you'll truly enjoy it. The Nemesis system and overall strategy focus creates a great reward feedback that makes you want to take on higher level enemies in order to keep them from dominating you in late-game. Highly recommended.
  98. laserbeak
    Dec 28, 2014
    10
    Middle Earth is an awesome game. I love the orc captain system, hunting those guys became my primary goal in the game, and its a very innovative twist on things.

    I highly recommend this game if you like Action/Combat Narrative games
  99. felasi
    Dec 28, 2014
    8
    I was hesitant about buying this game, but it turned out to be really good. People draw comparisons to Assassins Creed and Batman, but after playing it for a couple of hours I found its nothing like AC (never played batman, so i can't draw any comparisons to that).

    The game play is really fun, and they throw in a couple of things as you play through to keep it interesting. The nemesis    I was hesitant about buying this game, but it turned out to be really good. People draw comparisons to Assassins Creed and Batman, but after playing it for a couple of hours I found its nothing like AC (never played batman, so i can't draw any comparisons to that).

    The game play is really fun, and they throw in a couple of things as you play through to keep it interesting. The nemesis system adds a new dynamic to the game, and punishes players who go in to kill war chiefs or captains without gathering Intel to learn said captain/war cheifs strengths and weaknesses before hand. It was also a lot of fun to play the political game of turning orcs against each other so they are aligned to you and then plotting the demise of a war chief. The fun part about that is you can convert all of a war chiefs captains to your side and then challenge the war chief. The look on his face when he walks in to take you on, feeling good about himself because he has 4 captains with him but then realizes they are going to kill him. Priceless.

    In the open world, I like how the orcs are just going about their business rather than being placed their just to take you on.

    Story wasn't too bad and had some good moving moments, but don't expect a deep story from this game

    There are few minor design issues; free running seems clunky in a few places. The end game is really easy once you have your abilities unlocked, and while that made for some fun killing, it kept me away from playing the game once I finished it (everything just became to easy). Once I was done with the main quest, I went back to kill some orc captains who killed me earlier in the game when I had no idea of what I was doing and who became very powerful as a result. Be sure to take the giant gruag for a destructive spin around mordor before your done with this game.    … Expand
  100. Derringer
    Dec 27, 2014
    1
    Its a reproachable behavior to buy good reviews for an awful game. This is a copy of Assassins Creed and its not Lord of the Rings anymore. They Ignore the Whole Story. I mean its so generic that even any other pseudo-epical plot (like narnia or hunger games, i dont know) will work with the same game mechanic. And one more thing: Its not an Open World Game anymore when the only thingIts a reproachable behavior to buy good reviews for an awful game. This is a copy of Assassins Creed and its not Lord of the Rings anymore. They Ignore the Whole Story. I mean its so generic that even any other pseudo-epical plot (like narnia or hunger games, i dont know) will work with the same game mechanic. And one more thing: Its not an Open World Game anymore when the only thing available to do is killing orcs and all the environment around you looks the same: Just rock, dust & orcs & rock & dust & orcs.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

19
#19 Best PS4 Game of 2014
7
#7 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2014
5
#5 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 85 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 77 out of 85
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 85
  3. Negative: 0 out of 85
  1. Thunderbolt
    Jun 12, 2015
    90
    For people who are alright with playing fifteen hours or so of Helm’s Deep-style carnage, Shadow of Mordor is a delight – and even for people who couldn’t care less about Lord of the Rings, the exciting combat and unique Nemesis System are more than enough to make the experience worthwhile.
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  2. The Digital Fix
    Dec 24, 2014
    90
    As a gamer you owe it to yourself to experience Shadow of Mordor if not for anything else other than the Nemesis system because playing a single-player game never made you feel less alone.
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  3. CD-Action
    Dec 13, 2014
    75
    Batman’s Creed: Shadow of Mordor – Monolith’s inspirations are so obvious that you could call their game a rip-off. Its greatest sin though is the fact that it fails to vary gameplay the way Assassin’s Creed or Batman do and offers almost nothing apart from killing stuff and playing with the Nemesis system (which, I admit, has its moments). I got so tired with its repetitiveness that I wouldn’t have finished the game if I didn’t have to. [Dec 2014, p.48]
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