Middle-earth: Shadow of War

 Xbox One
User Score
4.9

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 456 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 196 out of 456
  2. Mixed: 48 out of 456
  3. Negative: 212 out of 456
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  1. Xbox_Alive
    Jan 2, 2018
    9
    I was a massive fan of the first game and it was without a doubt one of the best games I’ve ever played, so to say I was looking forward to Middle-earth: Shadow of War would be a massive understatement. Thankfully the game delivered in all areas and I would go as far to say that it’s better than the first game, which I didn’t think they would be able to do. The world in the game feelsI was a massive fan of the first game and it was without a doubt one of the best games I’ve ever played, so to say I was looking forward to Middle-earth: Shadow of War would be a massive understatement. Thankfully the game delivered in all areas and I would go as far to say that it’s better than the first game, which I didn’t think they would be able to do. The world in the game feels alive from the get go and it has so many things for you to do that you’ll be sinking hours and hours into the game. The story accompanying these hours of gameplay is fantastic and the best thing is that they keep things gripping and interesting throughout. The combat in the game is better than the first game in my opinion, and the main reason for that is because it just gives you more of a satisfied feeling. I was also very impressed with the skills and abilities that presented themselves and the game definitely gives you a rewarding feeling, which in turn makes you want to sink even more hours into it. The battles in the game have you sweating and keep you on the edge of the seat at all times, and I must admit that I’ve never had so much fun being in a battle on a game. The presentation side of the game makes Shadow of War stand out even more, and that’s because the visuals and sound design make you become even more immersed in the game. At the end of the day fans of the first game will fall in love with this game almost immediately. They’ve kept everything that was good from the first game and in some cases they’ve improved in some areas, which is absolutely fantastic. What really stands out in the game though is not once did I get bored when playing, and that’s amazing because I’ve sunk in a massive amount of hours. Without a shadow of a doubt Middle-earth: Shadow of War is one of the best game’s I’ve played this year and I can see the game being up for a number of awards.… Expand
  2. Kraekin
    Oct 24, 2017
    9
    Quite a good game actually. all I see here are people complaining about micro transactions, how about this? dont buy them. Its not like they advertise them constantly to you during gameplay to annoy you, or make the game impossible to play without.

    The game itself is very fun, maybe slightly repetitive, but then again with this type of game it would be almost impossible to not get a    Quite a good game actually. all I see here are people complaining about micro transactions, how about this? dont buy them. Its not like they advertise them constantly to you during gameplay to annoy you, or make the game impossible to play without.

    The game itself is very fun, maybe slightly repetitive, but then again with this type of game it would be almost impossible to not get a bit repetitive. Most games these days have a hard time grabbing my attention but this one sure did.

    I highly recommend this game!    … Expand
  3. ImFaded99
    Oct 25, 2017
    10
    Great game ! No matter what they say
    but i think this is one of the best games that ever played on my
    Xbox one . I love graphics and story and also nemesis system
  4. timmd93
    Oct 21, 2017
    9
    This game is absolutely not pay to win. I havent spent a single cent on the game so far and have not encountered anymore difficulty than i did in the first game. The game is alot longer than the first but it does not get boring. They really rounded out the game and made the nemesis system even better. The combat i will concede does feel a bit easy at times as talion is even strongerThis game is absolutely not pay to win. I havent spent a single cent on the game so far and have not encountered anymore difficulty than i did in the first game. The game is alot longer than the first but it does not get boring. They really rounded out the game and made the nemesis system even better. The combat i will concede does feel a bit easy at times as talion is even stronger than he was in the first game. Dont listen to anyone telling you that you need to spend money to beat the game because that is just 100% not true and its just people piling on to **** on a game. If you played and beat the first shadow of mordor i would highly recommend you pick this up. The only reason you would have to spend money in this game is if you dont understand what your doing and arent experienced with shadows of mordor.… Expand
  5. kris2fur
    Oct 12, 2017
    10
    Lol
    I'm playing on nemisis difficulty, I never paid a cent in, games brilliant and I'm super powerful now.
    Microtransactions didn't ruin nothing.
    I earned 6k mithril last night 5hr session.
    If you are putting money into this game you probably aren't any good at it.
  6. rodericrinehart
    Jan 2, 2018
    9
    SCORE: 9/10

    First off, the game is an improvement in every way from Shadow of Mordor - better combat, more varied environments, better graphics, better world building, better use of your followers, and no QTEs. It is a derivative game - combining the parkour of Assassin's Creed, the towers of Far Cry and Assassin's Creed, with the melee combat of Batman and the bow combat of Tomb Raider    SCORE: 9/10

    First off, the game is an improvement in every way from Shadow of Mordor - better combat, more varied environments, better graphics, better world building, better use of your followers, and no QTEs. It is a derivative game - combining the parkour of Assassin's Creed, the towers of Far Cry and Assassin's Creed, with the melee combat of Batman and the bow combat of Tomb Raider or Horizon Zero Dawn, There are times with investigations - similar to The Witcher 3 and Batman. It combines all these aspects into the lore and world of Tolkien. It isn't canon by any means, but it is an enjoyable story and only the most die-hard fans would have a problem with it. My favorite book and movie ever is The Lord of the Rings, and I'm fine with the liberties this game takes.

    As for the microtransactions and loot boxes that people have complained about, it is far overblown. You absolutely do not need a single thing, and I have seen multiple gaming publications repeat that same things. When I read Metacritic and some forums, I would swear that the people complaining have never actually played the game. That said, I wish they weren't there because I don't like them in general and don't like where the games industry is headed with them.

    The game is super fun, looks to have 40-60 hours of extended gameplay for just one play-through, and offers ultrawidescreen gaming that performs very well at 3440x1440p on ultra everything with a 1080ti.    … Expand
  7. nicden70
    Oct 16, 2017
    10
    The game is amazing. Haven't touched a loot box. Have like 9000 mirian saved up. Not necessary to use. Like the first game but with cleaner gameplay. The story is fantastic. Lord of the Rings fan dream come true.
  8. Robbie1982
    Oct 11, 2017
    8
    REALLY enjoying this game so far. Graphics are amazing, level design is very good. Nemesis is loads of fun again. I will not be paying any money for loot boxes and it is a shame they were added to this game. The premium pricing of pre-orders really should have been enough I feel. From all I've read the loot boxes only become an issue in the post game and even then can be worked around.REALLY enjoying this game so far. Graphics are amazing, level design is very good. Nemesis is loads of fun again. I will not be paying any money for loot boxes and it is a shame they were added to this game. The premium pricing of pre-orders really should have been enough I feel. From all I've read the loot boxes only become an issue in the post game and even then can be worked around. Small gripes so far include a disconnected feeling between gear level and Talion effectiveness (some sense of how the gears add up to a whole in the menu would be nice. However I can't stand hit numbers in the actual game unless it is a top down style game. Should always have option to turn those off or reduce at least). I quite like RPG elements. Also not sure if my regular actions are increasing my XP as not seeing any visual feedback. I would think saving groups of soldiers might be a side quest but no sign of that so far (freeing slaves was in SOM) I can understand the backlash on the loot crates /'P2W / Gambling' I personally think at minimum there should be an option in consoles to OPT OUT OF ALL PAID MicroTransactions. Because there are people with serious addiction problems who can get hooked into the buzz from this randomized loot etc. If people choose to opt back in, it should be on a 48 hour or more cooling off period. The mind tricks that are from 'grinding' and 'Free 2 play' manipulation are a real sad development in gaming drive for more revenue. Options to set limits on daily or weekly spends. It's a real shame this controversy will destroy the ratings and reduce initial sales and pre-orders on what should have been one of the most exciting releases I feel. It would be nice if the gaming industry at large took stock of this totally avoidable fiasco. I myself reduced my GOLD ed purchase down to just the basic edition. Really the farce with the charitable DLC also annoyed me. I mean come on, bit of basic common sense and decency please.… Expand
  9. Zarathen
    Oct 18, 2017
    9
    In all my years of playing games I’ve had more fun with the Shadow of Mordor games than a lot of games. I really don’t like misinformation but this is my opinion after all. Micro Transactions are a rip off unless you use the silver loot chest.
    The game is a huge improvement over the first one like gameplay, skills, nemesis system and story.
    The most surprising thing that I loved in    In all my years of playing games I’ve had more fun with the Shadow of Mordor games than a lot of games. I really don’t like misinformation but this is my opinion after all. Micro Transactions are a rip off unless you use the silver loot chest.
    The game is a huge improvement over the first one like gameplay, skills, nemesis system and story.
    The most surprising thing that I loved in Shadow of war is Conquest and pit fights.
    Pit fights = are a way great way to leveling orcs fast and easy but be mindful your orcs can die.
    Conquest = Fort assault but against other players or against yourself but no pvp which I’m thankful it’s not in game.
    You don’t have to pay a single dime using real money to make the game easy, just take your time with the game and have fun, that’s it. Yes there is a difficulty setting from easy to hard. Btw try not to rush through the game or you’ll regret it later in Act 4. This doesn’t get 10 out of 10 but a 9 since there are micro transactions in a single player game.    … Expand
  10. Dagassman
    Oct 20, 2017
    9
    There are games where we need to take a stand on microtransactions, but this isn't one of them. If they are going to exist they should in single player games not multiplayer. Also, It is totally fair and playable without having to spend more cash.

    If the video game makes it difficult to play and boring without having to spend more money then yes it deserves a 0. However, that's not the    There are games where we need to take a stand on microtransactions, but this isn't one of them. If they are going to exist they should in single player games not multiplayer. Also, It is totally fair and playable without having to spend more cash.

    If the video game makes it difficult to play and boring without having to spend more money then yes it deserves a 0. However, that's not the case here.

    Compare this to 2k, Battlefront 2, and any other multiplayer based game involving microtransactions giving people unfair advantages against other people and it kind of makes sense that these be placed in a single player game rather then multiplayer.

    Now that that's out of the way, the games awesome, way more cutscenes better in every way. You get to fight in Gondor with tons of allies making you feel way more immersed in the Lord of Rings World. Plus the Nemesis systems dope as ever.

    Bonus: I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THESE GUYS DO BATMAN. The nemesis system would be beautiful in a game like that, and they've already been working with their combat system...    … Expand
  11. Gezer2u
    Oct 14, 2017
    10
    Love this game! I would recommend it in a second. Fun and the graphics are stunning! Best game of the year!!!!! Don't wait to buy it, get it today!! Love it!
  12. COhOLiC
    Oct 17, 2017
    10
    This game is AMAZEBALLS. If you liked the first then get this immediately! Those moaning and scoring based on the OPTION to use microtransactions are nothing but social justice warriors.

    STOP MOANING.

    START PLAYING.

    Love this game.
  13. BalekFekete
    Oct 13, 2017
    8
    First and foremost, anyone with a modicum of common sense should ignore any review where the person hasn't played the game and/or is using the review mechanism here as a platform to campaign for how they - in their infinite wisdom - think a game company should be run. It's a bastardization of the system here and sends a false signal to someone who is really interested in the game itself.First and foremost, anyone with a modicum of common sense should ignore any review where the person hasn't played the game and/or is using the review mechanism here as a platform to campaign for how they - in their infinite wisdom - think a game company should be run. It's a bastardization of the system here and sends a false signal to someone who is really interested in the game itself. Oh, and let's not lose sight of this - I have not yet had a SINGLE instance when I thought "Man, I really am going to need to buy a loot box." /soapbox

    Now, onto my take on the game.

    After about a dozen hours in the game to date, I can say confidently the game is simply fun. I was a fan of the first game, and enjoy this particular style of game (the Mad Max, Batman, Assassin's Creed genre). This game takes everything that was good on the first and expounds upon it. The Nemesis system is genius, pure and simple. The personality the orcs develop and, as the game goes on, grow into is awesome to watch. The setting feels like Middle Earth and more specifically like I would envision Mordor to be like. Playing on the hardest level, the game isn't a cakewalk either. The challenge is real yet fun at the same time, especially given the aforementioned Nemesis system and how the orcs grow as they kill you. The game almost rewards you for dying. :)

    Is it all rainbows and butterflies? Nope. You have to turn a blind eye to some of the mythos which the developers take some rather significant liberties with, that's a fact. Load times are a bit longer than I'd like to see as well, but not so much so as to be a real detractor.

    In the end, if you like the genre of the game, give it a shot. Don't buy into the micro-transactions if you don't want to. If you don't mind them and have disposable income, then hey...it's your game! Enjoy it! I know I am.    … Expand
  14. Michael421
    Oct 31, 2017
    10
    This whole micro transaction thing people keep moaning about seriously is not an issue at all it hasn't entered my game at all and i am about 35 hours in! There are loads and loads of upgrades and unique items to help you out throughout the game you seriously do not need to spend any thing.

    Micro transactions have been about on games for years to so i really don't under stand the fuss    This whole micro transaction thing people keep moaning about seriously is not an issue at all it hasn't entered my game at all and i am about 35 hours in! There are loads and loads of upgrades and unique items to help you out throughout the game you seriously do not need to spend any thing.

    Micro transactions have been about on games for years to so i really don't under stand the fuss being made?? Generally this is a great game a solid 8 out 10 for me, its fun, massive, and plays really well.
    all i can think about is that the Critics who have viewed this game the same as i have, have actually played the game and all the people moaning about the transactions really haven't played it at all    … Expand
  15. Caruat
    Oct 20, 2017
    10
    Do not read the negative reviews of users. They are devoid of arousal and are thrown against a play masterpiece only for unnecessary and completely optional microtransmissions! But do you realize that by doing so, you just do not mind a great single player game? This is a masterpiece game and a possible candidate at GOTY 2017. 10 full and praise.
  16. InputVerolian
    Oct 19, 2017
    10
    Great game tons of fun and perfectly picks up where Shadows of Mordor left off. I was a huge fan of the first game with something like six play throughs unlocking everything each time...it was a blast. Shadows of War picks up right after the last game ends and assumes you have some base knowledge from the previous game...I love that. The campaign moves you at your own pace...if you wantGreat game tons of fun and perfectly picks up where Shadows of Mordor left off. I was a huge fan of the first game with something like six play throughs unlocking everything each time...it was a blast. Shadows of War picks up right after the last game ends and assumes you have some base knowledge from the previous game...I love that. The campaign moves you at your own pace...if you want to go farm captains...go do it...you want to complete all events perfect...go do it...there is no rush here just like the first game. To me this is everything that made Shadows of Mordor great in a bigger better more interactive world. P.S. If you are good at this game...you don't need to buy any loot boxes...Have fun!… Expand
  17. LordFireFist
    Oct 10, 2017
    10
    While i personally loved Shadow of Mordor and i certainly love this game as well it has a few problems.
    1. Obviously MIcrotransactions ruin the happiness of finding a Legendary orc as you can throw down some cash and get a ton of them which will ruin the games early stages.
    2. If you decide to go the free 2 play route and want to race through the story you'll have quite a tough time as    While i personally loved Shadow of Mordor and i certainly love this game as well it has a few problems.
    1. Obviously MIcrotransactions ruin the happiness of finding a Legendary orc as you can throw down some cash and get a ton of them which will ruin the games early stages.
    2. If you decide to go the free 2 play route and want to race through the story you'll have quite a tough time as you will be pretty low leveled and so will your orcs be in that case, and even in a high level "good" orcs with usefull traits and abilities will be pretty sparse.
    3. While they defenetly are fun to do Fort Battels can be either pretty underwhelming and easy or extremely hard depending on your skill and how much time you have put down gaining intel on the Warcheifs and Overlord.
    But despite these points i still love the game and imo this games streghts outweigh the less exiting parts    … Expand
  18. Atrocity187
    Oct 12, 2017
    10
    Some of these reviews are mind boggling. This game is amazing and far from pay to win. Yes loot crates you have to pay for with real money is a bit extreme but to call it pay to win is ridiculous. More like pay to make it easier. You’re complaining because you have to actually play the game to earn mirion?

    I have a lot of time invested into this game already and absolutely love it. The    Some of these reviews are mind boggling. This game is amazing and far from pay to win. Yes loot crates you have to pay for with real money is a bit extreme but to call it pay to win is ridiculous. More like pay to make it easier. You’re complaining because you have to actually play the game to earn mirion?

    I have a lot of time invested into this game already and absolutely love it. The graphics are on point, the captains that adapt to your fight style is amazing, the 80+ skills you can acquire is awesome and overall gameplay is unbelievable. This game is definitely a candidate for GOTY once they fix some of the bugs/glitches there are.

    When you’ve been a gamer for a very long time like me, starting out on the Nintendo (excite bike and Mario brothers), you come to appreciate works of art like this game. You can tell monolith took their time on this game and didn’t do the usual release of a half finished product like most. Most of these reviews are most likely from the younger generation that have never played a Nintendo game before.

    Final thoughts : buy this game and try it for yourself, you won’t be disappointed. Every game I see reviewed negatively that I wanted, I've tried and found the complaints to be ridiculous. Take these negative reviews with a grain of salt.    … Expand
  19. LordHighfixxer
    Oct 11, 2017
    10
    Those who are writing negative reviews about Loot Boxes are doing so without playing the game. I am in Act II and have never felt a need to purchase anything in this game to advance. Do not believe people who tell you there is a pay to win wall here.

    Shadow of War is an improvement on its predecessor in every way. Monolith has delivered a sure Game of the Year candidate. The Nemesis    Those who are writing negative reviews about Loot Boxes are doing so without playing the game. I am in Act II and have never felt a need to purchase anything in this game to advance. Do not believe people who tell you there is a pay to win wall here.

    Shadow of War is an improvement on its predecessor in every way. Monolith has delivered a sure Game of the Year candidate. The Nemesis system is improved. The personalities of the Uruk and Olog-hai are great. I would rather be home right now playing instead of at work writing this review.

    I'll never understand why people will bash a good game for their agenda. There is a marketplace for chests, and you never need to touch it to enjoy this game. I actually recommend that you do not. There is loot everywhere a Captain falls.    … Expand
  20. corvenzo
    Oct 11, 2017
    10
    Favorite game of the year so far. Great gameplay, characters, graphics and story. The open world and combat is amazing. So, so glad I bought this game.
  21. Walrus35
    Oct 16, 2017
    10
    Shadow of Mordor was far and away my favorite Assassin's Creed style game, and one of my favorite games on the XBox One. Shadow of War expands the game play of SoM as well as bringing the Nemesis System to a whole new level. I am very deep into the game and can say that in no way do you ever need to touch any loot crates. In fact I would say that buying the loot crates would diminish theShadow of Mordor was far and away my favorite Assassin's Creed style game, and one of my favorite games on the XBox One. Shadow of War expands the game play of SoM as well as bringing the Nemesis System to a whole new level. I am very deep into the game and can say that in no way do you ever need to touch any loot crates. In fact I would say that buying the loot crates would diminish the fun and satisfaction of going out and building your army!… Expand
  22. THE_MEDAL
    Nov 24, 2017
    8
    The game has decent combat similar to the arkham series, however the game begins to get repetitive near the end of the game and forces you to grind quite a bit or pay with mircotransactions, the story however is one of the redeeming factors of the game
    if you do not mind grinding near the end of the game this is for you but would not recommend it if you hate microtransactions
  23. Panchogul
    Oct 7, 2019
    8
    ..........uekfbs............ .........hsbf......................... ...........ndifube........
  24. LordGoyo
    Oct 26, 2017
    9
    La calidad del juego es muy buena.... no estoy de acuerdo con la política de micro transacciones. Pero no me olbiga a disfutar del juego., con lo cual ignoro ese apartado.
    Técnicamente luce genial, la historia es absorbente aunque se toma sus licencias en lo que es el mundo del señor de los anillos, que también se agradece un poco imaginación. El doblaje al castellano es de 10. Con    La calidad del juego es muy buena.... no estoy de acuerdo con la política de micro transacciones. Pero no me olbiga a disfutar del juego., con lo cual ignoro ese apartado.
    Técnicamente luce genial, la historia es absorbente aunque se toma sus licencias en lo que es el mundo del señor de los anillos, que también se agradece un poco imaginación. El doblaje al castellano es de 10. Con varios actores reconocidos y se agradece el esfuerzo. Sinceramente creo que la gente no es objetiva. Disfrutad el juego y la historia que es lo que realmente importa.    … Expand
  25. lee21
    Jan 4, 2018
    9
    Amazing masterpiece of a game.....Remember, the low user score is because of the microtransactions and also because the players who gave it a low score obviously struggled to complete it, or they never could complete it, if you are a bad boy like me then you dont need to spend a single penny on microtransactions, you just need common sense and skill......Also remember that the world isAmazing masterpiece of a game.....Remember, the low user score is because of the microtransactions and also because the players who gave it a low score obviously struggled to complete it, or they never could complete it, if you are a bad boy like me then you dont need to spend a single penny on microtransactions, you just need common sense and skill......Also remember that the world is full of morons who do not see a masterpiece when it is in front of them.......Also has a touching ending in honour of one of their team who died of cancer during the making of the game, i know everyone has opinions but some people should just be labotomised......Be don or be gone:)… Expand
  26. vatahok
    Nov 17, 2017
    9
    Don't be fooled out of buying this game due to peoples disgust at EA. EA has some disgusting practices but the actual game, shadow of war is a lot of fun.

    I spent no money for in game content and opened maybe 3 loot boxes using the in game currency (which you have an excessive amount of until the grind at the end) If you played the first one and found it fun, this game is just as    Don't be fooled out of buying this game due to peoples disgust at EA. EA has some disgusting practices but the actual game, shadow of war is a lot of fun.

    I spent no money for in game content and opened maybe 3 loot boxes using the in game currency (which you have an excessive amount of until the grind at the end)

    If you played the first one and found it fun, this game is just as fun. It takes the same formula adds some improvements, a good story and it'l keep you busy. I found the first game a little too short and it was one of the few games I finished and still wanted more. Shadow of War makes sure by the end of it you're done.

    It has a well paced story that wraps up nicely without being crazy hard or far too simplistic. At the end there's a section that isn't hard but it is a grind. Expect to spend ~12 hours repeating similar content to get to the "complete end".

    If that grind had been about half as long this would be a 10 rating from me. .    … Expand
  27. bigsky1982
    Nov 29, 2017
    9
    Great game that improves on every aspect of the original. A lot has been mentioned already. One thing I particularly like is diversity in the environments, i.e. it's not all grey and gloomy like the first game.
    Looks AMAZING on the Xbox One X in 4K. Micro transactions are optional, unnecessary and can be ignored.
  28. Uncleswiggle
    Dec 3, 2017
    10
    I think that this game has a ton to offer, a great story, engaging side missions, and even a really great army building feature. The loot boxes were done in such a way where they are not pay to win. You can get a loot box and it will not make your character overpowered because it will scale to your player level. I personally am not one to buy lot boxes i feel that they are needless in aI think that this game has a ton to offer, a great story, engaging side missions, and even a really great army building feature. The loot boxes were done in such a way where they are not pay to win. You can get a loot box and it will not make your character overpowered because it will scale to your player level. I personally am not one to buy lot boxes i feel that they are needless in a game like this...So i didn't buy any, and i got to experience the game in its entirety and loved every minute. If you find yourself needing to buy lootboxes, this probably isnt the game for you lol… Expand
  29. Jakius_Emrys
    Dec 30, 2017
    10
    The sequel to Shadow of Mordor, Middle Earth: Shadow of War has improved and expanded on the award-winning game. It's graphics are so much better than its predecessor, the Nemesis System is expanded on greatly, the main characters are shown in a lot more depth than before and the story is both engaging and interesting as it somewhat ties in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I found the siegesThe sequel to Shadow of Mordor, Middle Earth: Shadow of War has improved and expanded on the award-winning game. It's graphics are so much better than its predecessor, the Nemesis System is expanded on greatly, the main characters are shown in a lot more depth than before and the story is both engaging and interesting as it somewhat ties in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. I found the sieges to be quite fun, the random orcs have much more personality than Shadow of Mordor (my personal favourites being the Singers/Bards and the Orcs that say "maybe you've got a problem with one Orc, maybe a hundred, but ALL orcs, maybe the problem's with you"), and the combat is fun with a tonne of new abilities. In addition to this, we get to fight amazing enemies such as a Balrog and Sauron (not in a quick-time event this time). Even better, Ratbag returns for the sequel and Ologs make a splendid entrance into the game with the introduction of everyone's favourite Olog betrayer, Bruz the Chopper. Even with the micro-transactions, this game improves almost everything I loved about the first game and made it even better. My only problem, you can't Shadow Mount unbroken graugs as you could in the original (but they fix it by allowing you to summon your own dire caragor, graug and even a drake). All in all, an exceptional game which everyone should play.… Expand
  30. ITZZZPERRY
    Jan 2, 2019
    9
    Middle-Earth: Shadow of War is an amazing game. The gameplay is so fluid and complex, yet easily accessible. The story is engaging, and has some very unexpected twists. It can be a little bit of a grind, however.
  31. eli_fjr
    Nov 26, 2018
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So far, only 12hrs in. I have the gold edition i got for $20. The micro transactions were removed. So far pretty good. They new armor + weapon upgrade system is good. Graphics on XBOXX are great.… Expand
  32. fredss82
    May 23, 2018
    9
    A really great game! Thank you Warner for closing the market for micro-transactions!
    I think those guys who gave bad ratings upon the micro-transactions can now give a honest review.
  33. Karbol
    Jul 17, 2018
    10
    If you get past all the "Microtransaction Madness" all the comments are crying about, you'll find a repetitive yet fun game with a lot to offer. The First Act is one of the weakest parts since the story is not for everyone, but in the Second Act is where the game really starts to shine. The Nemesis System is one of the greatest addition to videogame history, the orcs you can find are allIf you get past all the "Microtransaction Madness" all the comments are crying about, you'll find a repetitive yet fun game with a lot to offer. The First Act is one of the weakest parts since the story is not for everyone, but in the Second Act is where the game really starts to shine. The Nemesis System is one of the greatest addition to videogame history, the orcs you can find are all hilarious and memorable, and the twist from the Third Act is just amazing.

    And, as of 17th of July, the Fourth Act is no longer a grind, but a streamlined and shortened experience. Don't listen to the other critics, if you actually cared about the game and planned your defenses, you never had to buy one single lootbox and can carry your orcs from the beginning to the very end.    … Expand
  34. Jerome_a
    Oct 26, 2018
    8
    Honestly, this game is awesome. Of course their is micro transactions. But their is in so many games that it didn't bothered me. And remind you that the price of a video game is the same than 40 years ago : around 70 $, as the price to make a game exploded. I think that micro transaction are a way for studios to get a little more money because of this fact. Without it, they would haveHonestly, this game is awesome. Of course their is micro transactions. But their is in so many games that it didn't bothered me. And remind you that the price of a video game is the same than 40 years ago : around 70 $, as the price to make a game exploded. I think that micro transaction are a way for studios to get a little more money because of this fact. Without it, they would have financial difficulties.
    But if I think this game is awesome, its because Middle-earth: Shadow of War is incredibly fun. The Nemesis system is working even better, orcs all have different personalities, cities are beautiful (Seregost is magnificent ), the storie is satisfying and leveling up is allowing you to get more power.
    You also can assault cattle or other player fortress, music is great. If you're looking for an great adventure in The Lord of the Rings's lore, get this game.    … Expand
  35. ZXSth
    Feb 25, 2023
    8
    A great game that I enjoyed thoroughly - Shadow of War brings back enough of the excellent combat/stealth mechanics, world-building and narrative experience from its predecessor to make for an excellent experience. it also introduces some relatively enjoyable RPG mechanics, although these do feel a bit dated in 2023 (as opposed to how they felt upon release). And while theA great game that I enjoyed thoroughly - Shadow of War brings back enough of the excellent combat/stealth mechanics, world-building and narrative experience from its predecessor to make for an excellent experience. it also introduces some relatively enjoyable RPG mechanics, although these do feel a bit dated in 2023 (as opposed to how they felt upon release). And while the microtransactions present in the game feel baffling and out of place, they did not feel intrusive to me. Overall, a great experience and a solid follow-up to Shadow of Mordor.… Expand
  36. djevis94
    Jun 27, 2019
    8
    for me it is one of the games of 2017 that I have enjoyed the most until the last episode which became repetitive and makes me lower the note.
    is very superior both in narrative and secondary missions and in his world open to the first game and I highly recommend your purchase if you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings.
    Approximately its duration is 30-40 hours and if you add the last    for me it is one of the games of 2017 that I have enjoyed the most until the last episode which became repetitive and makes me lower the note.
    is very superior both in narrative and secondary missions and in his world open to the first game and I highly recommend your purchase if you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings.
    Approximately its duration is 30-40 hours and if you add the last chapter then you can arrive at 60 hours    … Expand
  37. TheGerald39
    Oct 20, 2020
    10
    After all the **** about the games i was afraid it will not reach the quality of the first game. But after playing it with 100% i have to say that it is even better than the Shadow of Mordor! I hope there will be a third game in the near future.

    And they removed all the microtransactions from the game, it's sad that nobody who wrote a negative review about it comes back and edit it, if    After all the **** about the games i was afraid it will not reach the quality of the first game. But after playing it with 100% i have to say that it is even better than the Shadow of Mordor! I hope there will be a third game in the near future.

    And they removed all the microtransactions from the game, it's sad that nobody who wrote a negative review about it comes back and edit it, if they fixed the problems that person had...    … Expand
  38. Alan0211
    Oct 4, 2019
    10
    The game is great and the history interesting. The diferents rivals, the IA from enemies, the graphics, etc. All is great. Right now, the microtransaction is not necesary.
  39. tobivv
    May 6, 2020
    8
    Very captivating sandbox game, the combat works great when fighting multiple opponents, but becomes very boring when fighting 1v1. Sieges are epic
  40. xaviar_nl
    Apr 18, 2022
    8
    I played the game version without the loot boxes, and I liked it. Don't play the game for its story: there is one there, and it functions, but it is not in any way mind-blowing. It is enough to satisfy your Lord of the Rings hunger, and that is it.
    Hack'n'slashing Orcs doesn't get old very easily. And as you acquire more skills, it only gets better. And by the end I was mostly    I played the game version without the loot boxes, and I liked it. Don't play the game for its story: there is one there, and it functions, but it is not in any way mind-blowing. It is enough to satisfy your Lord of the Rings hunger, and that is it.
    Hack'n'slashing Orcs doesn't get old very easily. And as you acquire more skills, it only gets better. And by the end I was mostly experimenting with how I could cause the most chaos and destruction.

    As soon as you have leveled-up sufficiently, I strongly advise you to play the online Vendetta missions. They are an easy way to get nice loot and weapons, and some good captains for you army too. And because there is only one real focus/target per mission, you can really get into the action, and see how you can play-out the various enemies & other options against eachother. Good fun :-)

    All-in-all I give the game an 8 as I was able to amuse me with it for quite some time.
    Definite minus points are the orc caption introductions that cannot be skipped or turned off. Especially during fortress fights, it can get very tedious being forced to watch all of the captain introductions (as well as captain deaths) in the middle of a fight.
    Also, the parcour system generally works well, but when it doesn't work, and you get stuck on a small ledge, or just aren't able to climb something, it can be quite frustrating.
    The epilogue also could have been shorter: that still is quite a grind to get through. But it probably is like that because they used to use that to sell loot boxes.    … Expand
  41. Nitaro
    Dec 23, 2021
    10
    Shadow of Mordor was a brilliant game, and SOW improves upon that, so you just can't go wrong with this game. It's much grindier than SOM, but this is the first game where I enjoy grinding more than the main story. One can never get tired of taking over fortresses and growing your army of Orcs. The new mechanics of siege, betrayal, shaming etc simply adds so much more depth in this sequelShadow of Mordor was a brilliant game, and SOW improves upon that, so you just can't go wrong with this game. It's much grindier than SOM, but this is the first game where I enjoy grinding more than the main story. One can never get tired of taking over fortresses and growing your army of Orcs. The new mechanics of siege, betrayal, shaming etc simply adds so much more depth in this sequel to SOM. Also, I must say, I haven't used a single micro transaction in this game, and you don't need them as you will eventually get good enough with all the great equipment and skills that you earn in mid to late game.… Expand
  42. VOIIIXI
    Jan 9, 2023
    10
    One of the greatest games ever made! I have never been this addicted to playing a game in a long time. The Nemesis is honestly the greatest innovation in any video game ever, to this day. The complexity and thought put into the system are truly commendable and needs to be implemented into games more. I know the game is very known and popular, but it is still underrated in my opinion. It isOne of the greatest games ever made! I have never been this addicted to playing a game in a long time. The Nemesis is honestly the greatest innovation in any video game ever, to this day. The complexity and thought put into the system are truly commendable and needs to be implemented into games more. I know the game is very known and popular, but it is still underrated in my opinion. It is one of the smartest and most fun games I've ever played, and I have the upmost respect for the devs. deserves an 11/10. I almost never write reviews for games, but I said for this one I need to do it. This game needs to be appreciated more. It should've been game of the year and in the top 10 games of all time just because of how intelligent of a game it is.… Expand
  43. SlavaKuzmin
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    Лучшая игра по лицензии всех времен, лучший рогалик,уникальная экшн рпг,бит эм ап,наигранно тысяча часов,топ,не то что помойка на вроде ласт оф асс 2
  44. Tbrown5
    Feb 28, 2021
    9
    2020 review - shadow of war is a great game, there is so much 10/10 in this game, but what holds this game back are 3 things, the characters besides Bruz, celebrimbor, and ratbag, technically the other characters are a step down from mordor, they aren’t bad, they are likable but they don’t have character any development , there just bland, technically 1 because ratbag and celebrimbor are2020 review - shadow of war is a great game, there is so much 10/10 in this game, but what holds this game back are 3 things, the characters besides Bruz, celebrimbor, and ratbag, technically the other characters are a step down from mordor, they aren’t bad, they are likable but they don’t have character any development , there just bland, technically 1 because ratbag and celebrimbor are returning characters, but Bruz is a great character because he is the only one that is unique and different from everyone else, the side quest in this game are very basic, it boils down to well written codex which isn’t a lot, and the difficulty is very challenging, the problem with mordor is how the second the end game of the game is way to easy, so they added the difficulty changes which is always good but the difficulty is not fair, in fact it boils down to fun challenge to ridiculous grind, but thats it, aside form the bad textures the game is so awesome, the nemesis system in this game is one of the best features in a videogame, this game is really good, now way better with the removal of the microtransactions, this game in 2020 is really good, buy it now… Expand
  45. Anatoliy_DeVile
    Feb 15, 2021
    10
    "Гриндить, гриндить и снова-таки гриндить" - как завещал нам вождь племени орочьего Гриша Шептун. Тут без этого никуда. Попытка в самом начале игры сразиться с капитаном 7 уровня закончилась позорной смертью, ибо не внял я главному лозунгу земель мордорских. Далее, сражаясь с равными либо с уровнем максимум +4 кэпами, скилл Талиона поднимали мы и сразили окаянного врага и всех прочих,"Гриндить, гриндить и снова-таки гриндить" - как завещал нам вождь племени орочьего Гриша Шептун. Тут без этого никуда. Попытка в самом начале игры сразиться с капитаном 7 уровня закончилась позорной смертью, ибо не внял я главному лозунгу земель мордорских. Далее, сражаясь с равными либо с уровнем максимум +4 кэпами, скилл Талиона поднимали мы и сразили окаянного врага и всех прочих, посягнувших на здоровье странника. Первая часть Средиземья была прекрасна, но ее явно не хватило, хотелось конечно же больше. И это самое больше с горкой нам отсыпали во второй части. Честное слово я еще ни разу так долго не играл в экшн от третьего лица. Мы с женой в общей сложности наиграли 50 часов чистого игрового времени. Да конечно мы проходили абсолютно всё: прошли все допы, завоевали все крепости, отразили все атаки на крепости, нашли весь полезный лут, заклеймили всех капитанов ну и естественно прошли всю сюжетку. Точно могу сказать в этот раз мне хватило! Можно даже было поменьше, но остановиться было невозможно ибо игра просто великолепна! Shadow of War в плане базовой игровой механики сильно не поменялась, включая и косячное управление, так что долго привыкать не придется. Но это лишь базово! Появилось конечно же и очень много нового: это и интересные многоуровневые прокачки скилов персонажа и его оружия; к привычному арсеналу добавилась глефа, хотя и не сказать чтобы очень полезная; появился такой важный элемент боя как эльфийская ярость, используемая при полном накоплении маны, для глобального истребления орков на экране; ну и соответственно получили мы в нагрузку различные способы добивания, клеймения и прочего изуверства. От этого всего разнообразия прямо-таки рябит в глазах и это очень приятное разнообразие и оно манит, оно затягивает. А еще затягивает просто потрясающий игровой мир: это и тревожный Минас-Итиль, заснеженный Нурнен, мрачный Кирит Унгол, огненный Горгорот, таинственный лес Карнан ну и конечно зловещий Минас-Моргул!!! О да, уже только этого вполне достаточно, чтобы кайфануть истинному поклоннику ВК, коим я собственно и являюсь. Сюжетная часть также очень интересная и захватывающая, наполненная валом событий и до боли известных персонажей вселенной Властелина колец. По Мордору, кстати, мы можем теперь перемещаться как на своих двоих, так и на карагоре, да на грауге, кстати они тоже здесь бывают разные, и да мы можем нынче летать на драконе!!! Хотя этот элемент в игре выполнен немного коряво. Самое конечно интересное в Shadow of War это охота на капитанов и их клеймение/убийство в зависимости от их воли. Тут уж включаем всю фантазию и навыки ибо каждый капитан это отдельный индивид со своими слабостями и сильными сторонами, в помощь нам костры, грог, моргульские мухи, пауки и мерзкие гули.… Expand
  46. Amir7scorpioN
    Dec 11, 2021
    8
    dont know why this game is so hated ? i loved this even more

    maybe because of microtransactions and loot boxes? i played it on gamepass and had a lot of fun
    this game is great...loved the story and the way its connected to the movies
    A GREAT GAME
  47. golfnut1969
    Feb 22, 2022
    10
    This has been one of my favorite games to play on Xbox. As a big fan of the fighting style of the Batman games, this game worked for me. I also like the storyline. After 124 hours of gameplay, I stopped playing, which for me is quite a bit. Usually after about 60 hours or so I lose interest in any game.
  48. Soild
    Feb 25, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. لعبه حلوه والله ومدري ليه الناس ماتقبلوها الصراحه العالم جميل والقيم بلاي حلو اما القصه الصراحه اقل من عادي مو نفس شادو اوف موردن والشخصيات نفس شي… Expand
  49. neomoonsevin
    Apr 9, 2023
    10
    Awesome game I like it I was never a fan of lord of the rings games in the past but I like this game because it's a 3rd person brawler
  50. JaydonYT
    Jan 31, 2023
    9
    An amazing game with a great story to tell and good combat mechanics. I just looked at the user reviews and like: WHAT THE HECK. I guess this is because the game did have microtransactions in the past. However, to the people who wrote negative reviews about this game, as of now, microtransactions have been removed! Plus, even if they were still here, they didn’t even affect the main gameAn amazing game with a great story to tell and good combat mechanics. I just looked at the user reviews and like: WHAT THE HECK. I guess this is because the game did have microtransactions in the past. However, to the people who wrote negative reviews about this game, as of now, microtransactions have been removed! Plus, even if they were still here, they didn’t even affect the main game as much. If you enjoy an action/combat game which also tells a compelling story, you should give this game a try. How would you not enjoy recruiting enemies to be your orc Pokémon?!… Expand
  51. Theobzhect
    Jun 3, 2023
    8
    I honestly don't understand why people are crazy with those loot boxes, you can play and enjoy the game without them. The gameplay is pretty nice castle siege, domination, betray, saviour the game has a lot of cool and unexpected random events, the nemesis system is really cool, every or in the game has its own voice, name, characteristics, weakness and story. The game is really detailizedI honestly don't understand why people are crazy with those loot boxes, you can play and enjoy the game without them. The gameplay is pretty nice castle siege, domination, betray, saviour the game has a lot of cool and unexpected random events, the nemesis system is really cool, every or in the game has its own voice, name, characteristics, weakness and story. The game is really detailized and I recommend it for Lord of the rings fans and other people who like rpg and such.… Expand
  52. Kaiju404
    Jul 1, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Lootboxes have tarnished the reputation of this game. My only complaint is that Talion didn't kill Eltariel in the end. What a shame.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

43
#43 Best Xbox One Game of 2017
9
#9 Most Discussed Xbox One Game of 2017
19
#19 Most Shared Xbox One Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 38 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 30 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 38
  3. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. Impulsegamer
    Nov 29, 2017
    88
    Perhaps you might slap your forehead in dismay by the goofy plot or looseness to the source material but what's undeniable is, that Middle-earth: Shadow of War is a lot of fun.
    Read full review
  2. Cubed3
    Nov 13, 2017
    60
    Middle-earth: Shadow of War has high production values and is a fun open-world slashathon, but it's stretched thin. The storyline starts off promising, but all of the interesting characters get pushed aside to make room for nothing of consequence. Hours upon hours are lost to the abyss as players engage in a relentless cycle of gear upgrades and Orc recruits. Assaulting fortresses and conquering territory loses its appeal a bit too quickly. The game is pretty entertaining in short bursts, especially when Talion can make full use of his powerful abilities. Still, the lack of finesse when it comes to combat will make fighting feel a bit bothersome. The Ranger is at his best when he's eliminating the opposition with surgical precision, or making use of hazards in the environment. All in all, this title is worth a look; just don't expect to grow too attached to it.
    Read full review
  3. games(TM)
    Nov 3, 2017
    70
    While it's huge and complex in many of its systems, it still feels as if it is caught in 2014. [Issue#194, p.68]
See all critic reviews »