Are the Shadow of Mordor games canon? This question has been a topic of debate among fans of the Middle-earth universe for years. With the release of the critically acclaimed video game series, fans have been eager to know whether the events and characters featured in these games are officially recognized as part of the broader Tolkien narrative. In this article, we will explore the relationship between the Shadow of Mordor games and the canonical status of the works of J.R.R. Tolkien.
The Shadow of Mordor games, developed by Monolith Productions and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, are set in the world of Middle-earth, specifically during the period between the fall of the Third Age and the rise of the Fourth Age. The series follows the story of Talion, a ranger who becomes a wraith after his family is murdered by the Witch-King of Angmar. As a wraith, Talion seeks revenge on the Dark Lord Sauron and his minions, ultimately becoming a formidable force against the forces of darkness.
While the Shadow of Mordor games are set within the same universe as the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, their canonical status has been a subject of contention. On one hand, the games are often praised for their rich storytelling, detailed world-building, and the unique gameplay mechanics that set them apart from other Middle-earth adaptations. On the other hand, the events and characters depicted in the games have been criticized for deviating from the established timeline and lore of Tolkien’s works.
One of the primary reasons for the debate over the canonical status of the Shadow of Mordor games is the fact that they were not directly authorized by the Tolkien Estate. The Estate has been known to be selective about which adaptations of Tolkien’s works are considered canonical, with a focus on ensuring that the stories remain true to the original vision. Since the Shadow of Mordor games were not officially endorsed by the Estate, some fans argue that they should not be considered part of the official canon.
However, there are also those who believe that the Shadow of Mordor games should be recognized as canonical, primarily due to their adherence to the spirit of Tolkien’s storytelling. The games are set in a time period that is not explicitly covered in Tolkien’s writings, allowing for new stories and characters to be introduced while still remaining within the broader Middle-earth universe. Furthermore, the games have been praised for their attention to detail and the depth of their lore, which many fans argue makes them a worthy addition to the Middle-earth mythos.
In conclusion, the question of whether the Shadow of Mordor games are canon remains a topic of debate among fans of the Middle-earth universe. While the games were not officially authorized by the Tolkien Estate, their rich storytelling and adherence to the spirit of Tolkien’s works have led some to argue that they should be considered canonical. Ultimately, the decision of whether to accept the Shadow of Mordor games as part of the official canon is up to individual fans and their interpretation of the Middle-earth mythos.
