Is Shadow of War Part of Lord of the Rings?
When discussing the vast and intricate world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” many fans often wonder if “Middle-earth: Shadow of War” is an official part of the beloved trilogy. While the game shares the same universe and characters, its narrative and gameplay mechanics differ significantly from the source material. In this article, we will explore whether “Shadow of War” can be considered a part of the “Lord of the Rings” saga.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that “Middle-earth: Shadow of War” is a game developed by Monolith Productions and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. The game was released in 2017 and is the sequel to “Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor,” which was also released in 2014. Both games are action-adventure titles that feature a unique take on the “Lord of the Rings” universe.
One of the primary reasons why “Shadow of War” is not officially part of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy is its narrative. While the game does feature characters and settings from the trilogy, such as Gollum, Sauron, and Mordor, the story revolves around Talion, a ranger who becomes an elf warrior and eventually a wraith, with the goal of avenging his family’s murder. This narrative is a departure from the main story of “The Lord of the Rings,” which focuses on the quest to destroy the One Ring and the epic battles between the Free People of Middle-earth and the forces of darkness.
Another factor that sets “Shadow of War” apart from “The Lord of the Rings” is its gameplay mechanics. The game introduces a unique system called the Nemesis System, which allows players to create and customize their own orcs, who serve as their minions and lieutenants. This system is a significant departure from the more traditional approach of the “Lord of the Rings” books and movies, which focus on the individual characters and their journeys.
However, despite these differences, “Shadow of War” can still be considered a part of the “Lord of the Rings” universe. The game is set in the same world, and it features many familiar characters and settings. Additionally, the game’s narrative is set in the same time period as “The Lord of the Rings,” during the War of the Ring. While the story and gameplay mechanics differ, “Shadow of War” offers a unique perspective on the “Lord of the Rings” universe that complements the existing works.
In conclusion, while “Middle-earth: Shadow of War” is not an official part of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, it can still be considered a part of the larger “Lord of the Rings” universe. The game offers a fresh take on the world of Middle-earth, while still remaining true to the source material. Whether or not fans choose to accept “Shadow of War” as part of the “Lord of the Rings” saga is a matter of personal preference, but one thing is certain: the game adds to the rich tapestry of Middle-earth’s lore and history.
