This month, Amazon Prime Gaming members are able to grab Middle-earth: Shadow of War for their GOG libraries as Amazon expands the world of Middle-earth through its brand-new series The Rings of Power. Whether this is Amazon's way of getting new fans into J. R. R. Tolkien's world or not, Amazon Prime Gaming members should consider picking up this fun action-RPG set in the world of Lord of the Rings.
Middle-earth: Shadow of War is the second title in Monolith Productions' Middle-earth series, continuing the tale of Talion between the events of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. The story itself is not canon within the greater Lord of the Rings universe, but these titles are still one of the best ways to experience Tolkien's world. It provides hours of fun for franchise fans and newcomers, and it should just be the start of Amazon Prime Gaming's Lord of the Rings offerings.
Middle-earth: Shadow of War is Free on Amazon Prime Gaming
Middle-earth: Shadow of War released in 2017, following a ranger of Gondor named Talion who had been bound to the wraith of the elf lord Celebrimbor. This connection gives Talion special powers that he can utilize to destroy the armies of Sauron. The story follows as they forge a new Ring of Power, and then go on a mission across Mordor to build their own army to destroy Sauron.
The gameplay and story of Middle-earth: Shadow of War are solid, but the real highlight of this game is the Nemesis System introduced in Shadow of Mordor. This system makes enemies far more dynamic and realistic, as each Uruk is tracked based on their in-game actions. If an Uruk kills the player or survives an encounter, they will remember it. They will be promoted in Sauron's army and become harder to best the next time around, and sometimes they will seek revenge on Talion for scarring them. It is a unique system that was only given more depth through Shadow of War.
Amazon Should Add Even More Lord of the Rings Games
Middle-earth: Shadow of War is a nice addition to Amazon Prime Gaming, and it may result in a couple new Lord of the Rings fans. This comes at a perfect time for Amazon since it is currently airing the first season of The Rings of Power, which expands the world of Middle-earth even more in the age of Arda that has not yet appeared in live-action. While it has not been perfect, it has brought Middle-earth back into the spotlight.
There are many Middle-earth adventures that that could get new life if they were included in Amazon Prime Gaming. For one, Amazon could offer the first title in the Middle-earth series to complete this package. Those who have never played the series will probably want to check out the first game, and Amazon should deliver. The service could also offer LEGO The Hobbit or LEGO The Lord of the Rings so users can experience the original stories in LEGO form, or go further back by providing members access to games like The Lord of the Rings: War in the North.
Middle-earth: Shadow of War should only be the start of Amazon Prime Gaming's Lord of the Rings offerings. The release of The Rings of Power makes it the perfect time for Amazon to capitalize on renewed interest in Middle-earth through the gaming world. Not only could it pull new fans into J. R. R Tolkien's world, but it could also give fans something to do while they wait for the next episode.
Amazon Prime Gaming members can grab Middle-earth: Shadow of War for PC until October 31.