First Look at Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor

One of the most-talked about titles at this year’s E3 was Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. It is a new game based in Middle-earth that draws inspiration from some recent big-name games while also introducing a new game system called the Nemesis System.

You play as a Gondorian ranger named Talion, tasked with guarding the Black Gate of Mordor. You and your family are killed however a Wraith enters your body, saving you and granting you “wraith-like abilities”. These abilities let you identify enemies and their relationships with others as well as taking control over them.

While many Tolkien fans are concerned about the lore appropriateness of “wraith-like abilities” (myself included!), the most interesting aspect of the game is the Nemesis system. Essentially, the enemies you encounter have their own personalities and will remember their interactions with you and their fellow orcs. Here is a brief video describing the system in more detail:

Besides the Nemesis system, the game play draws heavily from series like Assassin’s Creed and the Arkham games. According to IGN there are also noticeable influences from Far Cry 2 and 3 as well as Dishonored.

If you’re interested in more footage of Shadow of Mordor, check out the Shadow of Mordor YouTube channel.

On October 7, 2014 Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor will be releasing for the PC, XBox 360, XBox One, PS3 and PS4.