What was first Shadow of War or Shadow of Mordor?
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor was released in 2014, making it the first game in the series, followed by Middle-earth: Shadow of War in 2017 as its sequel. The two games are part of an action-adventure series developed by Monolith Productions and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, based on J. R. R. Tolkien’s legendarium.
Introduction to the Series
The series follows the story of Talion, a Gondorian ranger, and Celebrimbor, an Elven wraith, as they battle against the forces of Sauron in Middle-earth. The games are known for their unique Nemesis System, which allows players to forge unique relationships with their enemies and experience a personalized gameplay experience.
Shadow of Mordor
Shadow of Mordor is set in a less post-apocalyptic environment compared to Shadow of War, with varying weather, lighting, and atmosphere. The game has a standalone plot and is not directly connected to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, although it is set in the same universe.
Shadow of War
Shadow of War is the sequel to Shadow of Mordor and continues the story of Talion and Celebrimbor as they attempt to defeat Sauron and his armies. The game features an improved Nemesis System and a new -ring system, which allows players to recruit and control Orc followers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shadow of War set after Shadow of Mordor?
Yes, Shadow of War is set after the events of Shadow of Mordor and continues the story of Talion and Celebrimbor.
Is Shadow of Mordor a prequel?
Shadow of Mordor is not a direct prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, but it is set in the same universe and takes place before the events of the trilogy.
Is Talion canon in Lord of the Rings?
No, Talion is not a canonical character in The Lord of the Rings universe, as he was created specifically for the Shadow series.
How lore accurate is Shadow of War?
Shadow of War is not entirely lore accurate, as it takes creative liberties with the Lord of the Rings universe and characters.
Is Celebrimbor bad in Shadow of War?
In Shadow of War, Celebrimbor is portrayed as a more complex character with a nuanced motivation, and his actions are not entirely good or evil.
Does Talion become a Nazgul in Shadow of War?
Yes, in the true ending of Shadow of War, Talion becomes a Nazgul and joins Sauron’s forces.
What do the orcs call Talion?
The Orcs refer to Talion as “the Tark“.
Is Talion more powerful than Sauron?
In the context of the game, Talion with his own Ring of Power may be more powerful than Sauron without the One Ring.
Is Gandalf in Shadow of War?
Yes, Gandalf is a playable character in the mobile version of Shadow of War.
Is it OK to play Shadow of War without playing Shadow of Mordor?
Yes, the story of Shadow of War is designed to be accessible to new players, and it is possible to play and enjoy the game without having played Shadow of Mordor.
Why did Celebrimbor betray Talion?
Celebrimbor betrays Talion in order to pursue his own goals and defeat Sauron using Eltariel.
Can I play Shadow of War without playing Shadow of Mordor?
Yes, it is possible to play Shadow of War without having played Shadow of Mordor, although playing the first game may provide additional context and backstory.
Was Celebrimbor evil?
Celebrimbor is a complex character with a nuanced motivation, and his actions are not entirely good or evil.
What’s the difference between Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War?
The main difference between the two games is the improved Nemesis System and the new ring system in Shadow of War, which allows players to recruit and control Orc followers.
Why is Gollum in Shadow of Mordor?
Gollum is in Shadow of Mordor because he is drawn to the power of the Ring-maker and is searching for his Precious.
How did Sauron trick Celebrimbor?
Sauron tricked Celebrimbor by disguising himself as Annatar and deceiving him into making the Rings of Power.
Could Celebrimbor defeat Sauron?
Celebrimbor believes that defeating Sauron is mortally impossible, but Talion is more optimistic about their chances.
Is Talion related to Boromir?
Talion is inspired by Boromir, but they are not directly related.
Which Nazgul did Talion replace?
Talion replaces Isildur as a Nazgul in the true ending of Shadow of War.
Is Talion based on Boromir?
Yes, Talion is inspired by Boromir from The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Who killed Talion Shadow of War?
Talion kills himself as part of a ritual to force Celebrimbor to depart from his body and merge with himself.
Who are the nine riders?
The Nine Riders, also known as the Nazgul or Ringwraiths, are Sauron’s most powerful servants in Middle-earth.
Was Celebrimbor corrupted?
Yes, Celebrimbor was corrupted by the One Ring and exists as an undead wraith in the Shadow series.