Unraveling the Endings of Middle-earth: Shadow of War
Middle-earth: Shadow of War, Monolith Productions’ action RPG, presents players with a sprawling narrative set within the iconic world of J.R.R. Tolkien. While the main gameplay loop focuses on building an army of Orcs and conquering fortresses, the game features two distinct endings. The first concludes the primary story arc after Act III. The second, often referred to as the “true ending,” unlocks after completing the Shadow Wars in Act IV. This second ending provides closure to the tale of Talion and Celebrimbor’s struggle against Sauron. Now, let’s delve into the specifics and explore some frequently asked questions about these finales.
Understanding the Two Endings
The two endings in Shadow of War offer different levels of narrative resolution.
Act III Ending: The Conclusion of the Main Story
The initial ending comes at the conclusion of Act III. After a series of intense battles and strategic maneuvers, the main storyline culminates in a confrontation that sets the stage for the Shadow Wars. While this ending provides a sense of completion regarding the initial narrative, it leaves the larger conflict unresolved, with Sauron’s forces still a significant threat. Think of it as the end of a chapter, not the entire book.
Act IV Ending: The “True” Ending and The Shadow Wars
The “true” ending is unlocked after completing Act IV, which primarily consists of the Shadow Wars. The Shadow Wars are a series of increasingly challenging fortress defense missions that test your strategic prowess and army-building skills. Upon successfully defending your fortresses through ten stages, you are rewarded with a final cutscene that provides closure to Talion’s story and shows the long-term consequences of his actions. While many find this ending brief, it’s considered the more definitive conclusion. It depicts Talion’s ultimate fate and offers a glimpse into the future of Middle-earth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shadow of War Endings
To further clarify the nuances of Shadow of War’s conclusions, let’s address some frequently asked questions:
1. Are there multiple endings beyond the two main ones?
No, Shadow of War features only two primary endings: one after Act III and the “true” ending after completing the Shadow Wars in Act IV. There are no alternative endings based on player choices or actions.
2. How do I get the “true” ending in Shadow of War?
To unlock the “true” ending, you must complete the Shadow Wars, which form Act IV of the game. This involves successfully defending your fortresses against waves of Orcish attacks through ten increasingly difficult stages.
3. What are the Shadow Wars?
The Shadow Wars are a series of endgame missions where you defend your fortresses from Sauron’s forces. They consist of multiple stages, with each stage presenting a new set of sieges. Completing all stages unlocks the “true” ending.
4. Is the “true” ending worth the effort?
Whether the “true” ending is “worth it” is subjective. Some players find the Shadow Wars repetitive and the final cutscene anticlimactic. Others appreciate the closure it provides to Talion’s story and the dedication required to achieve it.
5. Can I continue playing after the “true” ending?
Yes, after completing the Shadow Wars and viewing the final cutscene, you can continue exploring the open world, completing any remaining side quests, and participating in online conquests. The game doesn’t end; it simply allows you to continue playing in a post-story state.
6. Is Middle-earth: Shadow of War endless?
While the main story has a definitive conclusion, Shadow of War’s gameplay can be considered “endless” to some degree. After completing the Shadow Wars, you can continue defending your fortresses, engaging in online conquests, and leveling up your character and Orc followers.
7. Does Shadow of Mordor have multiple endings?
No, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor has a single, linear ending that concludes the main storyline. It does not have a post-game or additional endings.
8. Who is the final boss in Shadow of War?
The final boss is Sauron, encountered during the mission “The Bright Lord.” This mission requires you to complete all Eltariel quests before it will unlock.
9. How many hours does it take to 100% Shadow of War?
100% completion of Shadow of War typically takes around 55-60 hours, depending on your skill level and play style. This includes completing all main missions, side quests, collectibles, and the Shadow Wars.
10. What happens to Talion at the end of Shadow of War?
In the “true” ending, Talion eventually succumbs to the corruption of Isildur’s ring and becomes one of the Nazgûl. However, after the destruction of the One Ring, Talion finally finds peace and dies a true death, his spirit moving on to the afterlife.
11. Is Talion a character in The Lord of the Rings books?
No, Talion is not a character in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. He is an original character created for the Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War games.
12. What is the maximum level in Shadow of War?
The maximum level for players in Shadow of War is 80. Gear and weapons can be leveled up to 85, and even level 90 for weapons broken by Ologs.
13. Is anything missable in Shadow of War?
While the game warns you about proceeding past certain points of no return, it’s possible to miss out on certain side quests if you rush through the main story. Pay attention to these warnings to avoid being locked out of content.
14. Can you retake Minas Morgul in Shadow of War?
Yes, you can retake Minas Morgul during a specific quest. This involves capturing control points within the city while battling Orcs and Nazgûl.
15. Is it okay to play Shadow of War without playing Shadow of Mordor first?
While not essential, it is recommended to play Shadow of Mordor before Shadow of War. This allows you to better understand the characters, lore, and gameplay mechanics that carry over between the two games. However, the story of Shadow of War is designed to be accessible to new players as well.
Final Thoughts
Middle-earth: Shadow of War offers a rich and engaging experience, culminating in two distinct endings that provide closure to the story of Talion and Celebrimbor. Whether you choose to stop after Act III or persevere through the Shadow Wars to unlock the “true” ending, the game provides a compelling narrative within the expansive world of Middle-earth. Understanding the structure and narrative design of video games like Shadow of War can also be valuable in educational contexts. The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) explores how game-based learning can be used to engage students and improve learning outcomes.