Should You Start a New Game in Shadow of War? A Definitive Guide
The question of whether to start a new game in Middle-earth: Shadow of War depends heavily on what you’re hoping to achieve. The game’s structure encourages continued play after the main story, offering a robust endgame and opportunities to further develop your army. However, a fresh start can also be compelling if you desire a different kind of challenge or wish to experience the narrative from the beginning with enhanced knowledge of the game’s mechanics. So, the simple answer is: it depends on your personal goals and play style. If you’re seeking a greater challenge from the outset or wish to replay the story while making different strategic choices, then starting a new game is a great option. If you want to keep your progress and conquer new territories in a new region, then keep playing your current playthrough!
The Allure of a New Beginning
There are several compelling reasons to consider a new game in Shadow of War.
The Difficulty Dilemma: A Real Challenge
The article you provided states it best: “The main reason for starting a new game, is to handicap yourself and start a higher difficulty from start to finish.” If you found your initial playthrough too easy, starting on a higher difficulty setting offers a significantly different experience. Enemies are tougher, combat requires more strategic thinking, and the Nemesis System becomes even more impactful. This can breathe new life into the game, forcing you to truly master its mechanics.
Fresh Perspective: A Strategic Rethink
Starting anew allows you to apply knowledge gained from your previous playthrough. You’ll be better equipped to manage your resources, choose the right skills, and build a powerful army from the very beginning. This can lead to a more efficient and satisfying experience.
Experiencing the Narrative Anew
While Shadow of War isn’t heavily decision-based, replaying allows you to focus on the story with a greater understanding of the characters and events. This deeper appreciation can enhance the narrative experience, particularly if you initially rushed through certain sections.
Why Stick with Your Existing Save?
However, starting a new game isn’t always the best choice. Shadow of War offers significant content beyond the main story, including the Shadow Wars and online conquests.
Endless Endgame: The Shadow Wars
As the article mentions, the Shadow Wars provide an extensive endgame experience. Defending your fortresses against increasingly powerful waves of Orcs offers a unique and challenging gameplay loop. Moreover, the infinite Shadow Wars, introduced with the Slaughter Tribe DLC, ensure a never-ending supply of content for those who enjoy the strategic base-building and defense aspects.
Online Conquests: A Global Battlefield
The online conquests allow you to test your army against other players’ fortresses. This adds a competitive element to the game and provides a constant stream of new challenges. Continuing with your existing save allows you to further develop your army and improve your skills in these online battles.
Leveling and Progression: The Grind is Real
As the provided article states, achieving the “true ending” in Shadow of War can involve a significant grind. This primarily involves retaking regions and upgrading your fortresses.
No Missable Content: Completionist’s Paradise
The article also confirms that nothing is missable in Shadow of War. You can always go back and complete any side quests or weapon missions after finishing the main story. This eliminates the need to start a new game simply to experience content you might have missed.
Making the Decision: A Final Assessment
Ultimately, the decision to start a new game in Shadow of War depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize challenge, strategic depth, and a fresh narrative experience, then a new game is a great option. However, if you enjoy the endgame content, online conquests, and continued progression, then sticking with your existing save is likely the better choice. Consider what you enjoyed most about your initial playthrough and what you hope to achieve in the future. This will help you make the right decision.
You might also find resources and discussions on communities like the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org), which often delve into game mechanics and optimal strategies, valuable in making your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I keep playing Shadow of War after completing the main story?
Yes! Upon completing Act III and the subsequent “many years later” cutscene, you are free to continue exploring the world, participating in online conquests, and tackling the Shadow Wars endgame.
2. What is the Shadow Wars endgame?
The Shadow Wars consist of 20 sieges where you must defend your fortresses against increasingly challenging waves of Orc invaders. Losing a siege will result in losing the region, which you must then reclaim.
3. Is the Shadow Wars endgame endless?
Yes, thanks to the Slaughter Tribe DLC, the Shadow Wars can continue indefinitely, providing a never-ending stream of content.
4. What is Talion’s maximum level in Shadow of War?
Talion’s maximum level is 80, while Orcs can reach level 85. Gear can also be upgraded to level 85.
5. Are there multiple endings in Shadow of War?
Yes, there are two main endings. The first occurs after Act III and concludes Celebrimbor’s story. The second occurs after Act IV and concludes Talion’s story.
6. Is anything missable in Shadow of War?
No, nothing is permanently missable. The game will warn you before progressing past points of no return, allowing you to complete any remaining side quests or weapon missions.
7. What is the maximum level for gear in Shadow of War?
The maximum level for standard gear is 85. However, weapons broken by Ologs can reach level 90.
8. Is Shadow of War still grindy?
Yes, reaching the “true ending” and completing the Shadow Wars can be a time-consuming grind, requiring you to retake regions and upgrade your fortresses.
9. What are the best Orc classes to recruit in Shadow of War?
According to the article, some of the best Orc classes to recruit include Berserkers, Tricksters, Tanks, Marksmen, Destroyers, Commanders, Beastmasters, and Assassins. Each class offers unique strengths and abilities.
10. Is Talion canon in Lord of the Rings?
No, Talion is a non-canonical character created for the Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War games. He does not appear in Tolkien’s original works.
11. Can Orcs betray you in Shadow of War?
Yes, even after you have dominated Orcs to your cause, there is a chance they will betray you as part of the Nemesis System.
12. Can you retake Minas Morgul in Shadow of War?
Yes, retaking Minas Morgul is a key part of the game. It involves capturing multiple points defended by Orcs and a Nazgul.
13. Can you do side quests after beating Shadow of War?
Yes, you can complete side quests and weapon missions after finishing the main story.
14. Does Talion become evil in Shadow of War?
In the “true ending” of the game, Talion eventually succumbs to the corruption of Isildur’s ring and becomes a Nazgul.
15. What is the final boss in Shadow of War?
The final boss of the main storyline is Sauron. The final mission is called “The Bright Lord” and requires completing all of Eltariel’s quests beforehand.