'Middle-earth: Shadow of War' release date news: Sequel more massive than predecessor
The "Lord of the Rings" continues in video game format. In the ongoing saga that connects the events of "The Hobbit and "The Lord of the Rings," Monolith Productions' "Middle-earth: Shadow of War" will bring a more intricate, violent and darker story to the expanded franchise.
Michael de Plater, the vice president of creative at Monolith Productions, recently talked with The Hollywood Reporter's Patrick Shanley. In Shanley's Donkey Con Artist podcast, Plater discussed the new features of the upcoming video game sequel, which includes the Nemesis System that they adapted from the previous game, as well as expanding the game's universe, new villains and the launch of the recruitment system.
In discussing the new features of the Nemesis System, Plater said, "That's really been the primary focus for us over the past three years. Just generally improving the number, the quality and the emotional power of the stories we create. Making you really love to hate these enemies. There's four times the content around making these enemies varied with different personalities and bringing these villains to life."
The Monolith executive also talked about the new recruitment system. He said that they added the ability to recruit allies by using the ring of power. Aside from that, they will also introduce different tribes of Orcs, each with their own habits and personalities. He further explained that "Middle-earth: Shadow of War" is three times the size of 2014's "Shadow of Mordor" and it will offer a different experience for each player.
Another new addition to the game is the microtransaction mode called loot boxes. These are collectibles, usually random and cosmetic, that can be bought in-game. De Plater said the goal of adding loot boxes is for users to invest time in playing the game by giving them the power to purchase the pieces that they need to win the war.
"Middle-earth: Shadow of War" comes out on Oct. 10. It will arrive on different video gaming consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One as well as a PC version for Windows 10.
