The general sentiment towards Middle-earth: Shadow of War is that it is beloved for its innovative Nemesis System and engaging combat. However, the criticisms are centered around Warner Bros.' decision to patent a unique mechanic, which has caused frustration and resentment. While the story and world-building are appreciated by fans of Middle-earth, the tedious grind needed for progression is a significant detractor. The controls can be clunky, and the difficulty spikes offer a challenging but sometimes daunting experience. Despite these issues, the game is celebrated for its ability to create emergent personal gameplay stories and remains a standout in the action RPG genre.
Positive Points
The Nemesis System is frequently hailed as a groundbreaking feature, adding depth to gameplay by making interactions with orc characters personal and dynamic.Combat is often described as fluid, satisfying, and reminiscent of the Batman Arkham series, with added complexity and enjoyment from unlocking new abilities.Many players enjoy the large open world that offers diverse environments and a variety of quests and missions.Several reviews praise the game’s graphics and immersive Middle-earth atmosphere, which is engaging even years after release.Negative Points
Frequent criticism is directed at Warner Bros. for patenting the Nemesis System, preventing its use in other games and causing frustration among players.The pacing of the game, especially in the final chapters, is seen as tedious, with unnecessary grinding and repetitive tasks that reduce overall enjoyment.The controls, especially during parkour and combat, can be unpredictable and clunky, leading to frustration during high-stakes moments.Mixed Points
The game's story receives mixed feedback; some find it engaging and well-integrated within the LOTR lore, while others see it as a non-canon distraction with too much deviation from Tolkien's work.The game's difficulty, particularly the spike in challenge in later stages, is appreciated by some for adding depth, but seen as a barrier by others.Common Themes
Many players appreciate the depth and replayability offered by the Nemesis System; however, the legal issues surrounding it are a consistent point of contention.The grind associated with progressing in the game is a common complaint, often attributed to the game's microtransaction model at launch, even though these were later removed.The dynamic relationships with orcs and personal stories that emerge from player interactions are a highlight for most players.Updated 5/2/2025, 7:09:46 PM UTC
