Do I Play Shadow of War or Mordor First?
If you’re a fan of Middle-earth and the Lord of the Rings series, you may be wondering which game to play first – Shadow of Mordor or Shadow of War. Both games are action-packed adventures that follow the story of Talion, a ranger, and his quest to take down the forces of Sauron. But, if you’re new to the series, you may be wondering which game to play first. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the two games and help you decide which one to play first.
The Story Connection
Before we dive into the differences between the two games, it’s essential to understand the story connection between Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War. Shadow of War is a direct sequel to Shadow of Mordor, and the story continues from where the first game left off. The main characters from the first game, including Talion and Celebrimbor, return in Shadow of War, and the story builds upon the events of the first game. So, if you play Shadow of War first, you’ll miss out on the initial story setup and character development.
Which Game Should I Play First?
Based on the story connection, it’s recommended to play Shadow of Mordor first. The game introduces the world of Middle-earth, the characters, and the main story arc. Playing Shadow of War first would mean skipping over the initial story setup, which could be confusing for new players. By playing Shadow of Mordor first, you’ll get a better understanding of the world, characters, and story, making the transition to Shadow of War smoother.
Differences Between the Games
Now that we’ve established the story connection, let’s look at the differences between the two games:
Gameplay
- Shadow of Mordor: The gameplay is more focused on stealth and combat, with an emphasis on taking down enemy soldiers and Captains. The game’s Nemesis System allows players to forge their own paths and take down enemies with unique personalities and skills.
- Shadow of War: The gameplay has evolved to include more action-packed combat and an increased focus on strategy. The Nemesis System has also been expanded, allowing players to recruit and control enemies to fight alongside them.
Story
- Shadow of Mordor: The story is more focused on Talion’s quest to take down Sauron and the armies of Mordor. The game’s main antagonist, Sauron, is introduced, and the story sets the stage for the events of Shadow of War.
- Shadow of War: The story is more focused on Talion’s quest to reclaim Gondor and defeat the armies of Sauron. The game’s main antagonist, the Nazgûl, returns, and the story is more fast-paced and action-packed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s recommended to play Shadow of Mordor first if you’re new to the series. The game sets the stage for the story and introduces the characters and world, making the transition to Shadow of War smoother. By playing Shadow of War first, you’ll miss out on the initial story setup and character development, which could be confusing. However, if you’re familiar with the first game and want to continue the story, you can play Shadow of War first.
Table: Differences Between the Games
| Feature | Shadow of Mordor | Shadow of War |
|---|---|---|
| Gameplay | Stealth-focused combat | More action-packed combat and strategy |
| Story | Talion’s quest to take down Sauron | Talion’s quest to reclaim Gondor and defeat the armies of Sauron |
| Nemesis System | Unique enemies with personalities and skills | Expanded Nemesis System, allowing players to recruit and control enemies |
Summary
In this article, we’ve broken down the differences between Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War. If you’re new to the series, it’s recommended to play Shadow of Mordor first to set the stage for the story and characters. By playing Shadow of War first, you’ll miss out on the initial story setup and character development, which could be confusing. So, whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the series, start your Middle-earth adventure with Shadow of Mordor!