Is Shadow of Mordor Considered Canon?
The question of whether Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is considered canon has been a topic of debate among fans and enthusiasts of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works. While Shadow of Mordor is based on Tolkien’s written narratives and takes place in the same universe, it is not considered strictly canon. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this and discuss the differences between canon and non-canonical content in the context of Middle-earth.
Direct Answer:
No, Shadow of Mordor is not considered canon. As stated by the game’s developers, Monolith Productions, Shadow of Mordor is an "original story" that "explore[s] the darker side of Tolkien’s works" rather than a faithful adaptation of the original canon.
Why is it not considered canon?
- Original Storyline: Shadow of Mordor introduces new characters, plotlines, and story arcs that are not part of the original Tolkien narrative. While it takes place in the same universe and uses elements from the original stories, it is an original creation rather than a faithful adaptation.
- Creative Freedom: The developers of Shadow of Mordor had creative freedom to deviate from the original story and explore new themes and ideas. This allowed them to add new content, such as the Nemesis system, which is not found in the original Tolkien stories.
- Tone and Style: Shadow of Mordor has a darker and more action-oriented tone than the original Tolkien stories. This is intentional, as the developers wanted to create a more dynamic and engaging experience for players.
What is the difference between canon and non-canonical content?
| Canon | Non-Canonical Content |
|---|---|
| Based on the original story and events | Original creations that expand on the original story or introduce new elements |
| Faithful adaptation of Tolkien’s works | Deviates from the original story and introduces new plotlines or characters |
| Toned and styled similarly to Tolkien’s works | Has a different tone and style, often more action-oriented and darker |
| Respects the original narrative and world-building | May introduce contradictions or inconsistencies with the original story |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Shadow of Mordor is an excellent game that draws inspiration from Tolkien’s works, it is not considered canon. The game’s original storyline, creative freedom, and tone and style differentiate it from the original canon. Fans of Middle-earth and Tolkien’s works may still enjoy Shadow of Mordor as a spin-off or alternate take on the universe, but it is not a faithful adaptation of the original stories.