What to Watch Before Shadow of Mordor: A Comprehensive Guide
Shadow of Mordor is a highly-regarded action-adventure game based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth universe. Whether you’re a fan of the books, movies, or games, Shadow of Mordor offers an unparalleled gaming experience. However, to fully appreciate the lore and story of the game, it’s essential to have some knowledge of Tolkien’s world and its associated media. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential viewing and reading experience you should have before starting Shadow of Mordor.
Watch the Animated Movies
- Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings (2001-2003):
- This trilogy set the standard for fantasy adaptation and is a must-watch for any fan of Tolkien’s work. The books and movies share the same core story, but they differ in many ways.
Read the Books and Comics
- J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings (1954-1955):
- The book series is where it all started. Start with The Fellowship of the Ring and read the complete trilogy to get a feel for the world and characters.
- The Lord of the Rings: Illustrated Edition (2012-2013):
- This beautiful edition collects the original illustrations by Ted Nasmith, beautifully capturing the world of Middle-earth.
Watch Shadow of Mordor trailers and gameplay videos
These will give you a comprehensive understanding of the game mechanics, story, and multiplayer features.
Additional Must-Watch and Read Before Shadow of Mordor
- The Appendices (2012) – The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy Extended Edition:
- The Appendices provide an in-depth explanation of the creation of The Lord of the Rings motion picture trilogy.
- The Hobbit (1967) – An Unexpected Journey (2012-2014):
- While not directly linked to Shadow of Mordor, this prequel trilogy sets the stage for the events in Middle-earth.
Tips for Casual Viewers and New Gamers
- Use online resources and summaries for the books and movies.
- **Start with the animated movies, read the book trilogy, or watch the Appendices.
- ** Familiarize yourself with the world by reading the comic book or watching the Shadow of Mordor trailers and gameplay videos.
Table Summarizing Essential Viewing and Reading Experience
| Priority | Title | Format |
|---|---|---|
| High | Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings | TV Series |
| High | J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings | Book Series |
| Medium | The Hobbit | TV Series/Movie |
| Medium | The Lord of the Rings: Illustrated Edition | Comics |
| Low | Appendices | Movie Extras |
Conclusion
To immerse yourself fully in Shadow of Mordor and appreciate its intricate storylines, characters, and Middle-earth lore, it is essential to have some pre-existing knowledge of the surrounding media. Watching the Lord of the Rings animated trilogy, reading the book trilogy, and exploring additional visual and written media will enable a deeper understanding and enjoyment of the game. With these recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared to conquer the world of Middle-earth and experience Shadow of Mordor in all its glory.