Why is Gollum in Shadow of Mordor?

Why is Gollum in Shadow of Mordor?

Introduction
Gollum, the infamous hobbit-like creature, is a major character in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth legendarium. He was a crucial figure in the Lord of the Rings and has since appeared in various games, including Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind Gollum’s involvement in Shadow of Mordor and delve deeper into his character.

Why did Mordor let Gollum go?
According to Christopher Tolkien’s Unfinished Tales, Sauron, the Dark Lord of Mordor, released Gollum after extracting information from him. Gollum had never intended to be loyal to anyone, including Frodo and Sam. His primary motivation was to repossess the One Ring.

Gollum’s obsession with the Ring
Gollum had possessed the Ring for 500 years, which was long enough for its effects to become largely permanent. During this period, the Ring’s influence led to physical changes, including slowing down of his aging process. Bilbo, on the other hand, had the Ring for a much shorter period, causing him to "fade" like the Ring-wraiths.

Drawn to Mordor
Frodo’s possession of the Ring during his journey to Mordor was the catalyst for Gollum’s return. Gollum was unaware of Frodo’s plan to destroy the Ring and believed that he could regain it by leading him to Mordor. His desire to retrieve the Ring drove his actions, eventually leading him to encounter Frodo.

Gollum’s role in the game
In Shadow of Mordor, Gollum plays a crucial role as both a guide and an adversary. He is initially introduced as a mysterious creature who helps the game’s protagonist, Talion, on his quest. However, as Talion delves deeper into the mysteries of Mordor, Gollum becomes increasingly obsessed with the Ring once again. This internal conflict mirrors Gollum’s struggles in The Lord of the Rings, highlighting his complex personality.

Comparison to Gollum’s character in The Lord of the Rings
In The Lord of the Rings, Gollum is depicted as a pitiable creature, torn between his loyalty to Bilbo and his love for the Ring. His obsession with the Ring ultimately led to his downfall. In Shadow of Mordor, Gollum’s role is more nuanced, showcasing his cunning nature and ability to adapt to situations.

Consequences of his actions
Gollum’s obsession with the Ring and his subsequent betrayal have far-reaching consequences. His failure to prevent Frodo’s escape from Mordor ultimately leads to the destruction of the Ring and the downfall of Sauron. Gollum’s actions also have a significant impact on Frodo, who is forced to confront the cruel reality of Gollum’s desires.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Gollum’s involvement in Shadow of Mordor is a result of his long-standing obsession with the One Ring. His complex personality and divided loyalties drive his actions throughout the game, mirroring his iconic character in The Lord of the Rings. As a major character, Gollum adds depth to the game’s narrative, providing a gripping and emotional storyline.

Notes

• Gollum’s character undergoes significant development in Shadow of Mordor, showcasing his cunning and adaptable nature.
• Gollum’s failure to prevent Frodo’s escape from Mordor marks a turning point in the story, contributing to the downfall of Sauron.

By exploring Gollum’s character and motivations, we can gain a deeper understanding of his role in Shadow of Mordor and the impact he has on the game’s story.