The Lord of the Rings: War in the North: Difference between revisions

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{{video game infobox
{{video game infobox
| image=[[File:WITN-boxart.png|250px]]
| image=[[File:WITN-boxart.png|250px]]
| name=''The Lord of the Rings: War in the North''
| name=''The Lord of the Rings: War in the North''
| developer=[[Snowblind Studios]]
| developer=[[wikipedia:Snowblind Studios|Snowblind Studios]], [[wikipedia:Feral Interactive|Feral Interactive]] ([[wikipedia:OS X|Mac OS X]])<ref name="Mac version announcement">[http://www.feralinteractive.com/en/ Feral Interactive], "[http://www.feralinteractive.com/en/news/384/ Feral Interactive news feed - Lord of the Rings: War in the North game announcement]", dated [[18 September|September 18]] [[2013]]</ref>
| publisher=[[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]]
| publisher=[[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]], [[wikipedia:Feral Interactive|Feral Interactive]] ([[wikipedia:OS X|Mac OS X]])<ref name="Mac version announcement"></ref>
| platform=[[wikipedia:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]], [[wikipedia:Microsoft Windows|Microsoft Windows]] and [[wikipedia:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]]<ref name="Gamespot-06-10">[http://www.youtube.com/user/gamespot Gamespot], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmg6GgkrtnU&feature=related Interview with Ryan Geithman], dated [[10 June]], [[2010]] (accessed [[5 July]], [[2011]])</ref>
| platform=[[wikipedia:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]], [[wikipedia:Microsoft Windows|Microsoft Windows]] and [[wikipedia:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]]<ref name="Gamespot-06-10">[http://www.youtube.com/user/gamespot Gamespot], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmg6GgkrtnU&feature=related Interview with Ryan Geithman], dated [[10 June]], [[2010]] (accessed [[5 July]], [[2011]])</ref>[[wikipedia:OS X|Mac OS X]]<ref name="Mac version announcement"></ref>
| releasedate=[[1 November]] [[2011]] (North America),<ref name="FAQ Regions Release">[http://www.warinthenorth.com/ War in the North], [http://www.warinthenorth.com/the-game/support/faq FAQ], What is the release date of The Lord of the Rings: War in the North for my region? (accessed [[9 November|November 9]], [[2011]])</ref></br>
| releasedate=[[1 November]] [[2011]] (North America),<ref name="FAQ Regions Release">[http://www.warinthenorth.com/ War in the North], [http://www.warinthenorth.com/the-game/support/faq FAQ], What is the release date of The Lord of the Rings: War in the North for my region? (accessed [[9 November|November 9]], [[2011]])</ref></br>
for other regions, see [[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North#Release|Release]].
for other regions, see [[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North#Release|Release]].
| genre=Action, Role-playing game
| genre=Action, role-playing game
| modes=Single player, two/three-player co-operative, online<ref name="Product Announcement"/>
| modes=Single player, two/three-player co-operative, online<ref name="Product Announcement"/>
| rating=[[wikipedia:Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]]: M<ref name="Kotaku Party">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5566672/lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-eyes+on-impressions-a-party-of-three ''Lord of the Rings: War in the North'' Eyes-On Impressions: A Party of Three], dated [[17 June|June 17]], [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref>
| rating=[[wikipedia:Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]]: M<ref name="Kotaku Party">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5566672/lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-eyes+on-impressions-a-party-of-three ''Lord of the Rings: War in the North'' Eyes-On Impressions: A Party of Three], dated [[17 June|June 17]], [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref>
| distribution=
| distribution=
}}
}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: War in the North''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''WITN''') is a role-playing video-game developed by [[Snowblind Studios]] and published by [[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]] for [[wikipedia:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]], [[wikipedia:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]] and [[wikipedia:Microsoft Windows|Windows]]. The game takes place during the [[War of the Ring]] but adapts the seldom-mentioned battles that took place across [[Eriador]] and [[Rhovanion (region)|Rhovanion]]. The game was released between [[1 November]] and [[25 November]] [[2011]].<ref name="FAQ Regions Release"/> The game will be based on both the books and the films.<ref name="sourceE">[http://www.gamefront.com/ Gamefront], [http://www.gamefront.com/gdc-11-war-in-the-north-hands-on/ GDC 11 – War in the North Hands-on], dated [[10 March]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[6 July]], [[2011]])</ref>
'''''The Lord of the Rings: War in the North''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''WITN''') is a role-playing video-game developed by [[wikipedia:Snowblind Studios|Snowblind Studios]] and published by [[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]] for [[wikipedia:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]], [[wikipedia:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]] and [[wikipedia:Microsoft Windows|Windows]]. The game takes place during the [[War of the Ring]] but adapts the seldom-mentioned battles that took place across [[Eriador]] and [[Rhovanion]]. The game was released between [[1 November]] and [[25 November]] [[2011]].<ref name="FAQ Regions Release"/>  


Although the game includes familiar locations from [[Middle-earth]] it doesn't deal with the core story of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', instead choosing to create a tale which didn't happen but could have done.<ref name="Dev Interview1">[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au Atomic MPC], "[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/Feature/242441,lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-dev-interview.aspx/1 Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, page 1]", dated [[22 December|December 22]] [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref> The player controls his own fellowship, a trio of fighters - [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], a [[Dúnedain|Dúnadan]] "[[Ranger of the North]]," [[Andriel]], an [[Elves|elven]] "Loremaster of [[Rivendell]]"<ref group=”note”>Orginally the human was a mage and the Elf a ranger, but their classes were switched.</ref> and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]], a [[Dwarves|dwarvern]] "Champion of Eriador" - to get behind enemy lines and have to stop [[Agandaûr]], the game's antagonist, before his plan succeeds.
The [[wikipedia:OS X|Mac OS X]] version of the game was developed and published by [[wikipedia:Feral Interactive|Feral Interactive]] and released on [[18 September]] [[2013]].<ref name="Mac version announcement"></ref> 
 
The game is based on both the books and the films.<ref name="sourceE">[http://www.gamefront.com/ Gamefront], [http://www.gamefront.com/gdc-11-war-in-the-north-hands-on/ GDC 11 – War in the North Hands-on], dated [[10 March]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[6 July]], [[2011]])</ref>
 
Although the game includes familiar locations from [[Middle-earth]] it doesn't deal with the core story of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', instead choosing to create a tale which didn't happen but could have done.<ref name="Dev Interview1">[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au Atomic MPC], "[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/Feature/242441,lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-dev-interview.aspx/1 Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, page 1]", dated [[22 December|December 22]] [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref> The player controls his own fellowship, a trio of fighters - [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], a [[Dúnedain|Dúnadan]] "[[Ranger of the North]]," [[Andriel]], an [[Elves|elven]] "Loremaster of [[Rivendell]]"<ref group="note">In early development the human was a mage and the Elf a ranger, but this was changed on a later stage.</ref> and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]], a [[Dwarves|dwarvern]] "Champion of Erebor" - to get behind enemy lines and have to stop [[Agandaûr]], the game's antagonist, before his plan succeeds.


==Plot==
==Plot==
===Prologue===
===Prologue===
The game starts with an introduction, narrated by [[Gandalf]]. Gandalfs tells that heroes like [[Aragorn]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and Gandalf are honored much, but that withouth a few, not well known heroes - [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] - the north of [[Middle-earth]] would have been lost.<ref name="Prologue">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Prologue''</ref>
The game starts with an introduction, narrated by [[Gandalf]]. Gandalf tells that heroes like [[Aragorn]], [[Frodo Baggins]] and Gandalf are honored much, but that without a few, not well known heroes - [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] - the north of [[Middle-earth]] would have been lost.<ref name="Prologue">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Prologue''</ref>


The game then switches to [[Bree]], where the three heroes make their way to the [[Prancing Pony]], just a few days before Frodo arrived in Bree. Arrived in the Prancing Pony, they find [[Aragorn]] in a corner of the inn. They tell Aragorn that the [[Nazgûl]] attacked and defeated the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] at [[Sarn Ford]], and a flashback shown in which the [[Witch-king]] meets a [[Black Númenóreans|Black Númenórean]], [[Agandaûr]]. Eradan, Andriel and Farin overhear their conservation: Agandaûr tells he has summoned an army of [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]] and assembled an army in [[Fornost]], to aid the [[Nazgûl]] in the [[Hunt of the Ring]]. The Witch-king sends Agandaûr back to Fornost, so he can attack immediatly. The flashback ends, and the game returns to the Prancing Pony<ref name="Prologue"/>
The game then switches to [[Bree]], where the three heroes make their way to the [[Prancing Pony]], just a few days before Frodo arrived in Bree. Arrived in the Prancing Pony, they find [[Aragorn]] in a corner of the inn. They tell Aragorn that the [[Nazgûl]] attacked and defeated the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]] at [[Sarn Ford]], and a flashback shown in which the [[Witch-king]] meets a [[Black Númenóreans|Black Númenórean]], [[Agandaûr]]. Eradan, Andriel and Farin overhear their conservation: Agandaûr tells he has summoned an army of [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]] and assembled an army in [[Fornost]], to aid the [[Nazgûl]] in the [[Hunt of the Ring]]. The Witch-king sends Agandaûr back to Fornost, so he can attack immediately. The flashback ends, and the game returns to the Prancing Pony<ref name="Prologue"/>


Farin asks Aragorn why the [[Nazgûl]] attack [[the Shire]], on which he answers that [[Frodo Baggins|a Hobbit]] with [[The One Ring|an important burden]] is making his way to Bree. And that this "must be protect on all cost". Aragorn sends Eradan, Andriel and Farin to Fornost, where they have to stop [[Agandaûr]]'s army before it can attack.<ref name="Prologue"/>
Farin asks Aragorn why the [[Nazgûl]] attack [[the Shire]], to which he answers that [[Frodo Baggins|a Hobbit]] with [[The One Ring|an important burden]] is making his way to Bree. And that this "must be protected at all cost". Aragorn sends Eradan, Andriel and Farin to Fornost, where they have to stop [[Agandaûr]]'s army before it can attack.<ref name="Prologue"/>


===Chapter 1: Fornost===
===Chapter 1: Fornost===
[[File:The Lord of the Rigns War in the North - Belarum & Orcs3.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Belarum]] - captured by [[Orcs]] and [[Goblins]] - in [[Fornost]].]]As soon as Eradan, Andriel and Farin enter the ruins of Fornost they are attacked by a band of [[Orcs]] and [[Goblins]]. After cleaning the main gate, they end up in the pits under Fornost. There they hear an animal screaming. After finding their way out of the pits, they find the source of the noise - a [[Eagles|giant Eagle]]. The three heroes unchain the Eagle and kill it's jailers. The Eagle introduces himself as [[Belarum]], a servant of [[Gwaihir]] who gathered news but was taken out of the air by siege engines and sorcerers. Together the Eagle and the three heroes make a plan: while Belarum would attract the enemy's attention, Eradan, Andriel and Farin would make their way up to the battlements to destroy the siege weapons.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Main Gate''</ref> The plan works out succesful, as all siege weapons aswell as two Orc sorcerers are destroyed.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Battlements''</ref> The player, furthermore, obtains a stroll with unreadable text.<ref name="Cult">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Cult of the Lidless Eye''</ref>
[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Beleram & Orcs.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Beleram]] - captured by [[Orcs]] and [[Goblins]] - in [[Fornost]].]]As soon as Eradan, Andriel and Farin enter the ruins of Fornost they are attacked by a band of [[Orcs]] and [[Goblins]]. After cleaning the main gate, they end up in the pits under Fornost. There they hear an animal screaming. After finding their way out of the pits, they find the source of the noise - a [[Eagles|giant Eagle]]. The three heroes unchain the Eagle and kill it's jailers. The Eagle introduces himself as [[Beleram]], a servant of [[Gwaihir]] who gathered news but was taken out of the air by siege engines and sorcerers. Together the Eagle and the three heroes make a plan: while Beleram would attract the enemy's attention, Eradan, Andriel and Farin would make their way up to the battlements to destroy the siege weapons.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Main Gate''</ref> The plan works out succesful, as all siege weapons as well as two Orc sorcerers are destroyed.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Battlements''</ref> The player, furthermore, obtains a scroll with unreadable text.<ref name="Cult">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Cult of the Lidless Eye''</ref>


When reaching the outer wards of Fornost, the players meets again with Belarum. The eagle thanks his rescuers again and tells    them that he saw [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] within the ruins. While searching the two [[Half-elves]], they defeat a giant crossbow, used by [[Orcs]], and are trapped by a Troll. Just shortly after the death of the Troll, the sons of [[Elrond]] appear.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Outer Wards''</ref>
When reaching the outer wards of Fornost, the players meets again with Beleram. The eagle thanks his rescuers again and tells    them that he saw [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]] within the ruins. While searching the two [[Half-elves]], they defeat a giant crossbow, used by [[Orcs]], and are trapped by a Troll. Just shortly after the death of the Troll, the sons of [[Elrond]] appear.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Outer Wards''</ref>


[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Eradan, Andriel & Farin2.jpg|thumb|left|250px|[[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] and [[Andriel]].]]Andriel introduces Eradan and Farin to Elladan and Elrohir, and informs them about their task. They collaborate in this task, but instead of just stopping the army to attack they decide to kill Agandaûr. The sons of Elrond guide the player to the citadel. They seperate, however, after defeating another giant crossbow. Eventually, they are locked on a bridge between two gates. After surviving an ambush, the sons of Elrond appear again and open the gate.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Inner Wards''</ref> After defeating another more ambushed, they arrive at the gate of the citadel. Which is protected by a magic spell, to stop intruders. While the sons of Elrond undo the magic, the player defends them against an attacking force of Orcs, Goblins and a Troll. As Eradan, Andriel, Farin, Elrohir and Elladan enter the citadel, Belarum remains outside to protect them against reinforcements.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''The Citadel''</ref>
[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Eradan, Andriel & Farin2.jpg|thumb|left|250px|[[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] and [[Andriel]].]]Andriel introduces Eradan and Farin to Elladan and Elrohir, and informs them about their task. They collaborate in this task, but instead of just stopping the army to attack they decide to kill Agandaûr. The sons of Elrond guide the player to the citadel. They separate, however, after defeating another giant crossbow. Eventually, they are locked on a bridge between two gates. After surviving an ambush, the sons of Elrond appear again and open the gate.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Inner Wards''</ref> After defeating another more ambushed, they arrive at the gate of the citadel. Which is protected by a magic spell, to stop intruders. While the sons of Elrond undo the magic, the player defends them against an attacking force of Orcs, Goblins and a Troll. As Eradan, Andriel, Farin, Elrohir and Elladan enter the citadel, Beleram remains outside to protect them against reinforcements.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''The Citadel''</ref>


Inside, they overhear a conservation between Agandaûr and [[Tharzog]], chieftain of the [[Orcs]] of [[Mount Gram]]. Tharzog tells Agandaûr that there are intruders in Fornost, after which Agandaûr angrily commands him to find and kill them immediatly. After Agandaûr leaves, the player and the sons of Elrond go onward in the tower. Tharzog, however, notices them and as a gate is closed, the player is cut off from the sons of Elrond. Tharzog and his guard attack Eradan, Andriel and Farin, but the latter manage to kill him.<ref name="Citadel Tower">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Citadel Tower''</ref>
Inside, they overhear a conservation between Agandaûr and [[Tharzog]], chieftain of the [[Orcs]] of [[Mount Gram]]. Tharzog tells Agandaûr that there are intruders in Fornost, after which Agandaûr angrily commands him to find and kill them immediately. After Agandaûr leaves, the player and the sons of Elrond go onward in the tower. Tharzog, however, notices them and as a gate is closed, the player is cut off from the sons of Elrond. Tharzog and his guard attack Eradan, Andriel and Farin, but the latter manage to kill him.<ref name="Citadel Tower">[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], Chapter 1: Fornost, ''Citadel Tower''</ref>


At the same time, Elladan and Elrohir fight Agandaûr on the top of the Citadel tower. Agandaûr is no match for the twins alone, but when Eradan, Andriel and Farin join them he flees on the back of a [[Fell beast]]. Belarum attempt to chase him, but Agandaûr summons a thunderstorm and escapes.<ref name="Citadel Tower"/>
At the same time, Elladan and Elrohir fight Agandaûr on the top of the Citadel tower. Agandaûr is no match for the twins alone, but when Eradan, Andriel and Farin join them he flees on the back of a [[Fell beast]]. Beleram attempt to chase him, but Agandaûr summons a thunderstorm and escapes.<ref name="Citadel Tower"/>


Belarum returns to Gwaihir, in the [[Misty Mountains]], to inform him about the events in Fornost, Elladan and Elrohir return to [[Rivendell]] and Eradan, Andriel and Farin go back to Sarn's Ford to inform Halbarad.<Ref name="Citadel Tower"/>
Beleram returns to Gwaihir, in the [[Misty Mountains]], to inform him about the events in Fornost, Elladan and Elrohir return to [[Rivendell]] and Eradan, Andriel and Farin go back to Sarn's Ford to inform Halbarad.<Ref name="Citadel Tower"/>


===Chapter 2: The Barrow Downs===
===Chapter 2: The Barrow Downs===
Line 46: Line 48:
===Chapter 3: Ettenmoors===
===Chapter 3: Ettenmoors===


[[File:LOTR-WITN-Agandaur2.png|thumb|200px|[[Agandaûr]], the game's main antagonist.]]In [[Rivendell]] the fellowship meets several members of the [[Council of Elrond]],<ref name="sourceF"/> scout the land around Rivendell<ref name="sourceG">[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/ Atomic Maximum Power Computing], [http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/Feature/242441,lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-dev-interview.aspx/1 Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview], dated [[22 December]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> and fight [[Orcs]] with [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]].<ref name="sourceC"/>
[[File:LOTR-WITN-Agandaur2.png|thumb|200px|[[Agandaûr]], the game's main antagonist.]]In [[Rivendell]] the fellowship meets several members of the [[Council of Elrond]],<ref name="sourceF"/> scout the land around Rivendell<ref name="sourceG">[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/ Atomic Maximum Power Computing], [http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/Feature/242441,lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-dev-interview.aspx/1 Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview], dated [[22 December]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> and fight [[Orcs]] with [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]].


===Chapter 4: Gundabad===
===Chapter 4: Gundabad===


Whilst the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] travels towards [[Mordor]] to destroy [[the One Ring]], [[Sauron]] has sent one of his most cruel servants, the [[Black Númenóreans|Black Númenórean]] [[Agandaûr]], to the North to destroy [[Rivendell]] and defeat the [[Free peoples]] of [[Eriador]] and [[Rhovanion (region)|Rhovanion]]. Eradan, Andriel and Farin travel to [[Gundabad]] to discover the strength of Agandaûr's army.<ref name="Gundabadtrailer">[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/media/videos The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Media, Videos, Gameplay Video: Mount Gundabad, dated [[5 May]], [[2011]] (acessed at [[20 June]], [[2011]])</ref>
Whilst the [[Fellowship of the Ring]] travels towards [[Mordor]] to destroy [[the One Ring]], [[Sauron]] has sent one of his most cruel servants, the [[Black Númenóreans|Black Númenórean]] [[Agandaûr]], to the North to destroy [[Rivendell]] and defeat the [[Free peoples]] of [[Eriador]] and [[Rhovanion]]. Eradan, Andriel and Farin travel to [[Gundabad]] to discover the strength of Agandaûr's army.<ref name="Gundabadtrailer">[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/media/videos The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Media, Videos, Gameplay Video: Mount Gundabad, dated [[5 May]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[20 June]], [[2011]])</ref>


===Chapter 5: Mirkwood===
===Chapter 5: Mirkwood===


Eradan, Andriel and Farin travel with Belarum to [[Mirkwood]] in search of [[Radagast]]. In the air they’re attacked by [[Wolfram]], a sorcerer and a [[Fell Beast]] rider, after which they fall from the Eagle’s back. They defeat Wolfram, after his death Wolfram’s Fell Beast tries to escape but is killed by Belarum. Andriel leads the others deeper into Mirkwood. They are ambushed by a group of Orcs and an Orc shaman. Eventually the fellowship enter a cave where they defeat a [[Cave-trolls|Cave-troll]].<ref name="sourceJ">[http://www.middleearthcenter.com/ Middle-earth Center], [http://www.middleearthcenter.com/2010/09/war-in-the-north-gameplay-demo-at-pax/ War in the North Gameplay Trailer at PAX], dated [[6 September]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref>
Eradan, Andriel and Farin travel with Beleram to [[Mirkwood]] in search of [[Radagast]]. In the air they’re attacked by [[Wolfram]], a sorcerer and a [[Fell Beast]] rider, after which they fall from the Eagle’s back. They defeat Wolfram, after his death Wolfram’s Fell Beast tries to escape but is killed by Beleram. Andriel leads the others deeper into Mirkwood. They are ambushed by a group of Orcs and an Orc shaman. Eventually the fellowship enter a cave where they defeat a [[Cave-trolls|Cave-troll]].<ref name="sourceJ">[http://www.middleearthcenter.com/ Middle-earth Center], [http://www.middleearthcenter.com/2010/09/war-in-the-north-gameplay-demo-at-pax/ War in the North Gameplay Trailer at PAX], dated [[6 September]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref>


==Gameplay==
==Gameplay==
{{blockquote|Developed in association with Middle-earth Enterprises, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North explores both original and familiar narrative elements as Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment holds the rights to develop video games based on both the literary and motion picture content from The Lord of the Rings. Breaking new ground as a mature RPG video game set in Middle-earth, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North advances the RPG paradigm through innovative online, interdependent co-op play for up to three players who form their own Fellowship to fight Sauron’s forces in the North.<br/><br/>In The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, players can become the heroes in the great battle of the North as part of the epic War of the Ring. Exploring unseen lands, story elements and characters from Middle-earth as well as elements familiar from past feature films, gamers will experience extensive character customization and development, expansive co-op gameplay options and upgradeable weapons, skills and special abilities.|[[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]], product announcement<ref name="Product Announcement">[http://www.warinthenorth.com War in the North], "[http://www.warinthenorth.com/forums/showthread.php?7-Product-Announcement Product Announcement]", dated [[17 March|March 17]], [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref>}}
{{blockquote|Developed in association with Middle-earth Enterprises, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North explores both original and familiar narrative elements as Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment holds the rights to develop video games based on both the literary and motion picture content from The Lord of the Rings. Breaking new ground as a mature RPG video game set in Middle-earth, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North advances the RPG paradigm through innovative online, interdependent co-op play for up to three players who form their own Fellowship to fight Sauron’s forces in the North.<br/><br/>In The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, players can become the heroes in the great battle of the North as part of the epic War of the Ring. Exploring unseen lands, story elements and characters from Middle-earth as well as elements familiar from past feature films, gamers will experience extensive character customization and development, expansive co-op gameplay options and upgradeable weapons, skills and special abilities.|[[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]], product announcement<ref name="Product Announcement">[http://www.warinthenorth.com War in the North], "[http://www.warinthenorth.com/forums/showthread.php?7-Product-Announcement Product Announcement]", dated [[17 March|March 17]], [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref>}}


Commentators have noted that this is the first iteration of ''The Lord of the Rings''-based games which is aimed at an older audience - predicted to be the first game in the series to be given and M-rating - with the inclusion of graphic violence and gory bloody detail<ref name="Kotaku Throats">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5563563/lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-norths-e3-trailer Lord Of The Rings: War In The North Is Cutting Throats, Taking Names], dated [[14 June|June 14]], [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref> with players being able decapitate orcs and slash limbs off enemies.<ref name="Kotaku Blood">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5622861/there-will-be-orc-blood-in-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north There Will Be Orc Blood In Lord of the Rings: War in the North]", dated [[27 August|August 27]], [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref> When defeating enemies you can gain experience and loot. With experience you can gain new skills, there are twenty skills for each race.<ref name="sourceE"/> Every skill has five different ranks. Loot can also be found in chests. Some items can only be used by a certain race, therefore it is possible to trade with the other characters of your fellowship.<ref name="sourceH"/> The gameplay - in both single and multiplayer modes - revolves around strategically combining the different abilities of the threesome to good effect, for instance the dwarf can find treasure and spot weaknesses in structures, which lead to alternate roads,<ref name="sourceJ"/> whereas the man can find herbs to heal other party members. When in single-player, the other two characters will be controlled by computer AI.<ref name="Kotaku Party"/> Working together with the other characters of your fellowship is very important to defeat stronger enemies.  
Commentators have noted that this is the first iteration of ''The Lord of the Rings''-based games which is aimed at an older audience - predicted to be the first game in the series to be given an M-rating - with the inclusion of graphic violence and gory bloody detail<ref name="Kotaku Throats">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5563563/lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-norths-e3-trailer Lord Of The Rings: War In The North Is Cutting Throats, Taking Names], dated [[14 June|June 14]], [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref> with players being able to decapitate orcs and slash limbs off enemies.<ref name="Kotaku Blood">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5622861/there-will-be-orc-blood-in-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north There Will Be Orc Blood In Lord of the Rings: War in the North]", dated [[27 August|August 27]], [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref> When defeating enemies you can gain experience and loot. With experience you can gain new skills; there are twenty skills for each race.<ref name="sourceE"/> Every skill has five different ranks. Loot can also be found in chests. Some items can only be used by a certain race, therefore it is possible to trade with the other characters of your fellowship.<ref name="sourceH"/> The gameplay - in both single and multiplayer modes - revolves around strategically combining the different abilities of the threesome to good effect, for instance the dwarf can find treasure and spot weaknesses in structures, which lead to alternate roads,<ref name="sourceJ"/> whereas the elf can find herbs to heal other party members. When in single-player, the other two characters will be controlled by computer AI.<ref name="Kotaku Party"/> Working together with the other characters of your fellowship is very important to defeat stronger enemies.  


[[File:WITN-Fellowship in the Prancing Ponny.png|thumb|200px|[[Aragorn]], [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] at [[the Prancing Pony]].]] It is possible to co-up (cooperatieve mode) both local and online,<ref name="sourceE"/> players can join the game on every moment.<ref name="sourceH">[http://www.youtube.com/user/The1neRing The One Ring], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tk1OIy6Z8Ak&feature=related Lord of the Rings: War in the North Dev Interview at PAX], dated [[1 December]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> While the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 support split-screen, online split-screen and online multiplayer, the PC only includes online multiplayer.<ref name="sourceK">[http://asia.gamespot.com/?tag=header%3Blogo Gamespot Asia], [http://asia.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north/news.html?sid=6296919&mode=previews The Lord of the Rings: War in the North Q&A], dated [[31 January]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[6 July]], [[2011]])</ref>  
[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Aragorn, Eradan, Andriel and Farin in the Prancing Pony.png|thumb|200px|[[Aragorn]], [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] at [[the Prancing Pony]].]] It is possible to co-op (cooperative mode) both local and online;<ref name="sourceE"/> players can join the game at every moment.<ref name="sourceH">[http://www.youtube.com/user/The1neRing The One Ring], [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tk1OIy6Z8Ak&feature=related Lord of the Rings: War in the North Dev Interview at PAX], dated [[1 December]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> While the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 support split-screen, online split-screen and online multiplayer, the PC only includes online multiplayer.<ref name="sourceK">[http://asia.gamespot.com/?tag=header%3Blogo Gamespot Asia], [http://asia.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north/news.html?sid=6296919&mode=previews The Lord of the Rings: War in the North Q&A], dated [[31 January]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[6 July]], [[2011]])</ref>  


The game will not be open world, nevertheless some areas will be more open then others.<ref name="sourceB">[http://www.youtube.com/user/gamereactorTV Game Reactor TV], [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfDfuN-8Bjo&feature=related Interview with Ian Scott], dated [[16 October]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> It is still unknown if it is possible to return to earlier locations. There will be severel NPC's (Non-playable characters) in the game, some of them will have a more passive role while others fight beside you.<ref name="sourceG"/> Like many RPG's the dialogue system is very important, and effects the game's storyline.<ref name="sourceE"/>
The game will not be open world, nevertheless some areas will be more open than others.<ref name="sourceB">[http://www.youtube.com/user/gamereactorTV Game Reactor TV], [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfDfuN-8Bjo&feature=related Interview with Ian Scott], dated [[16 October]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> It is still unknown if it is possible to return to earlier locations. There will be several NPC's (Non-playable characters) in the game, some of them will have a more passive role while others fight beside you.<ref name="sourceG"/> Like many RPG's the dialogue system is very important, and affects the game's storyline.<ref name="sourceE"/>


If you are in need of help you can call the eagle Belarum, who can help you to defeat bigger or stronger enemies. Calling him is limited in the begin, but while leveling you can find items which make it possible to call him. It is impossible to call Belarum underground or in building and there is a cool down for using him.<ref name="sourceD">[http://www.gamespot.com/?tag=header%3Blogo Gamespot], [http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north/video/6315977/the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north--ruth-tomandl-interview The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Ruth Tomandl Interview (PlayStation 3)], dated [[1 June]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref>
If you are in need of help you can call the eagle Beleram, who can help you to defeat bigger or stronger enemies. Calling him is limited in the beginning, but while leveling you can find items which make it possible to call him. It is impossible to call Beleram underground or in buildings and there is a cool down for using him.<ref name="sourceD">[http://www.gamespot.com/?tag=header%3Blogo Gamespot], [http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north/video/6315977/the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north--ruth-tomandl-interview The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Ruth Tomandl Interview (PlayStation 3)], dated [[1 June]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref>


==Featured Characters==
==Featured Characters==
Line 72: Line 74:


[[File:2011-12-23 00017.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]].]]
[[File:2011-12-23 00017.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]].]]
* '''[[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]]:''' Eradan is Dúnedain and one of the Rangers that acompenied Aragorn as the [[Grey Company]]. He is very good in tracking enemies and fights with a sword and a bow. He can move undetected behind enemies with his skill ''evasion''.<ref name="sourceK"/>
* '''[[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]]:''' Eradan is a Dúnadan and one of the Rangers that accompanied Aragorn as the [[Grey Company]]. He is very good in tracking enemies and fights with a sword and a bow. He can move undetected behind enemies with his skill ''evasion''.<ref name="sourceK"/>
* '''[[Andriel]]:''' Andriel is an Elf of Rivendell and was sended by [[Elrond]] to investigate [[Sauron]]'s armies that were gathering in Eriador and Rhovanion. One of her abilities can create a shield that protects her and the other characters of the fellowship against ranged attacks. She can use her staff as both a melee and a ranged weapon.<ref name="sourceK"/>
* '''[[Andriel]]:''' Andriel is an Elf of Rivendell and was sent by [[Elrond]] to investigate [[Sauron]]'s armies that were gathering in Eriador and Rhovanion. One of her abilities can create a shield that protects her and the other characters of the fellowship against ranged attacks. She can use her staff as both a melee and a ranged weapon.<ref name="sourceK"/>
* '''[[Farin (video game character)|Farin]]:''' Farin is a dwarf of Erebor that has travelled to Eriador to repay his debt to [[Bilbo Baggins]]. He can be used as a tank and his strenght is in battle enemies in close quarters.<ref name="sourceK"/> His main weapon is an axe, but he uses a cross-bow as his ranged weapon.<ref name="sourceJ"/>
* '''[[Farin (video game character)|Farin]]:''' Farin is a dwarf of Erebor that has traveled to Eriador to repay his debt to [[Bilbo Baggins]]. He can be used as a tank and his strength is in battle enemies in close quarters.<ref name="sourceK"/> His main weapon is an axe, but he uses a cross-bow as his ranged weapon.<ref name="sourceJ"/>


===Non-Playable Characters===
===Non-Playable Characters===
[[File:Gandalf in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|thumb|200px|[[Gandalf]] in [[Rivendell]].]]  
[[File:Gandalf in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|thumb|200px|[[Gandalf]] in [[Rivendell]].]]  
*[[Aragorn]]<ref name="Dev Interview">[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au Atomic MPC], "[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/Feature/242441,lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-dev-interview.aspx/2 Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, page 2]", dated [[22 December|December 22]] [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Aragorn]]<ref name="Dev Interview">[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au Atomic MPC], "[http://www.atomicmpc.com.au/Feature/242441,lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-dev-interview.aspx/2 Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, page 2]", dated [[22 December|December 22]] [[2010]] (accessed [[5 February|February 5]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Belarum]]
*[[Beleram]]
*[[Elrond]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Elrond]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Halbarad]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Halbarad]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Radagast]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Radagast]]<ref name="Dev Interview"/>
*[[Gandalf]]<ref name="sourceC"/>
*[[Gandalf]]
*[[Barliman Butterbur]]
*[[Barliman Butterbur]]
*[[Witch-king]]
*[[Witch-king]]
Line 91: Line 93:
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|- bgcolor="#CCCCCC"
|- bgcolor="#CCCCCC"
! Role !! Actor
! Actor !! Role
|-
|-
| [[Ike Amadi]] ||
| Ike Amadi ||
|-
|-
| [[Laura Bailey]] || [[Andriel]]<ref>{{webcite|author=Laura Bailey|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=172161796208263&id=108182695882093|articlename=Untitled|dated=2 November, 2011|website=www.facebook.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
| [[Laura Bailey]] || [[Andriel]]<ref>{{webcite|author=Laura Bailey|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=172161796208263&id=108182695882093|articlename=Untitled|dated=2 November, 2011|website=www.facebook.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
Line 99: Line 101:
| [[Steven Jay Blum|Steve Blum]] ||
| [[Steven Jay Blum|Steve Blum]] ||
|-
|-
| [[John Cygan]] ||
| John Cygan ||
|-
|-
| [[Christine Dunford]] ||
| Christine Dunford ||
|-
|-
| [[Chris Edgerly]] ||
| [[Chris Edgerly]] || [[Aragorn]]
|-
|-
| [[Crispin Freeman]] ||
| [[Crispin Freeman]] || [[Legolas]]
|-
|-
| [[Grant Goodeve]] ||
| Grant Goodeve ||
|-
|-
| [[Richard Horvitz]] ||
| [[Richard Horvitz]] || [[Adalgar Oldbank]]
|-
|-
| [[Kim Mai Guest]] ||
| [[Kim Mai Guest]] ||
|-
|-
| [[Jennifer Hale]] ||
| [[Jennifer Hale]] ||[[Idona Bellflower]]
|-
|-
| [[Peter Jessop]] ||
| Peter Jessop ||
|-
|-
| [[Bob Joles]] ||
| [[Bob Joles]] || [[Gimli]]
|-
|-
| [[Tom Kane]] || [[Gandalf]]<ref name="voices"/>
| [[Tom Kane]] || [[Gandalf]]<ref name="voices"/>
|-
|-
| [[Eric Lopez]] ||
| Eric Lopez ||
|-
|-
| [[Yuri Lowenthal]] || [[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name="voices"/>
| [[Yuri Lowenthal]] || [[Frodo Baggins]]/[[Glorhirin]]<ref name="voices"/>
|-
|-
| [[John Patrick Lowrie]] || [[Belarum]]/[[Galar]]<ref>{{webcite|author=John Patrick Lowrie|articleurl=http://johnpatricklowrie.com/about.html|articlename=About John|website=johnpatricklowrie.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
| John Patrick Lowrie || [[Beleram]]/[[Galar]]<ref>{{webcite|author=John Patrick Lowrie|articleurl=http://johnpatricklowrie.com/about.html|articlename=About John|website=johnpatricklowrie.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
|-
|-
| [[Mike Madeoy]] ||
| Mike Madeoy ||
|-
|-
| [[Jim Meskimen]] ||
| [[Jim Meskimen]] ||
|-
|-
| [[Oliver Muirhead]] ||
| [[Oliver Muirhead]] || [[Otto Aster]]/[[Luin]]
|-
|-
| [[Nolan North]] || [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]]<ref name="voices">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/news/35-game-info/644-qaa-the-voices-of-war-in-the-north|articlename=Q&A: The Voices of War in the North|dated=20 July, 2011|website=www.warinthenorth.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
| [[Nolan North]] || [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]]/[[Nordri]]<ref name="voices">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/news/35-game-info/644-qaa-the-voices-of-war-in-the-north|articlename=Q&A: The Voices of War in the North|dated=20 July, 2011|website=www.warinthenorth.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
|-
|-
| [[Liam O'Brien]] || [[Elladan]] & [[Elrohir]]<ref>{{webcite|author=Alexa Ray Corriea|articleurl=http://www.dualshockers.com/2011/12/01/naruto-catherine-voice-actor-liam-obrien-talks-vo-direction-script-adaptation/|articlename=Naruto, Catherine Voice Actor Liam O’Brien Talks VO, Direction, Script Adaptation|dated=11 December, 2011|website=www.dualshockers.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
| [[Liam O'Brien]] || [[Elladan]] & [[Elrohir]]<ref>{{webcite|author=Alexa Ray Corriea|articleurl=http://www.dualshockers.com/2011/12/01/naruto-catherine-voice-actor-liam-obrien-talks-vo-direction-script-adaptation/|articlename=Naruto, Catherine Voice Actor Liam O’Brien Talks VO, Direction, Script Adaptation|dated=11 December, 2011|website=www.dualshockers.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
|-
|-
| [[John Olson]] ||
| John Olson ||
|-
|-
| [[Jim Piddock]] ||
| [[Jim Piddock]] || [[Bilbo Baggins]]/[[Elrond]]
|-
|-
| [[Phil Proctor]] ||
| [[Phil Proctor]] || [[Radagast]]
|-
|-
| [[Keith Szarabajka]] ||
| Keith Szarabajka ||
|-
|-
| [[Fred Tatasciore]] ||
| [[Fred Tatasciore]] || [[Agandaur]]
|-
|-
| [[Courtenay Taylor]] || [[Arwen]]<ref>{{webcite|author=Courtenay Taylor|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=246668622060131&id=165300733615|articlename=It's good to be a half-elf|dated=23 November 2011|website=www.facebook.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
| [[Courtenay Taylor]] || [[Arwen]]<ref>{{webcite|author=Courtenay Taylor|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=246668622060131&id=165300733615|articlename=It's good to be a half-elf|dated=23 November 2011|website=www.facebook.com|accessed=February 14, 2012}}</ref>
|-
|-
| [[Jen Taylor]] ||
| Jen Taylor ||
|-
|-
| [[Paula Tiso]] ||
| Paula Tiso ||
|}
|}


Line 157: Line 159:
[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Concept Art of Rivendell.png|thumb|200px|Concept art of [[Rivendell]].]]
[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Concept Art of Rivendell.png|thumb|200px|Concept art of [[Rivendell]].]]
*[[Ettenmoors]]<ref name="Kotaku Blood"/>
*[[Ettenmoors]]<ref name="Kotaku Blood"/>
*[[Mirkwood]]<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/the-game/locations The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Locations (accesed at [[6 February]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Mirkwood]]<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/the-game/locations The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Locations (accessed at [[6 February]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Rivendell]]<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/media/videos The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Media, Videos, The Black Númenórean, dated [[1 February]], [[2011]] (accesed at [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Rivendell]]<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/media/videos The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Media, Videos, The Black Númenórean, dated [[1 February]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Carn Dûm]]<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/media/videos The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Offical Site], Media, Videos, Behind the Scenes: The Untold Story, dated [[17 February]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[20 June]], [[2011]]</ref>
*[[Carn Dûm]]<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/media/videos The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site], Media, Videos, Behind the Scenes: The Untold Story, dated [[17 February]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[20 June]], [[2011]]</ref>
*[[Sarn Ford]]<ref>[http://www.gamefront.com/ Gamefront], [http://www.gamefront.com/gdc-11-war-in-the-north-hands-on/ GDC 11 – War in the North Hands-on], dated [[10 March]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[23 June]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Sarn Ford]]<ref>[http://www.gamefront.com/ Gamefront], [http://www.gamefront.com/gdc-11-war-in-the-north-hands-on/ GDC 11 – War in the North Hands-on], dated [[10 March]], [[2011]] (accessed at [[23 June]], [[2011]])</ref>
*[[Gundabad]]<ref name="Gundabadtrailer"/>
*[[Gundabad]]<ref name="Gundabadtrailer"/>
Line 167: Line 169:
*[[Nordinbad]]
*[[Nordinbad]]
*[[Osgiliath]]
*[[Osgiliath]]
*[[Lórien]]
*[[Lothlórien|Lórien]]


[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Concept Art of Osgiliath.png|thumb|150px|Concept art of [[Osgiliath]].]]
[[File:The Lord of the Rings War in the North - Concept Art of Osgiliath.png|thumb|150px|Concept art of [[Osgiliath]].]]
Line 173: Line 175:
==Development==
==Development==


Development on War in the North started at early [[2010]] or late [[2009]], [[Middle-earth Enterprises|Saul Zaentz Company]] claimed the name ''The Lord of the Rings: War in the North'' in [[June]] 2009.<ref>[http://www.cinemablend.com/games/ Cinema Blend], [http://www.cinemablend.com/games/Lord-Of-The-Rings-War-In-The-North-Revealed-18358.html Lord Of The Rings: War In The North Revealed], dated [[28 June]], [[2009]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> Though, the game wasn't officially announced untill [[18 March]] 2011.<ref>[http://www.cinemablend.com/games/ Cinema Blend], [http://www.cinemablend.com/games/Lord-of-the-Rings-War-in-the-North-Announced-For-PS3-Xbox-360-PC-23485.html Lord of the Rings: War in the North Announced For PS3, Xbox 360 and PC], dated [[18 March]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> Since its announcement several [[:Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings: War in the North|images]], [[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North#Traillers|traillers]] and concept art of several locations and characters has been released.
Development on War in the North started at early [[2010]] or late [[2009]], [[Middle-earth Enterprises|Saul Zaentz Company]] claimed the name ''The Lord of the Rings: War in the North'' in [[June]] 2009.<ref>[http://www.cinemablend.com/games/ Cinema Blend], [http://www.cinemablend.com/games/Lord-Of-The-Rings-War-In-The-North-Revealed-18358.html Lord Of The Rings: War In The North Revealed], dated [[28 June]], [[2009]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> Though, the game wasn't officially announced until [[18 March]] 2011.<ref>[http://www.cinemablend.com/games/ Cinema Blend], [http://www.cinemablend.com/games/Lord-of-the-Rings-War-in-the-North-Announced-For-PS3-Xbox-360-PC-23485.html Lord of the Rings: War in the North Announced For PS3, Xbox 360 and PC], dated [[18 March]], [[2010]] (accessed at [[7 July]], [[2011]])</ref> Since its announcement several [[:Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings: War in the North|images]], [[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North#Traillers|traillers]] and concept art of several locations and characters has been released.


== Trailers ==
== Trailers ==
<center>{{#ev:youtubehd|2YTAhYUzMz4|600}}</center>
<center>{{#ev:youtubehd|_gP-_r27n9Y|600}}</center>


Since the first announcement in March 2010, Warner Bros. have periodically released trailers demonstrating various aspects of the gameplay and revealing the characters and locations. All video links are to [[wikipedia:YouTube|YouTube]], and times are in minutes:
Since the first announcement in March 2010, Warner Bros. have periodically released trailers demonstrating various aspects of the gameplay and revealing the characters and locations. All video links are to [[wikipedia:YouTube|YouTube]], and times are in minutes:
Line 216: Line 218:
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YTAhYUzMz4 Heroes will Rise]</td><td>1:36</td><td>1 June 2011</td><td>Teaser trailer</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YTAhYUzMz4 Heroes will Rise]</td><td>1:36</td><td>1 June 2011</td><td>Teaser trailer</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d117As-YYU8 Belarum Gameplay Trailer]</td><td>0:48</td><td>22 June 2011</td><td>Exploration of [[Belarum]], one of the games’ main characters</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d117As-YYU8 Beleram Gameplay Trailer]</td><td>0:48</td><td>22 June 2011</td><td>Exploration of [[Beleram]], one of the games’ main characters</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksRj9JUoEmc&feature=player_embedded Behind the Scenes with new heroes]</td><td>2:14</td><td>24 June 2011</td><td>Coverage of some of the several characters</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksRj9JUoEmc Behind the Scenes with new heroes]</td><td>2:14</td><td>24 June 2011</td><td>Coverage of some of the several characters</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QKeawNFowM&feature=player_embedded E3 Walkthrough]</td><td>2:34</td><td>1 July 2011</td><td>Walkthrough of the game at [[wikipedia:Electronic Entertainment Expo|Electronic Entertainment Expo]] (E3)</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QKeawNFowM E3 Walkthrough]</td><td>2:34</td><td>1 July 2011</td><td>Walkthrough of the game at [[wikipedia:Electronic Entertainment Expo|Electronic Entertainment Expo]] (E3)</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYbdkAIpE1s&feature=player_embedded The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Movie Touchpoints Trailer]</td><td>2:04</td><td>7 July 2011</td><td>Game trailers; uses fragments from [[The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYbdkAIpE1s The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Movie Touchpoints Trailer]</td><td>2:04</td><td>7 July 2011</td><td>Game trailers; uses fragments from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCQ_yFKD0Vg&feature=player_embedded The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Fellowship Trailer]</td><td>2:00</td><td>20 July 2011</td><td>Teaser trailer</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCQ_yFKD0Vg The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Fellowship Trailer]</td><td>2:00</td><td>20 July 2011</td><td>Teaser trailer</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/champions/ The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Champions Trailer]</td><td></td><td>August 2011</td><td>Interactive trailer</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/champions/ The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Champions Trailer]</td><td></td><td>August 2011</td><td>Interactive trailer</td></tr>


<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SA3XbulIiEg I Love The Lord of the Rings: Dev Video with Jason Olander]</td><td>2:34</td><td>8 September 2011</td><td>A dev video with Jason Olander, who tells about his love for [[The Lord of the Rings]] and how it applies at his work</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SA3XbulIiEg I Love The Lord of the Rings: Dev Video with Jason Olander]</td><td>2:34</td><td>8 September 2011</td><td>A dev video with Jason Olander, who tells about his love for [[The Lord of the Rings]] and how it applies at his work</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2hcwd_CbRI Power of Three]</td><td>1:35</td><td>23 September 2011</td><td>Cinematic trailer focussing on the main characters: [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrUlKRvzWrs Behind the Scenes - Power of Three]</td><td>2:34</td><td>29 September 2011</td><td>Focusses on the three main characters, [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]]. Also covers co-up and introduces Challenge mode for the first time</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JipmtK2bD0E Eradan Character Vignete]</td><td>1:48</td><td>18 October</td><td>Trailer totally dedicated to [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], the [[Dúnedain|Dúnadan]]/[[Men|Human]] character</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eL-IHf4wB3w Farin Character Vignete]</td><td>1:48</td><td>21 October 2011</td><td>Trailer totally dedicated to [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]], the [[Dwarves|Dwarf]] character</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mBBXe5vuxo Andriel Character Vignete]</td><td>1:48</td><td>21 October 2011</td><td>Trailer totally dedicated to [[Andriel]], the [[Elves|Elf]] character</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gP-_r27n9Y Fight Together or Die Alone! The Lord of the Rings: War in the North Official Launch Trailer]</td><td>1:12</td><td>28 October 2012</td><td>Final teaser trailer, featuring many characters and locations of the game</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYnVnQ9OAig LOTR WITN - G4 Exclusive - Slay the Orcs]</td><td>2:55</td><td>3 November 2011</td><td>Review of ''[[wikipedia:X-Play|X-play]]'', includes interviews with actors of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings films]]</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6fBComKGsw WITN - Love of Middle-earth]</td><td>5:13</td><td>4 November 2011</td><td>Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, ''The Lord of the Rings'' and Middle-earth</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BjJSm3WwpY WITN - Slay the Orcs]</td><td>5:12</td><td>4 November 2011</td><td>Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, ''The Lord of the Rings'' and Middle-earth</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa3b3wyLJD0 WITN - The Legend of the Rings]</td><td>5:27</td><td>4 November 2011</td><td>Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, ''The Lord of the Rings'' and Middle-earth</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQ2ziyUPXfg The New Fellowship]</td><td>5:29</td><td>4 November 2011</td><td>Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, ''The Lord of the Rings'' and Middle-earth</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VojHFM5qAwc Combat Tactics: Dodging Tharzog - The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]</td><td>1:18</td><td>29 November 2011</td><td>Video expaining how to use "Dodging" to defeat [[Tharzog]] in Chapter 1: Fornost</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duZa_cG9EsM Combat Tactics: Siege of Nordinbad - The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]</td><td>1:21</td><td>8 December 2011</td><td>Video expaining how to defend the gate in ''Siege of Nordinbad''</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ya9ccKBK-R8 Combat Tactics -- Sanctuary at Barrow-downs]</td><td>1:50</td><td>19 December 2011</td><td></td>Video expaining how to use Andriel's "Sanctuary" skill to complete Chapter 2: Barrow Downs</td></tr>
<tr><td>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_uUYaGn2Ug Combat Tactics -- Evasion at Mirkwood]</td><td>1:50</td><td>23 January 2012</td><td>Video expaining how to use Eradan's "Evasion" skill to complete Chapter 5: Mirkwood</td></tr>


</table>
</table>
Line 285: Line 317:
Commentators immediately picked up on Snowblind Studios' experience with role-playing games (such as ''[[wikipedia:Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance|Baldur's Gate]]'' and ''[[wikipedia:Champions of Norrath: Realms of EverQuest|Champions of Norrath: Realms of EverQuest]]'') along with frequent mentions of the more "mature" and "brutal"<ref name="CVG E3">[http://www.computerandvideogames.com ComputerAndVideoGames.com], "[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/251028/news/lotr-war-in-the-north-screens/ E3 2010: LOTR: War in the North screens], dated [[14 June|June 14]] [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref> design of the game, and the desire for an action RPG in the manner of previous Snowblind games.<ref name="Kotaku Untold">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5693451/the-untold-story-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north The Untold Story Of The Lord Of The Rings: War In The North]", [[18 November|November 18]], [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref>
Commentators immediately picked up on Snowblind Studios' experience with role-playing games (such as ''[[wikipedia:Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance|Baldur's Gate]]'' and ''[[wikipedia:Champions of Norrath: Realms of EverQuest|Champions of Norrath: Realms of EverQuest]]'') along with frequent mentions of the more "mature" and "brutal"<ref name="CVG E3">[http://www.computerandvideogames.com ComputerAndVideoGames.com], "[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/251028/news/lotr-war-in-the-north-screens/ E3 2010: LOTR: War in the North screens], dated [[14 June|June 14]] [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref> design of the game, and the desire for an action RPG in the manner of previous Snowblind games.<ref name="Kotaku Untold">[http://kotaku.com Kotaku], "[http://kotaku.com/5693451/the-untold-story-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north The Untold Story Of The Lord Of The Rings: War In The North]", [[18 November|November 18]], [[2010]] (accessed [[6 February|February 6]], [[2011]])</ref>


==See Also==
==Further reading==
*Review: Harley J. Sims, "Exploring the blind spots", ''[[Mallorn]]'', vol. [[Mallorn 53|53]] (Spring [[2012]])
 
==See also==
* [[:Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings: War in the North|Images from The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]
* [[:Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings: War in the North|Images from The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]
* ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]'', a [[2010]] game also published by [[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]]
* ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]'', a [[2010]] game also published by [[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]]
* ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'', a [[2006]] game which also took place in the north of [[Middle-earth]]
* ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'', a [[2006]] game which also took place in the north of [[Middle-earth]]
* ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North (Soundtrack)]]'', soundtrack of the game


==External links==
==External links==
*'''[http://www.warinthenorth.com/ Official Website]'''
*'''[http://www.warinthenorth.com/ Official Website]'''
*[http://www.feralinteractive.com/en/mac-games/lotrwitn/ Official site for the Mac OS X version] at [http://www.feralinteractive.com/en/ FeralInteractive.com]
*[http://twitter.com/#!/warinthenorth Official Twitter page]
*[http://twitter.com/#!/warinthenorth Official Twitter page]


{{references}}
{{References|n}}
{{Videogames}}
 
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Lord of the Rings War in the North}}
[[Category:Action games]]
[[Category:Action games]]
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[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3 games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3 games]]
[[Category:Role playing games]]
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings: War in the North|*]]
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings: War in the North|*]]
[[Category:Warner Bros. Interactive games]]
[[Category:Warner Bros. Interactive games]]
[[Category:Xbox 360 games]]
[[Category:Xbox 360 games]]

Revision as of 21:33, 21 January 2015

"...It is a long tale..." — Aragorn
This article or section needs expansion and/or modification. Please help the wiki by expanding it.
WITN-boxart.png
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
Video game
DeveloperSnowblind Studios, Feral Interactive (Mac OS X)[1]
PublisherWarner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Feral Interactive (Mac OS X)[1]
PlatformPlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows and Xbox 360[2]Mac OS X[1]
Release date1 November 2011 (North America),[3]
for other regions, see Release.
GenreAction, role-playing game
ModesSingle player, two/three-player co-operative, online[4]
RatingESRB: M[5]

The Lord of the Rings: War in the North (commonly abbreviated to WITN) is a role-playing video-game developed by Snowblind Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Windows. The game takes place during the War of the Ring but adapts the seldom-mentioned battles that took place across Eriador and Rhovanion. The game was released between 1 November and 25 November 2011.[3]

The Mac OS X version of the game was developed and published by Feral Interactive and released on 18 September 2013.[1]

The game is based on both the books and the films.[6]

Although the game includes familiar locations from Middle-earth it doesn't deal with the core story of The Lord of the Rings, instead choosing to create a tale which didn't happen but could have done.[7] The player controls his own fellowship, a trio of fighters - Eradan, a Dúnadan "Ranger of the North," Andriel, an elven "Loremaster of Rivendell"[note 1] and Farin, a dwarvern "Champion of Erebor" - to get behind enemy lines and have to stop Agandaûr, the game's antagonist, before his plan succeeds.

Plot

Prologue

The game starts with an introduction, narrated by Gandalf. Gandalf tells that heroes like Aragorn, Frodo Baggins and Gandalf are honored much, but that without a few, not well known heroes - Eradan, Andriel and Farin - the north of Middle-earth would have been lost.[8]

The game then switches to Bree, where the three heroes make their way to the Prancing Pony, just a few days before Frodo arrived in Bree. Arrived in the Prancing Pony, they find Aragorn in a corner of the inn. They tell Aragorn that the Nazgûl attacked and defeated the Rangers at Sarn Ford, and a flashback shown in which the Witch-king meets a Black Númenórean, Agandaûr. Eradan, Andriel and Farin overhear their conservation: Agandaûr tells he has summoned an army of Orcs of the Misty Mountains and assembled an army in Fornost, to aid the Nazgûl in the Hunt of the Ring. The Witch-king sends Agandaûr back to Fornost, so he can attack immediately. The flashback ends, and the game returns to the Prancing Pony[8]

Farin asks Aragorn why the Nazgûl attack the Shire, to which he answers that a Hobbit with an important burden is making his way to Bree. And that this "must be protected at all cost". Aragorn sends Eradan, Andriel and Farin to Fornost, where they have to stop Agandaûr's army before it can attack.[8]

Chapter 1: Fornost

Beleram - captured by Orcs and Goblins - in Fornost.

As soon as Eradan, Andriel and Farin enter the ruins of Fornost they are attacked by a band of Orcs and Goblins. After cleaning the main gate, they end up in the pits under Fornost. There they hear an animal screaming. After finding their way out of the pits, they find the source of the noise - a giant Eagle. The three heroes unchain the Eagle and kill it's jailers. The Eagle introduces himself as Beleram, a servant of Gwaihir who gathered news but was taken out of the air by siege engines and sorcerers. Together the Eagle and the three heroes make a plan: while Beleram would attract the enemy's attention, Eradan, Andriel and Farin would make their way up to the battlements to destroy the siege weapons.[9] The plan works out succesful, as all siege weapons as well as two Orc sorcerers are destroyed.[10] The player, furthermore, obtains a scroll with unreadable text.[11]

When reaching the outer wards of Fornost, the players meets again with Beleram. The eagle thanks his rescuers again and tells them that he saw Elladan and Elrohir within the ruins. While searching the two Half-elves, they defeat a giant crossbow, used by Orcs, and are trapped by a Troll. Just shortly after the death of the Troll, the sons of Elrond appear.[12]

Andriel introduces Eradan and Farin to Elladan and Elrohir, and informs them about their task. They collaborate in this task, but instead of just stopping the army to attack they decide to kill Agandaûr. The sons of Elrond guide the player to the citadel. They separate, however, after defeating another giant crossbow. Eventually, they are locked on a bridge between two gates. After surviving an ambush, the sons of Elrond appear again and open the gate.[13] After defeating another more ambushed, they arrive at the gate of the citadel. Which is protected by a magic spell, to stop intruders. While the sons of Elrond undo the magic, the player defends them against an attacking force of Orcs, Goblins and a Troll. As Eradan, Andriel, Farin, Elrohir and Elladan enter the citadel, Beleram remains outside to protect them against reinforcements.[14]

Inside, they overhear a conservation between Agandaûr and Tharzog, chieftain of the Orcs of Mount Gram. Tharzog tells Agandaûr that there are intruders in Fornost, after which Agandaûr angrily commands him to find and kill them immediately. After Agandaûr leaves, the player and the sons of Elrond go onward in the tower. Tharzog, however, notices them and as a gate is closed, the player is cut off from the sons of Elrond. Tharzog and his guard attack Eradan, Andriel and Farin, but the latter manage to kill him.[15]

At the same time, Elladan and Elrohir fight Agandaûr on the top of the Citadel tower. Agandaûr is no match for the twins alone, but when Eradan, Andriel and Farin join them he flees on the back of a Fell beast. Beleram attempt to chase him, but Agandaûr summons a thunderstorm and escapes.[15]

Beleram returns to Gwaihir, in the Misty Mountains, to inform him about the events in Fornost, Elladan and Elrohir return to Rivendell and Eradan, Andriel and Farin go back to Sarn's Ford to inform Halbarad.[15]

Chapter 2: The Barrow Downs

The leader of the camp, Halbarad, sends you to Rivendell, where you've to speak with Aragorn.[16] The fellowship travels through the Barrow Downs, where they have to find two lost rangers.[16]

Chapter 3: Ettenmoors

Agandaûr, the game's main antagonist.

In Rivendell the fellowship meets several members of the Council of Elrond,[16] scout the land around Rivendell[17] and fight Orcs with Elladan and Elrohir.

Chapter 4: Gundabad

Whilst the Fellowship of the Ring travels towards Mordor to destroy the One Ring, Sauron has sent one of his most cruel servants, the Black Númenórean Agandaûr, to the North to destroy Rivendell and defeat the Free peoples of Eriador and Rhovanion. Eradan, Andriel and Farin travel to Gundabad to discover the strength of Agandaûr's army.[18]

Chapter 5: Mirkwood

Eradan, Andriel and Farin travel with Beleram to Mirkwood in search of Radagast. In the air they’re attacked by Wolfram, a sorcerer and a Fell Beast rider, after which they fall from the Eagle’s back. They defeat Wolfram, after his death Wolfram’s Fell Beast tries to escape but is killed by Beleram. Andriel leads the others deeper into Mirkwood. They are ambushed by a group of Orcs and an Orc shaman. Eventually the fellowship enter a cave where they defeat a Cave-troll.[19]

Gameplay

Developed in association with Middle-earth Enterprises, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North explores both original and familiar narrative elements as Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment holds the rights to develop video games based on both the literary and motion picture content from The Lord of the Rings. Breaking new ground as a mature RPG video game set in Middle-earth, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North advances the RPG paradigm through innovative online, interdependent co-op play for up to three players who form their own Fellowship to fight Sauron’s forces in the North.

In The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, players can become the heroes in the great battle of the North as part of the epic War of the Ring. Exploring unseen lands, story elements and characters from Middle-earth as well as elements familiar from past feature films, gamers will experience extensive character customization and development, expansive co-op gameplay options and upgradeable weapons, skills and special abilities.
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, product announcement[4]

Commentators have noted that this is the first iteration of The Lord of the Rings-based games which is aimed at an older audience - predicted to be the first game in the series to be given an M-rating - with the inclusion of graphic violence and gory bloody detail[20] with players being able to decapitate orcs and slash limbs off enemies.[21] When defeating enemies you can gain experience and loot. With experience you can gain new skills; there are twenty skills for each race.[6] Every skill has five different ranks. Loot can also be found in chests. Some items can only be used by a certain race, therefore it is possible to trade with the other characters of your fellowship.[22] The gameplay - in both single and multiplayer modes - revolves around strategically combining the different abilities of the threesome to good effect, for instance the dwarf can find treasure and spot weaknesses in structures, which lead to alternate roads,[19] whereas the elf can find herbs to heal other party members. When in single-player, the other two characters will be controlled by computer AI.[5] Working together with the other characters of your fellowship is very important to defeat stronger enemies.

It is possible to co-op (cooperative mode) both local and online;[6] players can join the game at every moment.[22] While the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 support split-screen, online split-screen and online multiplayer, the PC only includes online multiplayer.[23]

The game will not be open world, nevertheless some areas will be more open than others.[24] It is still unknown if it is possible to return to earlier locations. There will be several NPC's (Non-playable characters) in the game, some of them will have a more passive role while others fight beside you.[17] Like many RPG's the dialogue system is very important, and affects the game's storyline.[6]

If you are in need of help you can call the eagle Beleram, who can help you to defeat bigger or stronger enemies. Calling him is limited in the beginning, but while leveling you can find items which make it possible to call him. It is impossible to call Beleram underground or in buildings and there is a cool down for using him.[25]

Featured Characters

Playable Characters

  • Eradan: Eradan is a Dúnadan and one of the Rangers that accompanied Aragorn as the Grey Company. He is very good in tracking enemies and fights with a sword and a bow. He can move undetected behind enemies with his skill evasion.[23]
  • Andriel: Andriel is an Elf of Rivendell and was sent by Elrond to investigate Sauron's armies that were gathering in Eriador and Rhovanion. One of her abilities can create a shield that protects her and the other characters of the fellowship against ranged attacks. She can use her staff as both a melee and a ranged weapon.[23]
  • Farin: Farin is a dwarf of Erebor that has traveled to Eriador to repay his debt to Bilbo Baggins. He can be used as a tank and his strength is in battle enemies in close quarters.[23] His main weapon is an axe, but he uses a cross-bow as his ranged weapon.[19]

Non-Playable Characters

Cast

Actor Role
Ike Amadi
Laura Bailey Andriel[27]
Steve Blum
John Cygan
Christine Dunford
Chris Edgerly Aragorn
Crispin Freeman Legolas
Grant Goodeve
Richard Horvitz Adalgar Oldbank
Kim Mai Guest
Jennifer Hale Idona Bellflower
Peter Jessop
Bob Joles Gimli
Tom Kane Gandalf[28]
Eric Lopez
Yuri Lowenthal Frodo Baggins/Glorhirin[28]
John Patrick Lowrie Beleram/Galar[29]
Mike Madeoy
Jim Meskimen
Oliver Muirhead Otto Aster/Luin
Nolan North Eradan/Nordri[28]
Liam O'Brien Elladan & Elrohir[30]
John Olson
Jim Piddock Bilbo Baggins/Elrond
Phil Proctor Radagast
Keith Szarabajka
Fred Tatasciore Agandaur
Courtenay Taylor Arwen[31]
Jen Taylor
Paula Tiso

Featured Locations

Concept art of Rivendell.
Concept art of Osgiliath.

Development

Development on War in the North started at early 2010 or late 2009, Saul Zaentz Company claimed the name The Lord of the Rings: War in the North in June 2009.[38] Though, the game wasn't officially announced until 18 March 2011.[39] Since its announcement several images, traillers and concept art of several locations and characters has been released.

Trailers

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Since the first announcement in March 2010, Warner Bros. have periodically released trailers demonstrating various aspects of the gameplay and revealing the characters and locations. All video links are to YouTube, and times are in minutes:

Video expaining how to use Andriel's "Sanctuary" skill to complete Chapter 2: Barrow Downs
VideoLengthRelease DateDescription
Unite Your Fellowship1:0317 March 2010Teaser trailer; short clips of action and trolls
E3 2010 Trailer1:0310 June 2010
Extended Fellowship Trailer1:3412 August 2010Expanded version of teaser trailer
War in the North @ PAX 20101:22c. September 2010Coverage of Penny Arcade Expo 2010 exhibit
Untold Story1:2217 November 2010Outline of plot with various shots of locations
Snowblind Tolkien Toast 20111:223 January 2011No gameplay; Snowblind's birthday toast
The Black Númenórean1:591 February 2011Exploration of Agandaûr, the game's antagonist
Behind the Scenes: The Untold Story2:3817 February 2011Outline of the several locations of the game
Brutal Combat Trailer1:359 March 2011Coverage of The War in the North's combat gameplay
Pax East Hands-On0:5216 March 2011Coverage of Penny Arcade Expo 2011 exhibit
Blood and Steel: The Combat of War in the North2:3331 March 2011Exploration of game's combat and Middle-earth's darker side
Combat Vignette0:4413 April 2011Gameplay vignette covering the different combat styles
Gameplay Video: Mount Gundabad2:285 May 2011Exploration of the gameplay in Gundabad
Snowblind Studio Tour2:4211 May 2011No gameplay; A guide through Snowblind's studio
Dev Video: Art Direction Process2:0911 May 2011Coverage of art, including concept art of several locations
Prepare for War: Weapon Development2:0112 May 2011Coverage of weapons
Heroes will Rise1:361 June 2011Teaser trailer
Beleram Gameplay Trailer0:4822 June 2011Exploration of Beleram, one of the games’ main characters
Behind the Scenes with new heroes2:1424 June 2011Coverage of some of the several characters
E3 Walkthrough2:341 July 2011Walkthrough of the game at Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3)
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Movie Touchpoints Trailer2:047 July 2011Game trailers; uses fragments from The Lord of the Rings (film series)
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Fellowship Trailer2:0020 July 2011Teaser trailer
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Champions TrailerAugust 2011Interactive trailer
I Love The Lord of the Rings: Dev Video with Jason Olander2:348 September 2011A dev video with Jason Olander, who tells about his love for The Lord of the Rings and how it applies at his work
Power of Three1:3523 September 2011Cinematic trailer focussing on the main characters: Eradan, Andriel and Farin
Behind the Scenes - Power of Three2:3429 September 2011Focusses on the three main characters, Eradan, Andriel and Farin. Also covers co-up and introduces Challenge mode for the first time
Eradan Character Vignete1:4818 OctoberTrailer totally dedicated to Eradan, the Dúnadan/Human character
Farin Character Vignete1:4821 October 2011Trailer totally dedicated to Farin, the Dwarf character
Andriel Character Vignete1:4821 October 2011Trailer totally dedicated to Andriel, the Elf character
Fight Together or Die Alone! The Lord of the Rings: War in the North Official Launch Trailer1:1228 October 2012Final teaser trailer, featuring many characters and locations of the game
LOTR WITN - G4 Exclusive - Slay the Orcs2:553 November 2011Review of X-play, includes interviews with actors of The Lord of the Rings films
WITN - Love of Middle-earth5:134 November 2011Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, The Lord of the Rings and Middle-earth
WITN - Slay the Orcs5:124 November 2011Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, The Lord of the Rings and Middle-earth
WITN - The Legend of the Rings5:274 November 2011Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, The Lord of the Rings and Middle-earth
The New Fellowship5:294 November 2011Interviews with actors and scholars about War in the North, The Lord of the Rings and Middle-earth
Combat Tactics: Dodging Tharzog - The Lord of the Rings: War in the North1:1829 November 2011Video expaining how to use "Dodging" to defeat Tharzog in Chapter 1: Fornost
Combat Tactics: Siege of Nordinbad - The Lord of the Rings: War in the North1:218 December 2011Video expaining how to defend the gate in Siege of Nordinbad
Combat Tactics -- Sanctuary at Barrow-downs1:5019 December 2011
Combat Tactics -- Evasion at Mirkwood1:5023 January 2012Video expaining how to use Eradan's "Evasion" skill to complete Chapter 5: Mirkwood

Gallery

Wallpapers and Concept Art of The Lord of the Rings: War in the North.
Concept Art of the Ettenmoors.  
Concept Art of Mirkwood.  
Concept Art of Osgiliath.  
Concept Art of Rivendell.  
Concept Art of Eradan.  
Concept Art of Andriel.  
Concept Art of Farin  
Concept Art of Agandaûr.  
Concept Art of Andriel.  
Wallpaper of Agandaûr.  

Release

The first release date of War in the North was 1 November 2011 in North America and the latest release date will be on 25 November 2011 in the United Kingdom.[3] All release dates are in 2011.

RegionRelease date[3]
North America1 November
Africa4 November
Middle East4 November
Low Countries4 November
Ireland4 November
Southern Europe (except Spain)4 November
Eastern Europe (except Russia)4 November
South America (except Brazil)4 November
Northern Europe8 November
Germany9 November
Russia9 November
France10 November
Spain11 November
Australia and New Zealand16 November
Brazil17 November
United Kingdom25 November
Asia (except Middle East and Russia)Unknown

Collector's Edition

The collector's edition of The Lord of the Rings: War in the North.

Besides the normal version of the game, a collector's edition will be released. This collector's edition will include an artbook, a behind-the-scenes music dvd, a quiver case as well as access to digital gubbins: icons, avatars and themes. Some retailers give extra add-ons. Both the collector's Edition and the special add-ons will be avaible in North-America and Europe; it is still unknown if it will be avaible in other parts of the world.[40]

Reception

It's a very handsome game with well voiced cutscenes, and places the compelling Lord of the Rings realm in the hands of a developer with solid RPG credentials. Fans of both have good reason to look forward to a unique entry in the series.
Kotaku[5]

Commentators immediately picked up on Snowblind Studios' experience with role-playing games (such as Baldur's Gate and Champions of Norrath: Realms of EverQuest) along with frequent mentions of the more "mature" and "brutal"[41] design of the game, and the desire for an action RPG in the manner of previous Snowblind games.[42]

Further reading

  • Review: Harley J. Sims, "Exploring the blind spots", Mallorn, vol. 53 (Spring 2012)

See also

External links

Notes

  1. In early development the human was a mage and the Elf a ranger, but this was changed on a later stage.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Feral Interactive, "Feral Interactive news feed - Lord of the Rings: War in the North game announcement", dated September 18 2013
  2. Gamespot, Interview with Ryan Geithman, dated 10 June, 2010 (accessed 5 July, 2011)
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 War in the North, FAQ, What is the release date of The Lord of the Rings: War in the North for my region? (accessed November 9, 2011)
  4. 4.0 4.1 War in the North, "Product Announcement", dated March 17, 2010 (accessed February 5, 2011)
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 Kotaku, "Lord of the Rings: War in the North Eyes-On Impressions: A Party of Three, dated June 17, 2010 (accessed February 5, 2011)
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 Gamefront, GDC 11 – War in the North Hands-on, dated 10 March, 2011 (accessed at 6 July, 2011)
  7. Atomic MPC, "Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, page 1", dated December 22 2010 (accessed February 5, 2011)
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Prologue
  9. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, Main Gate
  10. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, Battlements
  11. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Cult of the Lidless Eye
  12. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, Outer Wards
  13. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, Inner Wards
  14. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, The Citadel
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Chapter 1: Fornost, Citadel Tower
  16. 16.0 16.1 16.2 Offical Xbox Magazine Online, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, dated 28 April, 2011 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  17. 17.0 17.1 Atomic Maximum Power Computing, Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, dated 22 December, 2011 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  18. 18.0 18.1 The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site, Media, Videos, Gameplay Video: Mount Gundabad, dated 5 May, 2011 (accessed at 20 June, 2011)
  19. 19.0 19.1 19.2 Middle-earth Center, War in the North Gameplay Trailer at PAX, dated 6 September, 2010 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  20. Kotaku, "Lord Of The Rings: War In The North Is Cutting Throats, Taking Names, dated June 14, 2010 (accessed February 6, 2011)
  21. 21.0 21.1 Kotaku, "There Will Be Orc Blood In Lord of the Rings: War in the North", dated August 27, 2010 (accessed February 6, 2011)
  22. 22.0 22.1 The One Ring, Lord of the Rings: War in the North Dev Interview at PAX, dated 1 December, 2010 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  23. 23.0 23.1 23.2 23.3 Gamespot Asia, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North Q&A, dated 31 January, 2011 (accessed at 6 July, 2011)
  24. Game Reactor TV, [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfDfuN-8Bjo&feature=related Interview with Ian Scott], dated 16 October, 2010 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  25. Gamespot, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North - Ruth Tomandl Interview (PlayStation 3), dated 1 June, 2011 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  26. 26.0 26.1 26.2 26.3 26.4 Atomic MPC, "Lord of the Rings: War in the North dev interview, page 2", dated December 22 2010 (accessed February 5, 2011)
  27. Laura Bailey, "Untitled" dated 2 November 2024, www.facebook.com (accessed 14 February 2012)
  28. 28.0 28.1 28.2 "Q&A: The Voices of War in the North" dated 20 July 2024, www.warinthenorth.com (accessed 14 February 2012)
  29. John Patrick Lowrie, "About John", johnpatricklowrie.com (accessed 14 February 2012)
  30. Alexa Ray Corriea, "Naruto, Catherine Voice Actor Liam O’Brien Talks VO, Direction, Script Adaptation" dated 11 December 2024, www.dualshockers.com (accessed 14 February 2012)
  31. Courtenay Taylor, "It's good to be a half-elf" dated 23 November 2011, www.facebook.com (accessed 14 February 2012)
  32. The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site, Locations (accessed at 6 February, 2011)
  33. The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site, Media, Videos, The Black Númenórean, dated 1 February, 2011 (accessed at February 6, 2011)
  34. The Lord of the Rings: War of the North's Official Site, Media, Videos, Behind the Scenes: The Untold Story, dated 17 February, 2011 (accessed at 20 June, 2011
  35. Gamefront, GDC 11 – War in the North Hands-on, dated 10 March, 2011 (accessed at 23 June, 2011)
  36. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North's Official Site, Media, Videos, Dev Video: Art Direction Process, dated 11 May, 2011 (accessed at 20 June, 2011)
  37. 37.0 37.1 The Lord of the Rings: War in the North's Official Site, Media, Videos, Heroes Will Rise, dated 1 June, 2011 (accessed at 20 June, 2011)
  38. Cinema Blend, Lord Of The Rings: War In The North Revealed, dated 28 June, 2009 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  39. Cinema Blend, Lord of the Rings: War in the North Announced For PS3, Xbox 360 and PC, dated 18 March, 2010 (accessed at 7 July, 2011)
  40. The Six Thaxis, War In The North Collector's Edition Revealed, dated 5 July, 2011 (accessed 7 July, 2011)
  41. ComputerAndVideoGames.com, "E3 2010: LOTR: War in the North screens, dated June 14 2010 (accessed February 6, 2011)
  42. Kotaku, "The Untold Story Of The Lord Of The Rings: War In The North", November 18, 2010 (accessed February 6, 2011)
Licensed video games set in Middle-earth
 Melbourne House: The Hobbit (1982) · Lord of the Rings: Game One (1985) · Shadows of Mordor (1988) · War in Middle Earth (1988) · Crack of Doom Software Adventure (1989) · Riders of Rohan (1990)
 Interplay Productions: The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (PC) (1990) · The Lord of the Rings, Vol. II: The Two Towers (1993) · The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (SNES) (1994)
 Vivendi Universal: The Fellowship of the Ring (2002) · The Hobbit (2003) · War of the Ring (2003)
 Electronic Arts: The Two Towers (2002) · The Return of the King (2003) · The Third Age (2004) · The Battle for Middle-earth (2004) · Tactics (2005) · The Battle for Middle-earth II (2006) (The Rise of the Witch-king (2006)) · Conquest (2009) · Heroes of Middle-earth (2023)
 Turbine/Standing Stone Games: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar (2007-) (Mines of Moria (2008) · Siege of Mirkwood (2009) · Rise of Isengard (2011) · Riders of Rohan (2012) · Helm's Deep (2013) · Mordor (2017) · Minas Morgul (2019)) · War of Three Peaks (2020) · Fate of Gundabad (2021) · Before the Shadow (2022)
 Warner Bros: Aragorn's Quest (2010) · War in the North (2011) · Guardians of Middle-earth (2012) · Kingdoms of Middle-earth (2012Armies of The Third Age (2013) · Shadow of Mordor (2014) · Shadow of War (2017) · Rise to War (2021)
 Glu Games: Middle-Earth Defense (2010)
 Traveller's Tales: Lego The Lord of the Rings: The Video Game (2012) · Lego The Hobbit (2014)
 Daedalic Entertainment: The Lord of the Rings: Gollum (2023)
 North Beach Games: The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria (2023)