First Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor screenshots released

[dropcap]W[/dropcap]arner Brothers have released the very first set of screenshots for the upcoming original video game based on the Lord of the Rings universe.

In November Warner Brothers announced that the game, entitled Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor, will be a third person action-adventure game set in the franchise’s fictional setting Middle-earth and will explore “an original story of vengeance and redemption”. Whilst no release date or expected window release has been announced, it’s confirmed that the game will be available for the PS4, Xbox One, PS3, Xbox 360 and PC.

It is being developed by Monolith Productions – developers of the F.E.A.R and Condemned series – in collaboration with Middle-earth Enterprises. Peter Jackson and artists from Weta Workshop – who worked on the film adaptation of the Academy Award winning Lord of the Rings trilogy – are also lending a helping hand with settings, characters and story.

The synopsis released by Warner Brothers back in November described the game’s story. “Gamers will take on the role of Talion, a valiant ranger whose family is slain in front of him the night Sauron and his army return to Mordor, moments before his own life is taken,” it said.

“Resurrected by a Spirit of vengeance and empowered with Wraith abilities, Talion ventures into Mordor and vows to destroy those who have wrong him. Through the course of his personal vendetta, Talion uncovers the truth of the Spirit that compels him, learns the origins of the Rings of Power and ultimately confronts his true nemesis.” Players will also be able to form enemies through their own actions and decisions enabling them to create their own battles, enemies and rewards.

Today the company released the very first screenshots of the game which show the game’s protagonist Talion fighting trolls, exploring Mordor, showcasing his Wraith capabilities and combat skills.