The plot of Lord of the Rings: War in the North is set in the same period as the events described in J. R. R. Tolkien’s books and Peter Jackson’s film trilogy. While the experience in this game overlaps with that of Frodo and the Fellowship, it takes place mostly in various parts of the Middle Earth map. The player’s character and two allies (which can be computer-driven or co-op controlled with two pals) fight Sauron’s “General” and his henchmen in the north to help Frodo’s big quest. The adventure and the main plot from Lord of the Rings intersect at places, and there is undoubtedly a relationship. However, the player does not control any of the original story’s primary characters.
There are three canonical character types to choose from: Eradan (human male), ranger, Andriel (elf female), wizard, and Farin (dwarf male), warrior. At the start of the game, one of the three premade characters is chosen. No character is created, but you can change your appearance using mirrors in specific spots. Also, you can control one of the other two characters at various points instead of continuing as the character you started with. Each character can be a ranged fighter, a melee fighter, or a hybrid of the two.
The events are linear, with the path laid out in front of you with clear goals and quests. It is not an open-world game where you can freely roam and ignore the offered quests. The game is divided into sections, accessed by clicking the place name on the map screen. Many feature central hubs where you can rest, trade, shop, and get new quests.
Fighting creatures is essential to the gameplay. Each location teems with orcs, goblins, spiders, trolls, and other Sauron minions. Melee combat consists of a combination of classic hits and special moves. It is also possible to evade and block (roll). The same rules apply to range fighting. In solo mode, the two companions employ their talents to help in battle and can be directed by the user. Characters can be improved with new powers through the game, and there are frequently talks with many options but no moral consequences. Each character class has unique talents, such as the dwarf’s ability to mine jewels and break barriers.
