Here’s everything you need to know about Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor

By Adam Rosenberg Published October 2, 2014

Read our full Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor review.

Recommended Videos

Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor arrives on September 30, 2014, and it’s looking every bit as strong as early looks suggested it would be. Thank the game’s dynamic Nemesis System, which fuels the story progression with a changing roster of villains that your own actions can influence.

The story follows Talion, a dead ranger resurrected by the wraith of an elf, Celebrimbor. Both Talion and his savior have some issues with Sauron, the ruler of Mordor and the orc armies that dwell there. Over the course of the game, you explore the deadly land and re-purpose Sauron’s army as the sword edge in your quest for vengeance.

This new video from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and developer Monolith Productions amounts to a primer, offering a top-level rundown of every major feature, system, and key story point in the game. If you’re interested in Shadow of Mordor but haven’t spent a ton of time reading up on it, this video right here will catch you up.

Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor comes to PlayStation, Windows, and Xbox platforms on Tuesday, September 30.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Previously, Adam worked in the games press as a freelance writer and critic for a range of outlets, including Digital Trends…

Gaming

How to fix reputation in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Two groups pointing at each other in Stalker 2.

Unless you played any of the previous games, it might come as a surprise to learn just how many immersive sim elements are in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl. In a lot of ways, it is closer to a more hardcore Fallout game than a pure FPS title, with lots of loot, quests, and characters to meet and talk to. One somewhat hidden mechanic is the reputation system. Stalker 2 won't stop you from opening fire on anyone you want, but not without consequence. Upset someone from a particular group, and you'll find yourself being hunted by them until you do something about it. There are enough things in Stalker 2 trying to kill you so if you accidentally angered a group and want to get back in their good graces, here's how you can fix your reputation.
How to fix your reputation in Stalker 2

If you've intentionally or accidentally shot or hurt a friendly NPC from one of the main groups in Stalker 2, you will instantly be put on their "shoot on sight" list if it lowers your reputation enough. Thankfully, there are ways to get yourself a second or third chance, but only two.

Computing

The 10 best gaming monitors of 2024: tested and reviewed

Alienware ultrawide OLED on a desk.

Editor’s note: Gaming monitors are always hot sellers on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. We're expecting some really great discounts on some of the top models, including high-end OLED gaming monitors, super-fast refresh rate screens, and more budget-oriented fare. There are tons of fantastic monitor deals available now, and they're bound to get even better on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Make sure to check out our other Black Friday deals or Cyber Monday deals for even more bargains on TV, headphones, and more.

A good monitor is essential for gaming due to its significant impact on the overall experience. There are a ton of options if you are on the hunt for one of the best gaming monitors, but for us, Alienware's 34 QD-OLED still takes the cake in 2024. It's not the display for everyone, though, and after reviewing dozens of the top gaming monitors, we've settled on a list of displays that offer great gaming performance for any budget or purpose.

Gaming

20 years later, the Nintendo DS remains one of gaming’s best devices

Nintendo DS on a pink background.

It's a special day. Today, November 21, 2024, marks the 20th anniversary of the Nintendo DS' launch in North America.

It’s hard for me to believe it’s been that long, because Nintendo's dual-screen handheld device defined my childhood more than any other device. While I started my gaming journey on the original Xbox and Game Boy Advance, the Nintendo DS is what truly made me fall in love with video games. It was an innovative piece of technology that drew my attention in ways none of my other childhood toys could. These were formative gaming experiences that I’ll always remember.