The Lord of the Rings Online: Before the Shadow

The Lord of the Rings Online: Before the Shadow is the tenth expansion of an online MMORPG developed since 2007, based on the works of J. R. R. Tolkien. Like the previous expansions, it was developed by an American studio Standing Stone Games.

Plot

Before the Shadow focuses on Uruk warriors wreaking havoc in the land of Swanfleet. Following their footsteps, the player meets Boromir, the Captain of Gondor, accompanying him as he tells the tales of his journeys through Minas Tirith, Rohan and Isengard. Meanwhile, Antheron, the Giver of Gifts grows stronger, creating the One Ring in the depths of Mount Doom.

Mechanics

The tenth DLC introduces two new regions - Swanfleet and Cardolan - and a new experience gain system at levels 1-32. While exploring the vast world of Before the Shadow, players will face Uruks and the Orcs in Caras Gelebren. After meeting Boromir, they'll also visit Shire to investigate Grey Fear.

Players at a higher level can raise the quests' difficulty to acquire more rewards. There are also daily and weekly missions that can be completed for valuable prizes.

Game modes

LOTRO is an MMO, allowing large numbers of people from all around the world to play together. While traversing the world of LOTRO we'll get to interact with other players, gaining allies to face powerful enemies alongside of.

Before the Shadow offers a new type of skirmish, in which level 20-140 characters can face Sauron and Rogmul. The expansion also lets us face the Grey Fear. This battle requires six players of at least level 20.

Technical aspects

The expansion retains the base game's colorful 3D graphics. The expansion was released in a standard edition, Collector's Edition and the Ultimate Fan Bundle, which guarantee additional content and bonuses.