Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is the balm the world needed after we stared down our fate and found it lacking. The game is being praised around the internet, though rightful criticisms remain.
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One of the things almost nobody is complaining about is the revolutionary new Nemesis system, an AI structure that levels up enemy fighters and creates a sort of personal narrative for you, and only you, to experience. When Talion, the Ranger and main character, encounters an Uruk Hai in the game and, for instance, is killed by said Uruk, that enemy can rise in power throughout the Orcish ranks. The next time you encounter that orc, he'll remember you.
Through the power of Celebrimbor, the Elvish wraith who now possesses Talion, the undead Ranger can also control the orcs. In effect, Talion can create his own army of Orcs under his own command and then take them all to the Black Gate and defeat Sauron.
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"Monolith's goal with the Nemesis System is to push the action genre forward with a unique gameplay mechanic that allows the player to experience Middle-earth in a way that is deeply personal," said Martin Tremblay, President, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. "The team and technology powering the Nemesis System helped us develop an emotional investment between each player and their enemies, which creates a truly memorable gaming experience unlike anything that's been done before."
In keeping with their streak of impressive and dramatic trailers, Monolith has released a new video showcasing the artistic side of the Nemesis system.
Additionally, players can compete in the Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor Test of Challenge Mode to rank on the Challenge Leaderboard. Players can build their legend by taking down an exclusive Legion of Sauron's forces this weekend through the Test of Power Challenge Mode starting today through Sunday, October 5.
Watch the 'Forge Your Nemesis' trailer below!
