The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar became a huge hit, drawing both fans of hardcore massively multiplayer online role playing games (MMORPG, for short) and fans of the trilogy. Now it expands with the forthcoming Mines of Moria, which will introduce a new class cap, along with six new books filled with hundreds of quests.
Like Shadows, Mines of Moria introduces a cast of characters familiar to those who are avid readers of the J.R.R. Tolkien books, along with Peter Jackson's stunning film trilogy. You'll run into wizards, hobbits, orcs and other classes as you work your way through Middle-earth, heading for the Mines of Moria, a sacred place for dwarves. These areas are filled with industrial equipment, secrets, dangerous creatures and items pivotal to The Lord of the Rings universe.
Players have three options available when purchasing the game. They can perform a digital download so that the events that occur in Mines of Moria blend seamlessly with the original game. They can also pick up the Complete Edition, which comes packaged alongside Angmar. Probably the most desired choice, however, is the Collector's Edition, which includes the games, a quality custom map of Moria, a gold-plated ring resembling the one Frodo Baggins protects, an official soundtrack, an art book, a Starter's Guide and three exclusive tokens, which you can redeem for eight exclusive in-game items. Choose wisely.
This expansion introduces two classes, the Rune Keeper and the Warden. There's also a new level cap of 60, with a whole new series of traits, virtues, skills and class quests to uncover. Other than that, the gameplay is the same, with online battles and enemy encounters aplenty. You'll also recreate epic moments in the series, such as releasing Durin's Bane and more.
As for the six new books, they tie into the second chapter of The Lord of the Rings Online saga, expanding upon the events from the original. You'll discover new allies and enemies across hundreds of quests, resulting in hours of play both by yourself and with others online. There are underground caverns, tunnels, chambers and mines to explore, filled with dangerous orcs and other enemies. Fortunately, you've got plenty of skill sets and techniques to put them in their place, thanks to the helpful Legendary Item system.
Visually, Mines of Moria will see improvement with a new dual-height map technology, creating large environments that bring the dwarf city to startling life. You'll explore for hours, finding all kinds of goodies and encountering many dangers. The Watcher even pops up at times, so keep an eye open for it.
With Turbine behind the development wheel, Mines of Moria should have no problem becoming a favorite amongst the MMORPG community. Don't be surprised if a few fanatics end up calling it a "precious" addition. Be sure to check back for the review this November.
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