Combat
Combat is yet another section of Shadow of War that’s seen some slight improvements, although it’s still mostly the same. Shadow of Mordor’s combat was heavily inspired by the Arkham series, letting you unleash attacks on enemies and time button presses to counter attacks, dodge, and stun enemies. In truth, if you know the Arkham games, you will be immediately familiar with it. You also had the ability to shoot with your bow and could unlock abilities like Shadow Strike, which let you warp to an enemy for a blow.
Shadow of War simply keeps the same combat base and applies improvements to it. Unlike Shadow of Mordor, however, there are action-RPG elements added in. This includes a new equipment system that lets you equip different weapons and armor, all of which directly affect your stats and damage. In addition, there’s an upgrade tree larger than Shadow of Mordor that lets you customize to your playstyle, whether that’s choosing stealth options or increasing your capabilities at close range. You also have a few new tricks up your sleeve, like the ability to hold down the attack button and charge a glaive attack that hits all those around you.
These small improvements help with the flow of combat, but you will be facing largely the same kind of enemies as in Shadow of Mordor. Orcs, Uruks, and the captains still make up the bulk of your enemies, and they can come in different classes like before as well. There are a few new additions to change things up though. In addition to new classes for enemies, you’ll go up against the fearsome Olog-hai, hulking creatures that require a different strategy. The Olog-hai are mixed into the Grunt Orcs and captains/war chiefs of Sauron’s armies. You’ll also have to contend with dangerous creatures like Drakes, which can be both a help and a hindrance to your army and the enemies’.
Another big addition for Shadow of War comes with its castle sieges, massive multi-part battles that sees Talion’s army storming an enemy stronghold. You’ll be able to choose units you want to take into battle and can head to wherever you want during the siege to try and help your army out. At the end, you’ll need to face down the Warlord in their throne room, in a pitched boss battle that can be quite difficult. These sieges are something that obviously wasn’t in Shadow of Mordor, and the sheer scale of each battle can be impressive.
