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{{disambig-more|Angmar|[[Angmar (disambiguation)]]}}
{{video game infobox
{{video game infobox
| image=[[Image:The Lord of the Rings Online- Shadows of Angmar box.jpg|250px]]
| image=[[Image:The Lord of the Rings Online- Shadows of Angmar box.jpg|250px]]
| name=The Lord of the Rings Online:<br>Shadows of Angmar
| name=The Lord of the Rings Online:<br>Shadows of Angmar
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]<br />[[Midway Games]]<br />[[Codemasters]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] (North America and Europe)<br />[[Midway Games]]<br />[[Codemasters]] (Europe, till 2010))<br/>[[IT Territory]] (Russia)<ref name="Korea and Russia">{{webcite|author=William Dobson|articleurl=http://www.engadget.com/2009-04-23-lord-of-the-rings-online-launches-in-korea-and-russia.html|articlename=Lord of the Rings Online launches in Korea and Russia|dated=23 April 2009|website=Engadget|accessed=23 August 2020}}</ref><br/>[[NHN Corporation]] (South Korea)<ref name="Korea and Russia"/><br>[[Sakura Internet]] (Japan, till 2009)<ref>{{webcite|author=Karl B.|articleurl=http://qj.net/turbine-eyes-japanese-market-for-lotro-distribution/|articlename=Turbine eyes Japanese market for LotRO distribution|dated=22 September 2006|website=qj.net|accessed=23 August 2020}}</ref>
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=[[April 24]], [[2007]]
| releasedate=[[24 April|April 24]], [[2007]]
| genre=MMORPG
| genre=MMORPG
|}}
|}}


'''The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar''' is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in [[Middle-earth]] during the time of [[The Lord of the Rings]]. It is the initial verision of ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' (LOTRO or LotRO) and is referred to as volume I of the game.
'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar''''' is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in [[Middle-earth]] during the time of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is the initial version of ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' (LOTRO or LotRO) and is referred to as volume I of the game.


The game's story line starts at the beginning of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' Book I, Chapter III "[[Three is Company]]" and ends at the end of Book II, Chapter II "[[The Council of Elrond]]".
The game's story line starts at the beginning of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' Book I, Chapter III "[[Three is Company]]" and ends at the end of Book II, Chapter II "[[The Council of Elrond]]".
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[[Turbine]] and [[Midway Games, Inc.]] officially launched ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar'' on April 24th, 2007 in North America for PC computers. [[Codemasters]] handles the European version of the game.
[[Turbine]] and [[Midway Games, Inc.]] officially launched ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar'' on April 24th, 2007 in North America for PC computers. [[Codemasters]] handles the European version of the game.


LotRO allows players to create customized characters ([[elves]], [[dwarves]], [[hobbits]], or [[men]]) to explore Middle-earth as a persistant 3D world environment, undertaking trival and epic quests, and battling against a wide variety of creatures and enemies. Players can also craft equipment and consumable items (including the popular varieties of pipe-weed), as well as enjoy recreational activities such as player-generated music.
==Game Play==
In ''Shadows of Angmar'', Turbine allows players to create customized characters ([[elves]], [[dwarves]], [[hobbits]], or [[men]]) to explore Middle-earth as a persistent 3D world environment, undertaking trivial and epic quests (the main story line), and battling against a wide variety of creatures and enemies in player-vs-environment. These are creatures and enemies found in the [[legendarium]]. Players can also craft equipment and consumable items (including the popular varieties of pipe-weed), as well as enjoy recreational activities such as player-generated music.


While the majority of quests in the game are original content created by Turbine based on the history and lore of Middle-earth, the quests flagged as "Epic" quests depict specific events and scenes from the ''Lord of the Rings'' storyline. While conducting Epic Quests, players interact with the main characters from the books, and assist in the advancing of the story toward the [[War of the Ring]] and the destruction of the [[One Ring]].
The game also has player-vs-player (PvP) combat with the [[free peoples]] fighting player controlled enemies (called "creeps). Once the player levels a free person to level 10 they can create an [[Orcs|orc]], [[uruk-hai]], [[warg]] or [[spider]] and fight against the free peoples. Player-vs-player is limited to the region of the [[Ettenmoors]].
 
Turbine has gone to great lengths to faithfully recreate the fantasy world created by J.R.R. Tolkien with a high degree of attention to detail. Essentially every character named in the books appear in the game and can be interacted with during quests and other activities.
 
Previously the game was called ''Middle-earth Online'' and began development in 2003 as a joint production with [[Vivendi|Vivendi Universal Games]].


==Cast==
==Cast==
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|-
|-
| Additional Voices || [[Neil Kaplan]]
| Additional Voices || [[Neil Kaplan]]
|-
|}
|}


==Synopsis==
==Epic story line==
'''[[Introduction (Shadows of Angmar)|Introduction]]'''
The prologue and books one through eight were included with this title. The introduction for Dwarves, Elves, Hobbits and Men were also in ''Shadows of Angmar''. The introduction for Beornings was introduced in the update ''Gondor Aflame'', for High Elves in the expansion ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mordor|Mordor]]'', and for Stout-axes in the expansion ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Minas Morgul|Minas Morgul]]''. The epic story line continues in the patch ''Shores of Evendim''.


There are four different introductions depending on the race of the player, one for each race. They all start off at either a different time or place, but the Hobbit and Man introductions and the Dwarf and Elf introductions merge at a certain point in the story line.
===Introduction===
There are five different introductions depending on the race of the player.


'''[[Prologue (Shadows of Angmar)|Prologue]]'''
::'''Beorning:'''
:The player is spending idle time on the shores of the river [[Anduin]] with another [[Beorn]] named Sterkist, the player's brother. He reflects if there is more to life than spending it gazing at the river after chores are done. The voice of [[Radagast]] is heard coming from [[Grimbeorn|Grimbeorn's]] lodge. Sterkist wonders what brought the wizard to their home. He sends you to Varthmath to see if he knows the answer. If he knows, he's not telling the player. He instructs the player to mind their own business and bring the milk-cow back into her pen. After herding the cow, the player meets up with Ofolmóth who remarks that the player has grown soft. He challenges the player into a spar. After he's had enough, he tells you to hunt the sickle-files that plague the area. After defeating a number of them the player's sister Langhár draws your attention from a nearby field of clover. The two of you head back Grimbeorn's lodge. Along the way the player spots goblins. Langhár tells the player to warn the others at the entrance to the lodge. You find Sterkist and tell him about the goblins. It is unusual for them to venture this close to home since they fear the Beorn. You overhear Radagast talking to Grimbeorn saying that word of this unusual activity by the goblins needs to be relayed to other folk that can be trusted. Radagast wants him to send all of his kin, but Grimbeorn said he could only spare one, the player. Packing up some belongings, the player makes towards the mountains on horseback.


There are four different prologues, one for each race, but a player of any race can do any of the prologues.
:After a long journey, the player arrives in [[Archet]]. The player asks Letty Foxtail if she knows where the Ranger [[Aragorn]] is at as he heard he was heading this way. She says that he did pass this way. She tells the player to seek out [[Jon Brackenbrook]] as he might know more. Jon states that he doesn't know where Aragorn went to. He informs the player that the town was attacked and nearly burned down by [[Blackwolds|Blackwold]] brigands. He says they have slain his father, the leader of Archet and that he is trying to rebuild the settlement. He requests the player's assistance. <small>''The story continues in Prologue: Man and Beorning.''</small>


'''Book I - ''[[Stirrings in the Darkness]]'':'''
::'''Hobbit and Man:'''
:''The Hobbit introduction begins at a dusk road in Green Hill Country, via Old Odo's Leaf-farm to a brigand jail somewhere. After a sudden rescue the Hobbit eventually ends up in Archet. The Race of Men introduction begins in a jail in a brigand camp somewhere. After a dramatic and violent escape the Man eventually ends up in Archet. From there the two races' introductions merge.''


After the prolouge, the player is sent to [[Aragorn]], who needs your help to weaken the Blackwolds, a hostile gang within Breeland, loyal to [[Saruman|Sharkey]]. After helping Aragorn and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], they send you to [[Tom Bombadil]] to destroy the evil in Othrongroth, The Great Barrow of the [[Barrow-downs]]. Though the Wightlord Sambrog is defeated, the [[Witch-king]], Ivar and Skorgrim escape. Upon returning to [[Bree]], you discover [[Aragorn]] has left with the [[Hobbit]]s and the player meets [[Gandalf]], who was too late to help. As he leaves for Rivendell too, he instructs you to find one of his fellow [[Istari]].
:The player along with two Hobbits escaped the brigand jail with the aid of the Ranger [[Strider]] and his friend [[Amdir (Shadows of Angmar)|Amdir]]. During the escape, Amdir was stabbed by one of the Black Riders. He looks very pale and Strider is concerned for him. Strider wants to find him aid and warn the people of Archet that Blackwolds mean to raid the town. He also mentions that he needs to find a Mister Baggins before the Black Riders do.  


'''Book II - ''[[The Red Maid]]'':'''
:The player seeks out Captain Brackenbrook and warns him of the Blackwold threat. Yet, he doesn't trust the Rangers that you are with and doesn't believe the player. The player tries to warn other citizens, but no one believes an attack is imminent. Strider is informed that the player is unable to convince anyone that they are in danger. Strider tells the player to hone their skills to prepare for battle.


[[Radagast|Radagast the Brown]] asks for your help in cleansing Garth Agarwen from the evil wights that inhabit it. Ultimately you and Radagast will fight Ivar the Bloodhand, their leader and servant of the [[Witch-king]]. After succeeding, you are urgently sent to the North Downs to aid the Rangers there.
:Once the player is finished practicing, Strider requests for the player to find some [[Kingsfoil]] to treat Amdir's wounds. He also suggests aiding Captain Brackenbrook to win over his favor. The captain informs the player where some Kingsfoil grows. He also accepts your aid, telling you to help Calder Cob who has been having problems with wolves on his farm.  
{{Lotrosoabooks}}


'''Book III - ''[[The Council of the North]]'':'''
::'''Dwarf and Elf:'''


You are asked by [[Halbarad]] to aid in the defense of the North Downs against [[Angmar]]'s forces, by uniting the three main armies of the North Downs: the Men of Trestlebridge, the Dwarves led by [[Dori]] and [[Gildor Inglorion|Gildor]]'s Elves. After this, You are sent to Rivendell, where the [[Fellowship]] has now safely arrived.
::'''High Elf:'''


'''Book IV - ''[[Chasing Shadows]]'':'''
::'''Stout-axe:'''


[[Nazgûl|The Black Rider]] that survived the Flood of [[Elrond]] is still in the [[Trollshaws]], making it impossible for the Fellowship to leave. With the help of [[Legolas]], [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], you chase the [[Nazgûl]], destroying the Trolls he has corrupted, and forcing the Ringwraith to retreat to the [[Misty Mountains]]. You are sent to pursue him, where [[Glóin]] and [[Gimli]] have set up camp.
===Prologue===
There are four different prologues with the dwarf/stout-axe and elf/high elf prologue merging at one point. Although they are initially separated by race, a player of any race can do any of the prologues.


'''Book V - ''[[The Last Refuge]]'':'''
::'''Dwarf and Stout-axe:'''


Your search for the [[Nazgûl]] brings you to the final stronghold of Skorgrim and the Dourhands. An assault led by Gimli will result in the fall of Skorgrim and the Dourhands. But the Nazgûl has fled to Helegrod, where the ancient Dragon Thorog has been revived in order to serve the [[Sauron|Dark Lord]]. You arrive just in time to stop the Nazgûl, defeating him and making the Dragon harmless, for now. Now that [[Rivendell]] is safe, it is time to move on to [[Angmar]] itself.
::'''Elf and High Elf:'''


'''Book VI - ''[[Fires in the North]]'':'''
::'''Dwarf, Stout-axe, Elf and High Elf:'''


Rangers, led by Corunir and Golodir, have gone to [[Angmar]] and their kinsmen want to know what has become of them. Upon entering Angmar, you find Corunir safe in a friendly Hillmen village. He begs you to find his lost company, who passed through Rammas Deluon: a great series of statues that weakens (or even kills) those who pass it. But after destroying the spirits within them, you are able to resist the power of Rammas Deluon, and find a [[Dwarf]] settlement, where a part of the scattered party lives.
::'''Hobbit:'''


'''Book VII - ''[[The Hidden Hope]]'':'''
::'''Man and Beorning:'''


You are informed Golodir settled at Gath Forthnir, far in the North. When arriving there, Golodir is gone and the Rangers are led by his daughter, Lorniel. Lorniel reveals that Golodir has been captured by Mordirith, Steward of [[Angmar]], and has been locked away in [[Carn Dûm]]. As leader of the remaining Rangers, and with the help of Laerdan, Lorniel launches an assault on Carn Dûm, where she is slain by Mordirith, who then releases Golodir, to continue his torture.  
===Book I - Stirrings in the Darkness===
After the prologue, the player is sent to [[Aragorn]], who needs your help to weaken the Blackwolds, a hostile gang within Breeland, secretly backed by agents of [[Angmar]]. After helping Aragorn and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], they send you to [[Tom Bombadil]] to destroy the evil in Othrongroth, The Great Barrow of the [[Barrow-downs]]. Though the Wightlord Sambrog is defeated, the [[Witch-king]], Ivar and Skorgrim escape. Upon returning to [[Bree]], you discover Aragorn has left with the [[Hobbits]] and the player meets [[Gandalf]], who was too late to help. As he leaves for [[Rivendell]] too, he instructs you to find one of his fellow [[Istari]].


'''Book VIII - ''[[The Scourge of the North]]'':'''
===Book II - The Red Maid===
[[Radagast|Radagast the Brown]] asks for your help in cleansing Garth Agarwen from the evil wights that inhabit it. Ultimately you and Radagast will fight Ivar the Bloodhand, their leader and a servant of the Witch-king. After succeeding, you are urgently sent to the North Downs to aid the Rangers there.


Golodir's grief for the death of his daughter has almost destroyed him, yet he sees a chance to avenge her. Reclaiming an ancient sword, he travels with you to the heart of [[Carn Dûm]], defeating Mordirith with the blade. Mordirith drops his ''[[palantír]]'', a great seeing stone, which is quickly taken by the mysterious Sara Oakheart.
===Book III - The Council of the North===
You are asked by [[Halbarad]] to aid in the defence of the North Downs against Angmar's forces, by uniting the three main armies of the North Downs: the Men of Trestlebridge, the [[Dwarves]] led by [[Dori]] and [[Gildor]]'s Elves. After this, You are sent to Rivendell, where the [[Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship]] has now safely arrived.


'''Book IX - ''[[Shores of Evendim]]'':'''
===Book IV - Chasing Shadows===
[[Nazgûl|The Black Rider]] that survived the Flood of [[Elrond]] is still in the [[Trollshaws]], making it impossible for the Fellowship to leave. With the help of [[Legolas]], [[Elladan]] and [[Elrohir]], you chase the Nazgûl, destroying the Trolls he has corrupted, and forcing the Ringwraith to retreat to the [[Misty Mountains]]. You are sent to pursue him, where [[Glóin]] and [[Gimli]] have set up camp.


You learn Sara Oakheart is no less than [[Amarthiel]], the Champion of Angmar. She has set up a plot from Barad Gularan to use you to weaken [[Mordirith]]. Now she has the ''[[palantír]]'', she can communicate with [[Sauron]] and challenge Mordirith's position. You are sent to kill all of Mordirith's Knights, in an attempt to further weaken his power. But despite your victories over Mordirith, Amarthiel only grows stronger. After losing [[Fornost]] and Barad Gularan, she moves to [[Annúminas]], the ancient capital of [[Arnor]]. The Rangers there, led by Calanglad, need your aid.
===Book V - The Last Refuge===
Your search for the [[Nazgûl]] brings you to the final stronghold of Skorgrim and the Dourhands. An assault led by Gimli will result in the fall of Skorgrim and the Dourhands. But the Nazgûl has fled to Helegrod, where the ancient Dragon Thorog has been revived in order to serve the [[Sauron|Dark Lord]]. You arrive just in time to stop the Nazgûl, defeating him and making the Dragon harmless, for now. Now that Rivendell is safe, it is time to move on to [[Angmar]] itself.


'''Book X - ''[[The City of Kings]]'':'''
===Book VI - Fires in the North===
Rangers, led by Corunir and Golodir, have gone to Angmar and their kinsmen want to know what has become of them. Upon entering Angmar, you find Corunir safe in a friendly Hillmen village. He begs you to find his lost company, who passed through Rammas Deluon: a great series of statues that weakens (or even kills) those who pass it. But after destroying the spirits within them, you are able to resist the power of Rammas Deluon, and find a dwarf settlement, where a part of the scattered party lives.


A massive battle in [[Annúminas]] ensues, the wise [[Elf]] Laerdan offers his services to Calenglad. One of [[Amarthiel]]'s captains is captured, but while in captivity, he angers Laerdan, making the Elf decide to fight Amarthiel on his own, in an attempt to make up for his mistakes in the past. Again the Free People have been tricked by Amarthiel and her servants. Together with the Rangers of Evendim, you are able to wrestle the ''[[palantír]]'' from Amarthiel's clutches, but Laerdan is lost. But within the ''palantír'', Amarthiel saw a glimpse of where Narchuil, her ancient ring, lies. She is now determined to possess its power once more.
===Book VII - The Hidden Hope===
You are informed Golodir settled at Gath Forthnir, far in the North. When arriving there, Golodir is gone and the Rangers are led by his daughter, Lorniel. Lorniel reveals that Golodir has been captured by [[Mordirith]], Steward of Angmar, and has been locked away in [[Carn Dûm]]. As leader of the remaining Rangers, and with the help of Laerdan, Lorniel launches an assault on Carn Dûm, where she is slain by Mordirith, who then releases Golodir, to continue his torture.  


'''Book XI - ''[[Prisoner of the Free Peoples]]'':'''
===Book VIII - The Scourge of the North===
Golodir's grief for the death of his daughter has almost destroyed him, yet he sees a chance to avenge her. Reclaiming an ancient sword, he travels with you to the heart of [[Carn Dûm]], defeating Mordirith with the blade. Mordirith drops his ''[[palantír]]'', a great seeing stone, which is quickly taken by the mysterious Sara Oakheart.
<!--- TO BE ADDED TO SEPARATE ARTICLES IN NEAR FUTURE
:'''Book IX - ''Shores of Evendim'':'''


Amarthiel's captain Mordrambor breaks free, killing many rangers. Soon he leads an army out of [[Annúminas]], to find Amarthiel's Ring, Narchuil. You attempt to find Narchuil before Amarthiel can, searching the ancient ruins of [[Trollshaws]]. After much searching, it turns out Narmeleth, Laerdan's daughter, who originally caused Amarthiel's fall in [[Fornost]], has become possessed by her. But all searching seems in vain, when it is revealed Amarthiel has already found Narchuil. However, [[Elrond]] does not fall for her trickery again, he realises Narchuil is still out there, and Laerdan knows where.
You learn Sara Oakheart is no less than [[Amarthiel]], the Champion of Angmar. She has set up a plot from Barad Gularan to use you to weaken Mordirith. Now she has the ''palantír'', she can communicate with Sauron and challenge Mordirith's position. You are sent to kill all of Mordirith's Knights, in an attempt to further weaken his power. But despite your victories over Mordirith, Amarthiel only grows stronger. After losing [[Fornost]] and Barad Gularan, she moves to [[Annúminas]], the ancient capital of [[Arnor]]. The Rangers there, led by Calenglad, need your aid.


'''Book XII - ''[[The Ashen Wastes]]'':'''
:'''Book X - ''The City of Kings'':'''


[[Amarthiel]] has Laerdan transported to [[Angmar]], where she learns from him under torture where her Ring is. In a brave attempt to save both Laerdan and the ring Narchuil, you are able to get to them before Amarthiel does, despite losing another Ranger. But only half of the ring was found. Laerdan confesses to [[Elrond]] he has broken the Narchuil in two, and where the other part should be. But then he swears an oath upon [[Varda|Elbereth]] that he will not rest before he has saved his daughter, and leaves the Council.
A massive battle in Annúminas ensues, the wise [[Elves|Elf]] Laerdan offers his services to Calenglad. One of Amarthiel's captains is captured, but while in captivity, he angers Laerdan, making the Elf decide to fight Amarthiel on his own, in an attempt to make up for his mistakes in the past. Again the Free People have been tricked by Amarthiel and her servants. Together with the Rangers of Evendim, you are able to wrestle the ''palantír'' from Amarthiel's clutches, but Laerdan is lost. But within the ''palantír'', Amarthiel saw a glimpse of where Narchuil, her ancient ring, lies. She is now determined to possess its power once more.


'''Book XIII - ''[[Doom of the Last-King]]'':'''
:'''Book XI - ''Prisoner of the Free Peoples'':'''


Trying to find out more about the other half of Narchuil, you are sent to [[Forochel]]. However Amarthiel's forces have already arrived, and are already searching. In an attempt to find the ring before the Angmarim, the player receives help from [[Arvedui]]'s Ghost. In the final chapter, it seems Mordrambor has betrayed Amarthiel; the two start to battle and disappear from view. The player then retrieves the second half of Narchuil and returns it to Rivendell.
Amarthiel's captain Mordrambor breaks free, killing many rangers. Soon he leads an army out of [[Annúminas]], to find Amarthiel's Ring, Narchuil. You attempt to find Narchuil before Amarthiel can, searching the ancient ruins of the [[Trollshaws]]. After much searching, it turns out Narmeleth, Laerdan's daughter, who originally caused Amarthiel's fall in Fornost, has become possessed by her. But all searching seems in vain, when it is revealed Amarthiel has already found Narchuil. However, Elrond does not fall for her trickery again, he realises Narchuil is still out there, and Laerdan knows where.


'''Book XIV - ''[[The Ring-forges of Eregion]]'':'''
:'''Book XII - ''The Ashen Wastes'':'''


Still seeking to save Narmeleth, Laerdan travels with the two halves of Narchuil to [[Eregion]].  Amarthiel, baiting him in, reclaims Narchuil for herself. Elrond sends many Heralds of [[Rivendell]] to all corners of [[Eriador]] to help him in his search for the lost Ring-lore. But all efforts are too late, for Narchuil has been reforged when the Free People reach Eregion. It quickly becomes clear none are able to withstand Narchuil, until Mordrambor, Amarthiel's former servant, arrives. They go outside, where Mordirith arrives. Mordirith is in power once again, but Amartiel does not surrender and believes she can defeat him with Narchuil. But Mordirith has the power of the [[Witch-king]] and defeats her. Mordrambor claims Narchuil as his own, and when he is about to finish Amarthiel, Laerdan appears. He now knows Mordirith is actually [[Eärnur]], the last King of [[Gondor]]. Mordirith orders Mordrambor to kill Laerdan, after which the two leave. Amarthiel is crying over her father, and set captive by the Free People.
Amarthiel has Laerdan transported to Angmar, where she learns from him under torture where her Ring is. In a brave attempt to save both Laerdan and the ring Narchuil, you are able to get to them before Amarthiel does, despite losing another Ranger. But only half of the ring was found. Laerdan confesses to Elrond he has broken Narchuil in two, and where the other part should be. But then he swears an oath upon [[Varda|Elbereth]] that he will not rest before he has saved his daughter, and leaves the Council.


'''Book XV - ''[[Daughter of Strife]]'':'''
:'''Book XIII - ''Doom of the Last-King'':'''


With the death of her father, Narmeleth is once again freed from the evil influence of Amarthiel.  Narmeleth becomes a captive of the Free Peoples and she sacrifices herself in order to help defeat Mordrambor and aid the Free Peoples. The book ends bittersweet with Narmeleth's redemption and her death.
Trying to find out more about the other half of Narchuil, you are sent to [[Forochel]]. However Amarthiel's forces have already arrived, and are already searching. In an attempt to find the ring before the Angmarim, the player receives help from [[Arvedui]]'s Ghost. In the final chapter, it seems Mordrambor has betrayed Amarthiel; the two start to battle and disappear from view. The player then retrieves the second half of Narchuil and returns it to Rivendell.


== Added Elements ==
:'''Book XIV - ''The Ring-forges of Eregion'':'''
There are a number of elements that do not appear in any of the published works. This includes characters, lineages, objects and locations. This is not a complete list of all of the added elements found in The Lord of the Rings Online, only the elements that are first mentioned or experienced by the player in the books of ''Shadows of Angmar''. Elements found in other quests and unique to ''Shadows of Angmar'' are not listed here.


;Characters
Still seeking to save Narmeleth, Laerdan travels with the two halves of Narchuil to [[Eregion]].  Amarthiel, baiting him in, reclaims Narchuil for herself.  Elrond sends many Heralds of Rivendell to all corners of [[Eriador]] to help him in his search for the lost Ring-lore. But all efforts are too late, for Narchuil has been reforged when the Free People reach Eregion. It quickly becomes clear none are able to withstand Narchuil, until Mordrambor, Amarthiel's former servant, arrives. They go outside, where Mordirith arrives. Mordirith is in power once again, but Amarthiel does not surrender and believes she can defeat him with Narchuil. But Mordirith has the power of the Witch-king and defeats her. Mordrambor claims Narchuil as his own, and when he is about to finish Amarthiel, Laerdan appears. He now knows Mordirith is actually [[Eärnur]], the last King of [[Gondor]]. Mordirith orders Mordrambor to kill Laerdan, after which the two leave. Amarthiel is crying over her father, and set captive by the Free People.
* '''[[Amarthiel]]''' served for the [[Witch-king of Angmar]] during his first reign over [[Angmar]]<ref>In the game the Witch-king reigned over Angmar again shortly before the [[War of the Ring]].</ref> and wore the [[lesser rings|lesser ring]] [[Narchuil]]. She was slain by [[Narmeleth]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]] and her soul wandered [[Middle-earth]] for over a thousand years. She managed to possess Narmeleth and disguises herself as Sara Oakheart. She eventually revealed herself after the defeat of [[Mordirith]] by [[Golodir]] and becomes the Regent of Angmar.


* '''[[Andraste]]''' was a female [[Men|Man]] who served the [[Witch-king]].
:'''Book XV - ''Daughter of Strife'':'''
With the death of her father, Narmeleth is once again freed from the evil influence of Amarthiel.  Narmeleth becomes a captive of the Free Peoples and she sacrifices herself in order to help defeat Mordrambor and aid the Free Peoples.  The book ends bittersweet with Narmeleth's redemption and her death.
-->


* '''[[Ivar the Bloodhand]]''' was a Gaunt-lord from the [[First Age]].
==Trailers==
 
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* '''[[Mordirith]]''' was the Steward of Angmar.
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* '''[[Narmeleth]]''' was an elf maiden of [[Rivendell]] and daughter of [[Laerdan]]. She slayed [[Amarthiel]] during the [[Battle of Fornost]] and became possessed by her soul over a thousand years later.
 
* '''[[Skorgrím]]''' was a dwarf and leader of the [[Dourhands]] he was slain during the Battle of Edhelion. His corpse was used as a vehicle by Ivar the Bloodhand who possessed it with a fell spirit to trick the Dourhands to ally themselves with the forces of [[Angmar]].
 
;Lineages
* '''The [[Dourhands]]''' was a clan of dwarves aligned with the forces of [[Angmar]]. They were the dwarves that stayed behind to rebuild the Dwarven Halls in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]].
 
;Objects
* '''[[Narchuil]]''' was one of the [[lesser rings]] forged by the elven-smiths during the [[Second Age]].
 
;Locations
* '''[[Agamaur]]''' was a vast swamp north of the [[East-West Road]] not far from the [[Last Bridge]]. It was a site of a major battle between [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]]. To the west is the ruins of Haragmar, a fortress of [[Arnor]]. To the east lies the ruins of Garth Agarwen, a fortress of Rhudaur.
 
* '''[[Othrongroth]]''' was the oldest and largest Edain mound in the [[Barrow-downs]].


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[[Category:Video games]]
{{title|italics}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lord of the Rings Online Shadows of Angmar}}
[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:MMORPG]]
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online|Shadows of Angmar]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

Latest revision as of 00:13, 5 June 2023

"I shan't call it the end, till we've cleared up the mess." — Sam
This article or section needs to be cleaned up to conform to a higher standard of article quality.
The name Angmar refers to more than one character, item or concept. For a list of other meanings, see Angmar (disambiguation).
The Lord of the Rings Online- Shadows of Angmar box.jpg
The Lord of the Rings Online:
Shadows of Angmar
Video game
DeveloperTurbine, Inc
PublisherTurbine, Inc (North America and Europe)
Midway Games
Codemasters (Europe, till 2010))
IT Territory (Russia)[1]
NHN Corporation (South Korea)[1]
Sakura Internet (Japan, till 2009)[2]
PlatformMicrosoft Windows
Release dateApril 24, 2007
GenreMMORPG

The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in Middle-earth during the time of The Lord of the Rings. It is the initial version of The Lord of the Rings Online (LOTRO or LotRO) and is referred to as volume I of the game.

The game's story line starts at the beginning of The Fellowship of the Ring Book I, Chapter III "Three is Company" and ends at the end of Book II, Chapter II "The Council of Elrond".

Release[edit | edit source]

Turbine and Midway Games, Inc. officially launched The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar on April 24th, 2007 in North America for PC computers. Codemasters handles the European version of the game.

Game Play[edit | edit source]

In Shadows of Angmar, Turbine allows players to create customized characters (elves, dwarves, hobbits, or men) to explore Middle-earth as a persistent 3D world environment, undertaking trivial and epic quests (the main story line), and battling against a wide variety of creatures and enemies in player-vs-environment. These are creatures and enemies found in the legendarium. Players can also craft equipment and consumable items (including the popular varieties of pipe-weed), as well as enjoy recreational activities such as player-generated music.

The game also has player-vs-player (PvP) combat with the free peoples fighting player controlled enemies (called "creeps). Once the player levels a free person to level 10 they can create an orc, uruk-hai, warg or spider and fight against the free peoples. Player-vs-player is limited to the region of the Ettenmoors.

Cast[edit | edit source]

The majority of the dialog in the game is textually based, but there are some characters with spoken dialog. There are also some characters that will speak a line or two of the dialog, but the rest of the dialog will be text.

Role Actor
Gandalf Harry Chase
Sandar / Chef Vraz / Warg Rider Goblin Mike Vaughn
Additional Voices Brian Talbot
Additional Voices Neil Kaplan

Epic story line[edit | edit source]

The prologue and books one through eight were included with this title. The introduction for Dwarves, Elves, Hobbits and Men were also in Shadows of Angmar. The introduction for Beornings was introduced in the update Gondor Aflame, for High Elves in the expansion Mordor, and for Stout-axes in the expansion Minas Morgul. The epic story line continues in the patch Shores of Evendim.

Introduction[edit | edit source]

There are five different introductions depending on the race of the player.

Beorning:
The player is spending idle time on the shores of the river Anduin with another Beorn named Sterkist, the player's brother. He reflects if there is more to life than spending it gazing at the river after chores are done. The voice of Radagast is heard coming from Grimbeorn's lodge. Sterkist wonders what brought the wizard to their home. He sends you to Varthmath to see if he knows the answer. If he knows, he's not telling the player. He instructs the player to mind their own business and bring the milk-cow back into her pen. After herding the cow, the player meets up with Ofolmóth who remarks that the player has grown soft. He challenges the player into a spar. After he's had enough, he tells you to hunt the sickle-files that plague the area. After defeating a number of them the player's sister Langhár draws your attention from a nearby field of clover. The two of you head back Grimbeorn's lodge. Along the way the player spots goblins. Langhár tells the player to warn the others at the entrance to the lodge. You find Sterkist and tell him about the goblins. It is unusual for them to venture this close to home since they fear the Beorn. You overhear Radagast talking to Grimbeorn saying that word of this unusual activity by the goblins needs to be relayed to other folk that can be trusted. Radagast wants him to send all of his kin, but Grimbeorn said he could only spare one, the player. Packing up some belongings, the player makes towards the mountains on horseback.
After a long journey, the player arrives in Archet. The player asks Letty Foxtail if she knows where the Ranger Aragorn is at as he heard he was heading this way. She says that he did pass this way. She tells the player to seek out Jon Brackenbrook as he might know more. Jon states that he doesn't know where Aragorn went to. He informs the player that the town was attacked and nearly burned down by Blackwold brigands. He says they have slain his father, the leader of Archet and that he is trying to rebuild the settlement. He requests the player's assistance. The story continues in Prologue: Man and Beorning.
Hobbit and Man:
The Hobbit introduction begins at a dusk road in Green Hill Country, via Old Odo's Leaf-farm to a brigand jail somewhere. After a sudden rescue the Hobbit eventually ends up in Archet. The Race of Men introduction begins in a jail in a brigand camp somewhere. After a dramatic and violent escape the Man eventually ends up in Archet. From there the two races' introductions merge.
The player along with two Hobbits escaped the brigand jail with the aid of the Ranger Strider and his friend Amdir. During the escape, Amdir was stabbed by one of the Black Riders. He looks very pale and Strider is concerned for him. Strider wants to find him aid and warn the people of Archet that Blackwolds mean to raid the town. He also mentions that he needs to find a Mister Baggins before the Black Riders do.
The player seeks out Captain Brackenbrook and warns him of the Blackwold threat. Yet, he doesn't trust the Rangers that you are with and doesn't believe the player. The player tries to warn other citizens, but no one believes an attack is imminent. Strider is informed that the player is unable to convince anyone that they are in danger. Strider tells the player to hone their skills to prepare for battle.
Once the player is finished practicing, Strider requests for the player to find some Kingsfoil to treat Amdir's wounds. He also suggests aiding Captain Brackenbrook to win over his favor. The captain informs the player where some Kingsfoil grows. He also accepts your aid, telling you to help Calder Cob who has been having problems with wolves on his farm.
Dwarf and Elf:
High Elf:
Stout-axe:

Prologue[edit | edit source]

There are four different prologues with the dwarf/stout-axe and elf/high elf prologue merging at one point. Although they are initially separated by race, a player of any race can do any of the prologues.

Dwarf and Stout-axe:
Elf and High Elf:
Dwarf, Stout-axe, Elf and High Elf:
Hobbit:
Man and Beorning:

Book I - Stirrings in the Darkness[edit | edit source]

After the prologue, the player is sent to Aragorn, who needs your help to weaken the Blackwolds, a hostile gang within Breeland, secretly backed by agents of Angmar. After helping Aragorn and the Rangers, they send you to Tom Bombadil to destroy the evil in Othrongroth, The Great Barrow of the Barrow-downs. Though the Wightlord Sambrog is defeated, the Witch-king, Ivar and Skorgrim escape. Upon returning to Bree, you discover Aragorn has left with the Hobbits and the player meets Gandalf, who was too late to help. As he leaves for Rivendell too, he instructs you to find one of his fellow Istari.

Book II - The Red Maid[edit | edit source]

Radagast the Brown asks for your help in cleansing Garth Agarwen from the evil wights that inhabit it. Ultimately you and Radagast will fight Ivar the Bloodhand, their leader and a servant of the Witch-king. After succeeding, you are urgently sent to the North Downs to aid the Rangers there.

Book III - The Council of the North[edit | edit source]

You are asked by Halbarad to aid in the defence of the North Downs against Angmar's forces, by uniting the three main armies of the North Downs: the Men of Trestlebridge, the Dwarves led by Dori and Gildor's Elves. After this, You are sent to Rivendell, where the Fellowship has now safely arrived.

Book IV - Chasing Shadows[edit | edit source]

The Black Rider that survived the Flood of Elrond is still in the Trollshaws, making it impossible for the Fellowship to leave. With the help of Legolas, Elladan and Elrohir, you chase the Nazgûl, destroying the Trolls he has corrupted, and forcing the Ringwraith to retreat to the Misty Mountains. You are sent to pursue him, where Glóin and Gimli have set up camp.

Book V - The Last Refuge[edit | edit source]

Your search for the Nazgûl brings you to the final stronghold of Skorgrim and the Dourhands. An assault led by Gimli will result in the fall of Skorgrim and the Dourhands. But the Nazgûl has fled to Helegrod, where the ancient Dragon Thorog has been revived in order to serve the Dark Lord. You arrive just in time to stop the Nazgûl, defeating him and making the Dragon harmless, for now. Now that Rivendell is safe, it is time to move on to Angmar itself.

Book VI - Fires in the North[edit | edit source]

Rangers, led by Corunir and Golodir, have gone to Angmar and their kinsmen want to know what has become of them. Upon entering Angmar, you find Corunir safe in a friendly Hillmen village. He begs you to find his lost company, who passed through Rammas Deluon: a great series of statues that weakens (or even kills) those who pass it. But after destroying the spirits within them, you are able to resist the power of Rammas Deluon, and find a dwarf settlement, where a part of the scattered party lives.

Book VII - The Hidden Hope[edit | edit source]

You are informed Golodir settled at Gath Forthnir, far in the North. When arriving there, Golodir is gone and the Rangers are led by his daughter, Lorniel. Lorniel reveals that Golodir has been captured by Mordirith, Steward of Angmar, and has been locked away in Carn Dûm. As leader of the remaining Rangers, and with the help of Laerdan, Lorniel launches an assault on Carn Dûm, where she is slain by Mordirith, who then releases Golodir, to continue his torture.

Book VIII - The Scourge of the North[edit | edit source]

Golodir's grief for the death of his daughter has almost destroyed him, yet he sees a chance to avenge her. Reclaiming an ancient sword, he travels with you to the heart of Carn Dûm, defeating Mordirith with the blade. Mordirith drops his palantír, a great seeing stone, which is quickly taken by the mysterious Sara Oakheart.

Trailers[edit | edit source]

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References

  1. 1.0 1.1 William Dobson, "Lord of the Rings Online launches in Korea and Russia" dated 23 April 2009, Engadget (accessed 23 August 2020)
  2. Karl B., "Turbine eyes Japanese market for LotRO distribution" dated 22 September 2006, qj.net (accessed 23 August 2020)
The Lord of the Rings Online
Games titles Shadows of Angmar · Mines of Moria · Siege of Mirkwood · Rise of Isengard · Riders of Rohan · Helm's Deep · Mordor · Minas Morgul · War of Three Peaks · Fate of Gundabad · Before the Shadow
Storyline Volume I: Shadows of Angmar · Volume II: Mines of Moria · Volume III: Allies of the King · Volume IV: The Strength of Sauron · The Black Book of Mordor
See also Characters · Locations · Shadows of Angmar soundtrack · Mines of Moria soundtrack · "King Under the Mountain" minigame
Licensed video games set in Middle-earth
 Melbourne House: The Hobbit (1982) · Lord of the Rings: Game One (1985) · Shadows of Mordor (1988) · War in Middle Earth (1988) · Crack of Doom Software Adventure (1989) · Riders of Rohan (1990)
 Interplay Productions: The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (PC) (1990) · The Lord of the Rings, Vol. II: The Two Towers (1993) · The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (SNES) (1994)
 Vivendi Universal: The Fellowship of the Ring (2002) · The Hobbit (2003) · War of the Ring (2003)
 Electronic Arts: The Two Towers (2002) · The Return of the King (2003) · The Third Age (2004) · The Battle for Middle-earth (2004) · Tactics (2005) · The Battle for Middle-earth II (2006) (The Rise of the Witch-king (2006)) · Conquest (2009) · Heroes of Middle-earth (2023)
 Turbine/Standing Stone Games: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar (2007-) (Mines of Moria (2008) · Siege of Mirkwood (2009) · Rise of Isengard (2011) · Riders of Rohan (2012) · Helm's Deep (2013) · Mordor (2017) · Minas Morgul (2019)) · War of Three Peaks (2020) · Fate of Gundabad (2021) · Before the Shadow (2022)
 Warner Bros: Aragorn's Quest (2010) · War in the North (2011) · Guardians of Middle-earth (2012) · Kingdoms of Middle-earth (2012Armies of The Third Age (2013) · Shadow of Mordor (2014) · Shadow of War (2017) · Rise to War (2021)
 Glu Games: Middle-Earth Defense (2010)
 Traveller's Tales: Lego The Lord of the Rings: The Video Game (2012) · Lego The Hobbit (2014)
 Daedalic Entertainment: The Lord of the Rings: Gollum (2023)
 North Beach Games: The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria (2023)