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[Miles Quaritch]

It's the same deal as last fen when everyone always got the 360 version. This will be a thing for the time being.

That's how it is every generation. Last gen almost every publisher always sent out the 360 version of their game for review because the 360 was the more popular console, and 3rd party games were generally better on the 360. The PS3 caught up to the 360 after a good while, but by then publishers were used to send out review copies on the 360 so they kept doing it. It's the same this gen, only with the PS4 as the platform of choice.

So, I wouldn't read anything into them sending out PS4 review copies. That's how it's gonna be with most 3rd party games on both consoles for the whole generation.

Also, did not expect this game to review this well.

Yeah, fully expected this to happen as the PS4 does seem to be the lead platform for development and rightfully so, but it's a little worrying that they didn't even bother sending the X1 version out to anyone or at least comment on how it's shaping up on X1 compared to the PC/PS4 versions.

I'm pretty happy with my PS4 pre-order, but am interested to see how it turns out on X1 in case I decide to jump ship for the controller...

 

[Myggen]

That's because the media are a mouth-piece for the publishers' marketing departments. You would hope they learned their lesson after Tifanfall.

To be fair, Destiny had a lot of hype everywhere (new game from Bungie!) compared to this game. This forum included. So it wasn't just the media.

Yeah, I fully expected this to happen, but it's a little worrying that they didn't even bother sending the X1 version out to anyone or at least comment on how it's shaping up on X1 compared to the PC/PS4 versions.

I'm pretty happy with my PS4 pre-order, but am interested to see how it turns out on X1 in case I decide to jump ship for the controller...

But again, from what I understand most publishers just send out one version of their game. So I wouldn't read much into it. But I'm fully expecting the Xbone version to be a bit worse than the PS4 version.

 

[Calcium]

Wow, I was not expecting this game to pull good reviews. Might have to check it out now.

 

[Sesuadra]

anything about pop-ups? tearing? nothing really? i read so many reviews now and no one mentions any graphical mistakes.

 

[Krappadizzle]

However it doesn't invalidate any objective that he was tied to. Whatever you got by killing him (mission objective, hierarchy changes, runes, etc) still stands, but there might be a chance that he comes back on you à la "guess what... I SURVIVED", like in movies.

Which is totally cool to me.

I agree. I think it's really cool because if you excel in combat you can still find these pesky Orcs who won't die. It's fucking great.

 

[jimbobsmells]

Damn I was not expecting such good reviews. Now I've pre-ordered. Good job guys.

 

[Mdk7]

It really surprised me at Gamescom, glad to see it delivered.

 

[demolitio]

I was cautiously optimistic but it sounds like this game actually lives up to the premise.

Might have a gift card for this one.

 

[Kaversmed]

I had a good feeling about this game all along. Waited for the reviews to make sure, though.

Pre-ordered.

 

[Enosh]

wow, I was planning on getting this but i was expecting more 7-7.5s, not 9s and 8s ^^
hope it sells also above my expectations

 

[SolidChamp]

Which of those reviews provides a good read and does a good job of highlighting the Nemesis system and explaining why it's so great?

 

[WordsintheWater]

Not sure if anyone posted the Gametrailers review yet, but it got an 8.7

http://www.gametrailers.com/reviews/m9smdt/middle-earth--shadow-of-mordor-review

 

[HORRORSHØW]

god damnit, i'm poor.

 

[Vidpixel]

god damnit, i'm poor.

Same here I would jump on this if I wasn't already saving up for other games coming out later.

 

[Miles Quaritch]

But again, from what I understand most publishers just send out one version of their game. So I wouldn't read much into it. But I'm fully expecting the Xbone version to be a bit worse than the PS4 version.

Yeah, you're right.

I'll stick with the PS4 pre-order and double dip on X1 next year if it's not a complete train-wreck.

god damnit, i'm poor.

 

[BrassDragon]

A list of reviews like this makes my morning coffee taste better. My faith in Monolith was well placed!

This game may end up being hugely influential - the next progression for open world games is emergent eco-systems to play around with.

But I suppose you could also grind out Ascendant Crafting Materials on a handful of maps if that's your thing...

 

[DOWN]

That's how it is every generation. Last gen almost every publisher always sent out the 360 version of their game for review because the 360 was the more popular console, and 3rd party games were generally better on the 360. The PS3 caught up to the 360 after a good while, but by then publishers were used to send out review copies on the 360 so they kept doing it. It's the same this gen, only with the PS4 as the platform of choice.

So, I wouldn't read anything into them sending out PS4 review copies. That's how it's gonna be with most 3rd party games on both consoles for the whole generation.

Also, did not expect this game to review this well.

Yeah, fully expected this to happen as the PS4 does seem to be the lead platform for development and rightfully so, but it's a little worrying that they didn't even bother sending the X1 version out to anyone or at least comment on how it's shaping up on X1 compared to the PC/PS4 versions.

I'm pretty happy with my PS4 pre-order, but am interested to see how it turns out on X1 in case I decide to jump ship for the controller...

You should read into it because X1 versions have been repeatedly failing to reach parity with PS4. PS4 is lead because it's notably more powerful. Last gen, 360 had the more conventional architecture, but was weaker by a margin. Developers eventually learned the complexities of PS3 and thus some publisher studios like those of EA used PS3 as lead towards the end of the gen. This gen, they are of similar structure and the PS4 is simply stronger, no matter what developers learn to make these platforms easier. Good on both systems? Should be. Equal? Should not be unless the dev intentionally pulls back on PS4, and so far, they seem more likely to end up cutting resolution and framerate instead on X1.

 

[PlayerReady]

Yeah, you're right.

I'll stick with the PS4 pre-order and double dip on X1 next year if it's not a complete train-wreck.

You mean the inevitable game of the year version with all the dlc.

 

[TheOddOne]

Great scores. Congrats to the fine people at Monolith Productions.

 

[CaptainTiptop]

Holy shit, I was always expecting this game to be good and I was pretty hyped for it, but I didn't expect critical acclaim.

Now I'm kinda worried this will be the best game in 2014 that no-one buys.

 

[boeso]

I'm so happy this is good

 

[EventHorizon]

Wait, now I have a little bit of a concern. Both the GameTrailers and Destructoid reviews said that the game was too easy. Is their a difficulty selector to the game? The whole Nemesis system doesn't make sense if you don't need to use it to defeat enemies. I'd like to think that the game had enemies that were too tough to be taken in a straight up fight and I'd have to plot to get my henchmen in place to defeat them.

On a more wishful note, while watching the GameTrailer's review it occurred to me that I would really like to have an RTS layer built on top of the Nemesis system. It's be great to build up your army through possessions and then command that army to attack or defend different locations. I know the game does a little bit of this but it comes off as just a mob fighting along side you. It'd be nice to have siege weapons and give general overall battle strategy. Crossing my figures for Shadow of Mordor 2.

Developers eventually learned the complexities of PS3 and thus some publisher studios like those of EA used PS3 as lead towards the end of the gen.

Actually I thought the PS3 became the lead because it was easier to develop for the PS3 and then port to the 360 than the other way around. The PS3 had the more limiting memory architecture and design challenges, so if you could get your game to work there you were pretty much guaranteed that it would run on the more forgiving 360 system.

 

[Jira]

Wait, now I have a little bit of a concern. Both the GameTrailers and Destructoid reviews said that the game was too easy. Is their a difficulty selector to the game? The whole Nemesis system doesn't make sense if you don't need to use it to defeat enemies. I'd like to think that the game had enemies that were too tough to be taken in a straight up fight and I'd have to plot to get my henchmen in place to defeat them.

On a more wishful note, while watching the GameTrailer's review it occurred to me that I would really like to have an RTS layer built on top of the Nemesis system. It's be great to build up your army through possessions and then command that army to attack or defend different locations. I know the game does a little bit of this but it comes off as just a mob fighting along side you. It'd be nice to have siege weapons and give general overall battle strategy. Crossing my figures for Shadow of Mordor 2.

I've seen plenty of footage where people got wrecked from just a grunt because they weren't paying attention. A developer with over 2,000 hours said the game is still challenging due to the sheer amount of enemies coming from all sides and the randomness factor when it comes to how the captains and chiefs roll their strengths/weaknesses. From many reviews I've seen, a fair few think the game is quite challenging. YMMY I guess.

 

[Wind's Howling]

What in the actual fuck?

These review scores came out of nowhere. Might have to pick this up....

 

[giancarlo123x]

These scores are giving me demons souls vibes. I didn't look or hear much about it but I saw the great scores everywhere and picked it up the next day. This is great.

 

[Erasus]

Yeah, fully expected this to happen as the PS4 does seem to be the lead platform for development and rightfully so, but it's a little worrying that they didn't even bother sending the X1 version out to anyone or at least comment on how it's shaping up on X1 compared to the PC/PS4 versions.

I'm pretty happy with my PS4 pre-order, but am interested to see how it turns out on X1 in case I decide to jump ship for the controller...

Wait for DigitalFoundry

 

[GillianSeed79]

Dayum. Might have to pick this up before dragon age. the question is do I trade in destiny

 

[jem0208]

shit 9.5 from polygon means what exactly? game probably sucks

really hyped for this game.

You never know wheat when it comes to polygon...

 

[demolitio]

Dayum. Might have to pick this up before dragon age. the question is do I trade in destiny

I was having the same thoughts since I'm not in the mood to grind for gear.

 

[MMaRsu]

Yeah, fully expected this to happen as the PS4 does seem to be the lead platform for development and rightfully so, but it's a little worrying that they didn't even bother sending the X1 version out to anyone or at least comment on how it's shaping up on X1 compared to the PC/PS4 versions.

I'm pretty happy with my PS4 pre-order, but am interested to see how it turns out on X1 in case I decide to jump ship for the controller...

X1 is 900p right? Also no 60fps?

 

[Hanmik]

ehhhhhh I´m confused..

are all these reviews from a review event..? because I just saw a Nowgamer.com update.

Warner Bros has yet to send us a copy of the game, and is holding off until next week to do so.

A review event was hosted for the game where there would be a short amount of hands-on time with Shadow Of Mordor, access to the developers should there be any questions and guarantee of a copy of the game to take for review.

NowGamer chose not to attend the event but, as a result, was not provided early access to the game ahead of its embargo and won't be until its release next week.

http://www.nowgamer.com/news/2571109/middleearth_shadow_of_mordor_review_update.html

if it really was an event, then all these reviews are pretty much useless.. unless the got a review copy at the event (but somehow I doubt that)..

 

[ZeroX03]

ehhhhhh I´m confused..

are all these reviews from a review event..? because I just saw a Nowgamer.com update.



http://www.nowgamer.com/news/2571109/middleearth_shadow_of_mordor_review_update.html

if it really was an event, then all these reviews are pretty much useless.. unless the got a review copy at the event (but somehow I doubt that)..

Read a review saying they played for 25+ hours. I don't think it was event specific.

Also it says "guarantee of a copy of the game to take for review". So yeah, it does seem they got review copies at the event or because they attended.

 

[hohoXD123]

Yeah, fully expected this to happen as the PS4 does seem to be the lead platform for development and rightfully so, but it's a little worrying that they didn't even bother sending the X1 version out to anyone or at least comment on how it's shaping up on X1 compared to the PC/PS4 versions.

I'm pretty happy with my PS4 pre-order, but am interested to see how it turns out on X1 in case I decide to jump ship for the controller...

How was Polygon able to give a score to the X1 version though?

 

[EventHorizon]

I've seen plenty of footage where people got wrecked from just a grunt because they weren't paying attention. A developer with over 2,000 hours said the game is still challenging due to the sheer amount of enemies coming from all sides and the randomness factor when it comes to how the captains and chiefs roll their strengths/weaknesses. From many reviews I've seen, a fair few think the game is quite challenging. YMMY I guess.

Yea I saw that too which is why when I originally read the Destructoid review I assumed that they were playing on an easy setting of the game just to be able to finish for the review. But then GameTrailers said the same thing which made me rethink that position.

I'm getting flashbacks to the Diablo 3 initial computer release. That game was way too easy, at least in the initial parts. I heard it got much harder (maybe too hard) later, but I never made it that far due to boredom and getting interested in other games. I ended up buying Diablo 3 again when it came out for the consoles and one of the main reasons was because they added a difficulty selector.

I think one blind side a lot of RPGs have is a failure to include a way to change the difficulty and I just hope that Shadow of Mordor didn't make the same mistake..

Dayum. Might have to pick this up before dragon age. the question is do I trade in destiny

If you are going to trade Destiny, I suggest you do it soon. My guess is that the asking price for Destiny will drop quit a bit now that Shadow of Mordor is turning out to be a good game. I've been trolling EBay waiting for the price to drop to somewhere where I feel the game would be worth it, but now my interest in Destiny has gone to near zero. I now think a lot of people will try to trade in Destiny, and a lot of other people like myself who wanted to buy the game will realize that we were only interested because it was something new.

 

[DoctorZ]

Still not sure on PS4 or PC. GTX 480 should do better than PS4 I'm assuming, but PS4 ends up being a bit cheaper for me since I can sell the game. 20% off at Bestbuy for their gamer club, or whatever it's called, tends to sway me that way often since I end up paying $20-25 or so total to get what I want out of the game over a couple months or so.

 

[joey_bone_bomb]

Did not expect this to review that well. Infact, it was one of my 3 contenders for bomb of the month.
If this sells well I'm in for some fried crow.
It could still become one of those Best Games No One Played, but I'm really starving for some crow now.
Well done, developers!

 

[Jira]

Yea I saw that too which is why when I originally read the Destructoid review I assumed that they were playing on an easy setting of the game just to be able to finish for the review. But then GameTrailers said the same thing which made me rethink that position.

I'm getting flashbacks to the Diablo 3 initial computer release. That game was way too easy, at least in the initial parts. I heard it got much harder (maybe too hard) later, but I never made it that far due to boredom and getting interested in other games. I ended up buying Diablo 3 again when it came out for the consoles and one of the main reasons was because they added a difficulty selector.

I think one blind side a lot of RPGs have is a failure to include a way to change the difficulty and I just hope that Shadow of Mordor didn't make the same mistake..

Well the devs have mentioned that if you want to, you can go gun for a chief right out the gate and try to take them down. I mean it may be possible, but you can kinda set your own difficulty based on how you play and approach things. From what I remember, the game has no difficulty and it's up to the player to go with whatever route they're most comfortable with.

 

[Jira]

Still not sure on PS4 or PC. GTX 480 should do better than PS4 I'm assuming, but PS4 ends up being a bit cheaper for me since I can sell the game. 20% off at Bestbuy for their gamer club, or whatever it's called, tends to sway me that way often since I end up paying $20-25 or so total to get what I want out of the game over a couple months or so.

You can get the PC version on GMG for $37.

SEPTEM-BEROFF-ER25XX

 

[Canis lupus]

Wow what a sleeper hit, I was expecting it to be one of those lotr games that score in the mid 60-70s. Might even be a goty contender now.

 

[DeadlyVirus]

Will pickup on Black Friday. If it weren't for another couple of game I want to play, I'd pick it up now. Having too much fun with Destiny + Diablo 3 + Fifa 15, which will keep me busy until GTA 5 and COD comes out, which will keep me busy until black friday.

 

[Kanyon]

Wow, I knew there was some hype for this but the positive reviews have really got me excited for it. Completely out of nowhere as I was just expecting your run of the mill AC clone, will definitely be getting this for my PS4 now.

 

[Wind's Howling]

Wow what a sleeper hit, I was expecting it to be one of those lotr games that score in the mid 60-70s. Might even be a goty contender now.

I know the 9.5/9 scores surprised me as well but you do have to remember that it has been created by the same developers who released F.E.A.R, Condemned and No One Lives Forever.

They know how to create great games.

 

[KyleCross]

Will pickup on Black Friday. If it weren't for another couple of game I want to play, I'd pick it up now. Having too much fun with Destiny + Diablo 3 + Fifa 15, which will keep me busy until GTA 5 and COD comes out, which will keep me busy until black friday.

Same for me, except it's The Evil Within and Bayonetta 2 coming out stressing my budget. This game wasn't even on my radar (not a LotR fan) until the reviews. I'm definitely going to pick it up when I can.

 

[SniperHunter]

Daaaaamnnn

Wasnt expecting this to get good reviews


Monolith is back!

 

[cheezcake]

You can get the PC version on GMG for $37.

SEPTEM-BEROFF-ER25XX

Damn that's a good deal, thanks!

 

[CorrisD]

Surprised by the good scores, I was expecting lower. It is always nice to see that a game you thought would be mediocre at best is apparently much better, which is great for me, I was unsure on getting this at all over the last couple of weeks, and with all the other games coming out I didn't want to get it on release, so it will be firmly stuck on my Christmas list from the wife/family to buy me.

 

[Canis lupus]

I know the 9.5/9 scores surprised me as well but you do have to remember that it has been created by the same developers who released F.E.A.R, Condemned and No One Lives Forever.

They know how to create great games.

Yeah Monolith are great but I was still skeptical because of their last few games.

 

[Derpcrawler]

I am such an easy prey to hype, last time DestinyGaf hyped me up for Destiny, even though I saw what they game was in and through in beta and alpha. This time it's Shadow of Mordor. If I won't like it, I will blame Gaf.

 

[SparkTR]

You can get the PC version on GMG for $37.

SEPTEM-BEROFF-ER25XX

I jumped on that, was good discount from retail where I live ($80). Saved $43, I love digital.

 

[Bloodworth]

ehhhhhh I´m confused..

are all these reviews from a review event..? because I just saw a Nowgamer.com update.

Didn't hear anything about an event. We just got it in the mail like most things. (GT)