This epic proves that licensed video games can be good and fun.
Graphicswise, the game really holds out on it's own. Because the game takes place in various places from the three movies, there's an excellent amount of detail in the landscapes. Also worth noting is that the characters exclusive to this game are every detailed, with changes in appearance based on what weapons or armor the character has equipped. One minute, you'll see Berethor, the main protagonist of the game, with his face uncovered, the next his face wearing a battle helm. An interesting quirk is that whenever arrows hit a character, that character is still standing, abliet with an arrow pierced through his/her body.
As far as the sounds are concerned, they are perfect. The soundtrack of this game is completely orchestrated, allowing for extremely excellent music quality. Also, although a bit short in this department, there are voice overs of the characters, including the actors from the films, such as Viggo Mortensen and Ian McKellan, among others.
Controlwise, it is as good as it gets. The game uses the traditional JRPG RPG setup, with one minor exception--In order to access the menu, you have to press the Start button. You can also control the camera view and the orientation of the radar in this one, allowing complete ease of traveling within Middle Earth.
Regarding gameplay, it is superb. There are nine areas of Middle Earth, wtih tons of quests to start and complete, spanning two GameCube game discs. As far as battle goes, don't expect to level-grind your way out of most of the harder battles, as the higher-tier monsters have HP of at least 20,000 and can use devastating tactics. The battles require more strategy than your typical console-style RPG. Speaking of level grinding, you can customize your characters' stats and what special attacks and/or magic spells they can learn by using the Skill Tree.
Overall, this game proves not only that western and Japanese RPGs can co-exist with each other, but that licensed video games can be a lot of fun and very addicting.