No doubting this is the best the LotR franchised game to date.
So with that, let's start this review!
Overview
BFME2 is basically an RTS donned with fantastic, addictive game-modes and plenty of hours of gameplay, and let's not forget that elusive LotR tag. This wasn't a hugely hyped title, as some would of come to expect, but they were proved wrong, as "An RTS slapped with the Fellowship" soon became a thing of the past, and with it came a fresh, new experience.
Gameplay
RTS's are one of the few genres which rarely fail to disappoint. This game is no exception. The simplistic "Search-and-Destroy" attitude has been scrapped which largely dominated of what little gameplay experience the original had. Long term consequences are evidently possible, such as the possibilty of a quick goblin rush should your army be away on duty, or perhaps the possibilty of not researching early, when later on a horde of archers surround your base with the fire arrows which you could of been using. Quick decisions and constant alert are needed to win. The relatively short campaigns (8 for each allignment) should provide entertainment for a relatively short while, but the ever-so addicting War Of The Ring mode is what makes this game so damned great. "Risk"-style gameplay which makes you constantly making you choose decisions. Quick expandations arn't enough, you have to build on the land and make an outpost in each region, so should the need arise, the area should be properly defended. Solo play is also highly entertaining. 6 factions to choose from keep you playing to master each race. My personal fave is Mordor. Online play is good, too, so overall, this game is one that should keep you going for a long, long time.
Verdict - 10
Graphics
While appearing rough and flat at times, the models are there and very recognizable. Not much detail has gone into each unit, but they look good regardless. The maps looks spectacular. Each map, such as Helm's Deep, Minas Tirith and more is recognizable from the film, and re-enacting each battle is beautiful. The scaling, however, doesn't quite cut it. Although they look good, Mumakil look too small compared to the movies on which the game is actually based. Minas Tirith also looks comparably small, but most units scale well against each other, such as giants and Uruks. The graphics overall are fresh and crisp, and would be adored by Tolkien fans and casuals alike.
Verdict - 8
Sound
Ah, the sound, perhaps the highlight of this superb game. The voicings are superb. The voices on the characters are nice to hear, and constant information bombardment is good, so you know what is going on in your realm. The voices themselves, however, sometimes are frustrating and lead to aggrivation. The music, however is 100% LotR goodness. The ever-so recognizable tunes keep you humming along as you send in a troop of trolls to dispose of pesky foes. The sound is one the best things about BFME2, and will satisfy fans greatly.
Verdict - 10
Value
It's only just been released, so a full priced game isn't much of a bargain, however, BFME2 easily delivers a huge gaming experience which will last for years into the future. Whatever is so great about this game, it keeps you coming back for more. The create-a-hero? (Which is relatively limited) The War Of The Ring mode? The skirmishes? The campaigns? Whatever it is, BFME2 delivers on every possible front, and finally a game is worthy of the wonderful LotR name-bearing.
Verdict - 9
This game is almost a certain genre-defining gaming experience. It's a game that shouldn't be missed by any LotR or RTS fan.
Overall - 9.6 - Superb