Earlier this week Monolith released the first of two planned story expansions for Middle-Earth: Shadow of War, as well as a free update with dozens of changes. In the Blade of Galadriel line of quests, players will take control of Eltariel, the Elven assassin who plays a key role in the game’s main storyline.
A servant of Galadriel, Eltariel has been hunting the Nazgúl for millennia. While much of Eltariel’s gameplay is similar to what players have seen before, there are some new elements to experience.
Wielding two blades and the Light of Galadriel, Eltariel will employ new abilities and gear items in combat. Instead of dominating Orcs like Talion, players in this expansion will convince a handful of Orcs to follow them during quests. These include eight “legendary” followers that can be transferred back into the main game’s army.
In addition, players will gain an Eltariel skin that can be used in the main campaign for Middle-Earth: Shadow of War. This is an interesting and confusing addition, since Eltariel’s character is a key player late in the main story.
Loads of other free additions and changes were included in the update, including new features to the Nemesis System. New traits and behaviors will change how Orcs in the world act. For example, the Tunnel Rat feature would allow its bearer to burrow underground and summon Ghuls. These traits will lead to dozens of new interactions in the Fight Pits.
Other updates add player options and streamline aspects of gameplay. Photo mode features new options for screenshot customization, a player stats page gives insight on everything Talion has done, and players can now further customize their HUD options.
Many other changes grace this expansive update. The full patch notes can be found here. The Blade of Galadriel, two previously released gameplay expansions, and the upcoming Desolation of Mordor story pack can be purchased in several different combinations. The two story expansions can be purchased together for $25, or the Blade of Galadriel can be purchased alone for $15. The game is available on Xbox One, PS4, and PC.