The 11 Best Lord of the Rings Video Games
J.R.R. Tolkien’s creation of Middle-earth has captivated fans globally since the publication of *The Hobbit*. Beyond the acclaimed films, Middle-earth boasts an extensive video game history, spanning various genres and platforms.
11. The Lord of the Rings: War in the North
This title uniquely blends elements from both the books and films. As a hack-and-slash RPG, it follows a trio of original characters: Eradan the Ranger, Farin the Dwarf, and Andriel the Elf. They embark on a journey that parallels the film trilogy’s events, assisting the Fellowship while Frodo endeavors to destroy the One Ring. While the combat is standard, it lets players engage in a story alongside Aragorn during the events of the movies.
10. The Lord of the Rings Online
Since 2007, this MMORPG has invited players to explore Middle-earth, engaging in quests and raids inspired by the novels during the War of the Ring. Create a character and traverse Middle-earth. While other MMORPGs are more popular, the title is a must-play for any *Lord of the Rings* devotee. The game still receives updates, with the *Legacy of Morgoth* expansion released in late 2024. It stands as the sole *Lord of the Rings* MMORPG, particularly following Amazon’s project cancellation in 2021.
9. Lego The Hobbit
TT Games, known for its humorous Lego adaptations, brings the world of *The Hobbit* to life with plastic bricks. Players journey through *An Unexpected Journey* and *The Desolation of Smaug*, unlocking and playing as characters from the films. The game delivers a faithful recreation of the movies with enjoyable skits and gags. While delightful, another Lego title based on Tolkien is a stronger choice.
8. The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth
Released by EA Los Angeles during the RTS genre’s golden age, this game takes a Command & Conquer-inspired approach, where players command Gondor or Mordor, build bases, and deploy armies to determine Middle-earth’s fate. The title’s single-player mode features distinct campaigns for both factions. Its seamless integration of the *Lord of the Rings* world into the RTS genre garnered critical and commercial success. A better sequel followed, but neither can be purchased as of today.
7. The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age
This title adapts the *Lord of the Rings* universe into a turn-based RPG, drawing inspiration from *Final Fantasy*. While criticized for its similarities to *Final Fantasy X*, this game presents a class-based party system within Middle-earth. Set parallel to the movies, players follow the Fellowship, visiting locations and battling familiar foes. Despite its lack of originality, the game is a way to be a part of the action outside the main heroes.
6. The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth 2
The sequel enhances the original with campaigns for Good (led by Glorfindel) and Evil (led by Sauron’s Mouth). Players command armies with characters from the series, with the addition of Goblins, Dwarves, and Elves. Despite being superior to its predecessor, it’s unfortunately unavailable for purchase due to licensing issues and server shutdowns.
5. Lego The Lord of the Rings
TT’s adaptation of Peter Jackson’s original film trilogy in Lego form lets you play as 80+ characters. The game features a vast and varied world, bringing Middle-earth to life in Lego form. This title combines the magic of the franchise with the charm of Lego gameplay, making it highly recommended to fans.
4. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
This hack-and-slash title lets players control members of the Fellowship through key events. It was particularly notable for its inclusion of local co-op, allowing players to experience the adventure together. Combining scenes from the Peter Jackson movie and engaging gameplay, the title was a great tie-in game at the time. But, it didn’t beat its predecessor…
3. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Sharing similar gameplay, preference between *The Two Towers* and *The Return of the King* is largely subjective. The Battle of Helm’s Deep in *The Two Towers* stands out as a highlight in *Lord of the Rings* gaming. Recreating key movie moments, players control Fellowship members like Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli. Its combat and visuals made it a standard for movie tie-in games.
2. Middle-earth: Shadow of War
Developed when Warner Bros. held rights to both Tolkien’s works and Jackson’s films, *Shadow of War* takes inspiration from the lore. It features Shelob (as a woman) and the Entwives, and protagonist Talion’s fate intertwines with the Ringwraiths. Its complicated story divides fans. Its expansive world, strong combat, Nemesis system, and fortress sieges elevate the game, second only to its predecessor.
1. Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor
Set between *The Hobbit* and *The Lord of the Rings*, this title follows Talion and Celebrimbor as they seek revenge on Sauron’s generals. Its story is more focused than its sequel’s. Its Nemesis system makes every Orc unique. Their relationships with you evolve based on your actions. Combined with Batman Arkham-style combat and a unique story, *Shadow of Mordor* is the best *Lord of the Rings* game. Sadly, the studio behind the two games shut down in 2025.
With new *Lord of the Rings* media on the horizon, expect more Tolkien-based games. Next, is *Tales of the Shire*, which delivers a very different take on Tolkien’s world.
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