Even before the blockbuster film adaptations hit the big screen, J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy had been regarded as an epic masterpiece – perhaps one of the most influential works of its kind. One of the areas in which the films succeeded so admirably was the way in which it captured the magic – both literally and figuratively – of Tolkien’s universe. Fortunately, “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” video game is able to engross the player in the same manner.

While the trilogy is, for lack of a better description, a fantasy adventure, this video game is better classified as less adventure, more “hack and slash” action. While some hoping for more of an adventure game might be slightly disappointed, fans of non-stop action will be delighted. The game revolves solely around battling (as Aragorn, Legolas, or Gimli) the evil hordes of Sauron and Saruman’s forces, including goblins, Uruk-Hai, and even cave trolls.

Story & Presentation:

The game’s presentation is simply stunning, as evident from the moment you insert the game disc. Actual film footage transitions seamlessly into the video game’s computer-animated cutscenes, which in turn transitions seamlessly into actual gameplay! When starting a new game, for instance, the player is treated to the opening scene from the first movie, including the battle at Mt. Doom. Without warning, however, the player is suddenly thrown into the midst of the battle! This serves as a “training level” in which the player learns basics of the game. Later cutscenes will also transition in such a manner, perfectly melding the story with the actual gameplay. For the most part, the game’s story, as shown through the cutscenes, mirrors that of the second movie (and part of the first) closely, with some small differences. Needless to say, the story is excellent.

Gameplay:

So how is the gameplay? As mentioned above, the game is pure non-stop action, with never a dull moment. In addition, the controller is mapped out very well. The left thumbstick controls movement, while the four face buttons each serve a different purpose, i.e. one button performs a “speed attack,” another button a slower, but more powerful “fierce attack,” and so on. Fortunately, the controls are easy to learn and master, as randomly pushing buttons will not get the player very far. Certain attacks are just plain ineffective against certain enemies, leaving your character open to counter-attack, so the player must choose and time their attacks. Each time the player kills an enemy, the kill is rated (perfect, excellent, good, or fair) depending on how little damage the player took and the skill with which they killed. For instance, performing a complex and devastating combo will give a better rating than a simple, repeated attack. And in this game, style definitely matters; the better the rating you get on a kill, the more experience points you earn. After each mission is completed, those hard-earned experience points can be used to “purchase” such things as additional combos, more powerful weapons, or more health, all of which are extremely useful in the later, more difficult missions.

Graphics:

For the most part, the graphics are beautiful. However, some character models are clearly superior to others, and there is an occasional hiccup during one or two of the cutscenes – a very small complaint, however. In addition, close-ups of some of the characters’ faces, especially those of Gimli and Aragorn, look quite different than the actual actors during some of the CG cutscenes. On the other hand, the animation, especially those of the attack combinations, is very well done, as are the outdoor environments. At times, the player

Sound:

The game’s music, taken directly from the first movie, is absolutely perfect. Simply put, I don’t think any other music could quite possibly have captured the atmosphere of the movie and game any better. In addition, too many times have I played a game in which the original actors do not do the voice-work. Not so in this case, as the actual cast of the movies lends their talents to the game, further immersing the player into the game world.

Extras & Replayability:

This area of the game is somewhat of a mixed bag. Some of the extras, on one hand, are a must for any “Lord of the Rings” fan. They include photos from the movie, as well as interviews with the actors and director. If you’ve bought either of the DVD’s out, you’ve probably seen interviews with the actors regarding the movie. But what is unique about these interviews is that the actors are discussing the video game, not just the movie! On the other hand, I was very disappointed with another of the extras: the unlockable character. While I won’t spoil who it is for you, I will say that there are many other characters I would rather play as. In terms of the game’s replay value, it is once again a mixed bag. Some gamers simply want to play a game through to its end, while others want to do everything possible. I fall into the latter category, and so I greatly enjoyed playing through the game as every single character and obtaining a “perfect” rating for each mission with each character. Others, however, might not see the fun in this, so might tire of the game after one time through. Finally, lack of a co-op or multiplayer mode further lowers the replay value. However, something I consider somewhat of an “extra” is that the game also lets you play through certain battles from the first movie, not just “The Two Towers.”

Buy or Rent? It depends on what type of game player you are; please see my Extras & Replayability section to see what I mean. If you simply want to play the game to see the ending, you’d probably be better off renting, as the game is short enough to beat within a single rental period. On the other hand, I purchased the game, and am extremely happy with my decision. Either way, this game is worth a try for any “Lord of the Rings” fan, and even for those who aren’t, but simply enjoy great action games.