Where is Shadow of Mordor in the Timeline?
In the vast and intricate world of Tolkien’s Middle-earth, the Shadow of Mordor stands as a pivotal event that reshapes the landscape and the fate of its inhabitants. As fans of the beloved Lord of the Rings series and its expansions, many have pondered the precise timeline in which Shadow of Mordor, the video game developed by Monolith Productions, fits within the established narrative. This article delves into the mystery of where Shadow of Mordor sits in the grand timeline of Middle-earth, offering insights and theories based on the game’s content and the existing lore.
The Shadow of Mordor is set during the period following the fall of the Second Age and the rise of the Third Age. It is a prequel to the events of The Lord of the Rings, which is itself a sequel to The Hobbit. The game takes place approximately 60 years before the events of The Lord of the Rings, placing it in the year 1999 of the Third Age. This timeline is established through the game’s narrative, which follows the rise of the Witch-king of Angmar and the gradual corruption of the Mordor region by Sauron’s will.
One of the key aspects that connects Shadow of Mordor to the broader Middle-earth timeline is the presence of Gollum. In the game, Gollum is the main antagonist and the central figure around which the narrative revolves. His story intertwines with the rise of the Witch-king and the dark forces of Mordor. This connection to Gollum, who plays a significant role in The Lord of the Rings, helps to anchor the game within the established timeline.
Another important element that ties Shadow of Mordor to the larger Middle-earth narrative is the use of the One Ring. In the game, the One Ring is the primary source of power for Sauron and the forces of Mordor. The ring’s influence and the quest to reclaim it from the hands of the Witch-king serve as the driving force behind the player’s character, Talion. This connection to the One Ring further solidifies the game’s placement within the timeline, as it directly relates to the events of The Lord of the Rings.
While the game’s timeline is well-established, there are still some discrepancies and mysteries that have sparked debate among fans. One such discrepancy is the absence of certain characters and events that are central to the Lord of the Rings narrative. For instance, the game does not feature the Elves of Rivendell or the Dwarves of Erebor, who play significant roles in the later stages of the Third Age. This absence has led some fans to question whether the game is set in a separate timeline or if it is an alternate universe.
In conclusion, Shadow of Mordor is set in the timeline of Middle-earth, approximately 60 years before the events of The Lord of the Rings. The game’s narrative and characters, such as Gollum and the One Ring, help to anchor it within the established lore. While there are some discrepancies and mysteries, the overall timeline of the game is well-integrated with the broader Middle-earth narrative. As fans continue to explore and debate the intricacies of the game’s setting, the mystery of where Shadow of Mordor sits in the timeline remains a captivating topic for discussion.
