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Over the years, it has become clear that movie based games are not an easy creation to make. Just look at Star Wars Episode 1 for example, a game that was filled with action and would appear to be a simple project for a transfer to a platform. However, you'd have a challenge on your hands to find a game based on the film that bridged the gap between mediocre crapfest and good game. I'm also still waiting on an Indiana Jones game that doesn't suck. However, some games of this genre have stood above the crowd and given hope to gamers. On the N64, there was Goldeneye. Now on the next generation of game consoles, we have the Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. This game raises the bar.
There are few aspects of this game that cannot be described as incredible. The gameplay is intense, the graphics are true accomplishment for the PS2 that is usually the less impressive of the new consoles, and the sound makes the best use possible of the films strong soundtrack.
The story is widely known by most so I'll try not to get too into it in my description of the game. In the game, you can play as Legolas the archer elf, Gimli the slow but incredibly powerful little dwarf, or Aragorn, a human with cool hair and a sword (that sums him up nicely I think). These characters all follow the same levels as they try to help Frodo Baggins on his quest to destroy the evil ring of Saron, that threatens to help lead to the destruction of their world, Middle earth. Along the way, the characters kick some mad ass. Enemies range from fighting Uruk-hai to huge lumbering cave trolls. Each enemy has its own attack styles and weaknesses. As you progress, you will learn new combos for your characters, helping make your mass destruction of enemies a bit more interesting. This also helps to limit the amount of hack-n-slash that goes into the mass combat in the game.
Aside from the fun of killing evil creatures in beautiful environments, there are many other things to keep you playing. As you progress through the game improving your characters, there are many unlockable programs, ranging from actor interviews to secret codes and secret characters. I have been playing this game non stop since I got it, and I'm sure you will too if you make the wise investment of acquiring it. This game definately deserves a 5 overall rating.
Gameplay:
The gameplay is simple but intense. You can beat each level with each of your three characters, gaining abilities and combo moves along the way. By gaining these combos, it presents you with two styles of playing. There is my personal favorite style of hack-n-slash, in which you can beat the game by simple slamming the x and triangle attacks over and over again, gradually beating your enemies to a pulp.
However, for those of you gamers who seek more depth in your games, you may memorize these combos you learn, allowing for not only some cool visual moves, but even more efficient killing.
My only complaint about the gameplay is not about something contained in the game, but something that is not contained in the game. I only wish that the creators had thrown in a multi player game. This game seems perfect for some co-op ass kicking, but that is not included. However, the one player action more than makes up for this lack. Come to think of it, I have one more minor complaint, that being that the game is a bit short. Fortunately, this game is a mix of both of the first two movies in the trilogy and therefore has enough to make the game acceptably long, but not as long as I'd like. However, the replay value is high and makes up for the lack of length.
The gameplay is great, but I dont feel it quite deserves a 5 rating, so I grant it a 4 overall.
Graphics:
The graphics are definately among the best on the PS2, which will hopefully continue this pattern and match its competitive systems in the graphics department. The environments are perfect. The lush forests and dry plains have a perfect feel, making you feel just as into the game as you felt about the movie. My personal favorite environment is Amon Hen, with the grassy plains and perfect forests.
The character models are not quite as impressive as the environments however. I love the cave trolls and Uruk-hai, but unfortunately the main characters dont look as movie like. Aragorn looks somewhat like Viggo Mortenson from the movie, but Legolas looks a bit ugly, and nothing like Orlando Bloom. However, the smooth movements and detailed clothing make up the minor flaws.
Overall, the graphics deserve at least a 5.
Sound:
Like the graphics, the sound was perfect. The voice acting was perfect, as it was by the actors of the film itself. The sound effects were great, from the clash of metal against metal to the creak of a wooden bow being pulled back.
The music was perfect. One of my favorite parts about the movies were the music, and it is used perfectly in the game. The music gets intense in battle, creepy while exploring the dark fangorn forest, and fits well in the cut scenes.
Like the graphics and overall game, it more than earns a 5 rating.
In conclusion, if you like action, beautiful visuals, and lots of unlockables, then definately try this game.