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The Lord of the Rings Online

2015-07-12T15:05:11Z

Pinkkeith: /* External Links */ My LOTRO doesn't exist any longer.

{{disambig-more|The Lord of the Rings|[[The Lord of the Rings (disambiguation)]]}}[[Image:Lotro logo.png|250px|right]]
'''''The Lord of the Rings Online''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''LOTRO''' or '''LotRO''') is the common name for an MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) that takes place in the world of [[Arda]] during the time of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]].''

==Development==
{{rewrite}}
[[Sierra Entertainment|Sierra]] began to develop the game in 1998, then called ''[[Middle-earth Online]]''. After Sierra was bought out by [[Vivendi|Vivendi Universal Games]], production of the game was shared with [[Turbine]]. The rights to the game were sold exclusively to Turbine in March 2004, after which they announced that the name of the project would be changed to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''.

While the majority of quests in the game are original content created by Turbine based on the history and lore of Middle-earth, the quests flagged as "Epic" quests depict specific events and scenes from the ''The Lord of the Rings'' storyline. While conducting Epic Quests, players interact with the main characters from the books, and assist in the advancing of the story toward the [[War of the Ring]] and the destruction of [[the One Ring]].

The game also attempts to mimic ''The Lord of the Rings'' by being broken down in volumes, books and chapters. The original game is called Volume I, the following expansion is Volume II and the current expansion is Volume III. Each one of the epic quests are broken down by "Books" and "Chapters".

Turbine has gone to great lengths to faithfully recreate the fantasy world created by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] with a high degree of attention to detail. Essentially every character named in the books appears in the game and can be interacted with during quests and other activities.

A closed beta was announced on [[8 September|September 8]], [[2006]]. An open beta began on [[30 March|March 30]], [[2007]], and was open to all who pre-ordered the game's Founders Club edition. On [[6 April|April 6]], [[2007]], the beta opened to the public.


===Gameplay===
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is an "open-world" game in which players can travel to any land or region. Regions progress in difficulty and the content of some must be purchased with game expansions. Players acquire quests from non-player characters (NPCs). A special Epic Quest line contains the main storyline of the game, running parallel to events in ''The Lord of the Rings''.

Monsters and unfriendly creatures are found throughout the landscape. Players battle these using learned skills and attacks. The game is mainly Player vs. Environment (PvE). However in the [[Ettenmoors]] region, players can participate in Player vs. Player battles (PvP). Most gameplay is solo but players can team up in Fellowships to perform quests, skirmishes, or raids designed for larger groups.

Completing quests and special deeds allows players to advance in Level and acquire new skills, armour, or weapons. Legendary Weapons can be customized, renamed, and enhanced with Relics.

Towns and settlements provide Vendors where players can purchase or repair their armour, weapons, and supplies. Towns also often include Mailboxes, Auction Halls, Class Trainers, Forge-masters, Relic-masters, and Stable-masters who allow swift travel between regions.

The player interface allows other aspects of gameplay such as Character screens, Quest and Deed Logs, a Social Panel where players can interact, and a Crafting panel where players use skills to craft new items.

====Races====
Players are able to play as any of the [[Free Peoples]] -- [[Elves]], [[Men]], [[Dwarves]], [[Hobbits]] or [[Beornings]]. Male or female characters can be created, except in the case of Dwarves. As per Tolkien, Dwarf women are very rare and seldom leave their mountain halls.

Additionally, in the [[Ettenmoors]] region where Monster Play is available, players can portray [[Orcs]], [[Uruk-hai]], [[Wargs]], or [[Spiders]].

====Classes====
:''Main article: [[Character Classes (LOTRO)]]''

Several Classes are available to players, each with specific skills, strengths, and weaknesses. These include Burglars, Captains, Champions, Guardians, Hunters, Lore-masters, Minstrels, Rune-keepers, Wardens, and Beornings.

===Shadows of Angmar===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar|Shadows of Angmar]]'' was released on [[24 April|April 24]], [[2007]]. It included books 1 through 8 of the epic quest line. Approximately once every two months a major free update is added to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''. Each update is an extension to the epic quest called a book.

====Book 9: Shores of Evendim====
{{#ev:youtubehd|VOEcXrbG4OI|200|thumb}}
The first free content update was released on June 14, 2007.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3611&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced]</ref>

Updates included:
*A new region - [[Evendim]] - is added, including locations like [[Annúminas]].<ref name="book9">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/136-book-9-shores-of-evendim-release-date-announced|articlename=Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced!|dated=5 June 2007|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
*The epic story is expanded with book 9, [[Shores of Evendim]]<ref name="book9"/>
*100 new quests are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*A 24-player raid is added, ''Battle for Helegrod''.<ref name="book9"/>
*Nine new monsters are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*New Collectible armour sets are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*Updates to the music system.<ref name="book9"/>

====Book 10: The City of Kings====
:''Main article [[The City of Kings]]''
The second free-content update was released on August 21, 2007 in North America and on August 24, 2007 in Europe.<ref>| [http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3949&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Codemasters Online and Turbine unveil Book 10: The City of the Kings]</ref>

Updates included:
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Legendary Play – Players can now use Destiny Points to play as a Ranger of the North or as a Troll.
*Critter Play – Players can now explore Middle-earth from a different viewpoint as a chicken.
*New Reputation and Bartering Systems – The Reputation system enables players to earn positive and negative standing with different races and groups in Middle-earth based on both monster kills and quest completions. The Bartering system allows players to trade trophies earned in battle for rewards, such as armour sets or mounts.
*Over 100 new Quests.
*More customizable user interface.

====Book 11: Prisoner of the Free Peoples====
:''Main article [[Prisoner of the Free Peoples]]''
The third free-content update was released on October 24, 2007 in North America<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/430 Turbine and Codemasters Online Gaming to Unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador for The Lord of the Rings Online]</ref> and October 25 in Europe.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=4661&articletype=News Codemasters Online and Turbine to unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador]</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_11_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Epic Story arc, including 13 quests.
*Player housing – players will be able to customize their houses with items such as furniture and doormats.
*Second raid called "The Rift" – 12-player raid in which players encounter a [[Balrogs|Balrog]] for the first time. Turbine has stressed that this is not the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog from Khazad-dûm]].<ref>[http://lotro.tentonhammer.com/index.php?module=ContentExpress&func=display&ceid=287 Book 11 Preview: The Balrogs are Coming]</ref>
*Two new areas – Tâl Bruinen in the Trollshaws, where [[Gollum]] will be introduced for the first time, and Goblin-town in the [[Misty Mountains]], featured in ''The Hobbit''.
*More than 100 new quests.

====Book 12: The Ashen Wastes====
:''Main article [[The Ashen Wastes]]''
The fourth free content update was released on February 13, 2008 in North America; and February 14, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_12_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Character customization - Increased character customization "ranging from haircuts, to some (possible) additions to the trait-system." In addition, the Outfit system, along with special social clothing designed just for it, will be introduced where a second or third set of clothing can be slotted and displayed while retaining the statistical bonuses of the currently equipped items.<ref>[http://lotro.stratics.com/content/hoclog/hoc10.php Lord of the Rings Online: House of Commons ]</ref>
*The Delving of Frór - A new Monster Play PVE (and PVMP under certain circumstances) area was introduced: An expanse of caves and catacombs located beneath the Ettenmoors.
*The Great Angmar Revamp - A revamp of the most high-level region of the game's current 9 PvE regions. The revamp included the reworking of many quests, areas and other changes, such as new horse routes.
*Barbershop - You can customize the look of your avatar in-game with around 50 new haircuts and second set of details.
*Updates to the Burglar, Guardian, and Champion classes.

====Book 13: Doom of the Last-King====
:''Main article [[Doom of the Last-King]]''
The fifth free content update was released on April 24, 2008 in North America and on May 1, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_13_Official complete release notes]):
*A new playable map area: the Ice Bay of [[Forochel]].
*Players being able to see the ocean for the first time, confirmed as the Ice Bay of Forochel in recent developer chats.
*Fishing - the first of a new system in ''Lord of the Rings Online'', called 'hobbies'.
*New PVMP Monster Healing Class - Orc Defiler.
*Looking For Fellowship- and Quest-panel improvements.

====Book 14: The Ring-forges of Eregion====
:''Main article [[The Ring-forges of Eregion]]''
The sixth free content update was released on July 22, 2008 in North America. It was released on July 24, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_14_Official complete release notes]):
*Climax of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added selected sections of [[Eregion]] (Region leading towards the Gates of Moria).
*Epic Quest events that will allow interaction between players regardless of server.
*Prelude quests for and leading up to the ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' expansion, which would have updates leading to Lothlórien, Fangorn, Rhovanion and Rohan.

====Book 15: Daughter of Strife====
:''Main article [[Daughter of Strife]]''
The seventh free content update was released on November 18, 2008. This update was released in tandem with the Mines of Moria expansion for players who did not purchase the expansion release.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Category:Epic_-_Vol._I,_Book_15:_Daughter_of_Strife_Quests Epic - Vol. I, Book 15: Daughter of Strife Quests epic]):
*Conclusion of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added the zone of Eregion expanding on the selected sections from Book 14. The zone does not include the Hollin Gate leading to the Black Pool.
*Added UI enhancements

===Mines of Moria Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' was released on [[18 November|November 18]], [[2008]]. It included Vol. II books 1 through 6 of the epic quest line. Like ''Shadows of Angmar'', ''Mines of Moria'' continued to regularly release updates. Updates were less frequent than Shadows of Angmar.

====Book 7: Leaves of Lórien====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Leaves of Lórien.png|thumb|300px]]Book 7 was released on [[17 March]] [[2009]]. This update included:
* Continuation of the Epic Storyline in Book 7, [[Leaves of Lórien]].<ref name="book7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/342-vol2book7|articlename=Volume II: Book 7: Leaves of Lórien Spotlight|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* Expansion of the Lothlórien Area, including [[Caras Galadhon]].<ref name="book7"/>
* A new raid, named ''Strange Happenings'', has been added.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Galadhrim]] are added as a new reputation faction.<ref name="book7"/>
* Crafting instances enable players to gather resources.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Ered Luin Introduction]] and, on lesser scale, the [[Bree-land Introduction]] are revamped.<ref name="book7"/>
* Several new Monster Play emotes are added.<ref name="book7"/>

====Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dum====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Scourge of Khazad-Dûm.png|thumb|300px]]Book 8 was released on June 23, 2009. This update included:
*Book 8, [[Scourge of Khazad-dûm]], continues the epic story.<ref name="book8">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/421-vol2-book8|articlename=Volume II: Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dûm|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* A radiance-gated multi-boss, 12-man raid - named ''Dar Narbugud'' is added.<ref name="book8"/>
* One 6-man instance is added: ''The Halls of Crafting''.<ref name="book8"/>
* Two 3-man instances are added:
** ''Lumul-nar''<ref name="book8"/>
** ''Nala-dum''<ref name="book8"/>
* Continuation of the revamp of the [[Bree-land Introduction]].<ref name="book8"/>
* The Crafting system has been revived.<ref name="book8"/>

===Siege of Mirkwood Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood|Siege of Mirkwood]]'' was released on December 1, 2009 in North America and December 3, 2009 in Europe. Unlike the second expansion this edition was only available via a web-based download. It included Book 9 and the epilogue of Volume II: Mines of Moria.

[[Kate Paiz]], Executive Producer for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', released a letter on October 22, 2010 stating that updates will be more frequent but will not always be accompanied with a new book continuing the epic story.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/866-producers-letter-october-2010 Producer's Letter, October-2010] lotro.com, Dev Diaries</ref>

====Book 1: Oath of the Rangers====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Oath of the Rangers.png|300px|thumb]]:''Main article [[Oath of the Rangers]]''
Book 1 was released on [[1 March|March 1]], [[2010]].<ref> [http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=320404 Volume III: Allies of the King has arrived!]</ref>

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Allies_of_the_King_Official complete release notes]):
* The beginning of Volume III in the epic storyline.
* The ability to solo the Volume I epic storyline.
* A duo mode for most skirmishes.

====Book 2: Ride of the Grey Company====
:''Main article [[Ride of the Grey Company]]''
Book 2 was released on [[10 September|September 10]], [[2010]] in North America. ([[8 September|September 8]], [[2010]] for subscribers). It was delayed in Europe because of contractual reasons and was finally released on [[2 November]], almost two months after North America.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/ Massively], [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/v-e-me-day-lotro-europe-announces-launch-date-for-free-to-play/ V-E-ME Day: LotRO Europe announces launch date for free-to-play], dated [[29 October]], [[2010]] (accessed [[11 November]], [[2011]])</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Book_2_Official complete release notes]):

* New region: [[Enedwaith]].
* ''Lord of the Rings Online'' Free to Play subscription.
* Book 2 in the Volume III epic storyline.
* Scalable instances.
* Improvements to the vault, and a new wardrobe system for cosmetic items.
* Updates to the Captain class.
* The LOTRO store, where players may purchase convenience items. Points either earned through gameplay, through the VIP program or by being purchased.
* The introduction of Lua Scripting.
* DirectX 11 support.
* Ranger session play.

====Update 1: Journey to Winter-Home====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 1 Journey to Winter-Home.png|300px|thumb]]The first post Free-to-play update was released in November 2010. Due to changes to how updates work this did not contain an epic book.

Updates included:

* A Barter Wallet for skirmish marks and anniversary tokens.
* Opening of Moria, Lothlorien, Mirkwood and Enedwaith to free-to-play players. Volume II and Volume III will also be available, as well the legendary item system, and the level 65 level cap all to free-to-play players.
* Vault improvements.
* Tasks: a new quest type for all levels.
* Improved reputation mounts.
* Updates to the Lore-master and Rune-keeper classes.
* Ered Luin starting area revamp.

====Update 2: Echoes of the Dead====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 2 Echoes of the Dead.png|300px|thumb]]The first update of 2011 was released on [[21 March|March 21]] in the United States and [[24 March|March 24]] for Europe.

Updates included:

* Two 3-man's, two 6-man's, and a 12-person raid were added for level 65 players.
* A special item required to craft a First Age weapon which drops from the above raid.
* Radiance was removed.
* Legendary Items were updated.
* Character panel and cosmetic system were revamped.
* The Minstrel, Hunter and Burglar classes were updated.
* Volume III Book 3: [[Echoes of the Dead]] was added.
* Volume II was revamped and made soloable, including three instances which have been converted to skirmishes.
* Improvements to the PvP starter tutorial.
* [[Evendim]] was revamped, with [[Annúminas]] being scaled down to level 40.

====Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 3 Lost Legends of Eriador.png|300px|thumb]]''Lost Legends of Eriador'' was the third update. It was released on [[23 May|May 23]], [[2011]] and included: ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_3,_Lost_Legends_of_Eriador,_Official complete release notes]):

* Two new 3-man scalable instances starting mid-game.
* Two new skirmishes.

===Rise of Isengard Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]''
The third expansion for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is entitled ''Rise of Isengard''. The expansion was made available on September 27, 2011 and only as a digital download.<ref>[http://isengard.lotro.com/ The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard Official Homepage]</ref>

====Update 5: Armies of Isengard====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 5 Armies of Isengard.png|220px|thumb]]''Armies of Isengard'' was the first update published after the release of ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''. It was released on [[12 December]] [[2011]] and included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_5,_Armies_of_Isengard,_Official complete release notes]):

* Four new instances and a 12-man raid in and around [[Isengard]].
* [[The Prince of Rohan|Book 5]] of [[Allies of the King|Volume III]] is released.
* A new Instance finder, to form groups more easily.
* Barter currencies of skirmishes, classic and instances are unified.
* Changes to Reputation items.

====Update 6: Shores of the Great River====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 6 The Great River.png|220px|thumb]]'''Shores of the Great River''' is the sixth update and was released on [[12 March]] [[2012]].<ref name="Update6&Riders"> {{webcite|author=Justin Olivetti|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/riding-into-rohan-lotro-maps-out-2012/|articlename=Riding into Rohan: LotRO maps out in 2012|dated=25 January 2012|website=Massively|accessed=29 January 2012}}</ref><ref name="Update6">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/game-manual/1775-update-6-great-river|articlename=Update 6 Great River|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

*A new region, the [[Anduin|The Great River]], was added, featuring seven new areas - including [[Parth Celebrant]] - in the upper [[Anduin]]. <ref name="Update6"/>
*[[Mists of Anduin]], Book 6 of Volume III, was released, in which the player seeks the wisdom of [[Galadriel]] about troubling dreams and fights [[Easterlings]], Brigands and an ancient enemy of Rohan.<ref name="Update6"/>
*The ability to summon skirmish warriors outside skirmishes.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Updates to the Instance finder.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Currency-change in Monster Play: "Destiny" will be replaced with "Commendations". Commendations will be available for both Freeps and Creeps.<ref name="MP Currency change">{{webcite|author=Jaret Pruett|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|articlename=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

====Update 7: Shades of the Past====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 7 Shades of the Past.png|thumb|220px]]'''Shades of the Past''' is the seventh update<ref name="Update 7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/1966|articlename=Update 7|dated=|website=lotro.com|accessed=12 May 2012}}</ref> and was released on 14 May, 2012.{{fact}}

*Continuation of the aforementioned currency-change.<ref name="MP Currency change"/>
*A new instance, "Storm on Methedras"<ref name="Update 7"/>
*Revamp of the Fornost instance and Moria region.<ref name="Update 7"/>

===Riders of Rohan Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan]]''
The fourth expansion for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is named ''Riders of Rohan''. The expansion was released on October 15, 2012. <ref name="Turbine">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/1736-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-and-turbine-unveil-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-riders-of-rohan|articlename=WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND TURBINE UNVEIL THE LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE™: RIDERS OF ROHAN™|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=30 January 2012}}</ref>

===Helm's Deep Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep]]''
The fourth expansion for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is named ''Helm's Deep''. The expansion will release during the Fall of 2013.

== Added Elements ==
There are a number of elements that do not appear in any of the published works. This includes characters, lineages, objects and locations.

===Characters===
* '''[[Amarthiel]]''' served the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] during his first reign over [[Angmar]]<ref>In the game the Witch-king reigned over Angmar again shortly before the [[War of the Ring]].</ref> and wore the [[lesser rings|lesser ring]] [[Narchuil]]. She was slain by [[Narmeleth]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]] and her soul wandered [[Middle-earth]] for over a thousand years. She managed to possess Narmeleth and disguised herself as Sara Oakheart. She eventually revealed herself after the defeat of [[Mordirith]] by [[Golodir]] and becomes the Regent of Angmar.

* '''[[Andraste]]''' was a female [[Men|Man]] who served the [[Witch-king]].

* '''[[Jon Brackenbrook]]''' was a [[Men|Man]] who was captain of [[Archet]].

* '''[[Ronald Dwale]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[Dwalling]]. He was an author and a member of [[The Inklings (LOTRO)|the Inklings]], that meets in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. He was based on [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] himself.

* '''[[Éogan]]''' was the second in command of the [[Blackwolds]] and took over leadership of the group after William Skunkwood's death.

* '''The Huntsman''' was a spirit found in [[Enedwaith]] who took the shape of a large man with horns of a stag. Many players thought this was [[Oromë]]. The developers confirmed that it wasn't Oromë but a [[Maiar|Maia]] of Oromë.<ref>[http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?359604-big-D-small-d&p=4996860&highlight=#post4996860 big D, small d] [[Jonathan Rudder]], lotro.com forums</ref>

* '''[[Ivar the Bloodhand]]''' was a Gaunt-lord from the [[First Age]].

* '''[[Mordirith]]''' was the Steward of Angmar.

* '''[[Narmeleth]]''' was an elf maiden of [[Rivendell]] and daughter of [[Laerdan]]. She slew [[Amarthiel]] during the [[Battle of Fornost]] and became possessed by her soul over a thousand years later.

* '''[[Mundo Sackville-Baggins]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] who was mistakenly identified as having the ring.

* '''[[William Skunkwood]]''' was the leader of the [[Blackwolds]].

* '''[[Skorgrím]]''' was a dwarf and leader of the [[Dourhands]]. He was slain during the Battle of Edhelion. His corpse was used as a vehicle by Ivar the Bloodhand who possessed it with a fell spirit to trick the Dourhands to ally themselves with the forces of [[Angmar]].

* '''[[Sambrog]]''' was the Wight-lord of the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Groups===
* '''The [[Blackwolds]]''' were a group of [[Men|Mannish]] brigands from [[Bree-land]].

* '''The [[Dourhands]]''' was a clan of dwarves aligned with the forces of [[Angmar]]. They were the dwarves that stayed behind to rebuild the Dwarven Halls in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]].

* '''The [[Inklings (Shadows of Angmar)|Inklings]]''' are a group of [[Hobbits|Hobbit]]-authors who discuss literature. They meet each other in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. Prominent members are [[Ronald Dwale]] ([[J.R.R. Tolkien]]), [[Owen Farfield]] ([[Owen Barfield]]), [[Carlo Williams]] ([[Charles Williams]]) and [[Jack Lewisdown]] ([[C.S. Lewis]]). The group and members are based on the real [[Inklings]].

===Objects===
* '''[[Narchuil]]''' was one of the [[lesser rings]] forged by the elven-smiths during the [[Second Age]].

===Locations===
* '''[[Agamaur]]''' was a vast swamp of the [[Lone-lands]]. It was a site of a major battle between [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]]. To the west were the ruins of Ost Guruth, a fortress of [[Arnor]] claimed by the nomadic Eglain. To the east lay the ruins of Garth Agarwen, a fortress of Rhudaur ruled by [[Hill-men]] loyal to the mysterious Red Maid.

* '''[[Esteldin]]''' was a ruin of Arnor in the [[North Downs]]. At the time of the [[War of the Ring]], it was used as a base of operations by the [[Rangers of the North]].

*'''[[Falathlorn]]''' was a green and beautiful region of the [[Ered Luin]] favored by the Elves. It contained the Elvish havens of Duillond and Celondim. Not far from this region were the chilly Low-lands, site of the Dwarvish cities Gondamon and Kheledul.

*'''[[Galtrev]]''' was one of the largest towns of [[Dunland]], the nominal capitol of the country.

*'''[[Maur Tulhau]]''' was a [[Stoors|Stoorish]] Hobbit village in [[Enedwaith]] located in the forbidding Gloomgens. It was an remnant of the time when the Stoors lived in this region before most of their number moved north to [[The Shire]].

* '''[[Othrongroth]]''' was the oldest and largest Edain mound in the [[Barrow-downs]].

*'''[[Stangard]]''' was a [[Rohirrim]] settlement near the Great River [[Anduin]]. Its inhabitants were mostly exiles sent to protect [[Rohan]]'s outer borders.

* '''[[Tinnudir]]''' was an island in [[Lake Evendim]]. It was used as a headquarters by a group of Rangers called the Wardens of [[Annúminas]], protectors of the ancient capitol of Arnor.

===Structures===
* '''[[Bird and Baby Inn]]''' was an inn in [[Michel Delving]].

==Servers==
===American servers===
All American servers are hosted by [[Turbine]].
*[[Arkenstone]]
*[[Moria|Dwarrowdelf]]
*[[Gladden River|Gladden]]
*[[Meneldor]]
*[[Celebrant|Silverlode]]
*[[Brandywine]]
*[[Elendilmir]]
*[[Rivendell|Imladris]]
*[[Nimrodel]]
*[[Landroval]]
*[[Rohan|Riddermark]]
*[[Windfola]]

===European servers===
The European servers were originally created and hosted by [[Codemasters]], but on [[1 June]] [[2011]] Lotro Europe was taken over by Turbine, who currently host the European servers.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.casualstrolltomordor.com/2011/04/turbines-lotro-service-goes-global/|articlename=Turbine's LOTRO Service Goes Global|dated=24 April 2011|website=A Casual Stroll to Mordor|accessed=2 January 2012}}</ref>
====English servers====
*[[Eldar]]
*[[Evernight]]
*[[Gilrain]]
*[[Snowbourn]]
*[[Withywindle]]<ref group="note">Unlike the other European servers, Withywindle was created in [[2010]] after ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' went free-to-play.</ref>
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Laurelin]]
====French servers====
*[[River Running|Celduin]]
*[[Sirannon]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Estel]]
====German servers====
*[[Anduin]]
*[[Gwaihir]]
*[[Maiar]]
*[[Morthond]]
*[[Vanyar]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Belegaer]]

===Russian servers===
All Russian servers are hosted by [[IT Territory]].
*[[Fornost]]
====Role-playing servers====
*[[Mirkwood]]

==License==

For ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', [[Turbine]] has licensed the rights to the content and lore of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. Turbine does not have license rights to the [[New Line Cinema]] film trilogy nor ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' books or ''[[The Children of Húrin]]''.

==Discrepancies from the source material==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' does not follow the story as told in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', but rather tells stories about events that happened during the same time period as the events told in J.R.R. Tolkien's book.

==Reception==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' has been received very positively thus far, as reviews continue to appear since the game's initial release.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/pc/middleearthonline Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, The - Review] metacritic.com</ref>

GameDaily awarded the game 9/10, praising its rich, fantasy-themed universe, well-integrated trait and title system, and a story that remains true to the works of Tolkien. Yahoo! Video Games wrote a review with few negative mentions, awarding the game a score of 4/5,<ref>[http://videogames.yahoo.com/gamereview?cid=1990963744&tab=reviews&page=0&eid=513259 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] Yahoo! Games</ref> while ''Computer and Video Games'' called the game an essential purchase for ''Lord of the Rings'' fans, scoring the game a 9.2/10.<ref>[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161846&skip=yes PC Review: Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] ''Computer and Video Games''</ref> Eurogamer scored the game a 9.0/10, calling it tough to resist.<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=75657 Review - Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Eurogamer</ref> Gamespy gave it 4.5/5 stars, claiming the game "opened up Middle-Earth to the masses" but commented negatively on its weak PvP content,<ref>[http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar/785884p1.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] GameSpy</ref> while GameTrailers awarded it 8.5/10,<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/gamepage.php?id=754 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Game Trailers</ref> citing its interesting tweaks to the MMO genre. IGN.com ranked it a similar 8.6/10, praising it for its solid experience, though criticizing it for its lack of major improvements to the genre.<ref>[http://pc.ign.com/articles/787/787942p3.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] IGN</ref> GamerNode.com awarded the game an 8.8/10, calling it the best MMO launch experience since ''Ultima Online''.<ref>[http://www.gamernode.com/PC/Reviews/2848-Lord-of-the-Rings-Online-Review/index.html Lord of the Rings Online] GamerNode</ref> The ''New York Times'' called the game "a major achievement of interactive storytelling, the first game truly worthy of the ‘Lord of the Rings' franchise and a must-play for just about anyone with an interest in Tolkien or the future of online entertainment."<ref>[http://lotro.turbine.com/article/356 Lord of the Rings Online Press Release] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In a GameSpot review, the product was awarded an 8.3/10, praising its appealing polish and intriguing Monster Play feature.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/middleearthonline/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=topten&tag=topten;all;score;5 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC Review] GameSpot</ref> Gamepro.com's review gave it an overall 4.25/5, pointing out how engaging the epic quests are, as well as how faithful to the novels the game managed to stay.<ref>[http://gamepro.com/computer/pc/games/reviews/112000.shtml Review: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC] Gamepro</ref> GameSpy declared ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 'Game of the Month' for May 2007.<ref>[http://uk.gamespy.com/articles/795/795353p2.html Game of the Month: May 2007] GameSpy</ref>

==Awards==

In August 2007, Codemasters announced that ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' had received five Golden Joystick Awards nominations for the five applicable categories for the game,<ref>[http://newsrss.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6925679.stm Music and vice top games awards] BBC News</ref> and in October 2007 that it had won the "PC Game of the Year" at these awards.<ref>[http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7693&Itemid=2 Gears Wins Big at Game Awards] Next-Generation</ref> and again won the same award on October 2008. In December 2007, GameSpy awarded ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 6th place in the top 10 PC games of 2007.<ref>[http://goty.gamespy.com/2007/pc/6.html GameSpy's Game of the Year 2007] GameSpy</ref> On December 18, Turbine announced it had also won the GameSpy MMO of the Year award.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/476 LOTRO Wins Top Honors from Gamespy!] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In January 2009, mmorpg.com awarded Turbine both MMORPG studio of the year 2008<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2574/Best-MMO-Studio-of-2008-Winner MMORPG.com Best MMO Studo of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>, and MMO Expansion of the Year for ''Mines of Moria''.<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2579 MMORPG.com Best Expansion of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>

==Subscription Model==
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Free to Play.png|300px|thumb]]
In North America, players who pre-ordered the game were offered a special founder's offer, a lifetime subscription for $199 or reduced cost of $9.99 per month. Standard monthly fee is $14.99 with three, six, twelve month, and lifetime discounts available. European players had a similar program from Codemasters.

A Holiday subscription was available in December of 2007 and January of 2008 for $9.99/month for a 3 month commitment. A one year anniversary addition includes a $9.99/month subscription or a $199.99 Lifetime subscription, which was again offered during the lead up to the release of Mines of Moria.

Warner Bros. announced on June 4, 2010 that Lord of the Rings Online will offer a free-to-play model starting in the fall of 2010.<ref>[http://turbine.com/news/105-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-announces-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-to-adopt-global-free-to-play-model.html Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces The Lord of the Rings Online™ to Adopt Global Free-to-Play Model] Turbine, Inc</ref> On August 18, 2010, Warner Bros. announced that the free-to-play model would go live on September 10, 2010. On October 21, 2010, [[Codemasters]] announced that a preview of Free-to-Play would be available in Europe on October 25, 2010.<ref>[http://community.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=10839&pagename=news&type=news The Lord of the Rings Online Europe Preview Event]</ref>

==External Links==
* '''[http://lotro.com Official website]'''
** '''[http://forums.lotro.com/ LOTRO Community Website]''' , the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' forums
* [http://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Main_Page Lotro-Wiki], a fan created wiki
* [http://lotro.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page lotro.wikia.com], another fan created wiki

{{notes}}
{{references}}

{{lotro}}
{{Videogames}}
{{title|italics}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lord of the Rings Online}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online| ]]
[[Category:Open world games]]
[[Category:Role playing games]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

Grond (battering ram)

2015-07-12T15:02:23Z

Pinkkeith: /* Portrayal in Adaptions */

{{disambig-two|the battering ram|weapon used by [[Morgoth]]|[[Grond (Hammer of the Underworld)]]}}

'''Grond''' was a battering ram, used by [[Sauron]]'s forces to destroy the [[Great Gate of Minas Tirith|Great Gate]] of [[Minas Tirith]] during the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]]. The ram was "a hundred feet in length", and its head was of black steel, made to resemble a wolf. It is told that Grond had been induced with "[[magic|spells of ruin]]". During the Siege of Gondor, Grond was drawn to the Great Gate by "[[great beasts]]" and was wielded by [[mountain-trolls]].<ref name=RKV4>{{RK|V4}}</ref>

==Etymology==
''Grond'' means "very weighty and ponderous" in [[Sindarin]].<ref>{{PE|17}}, pp. 99, 183</ref> It was named intentionally to evoke the memory of the ancient weapon of [[Morgoth]], the "[[Grond (Hammer of the Underworld)|Hammer of the Underworld]]".<ref name=RKV4/>

== Portrayal in Adaptions ==
<gallery>
File:The Return of the King (1980 film) - Grond.png|Grond, as portrayed in [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]
File:The Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King - Grond.jpg|Grond, as portrayed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]''
File:Lord of the Rings Online - Grond.jpg|Grond, as portrayed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''</gallery>

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:The ram took the shape of the whole wolf's body, rather of just its head. [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)|Gothmog]] called it in after a smaller battering ram proved futile against the great gates.

{{references}}
{{title}}
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[de:Grond (Riesenramme)]]
[[fr:/encyclo/artefacts/armes/grond_d_angband]]
[[fi:Grond (muurinmurtaja)]]

Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep

2015-07-12T14:59:48Z

Pinkkeith:

Images from [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep]]

{{DEFAULTSORT:The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep}}

[[Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings Online|Helm's Deep]]

Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep

2015-07-12T14:58:25Z

Pinkkeith: Created page with "Helm's Deep"

[[Category:Images from The Lords of the Ring Online|Helm's Deep]]

File:Lord of the Rings Online - Grond.jpg

2015-07-12T14:56:55Z

Pinkkeith:

== Summary ==
[[Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep]]
[[Category:Images of Grond]]
== Licensing ==
{{Fairuse-Turbine}}

File:Lord of the Rings Online - Grond.jpg

2015-07-12T14:56:21Z

Pinkkeith: Images from The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep Category:Images of Grond

== Summary ==
[[Images from The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep]]
[[Category:Images of Grond]]
== Licensing ==
{{Fairuse-Turbine}}

User:Pinkkeith

2015-07-12T14:47:29Z

Pinkkeith:

{{user infobox
| image=
| name=Katie
| othernames=
| position=
| language=
| location=Chicago, IL
| occupation=
| birth=March 17, 1970
| birthlocation=Cincinnati, OH
| age=
| gender=
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| irc=
| email=
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| {{Edit Count|User=Pinkkeith}}
| userboxes={{user lotro}} {{user lore-2}} {{user balrogwings4}} {{user dagor-yes}} {{user entwives4}} {{User firefox}}
| BG1=#FC0FC0
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I've been a fan of the world of Middle-earth ever since I first read ''[[The Hobbit]]'' when I was seven years old. I've been reading ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' ever summer since high school. Although I enjoyed the books I didn't really study them very closely until Peter Jackson's movies came out. It was about the time that I first read ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.

I'm also a huge video gamer. I've always been a fan of puzzles and trying to solve problems. I didn't really get into gaming until Zelda for the NES came out. I use to compete against other players for fun and in competitions with prize monies involved. Yet, after college, I haven't had the time to game regularly enough to be competitive and now I just do it for the joy of it.

I have played some Lord of the Rings video game titles, but not many of them impressed me much at all. The one exception is ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''. I played it about six weeks after it was released and haven't stopped since. Through my love of the video game I picked up ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' volumes.

My interest in Tolkien Gateway is to talk about how [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] relates to the lore of Middle-earth.

==Personal To-Do List==
* <strike>Create an article for each of the [[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]] (see below).</strike>
* Write up a synopsis for [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] main story line.
* Work on the article in my [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]]. (Started back in April 2009!)
* Actually attend one of the [[Tolkien Gateway:Meetings|Tolkien Gateway meetings]].

==Links==
* My [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]] - the place where I write up articles and stuff and have some fun!
* [[User:Pinkkeith/Pinkfae|Pinkfae]]- My character from [[The Lord of the Rings Online]].

User:Pinkkeith

2013-09-08T13:20:58Z

Pinkkeith:

{{user infobox
| image=
| name=Keith
| othernames=
| position=
| language=
| location=Chicago, IL
| occupation=
| birth=March 17, 1970
| birthlocation=Cincinnati, OH
| age=
| gender=
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| irc=
| email=
| facebook=
| twitter=
| linkedin=
| website=
| {{Edit Count|User=Pinkkeith}}
| userboxes={{user lotro}} {{user lore-2}} {{user balrogwings4}} {{user dagor-yes}} {{user entwives4}} {{User firefox}}
| BG1=#FC0FC0
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}}
I've been a fan of the world of Middle-earth ever since I first read ''[[The Hobbit]]'' when I was seven years old. I've been reading ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' ever summer since high school. Although I enjoyed the books I didn't really study them very closely until Peter Jackson's movies came out. It was about the time that I first read ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.

I'm also a huge video gamer. I've always been a fan of puzzles and trying to solve problems. I didn't really get into gaming until Zelda for the NES came out. I use to compete against other players for fun and in competitions with prize monies involved. Yet, after college, I haven't had the time to game regularly enough to be competitive and now I just do it for the joy of it.

I have played some Lord of the Rings video game titles, but not many of them impressed me much at all. The one exception is ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''. I played it about six weeks after it was released and haven't stopped since. Through my love of the video game I picked up ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' volumes.

My interest in Tolkien Gateway is to talk about how [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] relates to the lore of Middle-earth.

==Personal To-Do List==
* <strike>Create an article for each of the [[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]] (see below).</strike>
* Write up a synopsis for [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] main story line.
* Work on the article in my [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]]. (Started back in April 2009!)
* Actually attend one of the [[Tolkien Gateway:Meetings|Tolkien Gateway meetings]].

==Links==
* My [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]] - the place where I write up articles and stuff and have some fun!
* [[User:Pinkkeith/Pinkfae|Pinkfae]]- My character from [[The Lord of the Rings Online]].

User:Pinkkeith

2013-09-08T13:18:46Z

Pinkkeith: /* Links */ Turbine took down the MyLOTRO section of their website

{{user infobox
| image=
| name=Keith
| othernames=
| position=
| language=
| location=Chicago, IL
| occupation=
| birth=March 17, 1970
| birthlocation=Cincinnati, OH
| age=
| gender=
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| irc=
| email=
| facebook=
| twitter=
| linkedin=
| website=
| userboxes={{user lotro}} {{user lore-2}} {{user balrogwings4}} {{user dagor-yes}} {{user entwives4}} {{User firefox}}
| BG1=#FC0FC0
| BG2=#FF69B4
| BG3=white
}}
I've been a fan of the world of Middle-earth ever since I first read ''[[The Hobbit]]'' when I was seven years old. I've been reading ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' ever summer since high school. Although I enjoyed the books I didn't really study them very closely until Peter Jackson's movies came out. It was about the time that I first read ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.

I'm also a huge video gamer. I've always been a fan of puzzles and trying to solve problems. I didn't really get into gaming until Zelda for the NES came out. I use to compete against other players for fun and in competitions with prize monies involved. Yet, after college, I haven't had the time to game regularly enough to be competitive and now I just do it for the joy of it.

I have played some Lord of the Rings video game titles, but not many of them impressed me much at all. The one exception is ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''. I played it about six weeks after it was released and haven't stopped since. Through my love of the video game I picked up ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' volumes.

My interest in Tolkien Gateway is to talk about how [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] relates to the lore of Middle-earth.

==Personal To-Do List==
* <strike>Create an article for each of the [[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]] (see below).</strike>
* Write up a synopsis for [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] main story line.
* Work on the article in my [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]]. (Started back in April 2009!)
* Actually attend one of the [[Tolkien Gateway:Meetings|Tolkien Gateway meetings]].

==Links==
* My [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]] - the place where I write up articles and stuff and have some fun!
* [[User:Pinkkeith/Pinkfae|Pinkfae]]- My character from [[The Lord of the Rings Online]].

Template:Lotro

2013-09-08T13:16:41Z

Pinkkeith:

{| style="margin:0 auto;" class="toccolours" align=center
|align=center colspan=2 style="background:#ccccff" | '''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'''
|-
|style="font-size: 90%; background:#ccccff" align=left |'''Games titles'''
|style="font-size: 90%;" align=center |''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar|Shadows of Angmar]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood|Siege of Mirkwood]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard|Rise of Isengard]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan|Riders of Rohan]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep|Helm's Deep]]''
|-
|style="font-size: 90%; background:#ccccff" align=left |'''Storyline'''
|style="font-size: 90%;" align=center |''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar#Synopsis|Volume I: Shadows of Angmar]]'' · ''[[Mines of Moria (volume)|Volume II: Mines of Moria]]'' · ''[[Allies of the King|Volume III: Allies of the King]]'' · ''[[In Their Absence]]''
|-
|style="font-size: 90%; background:#ccccff" align=left |'''Soundtrack'''
|style="font-size: 90%;" align=center |''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar (soundtrack)|Shadows of Angmar]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria (soundtrack)|Mines of Moria]]''
|-
|style="font-size: 90%; background:#ccccff" align=left |'''Pack titles'''
|style="font-size: 90%;" align=center |''[[The Lord of the Rings Online Adventure Pack|Adventure Pack]]'' · ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online Loot Bag|Loot Bag]]''
|-
|style="font-size: 90%; background:#ccccff" align=left |'''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]] Minigames'''
|style="font-size: 90%;" align=center |''[[King Under the Mountain (minigame)|King Under the Mountain]]'' · ''[[Swig and Toss|Swig and Toss]]'' * ''[[Eleventy-Seven Morsels]]''
|-
|style="font-size: 90%; background:#ccccff" align=left |'''Elements'''
|style="font-size: 90%;" align=center |[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings Online books|Books]] · [[:Category:The Lord of the Rings Online Characters|Characters]] · [[:Category:The Lord of the Rings Online locations|Locations]] · [[:Category:The Lord of the Rings Online Ships|Ships]] · [[:Category:The Lord of the Rings Online structures|Structures]]
|-
|style="font-size: 75%; background:#ccccff" align=center colspan=2 |[[Kinships (The Lord of the Rings Online)|Kinships]] · ''[[Middle-earth Online]]''
|}<noinclude>
[[Category:Adaptations templates|{{PAGENAME}}]]
</noinclude>

The Lord of the Rings Online

2013-09-08T13:13:24Z

Pinkkeith: /* Riders of Rohan Expansion */

{{disambig-more|The Lord of the Rings|[[The Lord of the Rings (disambiguation)]]}}[[Image:Lotro logo.png|250px|right]]
'''''The Lord of the Rings Online''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''LOTRO''' or '''LotRO''') is the common name for an MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) that takes place in the world of [[Arda]] during the time of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]].''

==Development==
{{rewrite}}
[[Sierra Entertainment|Sierra]] began to develop the game in 1998, then called ''[[Middle-earth Online]]''. After Sierra was bought out by [[Vivendi|Vivendi Universal Games]], production of the game was shared with [[Turbine]]. The rights to the game were sold exclusively to Turbine in March 2004, after which they announced that the name of the project would be changed to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''.

While the majority of quests in the game are original content created by Turbine based on the history and lore of Middle-earth, the quests flagged as "Epic" quests depict specific events and scenes from the ''The Lord of the Rings'' storyline. While conducting Epic Quests, players interact with the main characters from the books, and assist in the advancing of the story toward the [[War of the Ring]] and the destruction of [[the One Ring]].

The game also attempts to mimic ''The Lord of the Rings'' by being broken down in volumes, books and chapters. The original game is called Volume I, the following expansion is Volume II and the current expansion is Volume III. Each one of the epic quests are broken down by "Books" and "Chapters".

Turbine has gone to great lengths to faithfully recreate the fantasy world created by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] with a high degree of attention to detail. Essentially every character named in the books appears in the game and can be interacted with during quests and other activities.

A closed beta was announced on [[8 September|September 8]], [[2006]]. An open beta began on [[30 March|March 30]], [[2007]], and was open to all who pre-ordered the game's Founders Club edition. On [[6 April|April 6]], [[2007]], the beta opened to the public.


===Gameplay===
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is an "open-world" game in which players can travel to any land or region. Regions progress in difficulty and the content of some must be purchased with game expansions. Players acquire quests from non-player characters (NPCs). A special Epic Quest line contains the main storyline of the game, running parallel to events in ''The Lord of the Rings''.

Monsters and unfriendly creatures are found throughout the landscape. Players battle these using learned skills and attacks. The game is mainly Player vs. Environment (PvE). However in the [[Ettenmoors]] region, players can participate in Player vs. Player battles (PvP). Most gameplay is solo but players can team up in Fellowships to perform quests, skirmishes, or raids designed for larger groups.

Completing quests and special deeds allows players to advance in Level and acquire new skills, armour, or weapons. Legendary Weapons can be customized, renamed, and enhanced with Relics.

Towns and settlements provide Vendors where players can purchase or repair their armour, weapons, and supplies. Towns also often include Mailboxes, Auction Halls, Class Trainers, Forge-masters, Relic-masters, and Stable-masters who allow swift travel between regions.

The player interface allows other aspects of gameplay such as Character screens, Quest and Deed Logs, a Social Panel where players can interact, and a Crafting panel where players use skills to craft new items.

====Races====
Players are able to play as any of the [[Free Peoples]] -- [[Elves]], [[Men]], [[Dwarves]] or [[Hobbits]]. Male or female characters can be created, except in the case of Dwarves. As per Tolkien, Dwarf women are very rare and seldom leave their mountain halls.

Additionally, in the [[Ettenmoors]] region where Monster Play is available, players can portray [[Orcs]], [[Uruk-hai]], [[Wargs]], or [[Spiders]].

====Classes====
Several Classes are available to players, each with specific skills, strengths, and weaknesses. These include Burglars, Captains, Champions, Guardians, Hunters, Lore-masters, Minstrels, Rune-keepers, and Wardens.

===Shadows of Angmar===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar|Shadows of Angmar]]'' was released on [[24 April|April 24]], [[2007]]. It included books 1 through 8 of the epic quest line. Approximately once every two months a major free update is added to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''. Each update is an extension to the epic quest called a book.

====Book 9: Shores of Evendim====
{{#ev:youtubehd|VOEcXrbG4OI|200|thumb}}
The first free content update was released on June 14, 2007.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3611&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced]</ref>

Updates included:
*A new region - [[Evendim]] - is added, including locations like [[Annúminas]].<ref name="book9">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/136-book-9-shores-of-evendim-release-date-announced|articlename=Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced!|dated=5 June 2007|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
*The epic story is expanded with book 9, [[Shores of Evendim]]<ref name="book9"/>
*100 new quests are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*A 24-player raid is added, ''Battle for Helegrod''.<ref name="book9"/>
*Nine new monsters are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*New Collectible armour sets are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*Updates to the music system.<ref name="book9"/>

====Book 10: The City of Kings====
:''Main article [[The City of Kings]]''
The second free-content update was released on August 21, 2007 in North America and on August 24, 2007 in Europe.<ref>| [http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3949&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Codemasters Online and Turbine unveil Book 10: The City of the Kings]</ref>

Updates included:
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Legendary Play – Players can now use Destiny Points to play as a Ranger of the North or as a Troll.
*Critter Play – Players can now explore Middle-earth from a different viewpoint as a chicken.
*New Reputation and Bartering Systems – The Reputation system enables players to earn positive and negative standing with different races and groups in Middle-earth based on both monster kills and quest completions. The Bartering system allows players to trade trophies earned in battle for rewards, such as armour sets or mounts.
*Over 100 new Quests.
*More customizable user interface.

====Book 11: Prisoner of the Free Peoples====
:''Main article [[Prisoner of the Free Peoples]]''
The third free-content update was released on October 24, 2007 in North America<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/430 Turbine and Codemasters Online Gaming to Unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador for The Lord of the Rings Online]</ref> and October 25 in Europe.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=4661&articletype=News Codemasters Online and Turbine to unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador]</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_11_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Epic Story arc, including 13 quests.
*Player housing – players will be able to customize their houses with items such as furniture and doormats.
*Second raid called "The Rift" – 12-player raid in which players encounter a [[Balrogs|Balrog]] for the first time. Turbine has stressed that this is not the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog from Khazad-dûm]].<ref>[http://lotro.tentonhammer.com/index.php?module=ContentExpress&func=display&ceid=287 Book 11 Preview: The Balrogs are Coming]</ref>
*Two new areas – Tâl Bruinen in the Trollshaws, where [[Gollum]] will be introduced for the first time, and Goblin-town in the [[Misty Mountains]], featured in ''The Hobbit''.
*More than 100 new quests.

====Book 12: The Ashen Wastes====
:''Main article [[The Ashen Wastes]]''
The fourth free content update was released on February 13, 2008 in North America; and February 14, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_12_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Character customization - Increased character customization "ranging from haircuts, to some (possible) additions to the trait-system." In addition, the Outfit system, along with special social clothing designed just for it, will be introduced where a second or third set of clothing can be slotted and displayed while retaining the statistical bonuses of the currently equipped items.<ref>[http://lotro.stratics.com/content/hoclog/hoc10.php Lord of the Rings Online: House of Commons ]</ref>
*The Delving of Frór - A new Monster Play PVE (and PVMP under certain circumstances) area was introduced: An expanse of caves and catacombs located beneath the Ettenmoors.
*The Great Angmar Revamp - A revamp of the most high-level region of the game's current 9 PvE regions. The revamp included the reworking of many quests, areas and other changes, such as new horse routes.
*Barbershop - You can customize the look of your avatar in-game with around 50 new haircuts and second set of details.
*Updates to the Burglar, Guardian, and Champion classes.

====Book 13: Doom of the Last-King====
:''Main article [[Doom of the Last-King]]''
The fifth free content update was released on April 24, 2008 in North America and on May 1, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_13_Official complete release notes]):
*A new playable map area: the Ice Bay of [[Forochel]].
*Players being able to see the ocean for the first time, confirmed as the Ice Bay of Forochel in recent developer chats.
*Fishing - the first of a new system in ''Lord of the Rings Online'', called 'hobbies'.
*New PVMP Monster Healing Class - Orc Defiler.
*Looking For Fellowship- and Quest-panel improvements.

====Book 14: The Ring-forges of Eregion====
:''Main article [[The Ring-forges of Eregion]]''
The sixth free content update was released on July 22, 2008 in North America. It was released on July 24, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_14_Official complete release notes]):
*Climax of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added selected sections of [[Eregion]] (Region leading towards the Gates of Moria).
*Epic Quest events that will allow interaction between players regardless of server.
*Prelude quests for and leading up to the ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' expansion, which would have updates leading to Lothlórien, Fangorn, Rhovanion and Rohan.

====Book 15: Daughter of Strife====
:''Main article [[Daughter of Strife]]''
The seventh free content update was released on November 18, 2008. This update was released in tandem with the Mines of Moria expansion for players who did not purchase the expansion release.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Category:Epic_-_Vol._I,_Book_15:_Daughter_of_Strife_Quests Epic - Vol. I, Book 15: Daughter of Strife Quests epic]):
*Conclusion of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added the zone of Eregion expanding on the selected sections from Book 14. The zone does not include the Hollin Gate leading to the Black Pool.
*Added UI enhancements

===Mines of Moria Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' was released on [[18 November|November 18]], [[2008]]. It included Vol. II books 1 through 6 of the epic quest line. Like ''Shadows of Angmar'', ''Mines of Moria'' continued to regularly release updates. Updates were less frequent than Shadows of Angmar.

====Book 7: Leaves of Lórien====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Leaves of Lórien.png|thumb|300px]]Book 7 was released on [[17 March]] [[2009]]. This update included:
* Continuation of the Epic Storyline in Book 7, [[Leaves of Lórien]].<ref name="book7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/342-vol2book7|articlename=Volume II: Book 7: Leaves of Lórien Spotlight|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* Expansion of the Lothlórien Area, including [[Caras Galadhon]].<ref name="book7"/>
* A new raid, named ''Strange Happenings'', has been added.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Galadhrim]] are added as a new reputation faction.<ref name="book7"/>
* Crafting instances enable players to gather resources.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Ered Luin Introduction]] and, on lesser scale, the [[Bree-land Introduction]] are revamped.<ref name="book7"/>
* Several new Monster Play emotes are added.<ref name="book7"/>

====Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dum====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Scourge of Khazad-Dûm.png|thumb|300px]]Book 8 was released on June 23, 2009. This update included:
*Book 8, [[Scourge of Khazad-dûm]], continues the epic story.<ref name="book8">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/421-vol2-book8|articlename=Volume II: Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dûm|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* A radiance-gated multi-boss, 12-man raid - named ''Dar Narbugud'' is added.<ref name="book8"/>
* One 6-man instance is added: ''The Halls of Crafting''.<ref name="book8"/>
* Two 3-man instances are added:
** ''Lumul-nar''<ref name="book8"/>
** ''Nala-dum''<ref name="book8"/>
* Continuation of the revamp of the [[Bree-land Introduction]].<ref name="book8"/>
* The Crafting system has been revived.<ref name="book8"/>

===Siege of Mirkwood Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood|Siege of Mirkwood]]'' was released on December 1, 2009 in North America and December 3, 2009 in Europe. Unlike the second expansion this edition was only available via a web-based download. It included Book 9 and the epilogue of Volume II: Mines of Moria.

[[Kate Paiz]], Executive Producer for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', released a letter on October 22, 2010 stating that updates will be more frequent but will not always be accompanied with a new book continuing the epic story.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/866-producers-letter-october-2010 Producer's Letter, October-2010] lotro.com, Dev Diaries</ref>

====Book 1: Oath of the Rangers====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Oath of the Rangers.png|300px|thumb]]:''Main article [[Oath of the Rangers]]''
Book 1 was released on [[1 March|March 1]], [[2010]].<ref> [http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=320404 Volume III: Allies of the King has arrived!]</ref>

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Allies_of_the_King_Official complete release notes]):
* The beginning of Volume III in the epic storyline.
* The ability to solo the Volume I epic storyline.
* A duo mode for most skirmishes.

====Book 2: Ride of the Grey Company====
:''Main article [[Ride of the Grey Company]]''
Book 2 was released on [[10 September|September 10]], [[2010]] in North America. ([[8 September|September 8]], [[2010]] for subscribers). It was delayed in Europe because of contractual reasons and was finally released on [[2 November]], almost two months after North America.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/ Massively], [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/v-e-me-day-lotro-europe-announces-launch-date-for-free-to-play/ V-E-ME Day: LotRO Europe announces launch date for free-to-play], dated [[29 October]], [[2010]] (accessed [[11 November]], [[2011]])</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Book_2_Official complete release notes]):

* New region: [[Enedwaith]].
* ''Lord of the Rings Online'' Free to Play subscription.
* Book 2 in the Volume III epic storyline.
* Scalable instances.
* Improvements to the vault, and a new wardrobe system for cosmetic items.
* Updates to the Captain class.
* The LOTRO store, where players may purchase convenience items. Points either earned through gameplay, through the VIP program or by being purchased.
* The introduction of Lua Scripting.
* DirectX 11 support.
* Ranger session play.

====Update 1: Journey to Winter-Home====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 1 Journey to Winter-Home.png|300px|thumb]]The first post Free-to-play update was released in November 2010. Due to changes to how updates work this did not contain an epic book.

Updates included:

* A Barter Wallet for skirmish marks and anniversary tokens.
* Opening of Moria, Lothlorien, Mirkwood and Enedwaith to free-to-play players. Volume II and Volume III will also be available, as well the legendary item system, and the level 65 level cap all to free-to-play players.
* Vault improvements.
* Tasks: a new quest type for all levels.
* Improved reputation mounts.
* Updates to the Lore-master and Rune-keeper classes.
* Ered Luin starting area revamp.

====Update 2: Echoes of the Dead====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 2 Echoes of the Dead.png|300px|thumb]]The first update of 2011 was released on [[21 March|March 21]] in the United States and [[24 March|March 24]] for Europe.

Updates included:

* Two 3-man's, two 6-man's, and a 12-person raid were added for level 65 players.
* A special item required to craft a First Age weapon which drops from the above raid.
* Radiance was removed.
* Legendary Items were updated.
* Character panel and cosmetic system were revamped.
* The Minstrel, Hunter and Burglar classes were updated.
* Volume III Book 3: [[Echoes of the Dead]] was added.
* Volume II was revamped and made soloable, including three instances which have been converted to skirmishes.
* Improvements to the PvP starter tutorial.
* [[Evendim]] was revamped, with [[Annúminas]] being scaled down to level 40.

====Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 3 Lost Legends of Eriador.png|300px|thumb]]''Lost Legends of Eriador'' was the third update. It was released on [[23 May|May 23]], [[2011]] and included: ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_3,_Lost_Legends_of_Eriador,_Official complete release notes]):

* Two new 3-man scalable instances starting mid-game.
* Two new skirmishes.

===Rise of Isengard Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]''
The third expansion for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is entitled ''Rise of Isengard''. The expansion was made available on September 27, 2011 and only as a digital download.<ref>[http://isengard.lotro.com/ The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard Official Homepage]</ref>

====Update 5: Armies of Isengard====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 5 Armies of Isengard.png|220px|thumb]]''Armies of Isengard'' was the first update published after the release of ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''. It was released on [[12 December]] [[2011]] and included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_5,_Armies_of_Isengard,_Official complete release notes]):

* Four new instances and a 12-man raid in and around [[Isengard]].
* [[The Prince of Rohan|Book 5]] of [[Allies of the King|Volume III]] is released.
* A new Instance finder, to form groups more easily.
* Barter currencies of skirmishes, classic and instances are unified.
* Changes to Reputation items.

====Update 6: Shores of the Great River====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 6 The Great River.png|220px|thumb]]'''Shores of the Great River''' is the sixth update and was released on [[12 March]] [[2012]].<ref name="Update6&Riders"> {{webcite|author=Justin Olivetti|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/riding-into-rohan-lotro-maps-out-2012/|articlename=Riding into Rohan: LotRO maps out in 2012|dated=25 January 2012|website=Massively|accessed=29 January 2012}}</ref><ref name="Update6">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/game-manual/1775-update-6-great-river|articlename=Update 6 Great River|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

*A new region, the [[Anduin|The Great River]], was added, featuring seven new areas - including [[Parth Celebrant]] - in the upper [[Anduin]]. <ref name="Update6"/>
*[[Mists of Anduin]], Book 6 of Volume III, was released, in which the player seeks the wisdom of [[Galadriel]] about troubling dreams and fights [[Easterlings]], Brigands and an ancient enemy of Rohan.<ref name="Update6"/>
*The ability to summon skirmish warriors outside skirmishes.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Updates to the Instance finder.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Currency-change in Monster Play: "Destiny" will be replaced with "Commendations". Commendations will be available for both Freeps and Creeps.<ref name="MP Currency change">{{webcite|author=Jaret Pruett|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|articlename=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

====Update 7: Shades of the Past====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 7 Shades of the Past.png|thumb|220px]]'''Shades of the Past''' is the seventh update<ref name="Update 7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/1966|articlename=Update 7|dated=|website=lotro.com|accessed=12 May 2012}}</ref> and was released on 14 May, 2012.{{fact}}

*Continuation of the aforementioned currency-change.<ref name="MP Currency change"/>
*A new instance, "Storm on Methedras"<ref name="Update 7"/>
*Revamp of the Fornost instance and Moria region.<ref name="Update 7"/>

===Riders of Rohan Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan]]''
The fourth expansion for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is named ''Riders of Rohan''. The expansion was released on October 15, 2012. <ref name="Turbine">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/1736-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-and-turbine-unveil-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-riders-of-rohan|articlename=WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND TURBINE UNVEIL THE LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE™: RIDERS OF ROHAN™|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=30 January 2012}}</ref>

===Helm's Deep Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Helm's Deep]]''
The fourth expansion for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' is named ''Helm's Deep''. The expansion will release during the Fall of 2013.

== Added Elements ==
There are a number of elements that do not appear in any of the published works. This includes characters, lineages, objects and locations.

===Characters===
* '''[[Amarthiel]]''' served the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] during his first reign over [[Angmar]]<ref>In the game the Witch-king reigned over Angmar again shortly before the [[War of the Ring]].</ref> and wore the [[lesser rings|lesser ring]] [[Narchuil]]. She was slain by [[Narmeleth]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]] and her soul wandered [[Middle-earth]] for over a thousand years. She managed to possess Narmeleth and disguised herself as Sara Oakheart. She eventually revealed herself after the defeat of [[Mordirith]] by [[Golodir]] and becomes the Regent of Angmar.

* '''[[Andraste]]''' was a female [[Men|Man]] who served the [[Witch-king]].

* '''[[Jon Brackenbrook]]''' was a [[Men|Man]] who was captain of [[Archet]].

* '''[[Ronald Dwale]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[Dwalling]]. He's an author and a member of [[The Inklings (LOTRO)|the Inklings]], that meets in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. He's based on [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] himself.

* '''[[Éogan]]''' was the second in command of the [[Blackwolds]] and took over leadership of the group after William Skunkwood's death.

* '''The Huntsman''' was a spirit found in [[Enedwaith]] who took the shape of a large man with horns of a stag. Many players thought this was [[Oromë]]. The developers confirmed that it wasn't Oromë but a [[Maiar|Maia]] of Oromë.<ref>[http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?359604-big-D-small-d&p=4996860&highlight=#post4996860 big D, small d] [[Jonathan Rudder]], lotro.com forums</ref>

* '''[[Ivar the Bloodhand]]''' was a Gaunt-lord from the [[First Age]].

* '''[[Mordirith]]''' was the Steward of Angmar.

* '''[[Narmeleth]]''' was an elf maiden of [[Rivendell]] and daughter of [[Laerdan]]. She slayed [[Amarthiel]] during the [[Battle of Fornost]] and became possessed by her soul over a thousand years later.

* '''[[Mundo Sackville-Baggins]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] who was mistakenly identified as having the ring.

* '''[[William Skunkwood]]''' was the leader of the [[Blackwolds]].

* '''[[Skorgrím]]''' was a dwarf and leader of the [[Dourhands]]. He was slain during the Battle of Edhelion. His corpse was used as a vehicle by Ivar the Bloodhand who possessed it with a fell spirit to trick the Dourhands to ally themselves with the forces of [[Angmar]].

* '''[[Sambrog]]''' was the Wight-lord of the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Groups===
* '''The [[Blackwolds]]''' were a group of [[Men|Mannish]] brigands from [[Bree-land]].

* '''The [[Dourhands]]''' was a clan of dwarves aligned with the forces of [[Angmar]]. They were the dwarves that stayed behind to rebuild the Dwarven Halls in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]].

* '''The [[Inklings (Shadows of Angmar)|Inklings]]''' are a group of [[Hobbits|Hobbit]]-authors who discuss literature. They meet each other in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. Prominent members are [[Ronald Dwale]] ([[J.R.R. Tolkien]]), [[Owen Farfield]] ([[Owen Barfield]]), [[Carlo Williams]] ([[Charles Williams]]) and [[Jack Lewisdown]] ([[C.S. Lewis]]). The group and members are based on the real [[Inklings]].

===Objects===
* '''[[Narchuil]]''' was one of the [[lesser rings]] forged by the elven-smiths during the [[Second Age]].

===Locations===
* '''[[Agamaur]]''' was a vast swamp of the [[Lone-lands]]. It was a site of a major battle between [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]]. To the west were the ruins of Ost Guruth, a fortress of [[Arnor]] claimed by the nomadic Eglain. To the east lay the ruins of Garth Agarwen, a fortress of Rhudaur ruled by [[Hill-men]] loyal to the mysterious Red Maid.

* '''[[Esteldin]]''' was a ruin of Arnor in the [[North Downs]]. At the time of the [[War of the Ring]], it was used as a base of operations by the [[Rangers of the North]].

*'''[[Falathlorn]]''' was a green and beautiful region of the [[Ered Luin]] favored by the Elves. It contained the Elvish havens of Duillond and Celondim. Not far from this region were the chilly Low-lands, site of the Dwarvish cities Gondamon and Kheledul.

*'''[[Galtrev]]''' was one of the largest towns of [[Dunland]], the nominal capitol of the country.

*'''[[Maur Tulhau]]''' was a [[Stoors|Stoorish]] Hobbit village in [[Enedwaith]] located in the forbidding Gloomgens. It was an remnant of the time when the Stoors lived in this region before most of their number moved north to [[The Shire]].

* '''[[Othrongroth]]''' was the oldest and largest Edain mound in the [[Barrow-downs]].

*'''[[Stangard]]''' was a [[Rohirrim]] settlement near the Great River [[Anduin]]. Its inhabitants were mostly exiles sent to protect [[Rohan]]'s outer borders.

* '''[[Tinnudir]]''' was an island in [[Lake Evendim]]. It was used as a headquarters by a group of Rangers called the Wardens of [[Annúminas]], protectors of the ancient capitol of Arnor.

===Structures===
* '''[[Bird and Baby Inn]]''' was an inn in [[Michel Delving]].

==Servers==
===American servers===
All American servers are hosted by [[Turbine]].
*[[Arkenstone]]
*[[Moria|Dwarrowdelf]]
*[[Gladden River|Gladden]]
*[[Meneldor]]
*[[Celebrant|Silverlode]]
*[[Brandywine]]
*[[Elendilmir]]
*[[Rivendell|Imladris]]
*[[Nimrodel]]
*[[Landroval]]
*[[Rohan|Riddermark]]
*[[Windfola]]

===European servers===
The European servers were originally created and hosted by [[Codemasters]], but on [[1 June]] [[2011]] Lotro Europe was taken over by Turbine, who currently host the European servers.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.casualstrolltomordor.com/2011/04/turbines-lotro-service-goes-global/|articlename=Turbine's LOTRO Service Goes Global|dated=24 April 2011|website=A Casual Stroll to Mordor|accessed=2 January 2012}}</ref>
====English servers====
*[[Eldar]]
*[[Evernight]]
*[[Gilrain]]
*[[Snowbourn]]
*[[Withywindle]]<ref group="note">Unlike the other European servers, Withywindle was created in [[2010]] after ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' went free-to-play.</ref>
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Laurelin]]
====French servers====
*[[River Running|Celduin]]
*[[Sirannon]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Estel]]
====German servers====
*[[Anduin]]
*[[Gwaihir]]
*[[Maiar]]
*[[Morthond]]
*[[Vanyar]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Belegaer]]

===Russian servers===
All Russian servers are hosted by [[IT Territory]].
*[[Fornost]]
====Role-playing servers====
*[[Mirkwood]]

==License==

For ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', [[Turbine]] has licensed the rights to the content and lore of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. Turbine does not have license rights to the [[New Line Cinema]] film trilogy nor ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' books or ''[[The Children of Húrin]]''. Turbine was bought by Warner Bros. on April 20, 2010 and through them now have the license right to the New Line Cinema film trilogy and the upcoming Hobbit films.{{fact}}

==Discrepancies from the source material==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' does not follow the story as told in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', but rather tells stories about events that happened during the same time period as the events told in J.R.R. Tolkien's book.

==Reception==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' has been received very positively thus far, as reviews continue to appear since the game's initial release.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/pc/middleearthonline Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, The - Review] metacritic.com</ref>

GameDaily awarded the game 9/10, praising its rich, fantasy-themed universe, well-integrated trait and title system, and a story that remains true to the works of Tolkien. Yahoo! Video Games wrote a review with few negative mentions, awarding the game a score of 4/5,<ref>[http://videogames.yahoo.com/gamereview?cid=1990963744&tab=reviews&page=0&eid=513259 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] Yahoo! Games</ref> while ''Computer and Video Games'' called the game an essential purchase for ''Lord of the Rings'' fans, scoring the game a 9.2/10.<ref>[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161846&skip=yes PC Review: Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] ''Computer and Video Games''</ref> Eurogamer scored the game a 9.0/10, calling it tough to resist.<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=75657 Review - Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Eurogamer</ref> Gamespy gave it 4.5/5 stars, claiming the game "opened up Middle-Earth to the masses" but commented negatively on its weak PvP content,<ref>[http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar/785884p1.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] GameSpy</ref> while GameTrailers awarded it 8.5/10,<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/gamepage.php?id=754 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Game Trailers</ref> citing its interesting tweaks to the MMO genre. IGN.com ranked it a similar 8.6/10, praising it for its solid experience, though criticizing it for its lack of major improvements to the genre.<ref>[http://pc.ign.com/articles/787/787942p3.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] IGN</ref> GamerNode.com awarded the game an 8.8/10, calling it the best MMO launch experience since ''Ultima Online''.<ref>[http://www.gamernode.com/PC/Reviews/2848-Lord-of-the-Rings-Online-Review/index.html Lord of the Rings Online] GamerNode</ref> The ''New York Times'' called the game "a major achievement of interactive storytelling, the first game truly worthy of the ‘Lord of the Rings' franchise and a must-play for just about anyone with an interest in Tolkien or the future of online entertainment."<ref>[http://lotro.turbine.com/article/356 Lord of the Rings Online Press Release] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In a GameSpot review, the product was awarded an 8.3/10, praising its appealing polish and intriguing Monster Play feature.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/middleearthonline/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=topten&tag=topten;all;score;5 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC Review] GameSpot</ref> Gamepro.com's review gave it an overall 4.25/5, pointing out how engaging the epic quests are, as well as how faithful to the novels the game managed to stay.<ref>[http://gamepro.com/computer/pc/games/reviews/112000.shtml Review: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC] Gamepro</ref> GameSpy declared ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 'Game of the Month' for May 2007.<ref>[http://uk.gamespy.com/articles/795/795353p2.html Game of the Month: May 2007] GameSpy</ref>

==Awards==

In August 2007, Codemasters announced that ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' had received five Golden Joystick Awards nominations for the five applicable categories for the game,<ref>[http://newsrss.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6925679.stm Music and vice top games awards] BBC News</ref> and in October 2007 that it had won the "PC Game of the Year" at these awards.<ref>[http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7693&Itemid=2 Gears Wins Big at Game Awards] Next-Generation</ref> and again won the same award on October 2008. In December 2007, GameSpy awarded ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 6th place in the top 10 PC games of 2007.<ref>[http://goty.gamespy.com/2007/pc/6.html GameSpy's Game of the Year 2007] GameSpy</ref> On December 18, Turbine announced it had also won the GameSpy MMO of the Year award.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/476 LOTRO Wins Top Honors from Gamespy!] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In January 2009, mmorpg.com awarded Turbine both MMORPG studio of the year 2008<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2574/Best-MMO-Studio-of-2008-Winner MMORPG.com Best MMO Studo of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>, and MMO Expansion of the Year for ''Mines of Moria''.<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2579 MMORPG.com Best Expansion of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>

==Subscription Model==
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Free to Play.png|300px|thumb]]
In North America, players who pre-ordered the game were offered a special founder's offer, a lifetime subscription for $199 or reduced cost of $9.99 per month. Standard monthly fee is $14.99 with three, six, twelve month, and lifetime discounts available. European players had a similar program from Codemasters.

A Holiday subscription was available in December of 2007 and January of 2008 for $9.99/month for a 3 month commitment. A one year anniversary addition includes a $9.99/month subscription or a $199.99 Lifetime subscription, which was again offered during the lead up to the release of Mines of Moria.

Warner Bros. announced on June 4, 2010 that Lord of the Rings Online will offer a free-to-play model starting in the fall of 2010.<ref>[http://turbine.com/news/105-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-announces-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-to-adopt-global-free-to-play-model.html Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces The Lord of the Rings Online™ to Adopt Global Free-to-Play Model] Turbine, Inc</ref> On August 18, 2010, Warner Bros. announced that the free-to-play model would go live on September 10, 2010. On October 21, 2010, [[Codemasters]] announced that a preview of Free-to-Play would be available in Europe on October 25, 2010.<ref>[http://community.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=10839&pagename=news&type=news The Lord of the Rings Online Europe Preview Event]</ref>

==External Links==
* '''[http://lotro.com Official website]'''
** '''[http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Lorebook_home Lorebook]''', the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' wiki
** '''[http://my.lotro.com/ My LOTRO]''', the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' members and developers blog
** '''[http://forums.lotro.com/ LOTRO Community Website]''' , the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' forums
* [http://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Main_Page Lotro-Wiki], a fan created wiki
* [http://lotro.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page lotro.wikia.com], another fan created wiki

{{notes}}
{{references}}

{{lotro}}

{{title|italics}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online| ]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

Glenn Yarbrough

2013-09-07T13:46:28Z

Pinkkeith:

'''Glenn Yarbrough''' ([[12 January|January 12]], [[1930]]) is the composer and performer of the music of [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]] and ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|The Return of the King]]''. His songs include "[[The Greatest Adventure]]", "[[Frodo of the Nine Fingers]]" and "[[Where There's a Whip, There's a Way]]". In ''The Return of the King'', he is also the voice of the "Minstrel of Gondor", a character that sings the story of the movie to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Elrond]] in [[Rivendell]].

==Discography==
* [[1977]]: ''[[The Hobbit: Original Soundtrack]]''
** "[[The Greatest Adventure]]" (also writer)
** "[[The Road Goes Ever On]]"
* [[1980]]: ''[[The Return of the King: Sountrack]]''
** "[[Frodo of the Nine Fingers]]"
** "[[Where There's a Whip, There's a Way]]
** "[[The End of the Ring]]"
** "[[The Roads Goes Ever, Ever On]]"

==External links==
*'''[http://www.glennyarbrough.com Official website]'''
* {{WP|Glenn Yarbrough}}
*[http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0946386/ Glenn Yarbrough] at IMDb

{{DEFAULTSORT:Yarbrough, Glenn}}
[[Category:The Return of the King (1980 film) cast]]
[[Category:Singers]]
[[Category:Composers]]
[[Category:Actors and actresses]]
[[Category:American people]]
[[Category:People by name]]
[[Category:Folk music]]

Glenn Yarbrough

2013-09-07T13:45:10Z

Pinkkeith: /* Discography */

'''Glenn Yarbrough''' ([[12 January|January 12]], [[1930]]) is the composer and performer of the music of [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]] and ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|The Return of the King]]''. His songs include "[[The Greatest Adventure]]", "[[Frodo of the Nine Fingers]]" and "[[Where There's a Whip, There's a Way]]". In ''The Return of the King'', he is also the voice of the "Minstrel of Gondor", a character that sings the story of the movie to [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Elrond]] in [[Rivendell]].

==Discography==
* [[1977]]: ''[[The Hobbit: Original Soundtrack]]''
** "[[The Greatest Adventure]]" (also writer)
** "[[The Road Goes Ever On]]"
* [[1980]]: ''[[The Return of the King: Sountrack]]''
** "[[Frodo of the Nine Fingers]]"
** "[[Where There's a Whip, There's a Way]]
** "[[The End of the Ring]]"
** "[[The Roads Goes Ever On and On]]"

==External links==
*'''[http://www.glennyarbrough.com Official website]'''
* {{WP|Glenn Yarbrough}}
*[http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0946386/ Glenn Yarbrough] at IMDb

{{DEFAULTSORT:Yarbrough, Glenn}}
[[Category:The Return of the King (1980 film) cast]]
[[Category:Singers]]
[[Category:Composers]]
[[Category:Actors and actresses]]
[[Category:American people]]
[[Category:People by name]]
[[Category:Folk music]]

Roads Go Ever, Ever On

2013-09-07T13:42:43Z

Pinkkeith: Created page with "'''The Roads Goes Ever, Ever On''' is a song, written by Glenn Yarbrough for the 1980 animated movie ''The Return of the King''. =..."

'''The Roads Goes Ever, Ever On''' is a song, written by [[Glenn Yarbrough]] for the [[1980]] [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|animated movie ''The Return of the King'']].

==Lyrics==
<poem style="font-style:italic; margin-left:20px;">
The roads go ever, ever on
To the lands beyond the sea
On a white ship will I sail
Watching shadows part for me.

Leaving Havens gray with rain
Now that years have slipped away
Leaving friends with gentle pain
As they start another day.

The roads I travel I must leave
For I've turned the final bend
Weep not empty tears but grieve
As the roads come to an end.

Its so easy not to try
Let the world go drifting by
If you never say hello
You won't have to say goodbye!</poem>

[[Category:The Return of the King (1980 film) soundtrack]]

The Return of the King (1980 film)

2013-09-07T13:32:46Z

Pinkkeith: /* Scenes */

{{disambig-more|The Return of the King|[[The Return of the King (disambiguation)]]}}{{film infobox

| image=[[Image:RankinBass' The Return of the King.png|250px]]
| name=The Return of the King
| director=[[Arthur Rankin, Jr.]] [[Jules Bass]]
| producer=Arthur Rankin, Jr. Jules Bass
| writer=[[J.R.R. Tolkien]] (original novel) Romeo Muller (screenplay)
| narrator=
| starring=[[Orson Bean]] [[Theodore Bikel]] [[John Huston]] [[Roddy McDowall]]
| music=Maury Laws (music) Jules Bass (lyrics)
| cinematography=
| editing=
| distributor=ABC (original transmission) [[Warner Bros.]] (home video)
| released=[[11 May|May 11]], [[1980]]
| runtime=98 minutes
| country=USA
| language=English
| budget=
| website=
| imdb_id=0079802
}}'''''The Return of the King''''' (subtitled '''''A Story of the Hobbits''''') is an animated adaptation of the [[The Lord of the Rings|novel]] by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] which was produced by [[Rankin/Bass]] as a TV special which originally aired on ABC in the U.S. on [[11 May|May 11]], [[1980]]. It has since been released on VHS and DVD.

The film was created by the same team which had worked on the 1977 [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|animated version of ''The Hobbit'']].

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable"
|- bgcolor="#CCCCCC"
! Actor !! Role(s)
|-
| [[Orson Bean]] || [[Frodo Baggins]], [[Bilbo Baggins]]
|-
| [[Nellie Bellflower]] || [[Éowyn]]
|-
| [[Theodore Bikel]] || [[Aragorn]]
|-
| [[William Conrad]] || [[Denethor]]
|-
| [[Paul Frees]] || [[Elrond]], Whip Orc
|-
| [[John Huston]] || [[Gandalf|Gandalf the White]]
|-
| [[Casey Kasem]] || [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Meriadoc (Merry) Brandybuck]]
|-
| [[Roddy McDowall]] || [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise (Sam) Gamgee]]
|-
| [[Sonny Melendrez]] || [[Peregrin Took|Peregrin (Pippin) Took]]
|-
| [[Brother Theodore]] || [[Gollum]]
|-
| [[Don Messick]] || [[Théoden]], The [[Mouth of Sauron]], [[Easterlings|Easterling]]
|-
| [[John Stephenson]] || The [[Witch-king|Witch-king of Angmar]], Gondorian Guard
|-
| [[Glenn Yarbrough]] || The Minstrel of Gondor, vocalist
|-
| Thurl Ravenscroft (uncredited) || ensemble vocalist
|}

NOTE: Due to the fact that [[Cyril Ritchard]], who originally voiced [[Elrond]] in ''The Hobbit'', had died not long after completing his voice work for that movie, Paul Frees replaces him in that role this time around.

==Synopsis==

Because Rankin/Bass had begun production on this movie even before [[Ralph Bakshi]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|theatrical adaptation of ''The Lord of the Rings'']] had been released[http://www.nytimes.com/1977/11/27/books/tolkien-hobbitani.html?_r=1&], they present ''The Return of the King'' as a sequel to their 1977 adaptation of ''The Hobbit'' — giving the audience a brief recap of the events, and adapting a few story events from ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' and ''[[The Two Towers]]'' while leaving out some major details and literally beginning the movie where its [[The Return of the King|literary counterpart]] does (apart from its use of a framing device to bookend the movie). The movie's visual style is largely shared with the 1977 ''The Hobbit''. Its plot unfolds as follows:

During the 129th birthday celebration for [[Bilbo Baggins]] in [[Rivendell]], [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], Bilbo's nephew, tells the story of his quest to destroy [[The One Ring]]. Frodo begins his story with [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise (Sam) Gamgee]], his friend and companion, treading through [[Mordor]] as Ring-bearer in Frodo's abscence, as he is being held captive there by orcs. During his journey, Sam begins to question his thoughts about claiming the Ring himself, but being humble, he never gives in to the treacherous temptations. In due course, he progresses back to [[Cirith Ungol]] to rescue Frodo.

Meanwhile, the wizard [[Gandalf|Gandalf the White]] and the hobbit [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] arrive at [[Minas Tirith]], the capital of the country of [[Gondor]] to warn [[Denethor]], the Steward of the Throne, about the upcoming war—only to discover that the Steward has lost his mind by believing the war will be the end of mankind.

Back at Cirith Ungol, Sam rescues Frodo and returns the Ring. The two then continue on to finish their quest at [[Mount Doom]], only to be attacked by their past guide, [[Gollum]]. As Sam holds Gollum off, Frodo makes it to the [[Cracks of Doom|Crack of Doom]]. But at the Crack, Frodo is finally unable to resist the power of the Ring any longer and claims it for his own. At the same time, Gondor's neighboring country, Rohan, helps it claim victory in the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].

After searching for some time for Frodo in Mount Doom, Sam discovers Gollum and an invisible Frodo fighting over the Ring, which results in Gollum biting off Frodo's finger to claim it. While dancing with joy at the retrieval of his "Precious," Gollum loses his footing and falls into the fire, taking the Ring with him. With the destruction of the Ring, Sauron is defeated. Months later, Frodo's friend, [[Aragorn]], is crowned King of Gondor. The film concludes back in the present with Frodo agreeing to accompany Bilbo, Gandalf and Elrond in leaving Middle-Earth. Sam, [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and Pippin bid them all farewell as they depart across the sea.

===Scenes===

# "[[Prologue: A Ring's Tale (1980 scene)|Prologue: A Ring's Tale]]"
# "[[Frodo of the Nine Fingers (scene)|Frodo of the Nine Fingers]]"
# "Credits"
# "[[Crossing Into Mordor]]"
# "[[The Bearer of the Ring (scene)|The Bearer of the Ring]]"
# "[[Samwise the Strong]]"
# "[[Less Can Be More (scene)|Less Can Be More]]"
# "[[Under Siege]]"
# "[[Denethor's Black Vision]]"
# "[[The Two Watchers]]"
# "[[Great Elf Warrior]]"
# "[[Rescuing Frodo]]"
# "[[The Power]]"
# "[[Team Magic]]"
# "[[Weary Fugitives]]"
# "[[Vale of Gorgoroth]]"
# "[[Where There's a Whip]]"
# "[[Enemy at the Gates]]"
# "[[Leave Tomorrow Till It Comes (scene)|Leave Tomorrow Till It Comes]]"
# "[[Mount Doom (1980 scene)|Mount Doom]]"
# "[[The Gollum]]"
# "[[Théoden Falls]]"
# "[[Claimed By the Ring]]"
# "[[Éowyn Triumphs]]"
# "[[Choice of Evils (scene)|Choice of Evils]]"
# "[[End of the Ring]]"
# "[[On Eagles' Wings]]"
# "[[The Return of the King (1980 scene)|The Return of the King]]"
# "[[Farewells]]"
# "End Credits"

==Reception==

Reception for the animated TV special is varied. Some commentators view it affectionately as an adaptation which children and parents can enjoy together .[http://www.toxicuniverse.com/review.php?rid=10000654] However, others regard it with disdain, comparing it unfavorably to Ralph Bakshi's earlier animated film and [[Peter Jackson]]'s later [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|live-action film]].[http://www.stomptokyo.com/movies/r/return-of-the-king.html][http://decentfilms.com/sections/reviews/1989] Glen Yarbrough's songs are widely derided, although some admit to a campy affection for the surprisingly tuneful Orc marching song "[[Where There's a Whip, There's a Way]]" or the ballad "[[Frodo of the Nine Fingers]]". [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079802/usercomments]

==Marketing==

In the absence of an official sequel to Ralph Bakshi's ''The Lord of the Rings'', ''The Return of the King'' has come to be marketed by [[Warner Bros.]] as the final part of a loose animated Tolkien trilogy, preceded by ''The Hobbit''. The middle film is very different in tone and character design, however, and the final two films do not join up seamlessly, as both omit various segments from ''The Two Towers'', most notably regarding the events in [[Shelob]]'s lair and the [[Ents]]' march on [[Isengard]]. Other omissions in the Rankin/Bass version include the characters of [[Legolas]], [[Gimli]], [[Arwen]], [[Saruman]], [[Éomer]], and [[Faramir]] (though it's possible the latter makes a brief appearance; there is an unidentified Man - who has no lines of dialogue - who accompanies [[Éowyn]] on horseback during Aragorn's coronation, and the two of them exchange rather knowing looks). The entire [[Oathbreakers|Army of the Dead]] arc is cut as well; thus, even Aragorn doesn't have much dialogue or screentime despite being the 'King' of the movie's title.

The animated ''Return of the King'' is available on DVD from Warner Bros., both individually and as a "boxed trilogy" with the Rankin/Bass ''The Hobbit'' and Bakshi's ''The Lord of the Rings''.

==External links==

* {{WP|The Return of the King (1980 film)}}
* [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079802/ The Return of the King] at [http://imdb.com/ IMDb]

{{films}}
{{title|italics}}
[[Category:The Return of the King (1980 film)| ]]

Farmer Cotton

2013-02-01T17:33:49Z

Pinkkeith: /* Portrayal in Adaptations */

{{disambig-more|Tom|[[Tom (disambiguation)]]}}
{{hobbit
| image=
| name=Old Tom Cotton
| othernames=
| birth={{TA|2941}}
| death={{FoA|19}}
| parentage=[[Holman Cotton]]
| location=[[Bywater]]
| gender=Male
| hair=
|}}
'''Tolman "Tom" Cotton''' ([[Third Age]] {{TA|2941|n}} – [[Fourth Age]] {{FoA|19|n}}, aged 99 years) was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] of [[the Shire]].
__NOTOC__
==History==
Old Tom was a farmer living on Bywater's South Lane.<ref name="Scouring">{{RK|Scouring}}</ref> He was married to [[Lily Brown]], and they had five children. [[Tolman Cotton Junior|Young Tom]] was the eldest, and his siblings were [[Rose Cotton|Rosie]], [[Wilcome Cotton|Jolly]], [[Bowman Cotton|Nick]] and [[Carl Cotton|Nibs]].<ref name="Gamgee">{{App|Gamgee}}</ref>

Farmer Cotton played an important part in the [[Battle of Bywater]], where he rallied many hobbits to fight [[Saruman|Sharkey]]'s men.<ref name="Scouring"/>

==Etymology==
''Tolman'' comes from [[Old English]] ''tōl'' + ''mann'' meaning "tool person".{{fact}} In early phases of writing [[Appendix F]], Farmer Cotton's original [[Westron]] name was given as ''Tomacca Lothran''<ref>{{PM|Languages}}</ref> or (earlier) ''Tomakli Lothron''.<ref>{{PM|Languages}}, note 37.</ref>

==Portrayal in Adaptations==
'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:Old Tom joins the four Hobbits as they start a revolt. He was always confident of Frodo and Sam's return. He is played by [[Alan Dudley]].

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
:The Cottons live at South Lane in Bywater. Tolman lives at number 3 and [[Wilcome II Cotton|his son Wilcome]] at number 5.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Tom lives with his family at a farm just north of Bywater and next to the Three Farthing Stone. During the Farmers Faire he can be found at the mushroom tent near the Three Farthing Stone chatting with [[Farmer Maggot]] and [[Hamfast Gamgee]].

{{references}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Cotton]]
[[Category:Hobbits]]

Rose Cotton

2013-02-01T17:29:30Z

Pinkkeith: /* Portrayal in Adaptations */

{{disambig-more|Rose|[[Rose (disambiguation)]]}}
{{hobbit
| image=[[Image:Ted Nasmith - Sam and Rosie Cotton.jpg|250px]]
| name=Rose Cotton
| othernames=Rosie
| birth={{TA|2984}}
| death=[[Mid-year's Day]], {{FoA|61}}
| parentage=[[Tolman Cotton Senior]] + [[Lily Brown]]
| location=[[Bywater]]
| gender=Female
| hair=
|}}

'''Rose "Rosie" Gamgee (née Cotton)''' ({{TA|2984}}<ref name="GamFam"/> - [[Midyear's Day]] {{FoA|61}}<ref name="Later">{{App|Later}}</ref>) was the daughter of [[Tolman Cotton Senior]] and [[Lily Brown]]. She married [[Samwise Gamgee]] at the end of the [[Third Age]], and bore him a record thirteen children.

==Life==
===Youth===
Rose Cotton was born in the year {{SR|1384|n}} by [[Shire Reckoning]], the second child and first daughter of [[Tolman Cotton Senior|Tolman Cotton]] and [[Lily Brown]].<ref name="GamFam">{{App|Gamgee}}</ref> The Cotton family lived in a farm on the [[South Lane]], which was fairly close to [[Bywater]].<ref name="HandS612">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Wayne G. Hammond]], [[Christina Scull]] (eds.),"Unfinished Index", published (in segments) in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion]]'', page 612</ref> Not much of her youth is known, except that she and her brothers - [[Tolman Cotton Junior|Young Tom]], [[Wilcome II Cotton|Jolly]], [[Bowman Cotton|Nick]] and [[Carl Cotton|Nibs]] - frequently swam in the [[Bywater Pool]] with the children of the Gamgee family, to which the Cottons were close.<ref name="MtDoom">{{RK|VI3}}</ref>

===War of the Ring===
Rosie was still fond of Sam when both grew to adulthood, and when he announced he'd be going with [[Frodo Baggins]] to [[Crickhollow]], she did not like it.<ref name="Grey">{{RK|VI9}}</ref> Even though everyone had given up hope of seeing Sam - or any of the other [[Travellers|Hobbits]] - back, she waited patiently. Since the Spring of {{TA|3019}}, she had expected Sam to return.

At the time, [[Ruffians|Ruffian]] rule over the Shire had lasted some three months, having started earlier that year.<ref>{{RK|VI7}}</ref> Old Tom Cotton had been itching to get his hands on them, but he refrained from doing so as he had his wife and Rosie to look after. Rosie was relieved to find Sam on the doorstep on [[2 November|November 2]], though she was somewhat oblivious to the dangers he had already faced.

Rosie and her mother tended to Sam, Frodo and several others that night, as they prepared to [[Battle of Bywater|drive out the Ruffians]]. With shining eyes and a smile on her face she heard Frodo tell of Sam's adventure and fame abroad.<ref name="Scouring">{{RK|VI8}}</ref> Sam and Frodo lived with the Cottons until [[Bagshot Row]] and [[Bag End]] were restored, the following Spring. Sam later joined Frodo in Bag End, but was torn in two - he wanted to stay loyal to Frodo, as well as marry Rosie.<ref name="Grey"/>

And so they did. Sam and Rosie married on [[1 May|May 1]], {{TA|3020}},<ref name="Chief">{{App|Chief}}</ref> and moved into Bag End.<ref name="Grey"/> There, they lived happily, and begot [[Elanor Gardner|Elanor]], their first daughter, who was born on the [[25 March|anniversary of the Downfall of Sauron]].<ref name="Chief"/>

===Fourth Age===
The Fourth Age started with one child, but many more would follow. Rose bore a record thirteen children, beating [[Adamanta Chubb]], the wife of the [[Gerontius Took|Old Took]], by one.<ref>{{App|Took}}</ref> [[Frodo Gardner|Frodo]] was born in {{FoA|2}}, [[Rose Gardner|Rose-lass]] in {{FoA|4}}, [[Merry Gardner|Merry]] in {{FoA|6}}, [[Pippin Gardner|Pippin]] in {{FoA|8}}, [[Goldilocks Gardner|Goldilocks]] in {{FoA|10}}, [[Hamfast Gardner|Hamfast]] in {{FoA|11}}, [[Daisy Gardner|Daisy]] in {{FoA|12}}, [[Primrose Gardner|Primrose]] in {{FoA|14}}, [[Bilbo Gardner|Bilbo]] in {{FoA|15}}, [[Ruby Gardner|Ruby]] in {{FoA|17}}, [[Robin Gardner|Robin]] in {{FoA|19}}, and their last child, [[Tolman Gardner|Tom]], in {{FoA|21}}.<ref name="GamFam"/>

That year, {{FoA|21|n}}, marked the only major undertaking of Mistress Rose. She and Sam travelled to [[Gondor]], and stayed with [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] for well over a year. In the meantime, Rose's brother [[Tolman Cotton Junior|Tom]] took over Sam's tasks as [[Mayor of Michel Delving|Mayor]]. After their return, Rose would continue to live by her husband's side, until her passing at the age of 98 at [[Mid-year's Day]] of {{FoA|61}}.<ref name="Later"/>

==Etymology==
The name '''Rose''' is a translation of an unknown [[Westron]] name. She is, like many female Hobbits, named after a flower,<ref name="OnTrans">{{App|Translation}}</ref> the [[Roses|rose]]. The surname '''Cotton''' comes from a Westron ''Hlothran'', which roughly translates as "Cottager".<ref name="OnTrans"/>

In the [[King's Letter]], which was not included in ''The Return of the King'' as published, [[Aragorn|Elessar]] translated the name Rose as '''Meril''' in [[Sindarin]].<ref name="TheEp">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]] (ed.) ''[[Sauron Defeated]]'', "[[The Epilogue]]"</ref> In his linguistical analysis of the King's Letter, [[Carl F. Hostetter]] noted the resemblance to [[Meril-i-Turinqi]], the queen of [[Tol Eressëa]] in the earliest stages of the ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part One]]''.<ref>[[Carl F. Hostetter]], ''The "King's Letter": An Historical and Comparative Analysis'', in [[Vinyar Tengwar 31]] (September [[1993]]), pages 12-34</ref> Hostetter could not connect it to any entry in [[The Etymologies]], which mirrors [[Christopher Tolkien]]'s observations on Meril-i-Turinqi, for which no root could be found in the [[Qenya Lexicon]]<ref name="BoLTApp">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Christopher Tolkien]] (ed.), ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part One]]'', "Appendix: Names in the ''Lost Tales'' - Part 1"</ref> - however, a [[Gnomish]] translation was translated as "Queen of Flowers".<ref name="BoLTApp"/> As the [[Tur|second element]] represents the "queen" part, ''Meril'' appears to be one of the oldest words for "Flower" in the [[legendarium]].

==Portrayal in Adaptations==
[[Image:Rosie_viv_lotr.JPG|200px|right|thumb|Rosie in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|the video game]].]]
'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:During a ring-induced dream at the [[Tower of Cirith Ungol]], Sam thinks of going back home. An older man, het sits and watches several children playing about. A blonde woman, obviously his wife, carries a baby to him. She is not identified as Rosie on screen, so the identification is conjectural.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:Rose was voiced by [[Kathryn Hurlbutt]]. At the end, she has one child, [[Elanor Gardner|Elanor]], portrayed by [[Harry Holm]].<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]], "[[The Grey Havens (episode)|The Grey Havens]]"</ref>

'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'': '''
:Rosie, played by [[Sarah McLeod]], dances at the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|Farewell Party]].<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[A Long-expected Party (scene)|A Long-expected Party]]"</ref> She is portrayed as a popular girl. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (extended edition)|extended edition]], she is the barmaid of the ''[[Green Dragon]]''.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[At the Green Dragon]]"</ref> Sam's love for her seems unrequited, or Rosie simply does not know.

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
:Rosie is, once again, the barmaid of the ''Green Dragon''. She shows more concern and affection for Frodo than for Sam, whom she considers childish. Rose lives with her father at Number 3, [[South Lane]], [[Bywater]].<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]], "The Shire - Bywater"</ref> No voice actress is specified for this role, but it is a thinly veiled [[Jennifer Hale]].

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:Rosie was, again, played by Sarah McLeod. Still the barmaid of the ''Green Dragon'', Sam makes his move on her, and they marry.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'', "[[Homeward Bound (scene)|Homeward Bound]]"</ref> Despite Frodo being gone, they live at Number 3, Bagshot Row. Sam and Rosie have two children: [[Elanor Gardner|Elanor]] (played by [[Sean Astin]]'s [[Alexandra Astin|daughter Alexandra]]), and [[Frodo Gardner|Frodo]] (played by [[Maisy McLeod-Riviera]], Sarah McLeod's daughter).<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'', "[[The Grey Havens (scene)|The Grey Havens]]"</ref>

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Rosie can be found during the Farmers Faire dancing at the nearby Methel-stage.

{{References}}
[[Category:Hobbits]]
[[Category:Cotton]]
[[Category:Gamgee]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Fourth Age characters]]
[[Category:Greco-Roman names]]

[[de:Rose Hüttinger (Tochter von Tolman)]]
[[fi:Roosa Tölli]]

The Lord of the Rings Online

2012-10-22T21:16:57Z

Pinkkeith: /* Riders of Rohan Expansion */

{{disambig-more|The Lord of the Rings|[[The Lord of the Rings (disambiguation)]]}}[[Image:Lotro logo.png|250px|right]]
'''''The Lord of the Rings Online''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''LOTRO''' or '''LotRO''') is the common name for an MMORPG that takes place in the world of [[Arda]] during the time of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]].''

==Development==
{{rewrite}}
[[Sierra Entertainment|Sierra]] began to develop the game in 1998, then called ''[[Middle-earth Online]]''. After Sierra was bought out by [[Vivendi|Vivendi Universal Games]], production of the game was shared with [[Turbine]]. The rights to the game were sold exclusively to Turbine in March 2004, after which they announced that the name of the project would be changed to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''.

While the majority of quests in the game are original content created by Turbine based on the history and lore of Middle-earth, the quests flagged as "Epic" quests depict specific events and scenes from the ''The Lord of the Rings'' storyline. While conducting Epic Quests, players interact with the main characters from the books, and assist in the advancing of the story toward the [[War of the Ring]] and the destruction of [[the One Ring]].

The game also attempts to mimic ''The Lord of the Rings'' by being broken down in volumes, books and chapters. The original game is called Volume I, the following expansion is Volume II and the current expansion is Volume III. Each one of the epic quests are broken down by "Books" and "Chapters".

Turbine has gone to great lengths to faithfully recreate the fantasy world created by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] with a high degree of attention to detail. Essentially every character named in the books appears in the game and can be interacted with during quests and other activities.

A closed beta was announced on [[8 September|September 8]], [[2006]]. An open beta began on [[30 March|March 30]], [[2007]], and was open to all who pre-ordered the game's Founders Club edition. On [[6 April|April 6]], [[2007]], the beta opened to the public.



===Shadows of Angmar===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar|Shadows of Angmar]]'' was released on [[24 April|April 24]], [[2007]]. It included books 1 through 8 of the epic quest line. Approximately once every two months a major free update is added to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''. Each update is an extension to the epic quest called a book.

====Book 9: Shores of Evendim====
{{#ev:youtubehd|VOEcXrbG4OI|200|thumb}}
The first free content update was released on June 14, 2007.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3611&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced]</ref>

Updates included:
*A new region - [[Evendim]] - is added, includings locations like [[Annúminas]].<ref name="book9">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/136-book-9-shores-of-evendim-release-date-announced|articlename=Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced!|dated=5 June 2007|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
*The epic story is expanded with book 9, [[Shores of Evendim]]<ref name="book9"/>
*100 new quests are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*A 24-player raid is added, ''Battle for Helegrod''.<ref name="book9"/>
*Nine new monsters are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*New Collectible armour sets are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*Updates to the music system.<ref name="book9"/>

====Book 10: The City of Kings====
:''Main article [[The City of Kings]]''
The second free-content update was released on August 21, 2007 in North America and on August 24, 2007 in Europe.<ref>| [http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3949&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Codemasters Online and Turbine unveil Book 10: The City of the Kings]</ref>

Updates included:
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Legendary Play – Players can now use Destiny Points to play as a Ranger of the North or as a Troll.
*Critter Play – Players can now explore Middle-earth from a different viewpoint as a chicken.
*New Reputation and Bartering Systems – The Reputation system enables players to earn positive and negative standing with different races and groups in Middle-earth based on both monster kills and quest completions. The Bartering system allows players to trade trophies earned in battle for rewards, such as armour sets or mounts.
*Over 100 new Quests.
*More customizable user interface.

====Book 11: Prisoner of the Free Peoples====
:''Main article [[Prisoner of the Free Peoples]]''
The third free-content update was released on October 24, 2007 in North America<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/430 Turbine and Codemasters Online Gaming to Unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador for The Lord of the Rings Online]</ref> and October 25 in Europe.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=4661&articletype=News Codemasters Online and Turbine to unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador]</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_11_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Epic Story arc, including 13 quests.
*Player housing – players will be able to customize their houses with items such as furniture and doormats.
*Second raid called "The Rift" – 12-player raid in which players encounter a [[Balrogs|Balrog]] for the first time. Turbine has stressed that this is not the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog from Khazad-dûm]].<ref>[http://lotro.tentonhammer.com/index.php?module=ContentExpress&func=display&ceid=287 Book 11 Preview: The Balrogs are Coming]</ref>
*Two new areas – Tâl Bruinen in the Trollshaws, where [[Gollum]] will be introduced for the first time, and Goblin-town in the [[Misty Mountains]], featured in ''The Hobbit''.
*More than 100 new quests.

====Book 12: The Ashen Wastes====
:''Main article [[The Ashen Wastes]]''
The fourth free content update was released on February 13, 2008 in North America; and February 14, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_12_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Character customization - Increased character customization "ranging from haircuts, to some (possible) additions to the trait-system." In addition, the Outfit system, along with many special social clothing designed just for it, will be introduced where a second or third set of clothing can be slotted and displayed while retaining the statistical bonuses of the currently equipped items.<ref>[http://lotro.stratics.com/content/hoclog/hoc10.php Lord of the Rings Online: House of Commons ]</ref>
*The Delving of Frór - A new Monster Play PVE (and PVMP under certain circumstances) area will be introduced: An expanse of caves and catacombs located beneath the Ettenmoors.
*The Great Angmar Revamp - A revamp of the most high-level region of the game's current 9 PvE regions. The revamp included the reworking of many quests, areas and other changes, such as new horse routes.
*Barbershop - You can customize the look of your avatar in-game with around 50 new haircuts and second set of details.
*Updates to the Burglar, Guardian, and Champion classes.

====Book 13: Doom of the Last-King====
:''Main article [[Doom of the Last-King]]''
The fifth free content update was released on April 24, 2008 in North America and on May 1, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_13_Official complete release notes]):
*A new playable map area: the Ice Bay of [[Forodwaith|Forochel]].
*Players being able to see the ocean for the first time, confirmed as the Ice Bay of Forochel in recent developer chats.
*Fishing - the first of a new system in ''Lord of the Rings Online'', called 'hobbies'.
*New PVMP Monster Healing Class - Orc Defiler.
*Looking For Fellowship- and Quest-panel improvements.

====Book 14: The Ring-forges of Eregion====
:''Main article [[The Ring-forges of Eregion]]''
The sixth free content update was released on July 22, 2008 in North America. It was released on July 24, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_14_Official complete release notes]):
*Climax of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added selected sections of [[Eregion]] (Region leading towards the Gates of Moria).
*Epic Quest events that will allow interaction between players regardless of server.
*Prelude quests for and leading up to the ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' expansion, which will have updates leading to Lothlórien, Fangorn, Rhovanion and Rohan.

====Book 15: Daughter of Strife====
:''Main article [[Daughter of Strife]]''
The seventh free content update was released on November 18, 2008. This update was released in tandem with the Mines of Moria expansion for players who did not purchase the expansion release.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Category:Epic_-_Vol._I,_Book_15:_Daughter_of_Strife_Quests Epic - Vol. I, Book 15: Daughter of Strife Quests epic]):
*Conclusion of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added the zone of Eregion expanding on the selected sections from Book 14. The zone does not include the Hollin Gate leading to the Black Pool.
*Added UI enhancements

===Mines of Moria Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' was released on [[18 November|November 18]], [[2008]]. It included Vol. II books 1 through 6 of the epic quest line. Like ''Shadows of Angmar'', ''Mines of Moria'' continued to regularly release updates. Updates were less frequent than Shadows of Angmar.

====Book 7: Leaves of Lórien====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Leaves of Lórien.png|thumb|300px]]Book 7 was released on [[17 March]] [[2009]]. This update included:
* Continuation of the Epic Storyline in Book 7, [[Leaves of Lórien]].<ref name="book7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/342-vol2book7|articlename=Volume II: Book 7: Leaves of Lórien Spotlight|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* Expansion of the Lothlórien Area, including [[Caras Galadhon]].<ref name="book7"/>
* A new raid, named ''Stange Hapenings'', has been added.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Galadhrim]] are added as a new reputation faction.<ref name="book7"/>
* Crafting instances enable players to gather resources.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Ered Luin Introduction]] and, on lesser scale, the [[Bree-land Introduction]] are revamped.<ref name="book7"/>
* Several new Monster Play emotes are added.<ref name="book7"/>

====Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dum====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Scourge of Khazad-Dûm.png|thumb|300px]]Book 8 was released on June 23, 2009. This update included:
*Book 8, [[Scourge of Khazad-dûm]], continues the epic story.<ref name="book8">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/421-vol2-book8|articlename=Volume II: Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dûm|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* A radiance-gated multi-boss, 12-man raid - named ''Dar Narbugud'' is added.<ref name="book8"/>
* One 6-man instance is added: ''The Halls of Crafting''.<ref name="book8"/>
* Two 3-man instances are added:
** ''Lumul-nar''<ref name="book8"/>
** ''Nala-dum''<ref name="book8"/>
* Continuation of the revamp of the [[Bree-land Introduction]].<ref name="book8"/>
* The Crafting system has been revived.<ref name="book8"/>

===Siege of Mirkwood Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood|Siege of Mirkwood]]'' was released on December 1, 2009 in North America and December 3, 2009 in Europe. Unlike the second expansion this edition was only available via a web based download. It included Book 9 and the epilogue of Volume II: Mines of Moria.

[[Kate Paiz]], Executive Producer for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', released a letter on October 22, 2010 stating that updates will be more frequent but will not always be accompanied with a new book continuing the epic story.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/866-producers-letter-october-2010 Producer's Letter, October-2010] lotro.com, Dev Diaries</ref>

====Book 1: Oath of the Rangers====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Oath of the Rangers.png|300px|thumb]]:''Main article [[Oath of the Rangers]]''
Book 1 was released on [[1 March|March 1]], [[2010]].<ref> [http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=320404 Volume III: Allies of the King has arrived!]</ref>

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Allies_of_the_King_Official complete release notes]):
* The beginning of Volume III in the epic story line.
* The ability to solo the Volume I epic story line.
* A duo mode for most skirmishes.

====Book 2: Ride of the Grey Company====
:''Main article [[Ride of the Grey Company]]''
Book 2 was released on [[10 September|September 10]], [[2010]] in North America. ([[8 September|September 8]], [[2010]] for subscribers). It was delayed in Europe because of contractual reaons and was finally released on [[2 November]], almost two months after North America.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/ Massively], [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/v-e-me-day-lotro-europe-announces-launch-date-for-free-to-play/ V-E-ME Day: LotRO Europe announces launch date for free-to-play], dated [[29 October]], [[2010]] (accessed [[11 November]], [[2011]])</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Book_2_Official complete release notes]):

* New region: [[Enedwaith]].
* ''Lord of the Rings Online'' Free to Play subscription.
* Book 2 in the Volume III epic storyline.
* Scalable instances.
* Improvements to the vault, and a new wardrobe system for cosmetic items.
* Updates to the captain class.
* The LOTRO store, where players may purchase convenience items. Points either earned through gameplay, through the VIP program or by being purchased.
* The introduction of Lua Scripting.
* DirectX 11 support.
* Ranger session play.

====Update 1: Journey to Winter-Home====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 1 Journey to Winter-Home.png|300px|thumb]]The first post Free-to-play update was released in November 2010. Due to changes to how updates work this did not contain an epic book.

Updates included:

* A Barter Wallet for skirmish marks and anniversary tokens.
* Opening of Moria, Lothlorien, Mirkwood and Enedwaith to free-to-play players, Volume II and Volume III will also be available, as well the legendary item system, and the lvl 65 level cap all to free-to-play players.
* Vault improvements.
* Tasks: a new quest type for all levels.
* Improved reputation mounts.
* Updates to the Lore-master and Rune-keeper classes.
* Ered Luin starting area revamp.

====Update 2: Echoes of the Dead====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 2 Echoes of the Dead.png|300px|thumb]]The first update of 2011 was released on [[21 March|March 21]] in the United States and [[24 March|March 24]] for Europe.

Updates included:

* Two 3-man's, two 6-man's, and a 12-person raid were added for lvl 65 players.
* A special item required to craft a First Age weapon which drops from the above raid.
* Radiance was removed.
* Legendary Items were updated.
* Character panel and cosmetic system were revamped.
* The Minstrel, Hunter and Burglar classes were updated.
* Volume III Book 3: [[Echoes of the Dead]] was added.
* Volume II was revamped and made soloable, including three instances which have been converted to skirmishes.
* Improvements to the PvP starter tutorial.
* [[Evendim]] was revamped, with [[Annúminas]] being scaled down to level 40.

====Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 3 Lost Legends of Eriador.png|300px|thumb]]''Lost Legends of Eriador'' was the third update. It was released on [[23 May|May 23]], [[2011]] and included: ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_3,_Lost_Legends_of_Eriador,_Official complete release notes]):

* Two new 3-man scalable instances starting mid-game.
* Two new skirmishes.

===Rise of Isengard Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]''
The third expansion for the Lord of the Rings Online is entitled ''Rise of Isengard''. The expansion was made available on September 27, 2011 and only as a digital download.<ref>[http://isengard.lotro.com/ The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard Official Homepage]</ref>

====Update 5: Armies of Isengard====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 5 Armies of Isengard.png|220px|thumb]]''Armies of Isengard'' is the first update published after the release of ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''. It was released on [[12 December]] [[2011]] and included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_5,_Armies_of_Isengard,_Official complete release notes]):

* Four new instances and a 12-man raid in and around [[Isengard]].
* [[The Prince of Rohan|Book 5]] of [[Allies of the King|Volume III]] is released.
* A new Instance finder, to form groups more easily.
* Barter currencies of skirmishes, classic and instances are unified.
* Changes to Reputation items.

====Update 6: Shores of the Great River====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 6 The Great River.png|220px|thumb]]'''Shores of the Great River''' is the sixth update and was released on [[12 March]] [[2012]].<ref name="Update6&Riders"> {{webcite|author=Justin Olivetti|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/riding-into-rohan-lotro-maps-out-2012/|articlename=Riding into Rohan: LotRO maps out in 2012|dated=25 January 2012|website=Massively|accessed=29 January 2012}}</ref><ref name="Update6">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/game-manual/1775-update-6-great-river|articlename=Update 6 Great River|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

*A new region, the [[Anduin|The Great River]], was added, featuring seven new areas - including [[Parth Celebrant]] - in the upper [[Anduin]]. <ref name="Update6"/>
*[[Mists of Anduin]], Book 6 of Volume III, was released, in which the player seeks the wisdom of [[Galadriel]] about troubling dreams and fights [[Easterlings]], Brigands and an ancient enemy of Rohan.<ref name="Update6"/>
*The ability to summon skirmish wariors outside skirmishes.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Updates to the Instance finder.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Currency-change in Monster Play: "Destiny" will be replaced with "Commendations". Commendations will be available for both Freeps and Creeps.<ref name="MP Currency change">{{webcite|author=Jaret Pruett|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|articlename=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

====Update 7: Shades of the Past====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 7 Shades of the Past.png|thumb|220px]]'''Shades of the Past''' is the seventh update<ref name="Update 7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/1966|articlename=Update 7|dated=|website=lotro.com|accessed=12 May 2012}}</ref> and was released on 14 May, 2012.{{fact}}

*Continuation of the aforementioned currency-change.<ref name="MP Currency change"/>
*A new instance, "Storm on Methedras"<ref name="Update 7"/>
*Revamp of the Fornost instance and Moria region.<ref name="Update 7"/>

===Riders of Rohan Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan]]''
The fourth expansion for The Lord of the Rings Online is named ''Riders of Rohan''. The expansion was released on October 15, 2012. <ref name="Turbine">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/1736-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-and-turbine-unveil-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-riders-of-rohan|articlename=WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND TURBINE UNVEIL THE LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE™: RIDERS OF ROHAN™|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=30 January 2012}}</ref>

== Added Elements ==
There are a number of elements that do not appear in any of the published works. This includes characters, lineages, objects and locations.

===Characters===
* '''[[Amarthiel]]''' served the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] during his first reign over [[Angmar]]<ref>In the game the Witch-king reigned over Angmar again shortly before the [[War of the Ring]].</ref> and wore the [[lesser rings|lesser ring]] [[Narchuil]]. She was slain by [[Narmeleth]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]] and her soul wandered [[Middle-earth]] for over a thousand years. She managed to possess Narmeleth and disguised herself as Sara Oakheart. She eventually revealed herself after the defeat of [[Mordirith]] by [[Golodir]] and becomes the Regent of Angmar.

* '''[[Andraste]]''' was a female [[Men|Man]] who served the [[Witch-king]].

* '''[[Jon Brackenbrook]]''' was a [[Men|Man]] who was captain of [[Archet]].

* '''[[Ronald Dwale]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[Dwalling]]. He's an author and a member of [[The Inklings (LOTRO)|the Inklings]], that meets in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. He's based on [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] himself.

* '''[[Éogan]]''' was the second in command of the [[Blackwolds]] and took over leadership of the group after William Skunkwood's death.

* '''The Huntsman''' was a spirit found in [[Enedwaith]] who took the shape of a large man with horns of a stag. Many players thought this was [[Oromë]]. The developers confirmed that it wasn't Oromë but a [[Maiar|Maia]] of Oromë.<ref>[http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?359604-big-D-small-d&p=4996860&highlight=#post4996860 big D, small d] [[Jonathan Rudder]], lotro.com forums</ref>

* '''[[Ivar the Bloodhand]]''' was a Gaunt-lord from the [[First Age]].

* '''[[Mordirith]]''' was the Steward of Angmar.

* '''[[Narmeleth]]''' was an elf maiden of [[Rivendell]] and daughter of [[Laerdan]]. She slayed [[Amarthiel]] during the [[Battle of Fornost]] and became possessed by her soul over a thousand years later.

* '''[[Mundo Sackville-Baggins]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] who was mistakenly identified as having the ring.

* '''[[William Skunkwood]]''' was the leader of the [[Blackwolds]].

* '''[[Skorgrím]]''' was a dwarf and leader of the [[Dourhands]]. He was slain during the Battle of Edhelion. His corpse was used as a vehicle by Ivar the Bloodhand who possessed it with a fell spirit to trick the Dourhands to ally themselves with the forces of [[Angmar]].

* '''[[Sambrog]]''' was the Wight-lord of the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Groups===
* '''The [[Blackwolds]]''' were a group of [[Men|Mannish]] brigands from [[Bree-land]].

* '''The [[Dourhands]]''' was a clan of dwarves aligned with the forces of [[Angmar]]. They were the dwarves that stayed behind to rebuild the Dwarven Halls in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]].

* '''The [[Inklings (Shadows of Angmar)|Inklings]]''' are a group of [[Hobbits|Hobbit]]-authors who discuss literature. They meet each other in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. Prominent members are [[Ronald Dwale]] ([[J.R.R. Tolkien]]), [[Owen Farfield]] ([[Owen Barfield]]), [[Carlo Williams]] ([[Charles Williams]]) and [[Jack Lewisdown]] ([[C.S. Lewis]]). The group and members are based on the real [[Inklings]].

===Objects===
* '''[[Narchuil]]''' was one of the [[lesser rings]] forged by the elven-smiths during the [[Second Age]].

===Locations===
* '''[[Agamaur]]''' was a vast swamp north of the [[East-West Road]] not far from the [[Last Bridge]]. It was a site of a major battle between [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]]. To the west is the ruins of Haragmar, a fortress of [[Arnor]]. To the east lies the ruins of Garth Agarwen, a fortress of Rhudaur.

* '''[[Othrongroth]]''' was the oldest and largest Edain mound in the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Structures===
* '''[[Bird and Baby Inn]]''' was an inn in [[Michel Delving]].

==Servers==
===American servers===
All American servers are hosted by [[Turbine]].
*[[Arkenstone]]
*[[Moria|Dwarrowdelf]]
*[[Gladden River|Gladden]]
*[[Meneldor]]
*[[Celebrant|Silverlode]]
*[[Brandywine]]
*[[Elendilmir]]
*[[Rivendell|Imladris]]
*[[Nimrodel]]
*[[Landroval]]
*[[Rohan|Riddermark]]
*[[Windfola]]

===European servers===
The European servers were originally created and hosted by [[Codemasters]], but on [[1 June]] [[2011]] Lotro Europe was taken over by Turbine, who currently host the European servers.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.casualstrolltomordor.com/2011/04/turbines-lotro-service-goes-global/|articlename=Turbine's LOTRO Service Goes Global|dated=24 April 2011|website=A Casual Stroll to Mordor|accessed=2 January 2012}}</ref>
====English servers====
*[[Eldar]]
*[[Evernight]]
*[[Gilrain]]
*[[Snowbourn]]
*[[Withywindle]]<ref group="note">Unlike the other European servers, Withywindle was created in [[2010]] after ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' went free-to-play.</ref>
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Laurelin]]
====French servers====
*[[River Running|Celduin]]
*[[Sirannon]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Estel]]
====German servers====
*[[Anduin]]
*[[Gwaihir]]
*[[Maiar]]
*[[Morthond]]
*[[Vanyar]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Belegaer]]

===Russian servers===
All Russian servers are hosted by [[IT Territory]].
*[[Fornost]]
====Role-playing servers====
*[[Mirkwood]]

==License==

For ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', [[Turbine]] has licensed the rights to the content and lore of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. Turbine does not have license rights to the [[New Line Cinema]] film trilogy nor ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' books or ''[[The Children of Húrin]]''. Turbine was bought by Warner Bros. on April 20, 2010 and through them now have the license right to the New Line Cinema film trilogy and the upcoming Hobbit films.{{fact}}

==Discrepancies from the source material==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' does not follow the story as told in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', but rather tells stories about events that happened during the same time period as the events told in J.R.R. Tolkien's book.

==Reception==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' has been received very positively thus far, as reviews continue to appear since the game's initial release.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/pc/middleearthonline Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, The - Review] metacritic.com</ref>

GameDaily awarded the game 9/10, praising its rich, fantasy-themed universe, well-integrated trait and title system, and a story that remains true to the works of Tolkien. Yahoo! Video Games wrote a review with few negative mentions, awarding the game a score of 4/5,<ref>[http://videogames.yahoo.com/gamereview?cid=1990963744&tab=reviews&page=0&eid=513259 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] Yahoo! Games</ref> while ''Computer and Video Games'' called the game an essential purchase for ''Lord of the Rings'' fans, scoring the game a 9.2/10.<ref>[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161846&skip=yes PC Review: Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] ''Computer and Video Games''</ref> Eurogamer scored the game a 9.0/10, calling it tough to resist.<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=75657 Review - Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Eurogamer</ref> Gamespy gave it 4.5/5 stars, claiming the game "opened up Middle-Earth to the masses" but commented negatively on its weak PvP content,<ref>[http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar/785884p1.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] GameSpy</ref> while GameTrailers awarded it 8.5/10,<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/gamepage.php?id=754 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Game Trailers</ref> citing its interesting tweaks to the MMO genre. IGN.com ranked it a similar 8.6/10, praising it for its solid experience, though criticizing it for its lack of major improvements to the genre.<ref>[http://pc.ign.com/articles/787/787942p3.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] IGN</ref> GamerNode.com awarded the game an 8.8/10, calling it the best MMO launch experience since ''Ultima Online''.<ref>[http://www.gamernode.com/PC/Reviews/2848-Lord-of-the-Rings-Online-Review/index.html Lord of the Rings Online] GamerNode</ref> The ''New York Times'' called the game "a major achievement of interactive storytelling, the first game truly worthy of the ‘Lord of the Rings' franchise and a must-play for just about anyone with an interest in Tolkien or the future of online entertainment."<ref>[http://lotro.turbine.com/article/356 Lord of the Rings Online Press Release] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In a GameSpot review, the product was awarded an 8.3/10, praising its appealing polish and intriguing Monster Play feature.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/middleearthonline/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=topten&tag=topten;all;score;5 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC Review] GameSpot</ref> Gamepro.com's review gave it an overall 4.25/5, pointing out how engaging the epic quests are, as well as how faithful to the novels the game managed to stay.<ref>[http://gamepro.com/computer/pc/games/reviews/112000.shtml Review: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC] Gamepro</ref> GameSpy declared ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 'Game of the Month' for May 2007.<ref>[http://uk.gamespy.com/articles/795/795353p2.html Game of the Month: May 2007] GameSpy</ref>

==Awards==

In August 2007, Codemasters announced that ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' had received five Golden Joystick Awards nominations for the five applicable categories for the game,<ref>[http://newsrss.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6925679.stm Music and vice top games awards] BBC News</ref> and in October 2007 that it had won the "PC Game of the Year" at these awards.<ref>[http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7693&Itemid=2 Gears Wins Big at Game Awards] Next-Generation</ref> and again won the same award on October 2008. In December 2007, GameSpy awarded ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 6th place in the top 10 PC games of 2007.<ref>[http://goty.gamespy.com/2007/pc/6.html GameSpy's Game of the Year 2007] GameSpy</ref> On December 18, Turbine announced it had also won the GameSpy MMO of the Year award.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/476 LOTRO Wins Top Honors from Gamespy!] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In January 2009, mmorpg.com awarded Turbine both MMORPG studio of the year 2008<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2574/Best-MMO-Studio-of-2008-Winner MMORPG.com Best MMO Studo of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>, and MMO Expansion of the Year for ''Mines of Moria''.<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2579 MMORPG.com Best Expansion of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>

==Subscription Model==
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Free to Play.png|300px|thumb]]
In North America, players who pre-ordered the game were offered a special founder's offer, a lifetime subscription for $199 or reduced cost of $9.99 per month. Standard monthly fee is $14.99 with three, six, twelve month, and lifetime discounts available. European players had a similar program from Codemasters.

A Holiday subscription was available in December of 2007 and January of 2008 for $9.99/month for a 3 month commitment. A one year anniversary addition includes a $9.99/month subscription or a $199.99 Lifetime subscription, which was again offered during the lead up to the release of Mines of Moria.

Warner Bros. announced on June 4, 2010 that Lord of the Rings Online will offer a free-to-play model starting in the fall of 2010.<ref>[http://turbine.com/news/105-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-announces-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-to-adopt-global-free-to-play-model.html Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces The Lord of the Rings Online™ to Adopt Global Free-to-Play Model] Turbine, Inc</ref> On August 18, 2010, Warner Bros. announced that the free-to-play model would go live on September 10, 2010. On October 21, 2010, [[Codemasters]] announced that a preview of Free-to-Play would be available in Europe on October 25, 2010.<ref>[http://community.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=10839&pagename=news&type=news The Lord of the Rings Online Europe Preview Event]</ref>

==External Links==
* '''[http://lotro.com Official website]'''
** '''[http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Lorebook_home Lorebook]''', the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' wiki
** '''[http://my.lotro.com/ My LOTRO]''', the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' members and developers blog
** '''[http://forums.lotro.com/ LOTRO Community Website]''' , the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' forums
* [http://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Main_Page Lotro-Wiki], a fan created wiki
* [http://lotro.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page lotro.wikia.com], another fan created wiki

{{notes}}
{{references}}

{{lotro}}

{{title|italics}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online| ]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

The Lord of the Rings Online

2012-10-22T21:16:02Z

Pinkkeith: /* Riders of Rohan Expansion */

{{disambig-more|The Lord of the Rings|[[The Lord of the Rings (disambiguation)]]}}[[Image:Lotro logo.png|250px|right]]
'''''The Lord of the Rings Online''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''LOTRO''' or '''LotRO''') is the common name for an MMORPG that takes place in the world of [[Arda]] during the time of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]].''

==Development==
{{rewrite}}
[[Sierra Entertainment|Sierra]] began to develop the game in 1998, then called ''[[Middle-earth Online]]''. After Sierra was bought out by [[Vivendi|Vivendi Universal Games]], production of the game was shared with [[Turbine]]. The rights to the game were sold exclusively to Turbine in March 2004, after which they announced that the name of the project would be changed to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''.

While the majority of quests in the game are original content created by Turbine based on the history and lore of Middle-earth, the quests flagged as "Epic" quests depict specific events and scenes from the ''The Lord of the Rings'' storyline. While conducting Epic Quests, players interact with the main characters from the books, and assist in the advancing of the story toward the [[War of the Ring]] and the destruction of [[the One Ring]].

The game also attempts to mimic ''The Lord of the Rings'' by being broken down in volumes, books and chapters. The original game is called Volume I, the following expansion is Volume II and the current expansion is Volume III. Each one of the epic quests are broken down by "Books" and "Chapters".

Turbine has gone to great lengths to faithfully recreate the fantasy world created by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] with a high degree of attention to detail. Essentially every character named in the books appears in the game and can be interacted with during quests and other activities.

A closed beta was announced on [[8 September|September 8]], [[2006]]. An open beta began on [[30 March|March 30]], [[2007]], and was open to all who pre-ordered the game's Founders Club edition. On [[6 April|April 6]], [[2007]], the beta opened to the public.



===Shadows of Angmar===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar|Shadows of Angmar]]'' was released on [[24 April|April 24]], [[2007]]. It included books 1 through 8 of the epic quest line. Approximately once every two months a major free update is added to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''. Each update is an extension to the epic quest called a book.

====Book 9: Shores of Evendim====
{{#ev:youtubehd|VOEcXrbG4OI|200|thumb}}
The first free content update was released on June 14, 2007.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3611&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced]</ref>

Updates included:
*A new region - [[Evendim]] - is added, includings locations like [[Annúminas]].<ref name="book9">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/136-book-9-shores-of-evendim-release-date-announced|articlename=Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced!|dated=5 June 2007|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
*The epic story is expanded with book 9, [[Shores of Evendim]]<ref name="book9"/>
*100 new quests are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*A 24-player raid is added, ''Battle for Helegrod''.<ref name="book9"/>
*Nine new monsters are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*New Collectible armour sets are added.<ref name="book9"/>
*Updates to the music system.<ref name="book9"/>

====Book 10: The City of Kings====
:''Main article [[The City of Kings]]''
The second free-content update was released on August 21, 2007 in North America and on August 24, 2007 in Europe.<ref>| [http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3949&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Codemasters Online and Turbine unveil Book 10: The City of the Kings]</ref>

Updates included:
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Legendary Play – Players can now use Destiny Points to play as a Ranger of the North or as a Troll.
*Critter Play – Players can now explore Middle-earth from a different viewpoint as a chicken.
*New Reputation and Bartering Systems – The Reputation system enables players to earn positive and negative standing with different races and groups in Middle-earth based on both monster kills and quest completions. The Bartering system allows players to trade trophies earned in battle for rewards, such as armour sets or mounts.
*Over 100 new Quests.
*More customizable user interface.

====Book 11: Prisoner of the Free Peoples====
:''Main article [[Prisoner of the Free Peoples]]''
The third free-content update was released on October 24, 2007 in North America<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/430 Turbine and Codemasters Online Gaming to Unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador for The Lord of the Rings Online]</ref> and October 25 in Europe.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=4661&articletype=News Codemasters Online and Turbine to unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador]</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_11_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Epic Story arc, including 13 quests.
*Player housing – players will be able to customize their houses with items such as furniture and doormats.
*Second raid called "The Rift" – 12-player raid in which players encounter a [[Balrogs|Balrog]] for the first time. Turbine has stressed that this is not the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog from Khazad-dûm]].<ref>[http://lotro.tentonhammer.com/index.php?module=ContentExpress&func=display&ceid=287 Book 11 Preview: The Balrogs are Coming]</ref>
*Two new areas – Tâl Bruinen in the Trollshaws, where [[Gollum]] will be introduced for the first time, and Goblin-town in the [[Misty Mountains]], featured in ''The Hobbit''.
*More than 100 new quests.

====Book 12: The Ashen Wastes====
:''Main article [[The Ashen Wastes]]''
The fourth free content update was released on February 13, 2008 in North America; and February 14, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_12_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Character customization - Increased character customization "ranging from haircuts, to some (possible) additions to the trait-system." In addition, the Outfit system, along with many special social clothing designed just for it, will be introduced where a second or third set of clothing can be slotted and displayed while retaining the statistical bonuses of the currently equipped items.<ref>[http://lotro.stratics.com/content/hoclog/hoc10.php Lord of the Rings Online: House of Commons ]</ref>
*The Delving of Frór - A new Monster Play PVE (and PVMP under certain circumstances) area will be introduced: An expanse of caves and catacombs located beneath the Ettenmoors.
*The Great Angmar Revamp - A revamp of the most high-level region of the game's current 9 PvE regions. The revamp included the reworking of many quests, areas and other changes, such as new horse routes.
*Barbershop - You can customize the look of your avatar in-game with around 50 new haircuts and second set of details.
*Updates to the Burglar, Guardian, and Champion classes.

====Book 13: Doom of the Last-King====
:''Main article [[Doom of the Last-King]]''
The fifth free content update was released on April 24, 2008 in North America and on May 1, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_13_Official complete release notes]):
*A new playable map area: the Ice Bay of [[Forodwaith|Forochel]].
*Players being able to see the ocean for the first time, confirmed as the Ice Bay of Forochel in recent developer chats.
*Fishing - the first of a new system in ''Lord of the Rings Online'', called 'hobbies'.
*New PVMP Monster Healing Class - Orc Defiler.
*Looking For Fellowship- and Quest-panel improvements.

====Book 14: The Ring-forges of Eregion====
:''Main article [[The Ring-forges of Eregion]]''
The sixth free content update was released on July 22, 2008 in North America. It was released on July 24, 2008 in Europe.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_14_Official complete release notes]):
*Climax of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added selected sections of [[Eregion]] (Region leading towards the Gates of Moria).
*Epic Quest events that will allow interaction between players regardless of server.
*Prelude quests for and leading up to the ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' expansion, which will have updates leading to Lothlórien, Fangorn, Rhovanion and Rohan.

====Book 15: Daughter of Strife====
:''Main article [[Daughter of Strife]]''
The seventh free content update was released on November 18, 2008. This update was released in tandem with the Mines of Moria expansion for players who did not purchase the expansion release.

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Category:Epic_-_Vol._I,_Book_15:_Daughter_of_Strife_Quests Epic - Vol. I, Book 15: Daughter of Strife Quests epic]):
*Conclusion of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added the zone of Eregion expanding on the selected sections from Book 14. The zone does not include the Hollin Gate leading to the Black Pool.
*Added UI enhancements

===Mines of Moria Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' was released on [[18 November|November 18]], [[2008]]. It included Vol. II books 1 through 6 of the epic quest line. Like ''Shadows of Angmar'', ''Mines of Moria'' continued to regularly release updates. Updates were less frequent than Shadows of Angmar.

====Book 7: Leaves of Lórien====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Leaves of Lórien.png|thumb|300px]]Book 7 was released on [[17 March]] [[2009]]. This update included:
* Continuation of the Epic Storyline in Book 7, [[Leaves of Lórien]].<ref name="book7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/342-vol2book7|articlename=Volume II: Book 7: Leaves of Lórien Spotlight|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* Expansion of the Lothlórien Area, including [[Caras Galadhon]].<ref name="book7"/>
* A new raid, named ''Stange Hapenings'', has been added.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Galadhrim]] are added as a new reputation faction.<ref name="book7"/>
* Crafting instances enable players to gather resources.<ref name="book7"/>
* The [[Ered Luin Introduction]] and, on lesser scale, the [[Bree-land Introduction]] are revamped.<ref name="book7"/>
* Several new Monster Play emotes are added.<ref name="book7"/>

====Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dum====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Scourge of Khazad-Dûm.png|thumb|300px]]Book 8 was released on June 23, 2009. This update included:
*Book 8, [[Scourge of Khazad-dûm]], continues the epic story.<ref name="book8">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/book-spotlights/421-vol2-book8|articlename=Volume II: Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dûm|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>
* A radiance-gated multi-boss, 12-man raid - named ''Dar Narbugud'' is added.<ref name="book8"/>
* One 6-man instance is added: ''The Halls of Crafting''.<ref name="book8"/>
* Two 3-man instances are added:
** ''Lumul-nar''<ref name="book8"/>
** ''Nala-dum''<ref name="book8"/>
* Continuation of the revamp of the [[Bree-land Introduction]].<ref name="book8"/>
* The Crafting system has been revived.<ref name="book8"/>

===Siege of Mirkwood Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood|Siege of Mirkwood]]'' was released on December 1, 2009 in North America and December 3, 2009 in Europe. Unlike the second expansion this edition was only available via a web based download. It included Book 9 and the epilogue of Volume II: Mines of Moria.

[[Kate Paiz]], Executive Producer for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', released a letter on October 22, 2010 stating that updates will be more frequent but will not always be accompanied with a new book continuing the epic story.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/866-producers-letter-october-2010 Producer's Letter, October-2010] lotro.com, Dev Diaries</ref>

====Book 1: Oath of the Rangers====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Oath of the Rangers.png|300px|thumb]]:''Main article [[Oath of the Rangers]]''
Book 1 was released on [[1 March|March 1]], [[2010]].<ref> [http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=320404 Volume III: Allies of the King has arrived!]</ref>

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Allies_of_the_King_Official complete release notes]):
* The beginning of Volume III in the epic story line.
* The ability to solo the Volume I epic story line.
* A duo mode for most skirmishes.

====Book 2: Ride of the Grey Company====
:''Main article [[Ride of the Grey Company]]''
Book 2 was released on [[10 September|September 10]], [[2010]] in North America. ([[8 September|September 8]], [[2010]] for subscribers). It was delayed in Europe because of contractual reaons and was finally released on [[2 November]], almost two months after North America.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/ Massively], [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/v-e-me-day-lotro-europe-announces-launch-date-for-free-to-play/ V-E-ME Day: LotRO Europe announces launch date for free-to-play], dated [[29 October]], [[2010]] (accessed [[11 November]], [[2011]])</ref>

Updates included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Book_2_Official complete release notes]):

* New region: [[Enedwaith]].
* ''Lord of the Rings Online'' Free to Play subscription.
* Book 2 in the Volume III epic storyline.
* Scalable instances.
* Improvements to the vault, and a new wardrobe system for cosmetic items.
* Updates to the captain class.
* The LOTRO store, where players may purchase convenience items. Points either earned through gameplay, through the VIP program or by being purchased.
* The introduction of Lua Scripting.
* DirectX 11 support.
* Ranger session play.

====Update 1: Journey to Winter-Home====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 1 Journey to Winter-Home.png|300px|thumb]]The first post Free-to-play update was released in November 2010. Due to changes to how updates work this did not contain an epic book.

Updates included:

* A Barter Wallet for skirmish marks and anniversary tokens.
* Opening of Moria, Lothlorien, Mirkwood and Enedwaith to free-to-play players, Volume II and Volume III will also be available, as well the legendary item system, and the lvl 65 level cap all to free-to-play players.
* Vault improvements.
* Tasks: a new quest type for all levels.
* Improved reputation mounts.
* Updates to the Lore-master and Rune-keeper classes.
* Ered Luin starting area revamp.

====Update 2: Echoes of the Dead====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 2 Echoes of the Dead.png|300px|thumb]]The first update of 2011 was released on [[21 March|March 21]] in the United States and [[24 March|March 24]] for Europe.

Updates included:

* Two 3-man's, two 6-man's, and a 12-person raid were added for lvl 65 players.
* A special item required to craft a First Age weapon which drops from the above raid.
* Radiance was removed.
* Legendary Items were updated.
* Character panel and cosmetic system were revamped.
* The Minstrel, Hunter and Burglar classes were updated.
* Volume III Book 3: [[Echoes of the Dead]] was added.
* Volume II was revamped and made soloable, including three instances which have been converted to skirmishes.
* Improvements to the PvP starter tutorial.
* [[Evendim]] was revamped, with [[Annúminas]] being scaled down to level 40.

====Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 3 Lost Legends of Eriador.png|300px|thumb]]''Lost Legends of Eriador'' was the third update. It was released on [[23 May|May 23]], [[2011]] and included: ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_3,_Lost_Legends_of_Eriador,_Official complete release notes]):

* Two new 3-man scalable instances starting mid-game.
* Two new skirmishes.

===Rise of Isengard Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]''
The third expansion for the Lord of the Rings Online is entitled ''Rise of Isengard''. The expansion was made available on September 27, 2011 and only as a digital download.<ref>[http://isengard.lotro.com/ The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard Official Homepage]</ref>

====Update 5: Armies of Isengard====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 5 Armies of Isengard.png|220px|thumb]]''Armies of Isengard'' is the first update published after the release of ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''. It was released on [[12 December]] [[2011]] and included ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_5,_Armies_of_Isengard,_Official complete release notes]):

* Four new instances and a 12-man raid in and around [[Isengard]].
* [[The Prince of Rohan|Book 5]] of [[Allies of the King|Volume III]] is released.
* A new Instance finder, to form groups more easily.
* Barter currencies of skirmishes, classic and instances are unified.
* Changes to Reputation items.

====Update 6: Shores of the Great River====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 6 The Great River.png|220px|thumb]]'''Shores of the Great River''' is the sixth update and was released on [[12 March]] [[2012]].<ref name="Update6&Riders"> {{webcite|author=Justin Olivetti|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/riding-into-rohan-lotro-maps-out-2012/|articlename=Riding into Rohan: LotRO maps out in 2012|dated=25 January 2012|website=Massively|accessed=29 January 2012}}</ref><ref name="Update6">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/game-manual/1775-update-6-great-river|articlename=Update 6 Great River|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

*A new region, the [[Anduin|The Great River]], was added, featuring seven new areas - including [[Parth Celebrant]] - in the upper [[Anduin]]. <ref name="Update6"/>
*[[Mists of Anduin]], Book 6 of Volume III, was released, in which the player seeks the wisdom of [[Galadriel]] about troubling dreams and fights [[Easterlings]], Brigands and an ancient enemy of Rohan.<ref name="Update6"/>
*The ability to summon skirmish wariors outside skirmishes.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Updates to the Instance finder.<ref name="Update6"/>
*Currency-change in Monster Play: "Destiny" will be replaced with "Commendations". Commendations will be available for both Freeps and Creeps.<ref name="MP Currency change">{{webcite|author=Jaret Pruett|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|articlename=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/1776-update-6-commendations-developer-diary|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=19 February 2012}}</ref>

====Update 7: Shades of the Past====
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Update 7 Shades of the Past.png|thumb|220px]]'''Shades of the Past''' is the seventh update<ref name="Update 7">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/1966|articlename=Update 7|dated=|website=lotro.com|accessed=12 May 2012}}</ref> and was released on 14 May, 2012.{{fact}}

*Continuation of the aforementioned currency-change.<ref name="MP Currency change"/>
*A new instance, "Storm on Methedras"<ref name="Update 7"/>
*Revamp of the Fornost instance and Moria region.<ref name="Update 7"/>

===Riders of Rohan Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan]]''
The fourth expansion for The Lord of the Rings Online is named ''Riders of Rohan''. The expansion was released on October 12, 2012. <ref name="Turbine">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/1736-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-and-turbine-unveil-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-riders-of-rohan|articlename=WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND TURBINE UNVEIL THE LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE™: RIDERS OF ROHAN™|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=30 January 2012}}</ref>

== Added Elements ==
There are a number of elements that do not appear in any of the published works. This includes characters, lineages, objects and locations.

===Characters===
* '''[[Amarthiel]]''' served the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] during his first reign over [[Angmar]]<ref>In the game the Witch-king reigned over Angmar again shortly before the [[War of the Ring]].</ref> and wore the [[lesser rings|lesser ring]] [[Narchuil]]. She was slain by [[Narmeleth]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]] and her soul wandered [[Middle-earth]] for over a thousand years. She managed to possess Narmeleth and disguised herself as Sara Oakheart. She eventually revealed herself after the defeat of [[Mordirith]] by [[Golodir]] and becomes the Regent of Angmar.

* '''[[Andraste]]''' was a female [[Men|Man]] who served the [[Witch-king]].

* '''[[Jon Brackenbrook]]''' was a [[Men|Man]] who was captain of [[Archet]].

* '''[[Ronald Dwale]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[Dwalling]]. He's an author and a member of [[The Inklings (LOTRO)|the Inklings]], that meets in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. He's based on [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] himself.

* '''[[Éogan]]''' was the second in command of the [[Blackwolds]] and took over leadership of the group after William Skunkwood's death.

* '''The Huntsman''' was a spirit found in [[Enedwaith]] who took the shape of a large man with horns of a stag. Many players thought this was [[Oromë]]. The developers confirmed that it wasn't Oromë but a [[Maiar|Maia]] of Oromë.<ref>[http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?359604-big-D-small-d&p=4996860&highlight=#post4996860 big D, small d] [[Jonathan Rudder]], lotro.com forums</ref>

* '''[[Ivar the Bloodhand]]''' was a Gaunt-lord from the [[First Age]].

* '''[[Mordirith]]''' was the Steward of Angmar.

* '''[[Narmeleth]]''' was an elf maiden of [[Rivendell]] and daughter of [[Laerdan]]. She slayed [[Amarthiel]] during the [[Battle of Fornost]] and became possessed by her soul over a thousand years later.

* '''[[Mundo Sackville-Baggins]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] who was mistakenly identified as having the ring.

* '''[[William Skunkwood]]''' was the leader of the [[Blackwolds]].

* '''[[Skorgrím]]''' was a dwarf and leader of the [[Dourhands]]. He was slain during the Battle of Edhelion. His corpse was used as a vehicle by Ivar the Bloodhand who possessed it with a fell spirit to trick the Dourhands to ally themselves with the forces of [[Angmar]].

* '''[[Sambrog]]''' was the Wight-lord of the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Groups===
* '''The [[Blackwolds]]''' were a group of [[Men|Mannish]] brigands from [[Bree-land]].

* '''The [[Dourhands]]''' was a clan of dwarves aligned with the forces of [[Angmar]]. They were the dwarves that stayed behind to rebuild the Dwarven Halls in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]].

* '''The [[Inklings (Shadows of Angmar)|Inklings]]''' are a group of [[Hobbits|Hobbit]]-authors who discuss literature. They meet each other in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. Prominent members are [[Ronald Dwale]] ([[J.R.R. Tolkien]]), [[Owen Farfield]] ([[Owen Barfield]]), [[Carlo Williams]] ([[Charles Williams]]) and [[Jack Lewisdown]] ([[C.S. Lewis]]). The group and members are based on the real [[Inklings]].

===Objects===
* '''[[Narchuil]]''' was one of the [[lesser rings]] forged by the elven-smiths during the [[Second Age]].

===Locations===
* '''[[Agamaur]]''' was a vast swamp north of the [[East-West Road]] not far from the [[Last Bridge]]. It was a site of a major battle between [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]]. To the west is the ruins of Haragmar, a fortress of [[Arnor]]. To the east lies the ruins of Garth Agarwen, a fortress of Rhudaur.

* '''[[Othrongroth]]''' was the oldest and largest Edain mound in the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Structures===
* '''[[Bird and Baby Inn]]''' was an inn in [[Michel Delving]].

==Servers==
===American servers===
All American servers are hosted by [[Turbine]].
*[[Arkenstone]]
*[[Moria|Dwarrowdelf]]
*[[Gladden River|Gladden]]
*[[Meneldor]]
*[[Celebrant|Silverlode]]
*[[Brandywine]]
*[[Elendilmir]]
*[[Rivendell|Imladris]]
*[[Nimrodel]]
*[[Landroval]]
*[[Rohan|Riddermark]]
*[[Windfola]]

===European servers===
The European servers were originally created and hosted by [[Codemasters]], but on [[1 June]] [[2011]] Lotro Europe was taken over by Turbine, who currently host the European servers.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.casualstrolltomordor.com/2011/04/turbines-lotro-service-goes-global/|articlename=Turbine's LOTRO Service Goes Global|dated=24 April 2011|website=A Casual Stroll to Mordor|accessed=2 January 2012}}</ref>
====English servers====
*[[Eldar]]
*[[Evernight]]
*[[Gilrain]]
*[[Snowbourn]]
*[[Withywindle]]<ref group="note">Unlike the other European servers, Withywindle was created in [[2010]] after ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' went free-to-play.</ref>
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Laurelin]]
====French servers====
*[[River Running|Celduin]]
*[[Sirannon]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Estel]]
====German servers====
*[[Anduin]]
*[[Gwaihir]]
*[[Maiar]]
*[[Morthond]]
*[[Vanyar]]
=====Role-playing servers=====
*[[Belegaer]]

===Russian servers===
All Russian servers are hosted by [[IT Territory]].
*[[Fornost]]
====Role-playing servers====
*[[Mirkwood]]

==License==

For ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', [[Turbine]] has licensed the rights to the content and lore of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. Turbine does not have license rights to the [[New Line Cinema]] film trilogy nor ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' books or ''[[The Children of Húrin]]''. Turbine was bought by Warner Bros. on April 20, 2010 and through them now have the license right to the New Line Cinema film trilogy and the upcoming Hobbit films.{{fact}}

==Discrepancies from the source material==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' does not follow the story as told in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', but rather tells stories about events that happened during the same time period as the events told in J.R.R. Tolkien's book.

==Reception==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' has been received very positively thus far, as reviews continue to appear since the game's initial release.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/pc/middleearthonline Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, The - Review] metacritic.com</ref>

GameDaily awarded the game 9/10, praising its rich, fantasy-themed universe, well-integrated trait and title system, and a story that remains true to the works of Tolkien. Yahoo! Video Games wrote a review with few negative mentions, awarding the game a score of 4/5,<ref>[http://videogames.yahoo.com/gamereview?cid=1990963744&tab=reviews&page=0&eid=513259 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] Yahoo! Games</ref> while ''Computer and Video Games'' called the game an essential purchase for ''Lord of the Rings'' fans, scoring the game a 9.2/10.<ref>[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161846&skip=yes PC Review: Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] ''Computer and Video Games''</ref> Eurogamer scored the game a 9.0/10, calling it tough to resist.<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=75657 Review - Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Eurogamer</ref> Gamespy gave it 4.5/5 stars, claiming the game "opened up Middle-Earth to the masses" but commented negatively on its weak PvP content,<ref>[http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar/785884p1.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] GameSpy</ref> while GameTrailers awarded it 8.5/10,<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/gamepage.php?id=754 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Game Trailers</ref> citing its interesting tweaks to the MMO genre. IGN.com ranked it a similar 8.6/10, praising it for its solid experience, though criticizing it for its lack of major improvements to the genre.<ref>[http://pc.ign.com/articles/787/787942p3.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] IGN</ref> GamerNode.com awarded the game an 8.8/10, calling it the best MMO launch experience since ''Ultima Online''.<ref>[http://www.gamernode.com/PC/Reviews/2848-Lord-of-the-Rings-Online-Review/index.html Lord of the Rings Online] GamerNode</ref> The ''New York Times'' called the game "a major achievement of interactive storytelling, the first game truly worthy of the ‘Lord of the Rings' franchise and a must-play for just about anyone with an interest in Tolkien or the future of online entertainment."<ref>[http://lotro.turbine.com/article/356 Lord of the Rings Online Press Release] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In a GameSpot review, the product was awarded an 8.3/10, praising its appealing polish and intriguing Monster Play feature.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/middleearthonline/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=topten&tag=topten;all;score;5 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC Review] GameSpot</ref> Gamepro.com's review gave it an overall 4.25/5, pointing out how engaging the epic quests are, as well as how faithful to the novels the game managed to stay.<ref>[http://gamepro.com/computer/pc/games/reviews/112000.shtml Review: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC] Gamepro</ref> GameSpy declared ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 'Game of the Month' for May 2007.<ref>[http://uk.gamespy.com/articles/795/795353p2.html Game of the Month: May 2007] GameSpy</ref>

==Awards==

In August 2007, Codemasters announced that ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' had received five Golden Joystick Awards nominations for the five applicable categories for the game,<ref>[http://newsrss.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6925679.stm Music and vice top games awards] BBC News</ref> and in October 2007 that it had won the "PC Game of the Year" at these awards.<ref>[http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7693&Itemid=2 Gears Wins Big at Game Awards] Next-Generation</ref> and again won the same award on October 2008. In December 2007, GameSpy awarded ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 6th place in the top 10 PC games of 2007.<ref>[http://goty.gamespy.com/2007/pc/6.html GameSpy's Game of the Year 2007] GameSpy</ref> On December 18, Turbine announced it had also won the GameSpy MMO of the Year award.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/476 LOTRO Wins Top Honors from Gamespy!] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In January 2009, mmorpg.com awarded Turbine both MMORPG studio of the year 2008<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2574/Best-MMO-Studio-of-2008-Winner MMORPG.com Best MMO Studo of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>, and MMO Expansion of the Year for ''Mines of Moria''.<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2579 MMORPG.com Best Expansion of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>

==Subscription Model==
[[File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Free to Play.png|300px|thumb]]
In North America, players who pre-ordered the game were offered a special founder's offer, a lifetime subscription for $199 or reduced cost of $9.99 per month. Standard monthly fee is $14.99 with three, six, twelve month, and lifetime discounts available. European players had a similar program from Codemasters.

A Holiday subscription was available in December of 2007 and January of 2008 for $9.99/month for a 3 month commitment. A one year anniversary addition includes a $9.99/month subscription or a $199.99 Lifetime subscription, which was again offered during the lead up to the release of Mines of Moria.

Warner Bros. announced on June 4, 2010 that Lord of the Rings Online will offer a free-to-play model starting in the fall of 2010.<ref>[http://turbine.com/news/105-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-announces-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-to-adopt-global-free-to-play-model.html Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces The Lord of the Rings Online™ to Adopt Global Free-to-Play Model] Turbine, Inc</ref> On August 18, 2010, Warner Bros. announced that the free-to-play model would go live on September 10, 2010. On October 21, 2010, [[Codemasters]] announced that a preview of Free-to-Play would be available in Europe on October 25, 2010.<ref>[http://community.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=10839&pagename=news&type=news The Lord of the Rings Online Europe Preview Event]</ref>

==External Links==
* '''[http://lotro.com Official website]'''
** '''[http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Lorebook_home Lorebook]''', the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' wiki
** '''[http://my.lotro.com/ My LOTRO]''', the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' members and developers blog
** '''[http://forums.lotro.com/ LOTRO Community Website]''' , the official ''Lord of the Rings Online'' forums
* [http://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Main_Page Lotro-Wiki], a fan created wiki
* [http://lotro.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page lotro.wikia.com], another fan created wiki

{{notes}}
{{references}}

{{lotro}}

{{title|italics}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online| ]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

Limlight

2012-07-10T15:02:49Z

Pinkkeith: /* Portrayal in adaptations */

The river '''Limlight''' was a stream rising in the eastern [[Misty Mountains]] near [[Treebeard]]'s dwellings. It then ran through northern [[Fangorn Forest|Fangorn]] and emptied into the [[Anduin]].

It formed the southern boundary of the [[Field of Celebrant]], and was claimed by [[Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]] of [[Lothlórien]] as the southern boundary of their realm.

It was also the historic northern border of [[Gondor]], and later of [[Rohan]].

==Etymology==
The first element of the name is from an alien ([[Elvish]] or [[Pre-Númenórean]] form) which was obscure in [[Westron]]. The second element refers to the clarity of its bright waters.<ref>{{HM|N}}, p. 773</ref>

[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] provided different explanations of the exact meaning and even languages used in the name, including ''Limlich'', ''Limliht'', ''Limlaith''<ref>{{UT|Cirion}}, note 46</ref> and ''Limhîr''.<ref>{{HM|WJ}}, p. 337</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Limlight River is located in the region referred to as The Great River. The river runs from east to west and contributes to [[Anduin]]. There are Rohirrim located north of the river, but most of them are petty criminals who were expelled from the lands of [[Rohan]].

==External links==
* [http://www.elvish.org/Tengwestie/articles/DeRosarioMartinez/limlight.phtml ''Musings on '''Limlight''''', a linguistic analysis of the river-name.]
{{references}}
[[Category:Rhovanion]]
[[Category:Rivers]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/eaux/rhovanion/limeclaire]]

Limlight

2012-07-10T15:02:22Z

Pinkkeith:

The river '''Limlight''' was a stream rising in the eastern [[Misty Mountains]] near [[Treebeard]]'s dwellings. It then ran through northern [[Fangorn Forest|Fangorn]] and emptied into the [[Anduin]].

It formed the southern boundary of the [[Field of Celebrant]], and was claimed by [[Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]] of [[Lothlórien]] as the southern boundary of their realm.

It was also the historic northern border of [[Gondor]], and later of [[Rohan]].

==Etymology==
The first element of the name is from an alien ([[Elvish]] or [[Pre-Númenórean]] form) which was obscure in [[Westron]]. The second element refers to the clarity of its bright waters.<ref>{{HM|N}}, p. 773</ref>

[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] provided different explanations of the exact meaning and even languages used in the name, including ''Limlich'', ''Limliht'', ''Limlaith''<ref>{{UT|Cirion}}, note 46</ref> and ''Limhîr''.<ref>{{HM|WJ}}, p. 337</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2004: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:The Limlight River is located in the region referred to as The Great River. The river runs from east to west and contributes to [[Anduin]]. There are Rohirrim located north of the river, but most of them are petty criminals who were expelled from the lands of [[Rohan]].

==External links==
* [http://www.elvish.org/Tengwestie/articles/DeRosarioMartinez/limlight.phtml ''Musings on '''Limlight''''', a linguistic analysis of the river-name.]
{{references}}
[[Category:Rhovanion]]
[[Category:Rivers]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/eaux/rhovanion/limeclaire]]

Radagast

2012-06-29T21:16:16Z

Pinkkeith: /* Games */

{{maiar infobox
| image=[[File:Jef Murray - Radagast.jpg|250px]]
| name=Radagast
| othernames=[[Radagast#Aiwendil|Aiwendil]]<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref> Radagast the Brown<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> Radagast the Bird-tamer<ref group="note" name="note1">[[Saruman]] gave him this name to mock him.</ref><ref name="FRCouncil"/> Radagast the Simple<ref group="note" name="note1"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/> Radagast the Fool<ref group="note" name="note1"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/>
| coming=
| duty=[[Wizards|Wizard]]
| robes=Brown
| gender=Male
| appearance=
| hair=
}}
{{Pronounce|Quenya - Aiwendil.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
<center>{{Quote|Radagast the Brown! [...] Radagast the Bird-tamer! Radagast the Simple! Radagast the Fool! Yet he had just the wit to play the part that I set him.|[[Saruman]]<ref name="FRCouncil"/>}}</center>

'''Radagast the Brown''', also known as '''Aiwendil''', was one of the [[wizards]] sent to [[Middle-earth]] to contest the will of [[Sauron]]. Originally a [[Maiar]] of [[Yavanna]], he had a strong affinity for animals. He dwelt, for a time, at [[Rhosgobel]] on the western eaves of [[Mirkwood]], near the [[Gladden Fields]] on the [[Anduin|Great River]].<ref name="UTIstari"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/>

==History==
===Valinor===
Radagast, like the other Wizards, came from [[Valinor]] around the year [[Third Age 1000|1000]] of the [[Third Age]] and was one of the [[Maiar]] of the [[Valier|Valië]] [[Yavanna]]. His original name was '''''[[Radagast#Aiwendil|Aiwendil]]''''' (pron. {{IPA|[aɪˈwendil]}}). Yavanna forced [[Curumo]] to accept Radagast as a companion, which may have been one of the reasons Saruman was contemptuous of him.

===Middle-earth===
The wizard's home was in [[Rhosgobel]] on the western borders of [[Mirkwood]]. Considering the location of Rhosgobel (Being uncomfortably close to Dol Guldur) it is likely that Radagast had something to do with The White Council's attack on the fortress in T.A. 2941. He was a friend of [[Beorn]] as well as a friend to the forest's many creatures, especially birds whom he communicated with. He spent most of his time with the wildlife instead of [[Men]] and [[Elves]], whom he found more difficult to deal with. Despite this, Gandalf was actually more knowlegable about the birds and beasts, and was more respected by them than Radagast. Radagast grew neglectful and easygoing, and he lacked courage, however he remained of good will.

In the summer of [[Third Age 3018|3018]] Radagast was unwittingly used by Saruman to lure Gandalf to [[Orthanc]], sending him to [[Bree]] with a message for Gandalf. In this message Saruman asked Gandalf to come to Orthanc, where Saruman trapped and captured him. Luckily, Radagast didn't mean any harm to Gandalf, and wasn't aware of Saruman's plan. So Radagast also helped rescue the grey wizard by alerting the [[Eagles]] of Gandalf's journey there.

Radagast is without a doubt a mysterious character. While there is little doubt that his heart was in the right place, he did not possess that same selflessness that allowed Gandalf to fulfil the task set to him by the Valar, to aid the free people. Deigning to leave his wooded home, Radagast remained in Northern Mirkwood with the birds and the beasts and the trees.

When Elven scouts were sent to find Radagast after the Council of Elrond, he was not at his home in Rhosgobel: he plays no further role in events and is not mentioned again by Tolkien. There are several theories to his disappearance. He may have gone to spend time among the wildlife, or his friends among the Beornings, or he may have visited Thranduil's folk in Mirkwood. He may have also been forced to abandon his home, and it is quite possible that he was removed by the nearby fortress of Dol Guldur. However, Tolkien once stated that Radagast's failure was not as great as Saruman's, and that he may have eventually been able to return to Valinor, implying that he survived The War of the Ring.

The assumption that Radagast failed in his task may not be entirely accurate, as he was sent specifically by Yavanna, and he may have been charged with the protection of the flora and fauna of Middle-Earth, a task that would not end with the defeat of Sauron. However, what is certain is that he did not achieve the primary task set for him by the Valar, and he did not (for whatever reason) return to Valinor, according to the poem that Tolkien wrote about the Istari.

==Etymology==
===Radagast===
In a manuscript written by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] in [[1954]], the name ''Radagast'' is said to mean "tender of beasts" in [[Adûnaic]], the language of [[Númenor]].<ref>{{UT|Istari}}</ref> However, in a later note Tolkien said that the name is in the language of the [[Men]] of the [[Vales of Anduin]], and that its meaning is not interpretable.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 4</ref>

As stated by [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]], several theories have appeared concerning the inspiration of the name ''Radagast''.<ref name=RC>{{HM|RC}}, pp. 240-1</ref> One such theory has been proposed by [[Douglas A. Anderson]], who notes the name [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radegast_%28god%29 ''Redigast''] in Slavic mythology.<ref>{{HM|AH}}, p. 167</ref>

===Aiwendil===
The name ''Aiwendil'' is [[Quenya]] for "lover of birds".<ref name="UTIndex">{{UT|Index}}</ref> It is perhaps derived from ''[[aiwe]]'' ("(small) bird") and ''ndil'' ("devoted to").<ref name=RC/><ref>{{LR|Etymologies}}, pp. 348, 378 (entries [[AIWĒ-]] and NIL-, NDIL-)</ref>

==Names==
It appears that in [[Valinor]] Radagast was known as "Aiwendil".<ref name="UTIstari"/>

As one of the [[wizards]] sent to [[Middle-earth]], he was known as "Radagast [[the Brown]]". [[Saruman]], when talking to [[Gandalf]], mocked Radagast by calling him "Radagast the [[Bird-tamer]]", "Radagast [[the Simple]]", and "Radagast [[the Fool]]".<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

==Other versions of the Legendarium==
Early in the process of writing ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', it is clear that [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] envisaged some role for Radagast in the tale.<ref>{{RS|New}}, p. 379;{{RS|Elrond}}, p. 397</ref> He eventually decided that he would use Radagast as the means of getting Gandalf to Isengard.<ref name="TIC1.130-140">{{TI|C1}}, pp. 130-140</ref>

Initially Gandalf describes Radagast as his 'cousin',<ref>{{TI|C1}}, p. 131</ref> as he did in ''[[The Hobbit]]'',<ref>{{H|Queer}}</ref> but in a subsequent draft he becomes his 'kinsman'.<ref>{{TI|C2}}, p. 149</ref> In the final version Gandalf merely says that Radagast is 'one of my order'.<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

Tolkien initially called him "Radagast the Grey", but in pencil he changed this to "Brown" and subsequently Saruman refers to him as "Radagast the Brown".<ref name="TIC1.130-140"/>

When Tolkien finished writing the story up till Moria, he made notes on the future story development; therein he considered handing over Isengard to Radagast.<ref>{{TI|Story}}, p. 212</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Radagast in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|lines=1
|File:Radagast (Mithril LR3).png|[[Mithril Miniatures]]
|File:WiMe-Radagast&Hobbits-1.png|''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''
|File:Radagast (Decipher).JPG|''[[The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game]]''
|File:Radagast (LOTRSBG).jpg|''[[The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]''
|File:Radagast (LOTRO).png|''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Radagast in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''
}}
===Films===
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:The character Radagast and virtually all references to him were removed. He was originally to appear in a background scene, but this was removed because it was thought it would only confuse people.{{fact}}

'''2012-13: [[The Hobbit films|''The Hobbit'' films]]:'''
:Radagast will be played by [[Sylvester McCoy]].<ref name="IMCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Ian McKellen]]|articleurl=http://www.mckellen.com/cinema/hobbit-movie/110510.htm|articlename=2 Elves and another Wizard|dated=10-May-2011|website=[http://www.mckellen.com/ Ian McKellen's website]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref> Although the character is only alluded to in The Hobbit, he may have been involved with The White Council's confrontation with the Necromancer around this time period..{{fact}} Sylvester McCoy has stated that Radagast will have more than just a brief cameo, and Sir Christopher Lee (who plays Saruman) stated that Radagast "has a considerably important part" in the upcoming films..{{fact}}

===Radio series===
'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Donald Gee]] provided the voice of Radagast. He is, however, not the person who sends the [[Eagles|Eagle]] to save Gandalf from [[Orthanc]].

===Games===
'''1987-: ''[[Mithril Miniatures]]'':'''
:Radagast has been issued in a couple of different versions: figure LR3 "Radagast the Brown" is seen with a cat and an owl;<ref>[http://www.mithril.ie/races/index_wizards.html Mithril Wizards Miniatures] at [http://www.mithril.ie/ Mithril.ie] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref> an older version of the figure portrays Radagast without beard and with a different bird.<ref>[http://www.twilighttangents.com/minis_lotr_mith.htm Lord of the Rings (Mithril)] at [http://www.twilighttangents.com/index.html TwilightTangents.com] (accessed 8 October 2011; cf. [http://www.twilighttangents.com/images/art/radagast01.jpg Radgast (image)])</ref> There is also a "Radagast Mounted" (MS539), where Radagast (again without beard) is portrayed mounted on a horse.<ref>[http://mithril.ie/Fellowship/ms539_radagast.html 32mm Fellowship Figures - MS539 Radagast Mounted] at [http://www.mithril.ie/ Mithril.ie] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]'':'''
:Radagast is a non-playable character in this game.

'''2001-: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]'':'''
:The hero figure [[:File:SBG - Radagast.jpeg|Radagast the Brown]], is a user of subtle magics,in contrast to the more overt kinds used by Gandalf and Saruman. However, he has some unique powers nonetheless.<ref>[http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/catalog/productDetail.jsp?prodId=prod1060255 Radagast the Brown] at [http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/home.jsp Games-Workshop-com] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

'''2011-2010: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game]]'':'''
:A Decipher card was made by [[Weta Workshop|Weta]], with Weta's John Harding posing as Radagast.{{fact}}

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Radagast can be found encamped in the [[Lone-lands]], north along the Great Road. He is friendly to the local people, the [[Eglain]], and helps the to combat the rise of evil in the swamps of Agamaur.<ref>[http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/NPC:Radagast_the_Brown NPC: Radagast the Brown] at [http://my.lotro.com/home/ My.Lotro.com] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:The characters [[Eradan]], [[Farin]] and [[Andriel]] travel to Mirkwood in search of Radagast and arrive just in time to rescue him from a giant spider. He thanks them for the rescue and provides them with information about the Dragon Urgost.<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/the-game/allies Allies] at [http://www.warinthenorth.com/ WarintheNorth.com] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Radagast|Images of Radagast]]

{{References|n}}

{{Ainur}}

[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Masculine names]]
[[Category:Names]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Radagast]]
[[fa:راداگاست]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/radagast]]
[[fi:Radagast]]

Orthanc

2012-06-29T21:09:46Z

Pinkkeith: /* Games */

{{location
|image=[[Image:Alan Lee - Orthanc.jpg|250px]]
|name=Orthanc
|type=Tower
|location=[[Isengard]]
|inhabitants=[[Dúnedain]] [[Gondorians]] [[Saruman]]
|realms=[[Isengard]] as part of [[Gondor]]<ref name="UTIsen">{{UT|Isen}}, Appendix (ii)</ref> [[Treegarth of Orthanc]] as part of the [[Reunited Kingdom]]<ref name="RKPartings">{{RK|Partings}}</ref>
|description=Carved black Tower
|events=[[Battle of Isengard]]
}}
<center>{{Quote|They came now to the foot of Orthanc. It was black, and the rock gleamed as if it were wet.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]<ref name="TTVoice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>}}</center>
'''Orthanc''' was the impregnable tower of [[Isengard]] built by the [[Dúnedain]] during the [[Second Age]].<ref>{{FR|Council}}; {{S|V}}</ref>

==Description==
The tower of Orthanc stood in the centre of the [[Ring of Isengard]], roughly half a mile from the rim. At its peak the tower reached a height of just over five hundred feet. The colour of the rock was a deep, gleaming black. At Orthanc's pinnacle the four piers which composed the tower opened out to form four pinnacles of sharp rock; between these isles of rock there was a narrow, polished floor on which many strange signs were written.<ref name="TTRoad" />

{{blockquote|There stood a tower of marvellous shape. It was fashioned by the builders of old, who smoothed the Ring of Isengard, and yet it seemed a thing not made by the craft of Men, but riven from the bones of the earth in the ancient torment of the hills. A peak and isle of rock it was, black and gleaming hard: four mighty piers of many-sided stone were welded into one, but near the summit they opened into gaping horns, their pinnacles sharp as the points of spears, keen-edged as knives. Between them was a narrow space, and there upon a floor of polished stone, written with strange signs, a man might stand five hundred feet above the plain.|[[J.R.R. Tolkien]]<ref name="TTRoad">{{TT|Road}}</ref>}}

==History==
===Second Age===
The exact date of the construction of Orthanc and the establishment of the fortress of [[Isengard]] is unknown. However it must have been built between {{SA|3320}}, the year in which [[Gondor]] and [[Arnor]] were established, and {{SA|3430}}, when the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]] was first formed.<ref name="AppB1">{{App|B1}}</ref> Within Orthanc was placed one of the [[Palantíri]], the [[Orthanc-stone]]. Thus, Orthanc became one of the seven [[Dúnedain]] towers which stored the seeing stones that had been brought from [[Númenor]].<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref>

===Third Age===
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Orthanc in the Second Age.jpg|thumb|left|''Orthanc in the Second Age'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]The region of [[Calenardhon]] was never densely populated; indeed it suffered greatly in the [[Dark Plague]] of {{TA|1636}} and many inhabitants of Númenórian descent gradually migrated eastward. Eventually the tower of Orthanc itself became deserted, and its keys were removed to [[Minas Tirith]] and held in the keeping of the [[Stewards of Gondor|Stewards]].<ref name="UTPalantiri">{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref>

In {{TA|2510}},<ref name="UTIsen" /> after the [[Battle of the Field of Celebrant]], the lands of [[Calenardhon]] were ceded to the [[Éothéod]] and [[Eorl]] became the first king of [[Rohan]]. Nonetheless Gondor retained control of the fortress of Isengard, and Orthanc remained the third tower of the southern realm. During this time Isengard was manned by a small number of Gondorians led by a hereditary Captain. However the keys of Orthanc were kept by the Stewards of Gondor.<ref name="UTCirion">{{UT|Cirion}}</ref>

Over time the links and correspondence between Isengard and [[Minas Tirith]] became ever more infrequent; whilst retaining the keys of Orthanc, the Stewards forsook the tower as their thoughts looked eastwards. Eventually the line of Gondorian chieftains failed and the people mingled ever more with the [[Dunlendings]]. They even allowed them entry into Isengard and eventually the two peoples willingly merged into one. Thus it was that Isengard came under the control of the Dunlendings who led numerous raids on the [[Westfold]]. Whilst the Rohirrim had not the strength to assail the fortress, the Dunlendings were eventually starved out in the great famine after the [[Long Winter]]. Therefore both [[Fréaláf|King Fréaláf]] and [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Beren]] greatly welcomed [[Saruman|Saruman's]] offer to take command of Isengard. Thus it was that, in {{TA|2759}},<ref name="AppStewards">{{App|Stewards}}</ref> the wizard was given the keys of Orthanc.<ref name="UTIsen" />

Saruman began to desire [[The One Ring|the ring]] for himself and hoped that it might reveal itself by giving [[Sauron]] time to re-gain his strength. As head of the [[White Council]], Saruman overruled Gandalf's call for an attack on [[Dol Guldur]] in {{TA|2851}}. However, in {{TA|2941}}, after Saruman discovered that the servants of Sauron were searching for the ring near [[Gladden Fields]], he agreed to attack Sauron's fortress in [[Mirkwood]]. After the last meeting of the White Council in {{TA|2953}}, Saruman withdrew to [[Isengard]] and fortified it. It was in ''circa'' {{TA|3000}} that Saruman used the [[Orthanc-stone]] for the first time. Thus it was that Sauron corrupted Saruman's mind and bent it to his will.<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref>

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Gandalf Escapes Upon Gwaihir.jpg|thumb|right|''[[Gandalf]] Escapes Upon [[Gwaihir]]'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
{{Blockquote|Gandalf the Grey caught like a fly in a spider's treacherous web!|[[Gandalf]]<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref>}}
In {{TA|3018}}, [[Gandalf]] rode to the foot of Orthanc and there met [[Saruman]]. It was then that Saruman revealed his true thoughts to Gandalf. He declared his desire to become a ruler of [[Men]] and to join with [[Sauron]]. But, most importantly, he announced his desire for the [[The One Ring]]. Gandalf refused to submit to Sauron and Saruman. Subsequently, Saruman had Gandalf taken to the pinnacle of Orthanc where, Saruman schemed, Gandalf would stay until he reveal the location of the ring or until Sauron reclaimed it for himself. There Gandalf was trapped and for the first time he saw [[wolves]] and [[orcs]] in the valley of Isengard below. After many weeks of imprisonment,<ref group="note">[[Gandalf]] was imprisoned on [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}} and escaped in the early hours of [[18 September]], {{TA|3018|n}}.</ref> Gandalf escaped as [[Gwaihir]] the [[Eagles|Great Eagle]] came unlooked-for to Orthanc and bore him away.<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

On [[2 March]], {{TA|3019}}, the [[Ents]] of [[Fangorn|Fangorn Forest]] began their [[Battle of Isengard|attack on Isengard]]. By the next day, the Ents have completely subdued Isengard.<ref name="AppB3">{{App|B3}}</ref> [[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|left|''The Wrath of the Ents'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
However, their attacks on Orthanc proved futile because the rock of the tower was too hard for the Ents to damage. Therein Saruman remained.<ref name="TTFlotsam">{{TT|Flotsam}}</ref> On [[5 March]], [[Théoden]], [[Éomer]], [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Legolas]], and [[Gimli]] approached the foot of Orthanc and climbed its stair until they reached the door. There they parleyed with Saruman, who remained inside the tower and spoke to them from a balcony above the door. Saruman refused to co-operate and subsequently Gandalf cast him from the [[Istari|order of Wizards]] and the [[White Council]], and broke Saruman's staff. After this confrontation, [[Gríma|Gríma Wormtongue]], who was also inside Orthanc, threw the [[Orthanc-stone|palantír of Orthanc]] at the party outside as a parting shot.<ref name="TTVoice"/>

A week before before [[22 August]], {{TA|3019}},<ref name="AppB3"/> when [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] and company arrived at Orthanc, Saruman had departed Isengard with Gríma Wormtongue. However, before he left, [[Treebeard]] made him lock the tower and hand over the keys of Orthanc.<ref name="RKPartings">{{RK|Partings}}</ref>

===Fourth Age===
One of [[Aragorn|King Elessar's]] first tasks in the re-ordering of his realm was the restoration of Orthanc. He ordered that the [[Palantíri|palantír]] recovered from [[Saruman]] should be returned to the tower. It was then that the tower was searched and many secrets were revealed. It became clear that Saruman had hoarded many ancient treasures and heirlooms. They found that, with the aid of [[Gríma|Wormtongue]], Saruman had acquired jewels and heirlooms of [[Eorl]]. With the help of [[Gimli]] a hidden door was found and opened. Inside a casket found on a shelf they found two precious items. One was a small golden case attached to a chain; this was used by [[Isildur]] to bear the [[One Ring]]. The second item in the casket was the [[Elendilmir]], the "white star of Elvish crystal upon a fillet of [[mithril]]" that had been lost since Isildur's demise. Elessar recieved the Elemdilmir with reverence and took it with him as he established his full kingship of [[Arnor]]. It was clear that Saruman had found the remains of Isildur and that he had probably burned the body.<ref name="UTIsen" />

Orthanc and the lands of Isengard remained part of the [[Reunited Kingdom|Reunited Kingdom of Arnor and Gondor]]. However King Elessar granted the [[Ents]] complete self-governance of the area surrounding Orthanc. This new forest became known as the [[Treegarth of Orthanc]].<ref name="RKPartings" />

==Etymology==
{{Transcribed|Orthanc_tengwar.png|Orthanc|Tengwar, Sindarin mode}}

''Orthanc'' displays a curious double etymology (co-existing "by design or chance") since it has a meaning both in the "[[Rohirric|language of the Mark of old]]" (rendered as [[Old English]] in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'') and [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]'s constructed language [[Sindarin]].<ref name=Ui>{{HM|RC}}, p. 243 (citing the "[[Unfinished index]]")</ref><ref name=TTRoad /> Tolkien regarded this coincidence as an 'accident'.<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref>

In Old English, ''Orthanc'' is said to mean "Cunning Mind".<ref name=TTRoad/> [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]] has noted that Old English ''orþanc'' as a noun means "original, inborn thought" or "a skilful contrivance or work, artifice, device, design"; as an adjective it means "cunning, skilful".<ref name=Ui/>

In the published text, ''Orthanc'' is said to mean "Mount Fang" in [[Elvish]].<ref name=TTRoad/> In other sources, the name is glossed as "forked-height".<ref name=Ui/><ref>{{S|Appendix}} (glossed as "Forked Height")</ref> The name is likely supposed to be Sindarin,<ref name=Ui/> consisting of ''[[or]]'' + ''[[thanc]]''.<ref>{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.tolkiendil.com/langues/english/i-lam_arth/compound_sindarin_names#o|articlename=Compound Sindarin Names in Middle-earth|website=[http://www.tolkiendil.com/ Tolkiendil]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref>

==Tolkien's changing conception of Orthanc==
{{Gallery
|title=Sketches by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]
|height=300
|width=250
|lines=4
|File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Orthanc I.jpg|This sketch reflects Tolkien's description of Orthanc in an early manuscript of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''
|File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Orthanc.jpg|This sketch compliments best Tolkien's description of Orthanc in {{TT|III8}}
}}
==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Orthanc in Adaptations
|height=140
|width=200
|lines=3
|File:Orthanc film.jpg|Orthanc in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]''
|File:Orthanc EA RotK.png|Orthanc in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' video game]]:'''
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Orthanc-1-.png|Orthanc in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]''
}}
===Films===
'''2001-3: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy]]'':'''
:Orthanc and [[Barad-dûr]] are presented as ''The Two Towers'' identified in the title of the film. Tolkien himself was never certain about which towers two towers ''The Two Towers'' referred to; in [[Letter 140]] noted his disapproval of the title itself but also stated that the title was deliberately ambiguous. Indeed it could refer to Orthanc and Barad-dûr, Minas Tirith and Barad-dûr, or Orthanc and Cirith Ungol.<ref>{{L|140}};{{L|143}}</ref> Later Tolkien seemed to settle with Orthanc and Minas Morgul in his original design for the jacket of ''The Two Towers''.<ref>{{L|140|1}}</ref> However the producers of ''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' decided that, for theatrical and stylistic purposes, ''The Two Towers'' should refer to the towers of Orthanc and Barad-dûr.

===Games===
'''2004: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Orthanc is part of the scenery in the mission "The Road to Isengard", visible as Gandalf makes his way to the dam.<ref>''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)]]'', "The Road to Isengard"</ref> It also appears in cutscenes at various stages of the game.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Orthanc will feature in the new region, [[Isengard]], added to [[Lord of the Rings Online]].<ref>{{webcite|author=Justin Olivetti|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/through-turbines-palantir-developers-outline-lotros-future/|articlename=Through Turbine's palantír: Developers outline LotRO's future|dated=21-April-2011|website=[http://massively.joystiq.com/ MASSIVELY by joystiq]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref>

==Sea also==
*[[:Category:Images of Orthanc|Images of Orthanc]]
*[[Isengard]]

{{References|n}}
[[Category:Misty Mountains]]
[[Category:Towers]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]

[[de:Orthanc]]
[[fi:Orthanc]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/villes_tours_et_forteresses/gondor/orthanc]]

2012

2012-06-22T17:50:31Z

Pinkkeith: /* September */

{{year-header}}
==January==
* '''[[3 January|3]]''' - [[Birthday Toast#Tolkien Society tradition|Birthday Toast]].
* '''?''' - ''[[Amon Hen 233]]'' is published.

==March==
* '''[[12 March|12]]''' - [[The Lord of the Rings Online#Update 6: Shores of the Great River|Update 6: Shores of the Great River]], the sixth free update of ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'', is released.
* '''[[25 March|25]]''' - [[Tolkien Reading Day]].
* '''[[29 March|29]]''' - Author [[Jan Broberg]] dies.
* '''?''' - ''[[Amon Hen 234]]'' is published.

==April==
* '''[[19 April|19]]''' - ''[[Tolkien in East Yorkshire 1917 - 1918]]'' is published.
* '''[[27 April|27]] - [[29 April|29]]''' - [[Deutsche Tolkien Gesellschaft]] 9th Seminar.

==May==
* '''[[19 May|19]] - [[20 May|20]]''' - [[Middle-earth Weekend]] at [[Sarehole Mill]], [[Birmingham]].
* '''?''' - ''[[Amon Hen 235]]'' is published.

==June==
* '''[[2 June|2]] - [[3 June|3]]''' - [[Unquendor]] and [[Deutsche Tolkien Gesellschaft]]'s International Tolkien Day.

==July==
* '''[[12 July|12]] - [[15 July|15]]''' - [[Tolkien Thing]] 2012.

==August==
* '''[[3 August|3]] - [[6 August|6]]''' - Mythcon 43 at University of California, Berkeley.
* '''[[11 August|11]]''' - ''[[Hobbit to Hero]]'' by Elizabeth M. Stephen will be published.
* '''[[16 August|16]] - [[20 August|20]]''' - [[The Return of the Ring]], [[The Tolkien Society|Tolkien Society]] conference at [[wikipedia:Loughborough University|Loughborough University]].
* '''[[30 August|30]]''' - [[Tolkien Calendar 2013]] will be published.

==September==
* '''[[5 September|5]]''' - ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan]]'' will be released.
* '''[[13 September|13]]''' - ''[[Hobbitus Ille]]'', the Latin translation of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', will be published.
* '''[[21 September|21]] - [[23 September|23]]''' - [[Oxonmoot 2012]] at Lady Margaret Hall.
* '''[[22 September|22]]''' - ''Exploring The Hobbit'' by [[Corey Olsen]] will be published.

==October==
* '''[[25 October|25]]'' - ''What Would Bilbo Do? The Unofficial Hobbit Handbook'' will be published.
* '''?''' - ''[[The Christian World of the Hobbit]]'' will be published.

==November==
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Activity Book]]'' by Paddy Kempshall will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Official Movie Guide]]'' by [[Brian Sibley]] will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Photo Storybook]]'' by Paddy Kempshall will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Visual Companion]]'' by [[Jude Fisher]] will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: The World of the Hobbits]]'' by Paddy Kempshall will be published.
* '''[[17 November|17]] - [[18 November|18]]''' - [[Deutsche Tolkien Gesellschaft]]'s The Hobbit Party.

==December==
* '''[[14 December|14]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'' is due for release.
==?==
* '''Spring''' - Author [[Robert Giddings]] dies.
{{years|2009|2010|2011|2012|2013|2014|2015}}
[[Category:Years (real-world)]]

2012

2012-06-22T17:50:09Z

Pinkkeith: /* September */

{{year-header}}
==January==
* '''[[3 January|3]]''' - [[Birthday Toast#Tolkien Society tradition|Birthday Toast]].
* '''?''' - ''[[Amon Hen 233]]'' is published.

==March==
* '''[[12 March|12]]''' - [[The Lord of the Rings Online#Update 6: Shores of the Great River|Update 6: Shores of the Great River]], the sixth free update of ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'', is released.
* '''[[25 March|25]]''' - [[Tolkien Reading Day]].
* '''[[29 March|29]]''' - Author [[Jan Broberg]] dies.
* '''?''' - ''[[Amon Hen 234]]'' is published.

==April==
* '''[[19 April|19]]''' - ''[[Tolkien in East Yorkshire 1917 - 1918]]'' is published.
* '''[[27 April|27]] - [[29 April|29]]''' - [[Deutsche Tolkien Gesellschaft]] 9th Seminar.

==May==
* '''[[19 May|19]] - [[20 May|20]]''' - [[Middle-earth Weekend]] at [[Sarehole Mill]], [[Birmingham]].
* '''?''' - ''[[Amon Hen 235]]'' is published.

==June==
* '''[[2 June|2]] - [[3 June|3]]''' - [[Unquendor]] and [[Deutsche Tolkien Gesellschaft]]'s International Tolkien Day.

==July==
* '''[[12 July|12]] - [[15 July|15]]''' - [[Tolkien Thing]] 2012.

==August==
* '''[[3 August|3]] - [[6 August|6]]''' - Mythcon 43 at University of California, Berkeley.
* '''[[11 August|11]]''' - ''[[Hobbit to Hero]]'' by Elizabeth M. Stephen will be published.
* '''[[16 August|16]] - [[20 August|20]]''' - [[The Return of the Ring]], [[The Tolkien Society|Tolkien Society]] conference at [[wikipedia:Loughborough University|Loughborough University]].
* '''[[30 August|30]]''' - [[Tolkien Calendar 2013]] will be published.

==September==
* '''[[05 September|05]]''' - ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan]]'' will be released.
* '''[[13 September|13]]''' - ''[[Hobbitus Ille]]'', the Latin translation of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', will be published.
* '''[[21 September|21]] - [[23 September|23]]''' - [[Oxonmoot 2012]] at Lady Margaret Hall.
* '''[[22 September|22]]''' - ''Exploring The Hobbit'' by [[Corey Olsen]] will be published.

==October==
* '''[[25 October|25]]'' - ''What Would Bilbo Do? The Unofficial Hobbit Handbook'' will be published.
* '''?''' - ''[[The Christian World of the Hobbit]]'' will be published.

==November==
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Activity Book]]'' by Paddy Kempshall will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Official Movie Guide]]'' by [[Brian Sibley]] will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Photo Storybook]]'' by Paddy Kempshall will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Visual Companion]]'' by [[Jude Fisher]] will be published.
* '''[[6 November|6]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: The World of the Hobbits]]'' by Paddy Kempshall will be published.
* '''[[17 November|17]] - [[18 November|18]]''' - [[Deutsche Tolkien Gesellschaft]]'s The Hobbit Party.

==December==
* '''[[14 December|14]]''' - ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'' is due for release.
==?==
* '''Spring''' - Author [[Robert Giddings]] dies.
{{years|2009|2010|2011|2012|2013|2014|2015}}
[[Category:Years (real-world)]]

File:The Green Dragon Sign.jpg

2012-06-22T15:47:31Z

Pinkkeith:

{{Fairuse-Turbine}}
[[Category:Images from The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]

The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan

2012-06-22T15:42:39Z

Pinkkeith: already part of the game and added with an update

{{expansion}}{{disambig-more|Riders of Rohan|[[Riders of Rohan]]}}
{{video game infobox
| image=[[File:LOTRO - Riders of Rohan - logo.jpg|250px]]
| name=''The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan''
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] [[Midway Games]]
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=Fall [[2012]]<ref name="Turbine">{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/1736-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-and-turbine-unveil-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-riders-of-rohan|articlename=WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND TURBINE UNVEIL THE LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE™: RIDERS OF ROHAN™|dated=|website=www.lotro.com|accessed=30 January 2012}}</ref>
| genre=MMORPG
|}}'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan''''' is the fourth expansion of ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''. It includes three new regions and features mounted combat, as well as smaller additions like an increase of the level cap from 75 to 85. The game is scheduled to release in the fall of [[2012]].<ref name="Turbine"/>

==Storyline==

The game story will focus on the [[Rohirrim|Riders of Rohan]], the [[Breaking of the Fellowship]] and [[Éomer]]'s fight against the [[Orcs]] and [[Uruks]] who invade eastern [[Rohan]].<ref name="Turbine"/> It is currently unknown if ''The Lord of the Rings Online: Riders of Rohan'' will start a new volume of the epic story or will continue with [[Allies of the King]].

==Regions==

Riders of Rohan adds one big zone and two smaller zones to the game world:<ref name="Update6&Riders"> {{webcite|author=Justin Olivetti|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/riding-into-rohan-lotro-maps-out-2012/|articlename=Riding into Rohan: LotRO maps out in 2012|dated=25 January 2012|website=Massively|accessed=29 January 2012}}</ref>

* East Plains of [[Rohan]]
* [[Amon Hen]]
* [[Fangorn|Eaves of Fangorn]]

==Mounted Combat==

==See Also==
*[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]
*[[Rohirrim|Riders of Rohan]]

{{lotro}}
{{references}}

[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online]] [[Category:Microsoft Windows games]] [[Category:Turbine games]] [[Category:Upcoming video games]]

The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard

2012-06-22T15:41:18Z

Pinkkeith: /* Storyline */

{{cleanup}}{{disambig-more|Isengard|[[Isengard (disambiguation)]]}}
{{video game infobox
| image=[[File:Rise of Isengard.jpg|250px]]
| name''=The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] [[Midway Games]] [[Codemasters]]
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=[[27 September]] [[2011]]<ref>[http://www.tentonhammer.com/lotro Tenton Hammer], [http://www.tentonhammer.com/lotro/e3/2011/rise-of-isengard-release-date Turbine Reveals LotRO's Rise of Isengard Release Date and Screenshots](retrieved 22 June 2011)</ref>
| genre=MMORPG
|}}'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''''' is an expansion for ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' covering the rise of [[Saruman]] and the [[Grey Company]]'s arrival in [[Dunland]]. Three new regions - [[Isengard]], [[Dunland]] and the [[Gap of Rohan]] - will be released, the level cap will be increased up to level 75, and other new additions, including a new monster play region{{outdated}} and a 24-man raid.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/through-turbines-palantir-developers-outline-lotros-future/ Massively - Through Turbine's palantír: Developers outline LotRO's future] (retrieved 24 April 2011)</ref> The game was released on [[27 September|September 27]], [[2011]].

==Storyline==
{{Lotroaokbooks}}
'''Book IV - [[Rise of Isengard]]'''

Passing into the lands of Dunland, the Rangers investigate the loyalties of the local tribes of Dunlendings. Some are fiercely loyal to Saruman, other openly oppose him and many have not yet been convinced to do either. The Falcon-clan of Tur Morva village offers the Rangers shelter in exchange for their help against Saruman. The Rangers busy themselves with preparations for war while the player is send to scout the rest of Dunland. Finding a surprise ally in Nona, who insists that she does not need Halbarad's permission to travel over her own land, the player and the Rangers come into first contact with the Rohirrim. Riders led by [[Grimbold]] hold the [[Fords of Isen]] against inevitable assault, while [[Théodred]], son of King [[Théoden]], leads a smaller scouting party into the lands of the Dunlendings, who have been sworn enemies of [[Rohan]] for centuries. Returning to village of Tur Morva, the player finds a betrayal waiting for them: the clan decided that more is to be gained by siding with Saruman than by opposing him. The Grey Company is caught unprepared, many Rangers are killed and the rest captured.

The player and Ranger Lothrandir are send directly to Isengard as a gift to Saruman. Separated from the Ranger, the player is send working into the pits, observed by merciless Uruks. Using the dislike of Uruks for each other, the player fakes a total submission and is eventually allowed more freedom, as none believes him able to escape any longer. The player finds other prisoners, among them captured Rohirrim and Dunlendings - sworn enemies once, both find something in common after been made slaves to Saruman. Staging a diversion and freeing many prisoners at once, the player is able to sneak past confusion and escape Isengard.

Théodred offers the Rangers Saeradan and Radanir help in rescuing their captive friends and avenging the betrayal. The player and Rohirrim storm the village of traitors and rescue many Rangers, including Halbarad and the sons of [[Elrond]]. Yet they are still outnumbered - the leader of the traitorous clan gloats over Ranger's weaknesses and allows them to leave, telling them to spread the tale of how the Falcon-clan beat them. Of almost 60 named Rangers barely 30 made it out alive: Halbarad takes an oath to avenge the traitors and proclaims himself in eternal debt to Théodred, before planning the next move.

'''Book V - [[The Prince of Rohan]]'''

The secrecy required by Grey Company's errand and their weakened state following capture and imprisonment prevents them from continuing their journey for the time being. Finishing his scouting of Dunlending lands, Prince Théodred returns to the [[Fords of Isen]] and [[Halbarad]] bids the player to go with him, to repay the debt. Saying farewell to old friends, the player arrives at [[Grimbold]]'s encampment and joins the preparations for the upcoming battle. Théodred shares his plan: the Rohirrim are to journey north to [[Isengard]] and smash the vanguard of Saruman's forces, then retreat to the Ford, forcing the Wizard to delay his assault on [[Rohan]] and buy themselves valuable time.

At dawn, the Prince leaves a small company to guard the Ford and leads his Éored into battle, with Grimbold and the player at his side. They encounter the vanguard of the [[Uruk]]s and quickly cut through their lines, but then reinforcements come out of Isengard and outflank the cavalry, nearly surrounding them. Théodred orders a retreat, covered by Grimbold and the player, who have to cut down their pursuers many times. Unknown to the Rohirrim, Saruman has already send his main force to the Ford of [[Isen (Middle-earth)|Isen]] by the eastern bank of the river while the riders attacked from west. The defenders of the Ford are caught between two forces and are surrounded on a small island amidst the river by the time Théodred returns. Their forces are already failing by the time Grimbold and the player arrive. They cut through the enemies, but as they reach Théodred, he is struck by a mighty Uruk. It is then that the reinforcements from [[Riddermark]] finally arrive, led by [[Elfhelm]] from [[Helm's Deep]], and charge the attackers. The Uruks retreat to Isengard, while Elfhelm and Grimbold tend to the gravely wounded Prince, who orders to bury him at the Ford - to guard it until such time as [[Éomer]] comes. At nightfall, the Prince of the Riddermark passes away.

'''Book VI - [[Mists of Anduin]]'''

Regrouping at Grimbold's encampment at night, Rohirrim and the player take a rest after a long day of battle. The player experiences a strange lucid dream, seeing many friends and enemies, both living and already dead. An apparition of Lady [[Galadriel]] bids the player to come and visit her urgently, adding a request to "bring the ghost" at the end. "The Ghost" refers to the Dunlending girl Nona, who had dubbed herself "Wadu's Ghost" in memory of her late brother and began waging her own vendetta over the Dunlendings who sold themselves over to [[Saruman]]. The players tracks Nona in the [[Gap of Rohan]] and convinces her to undertake a journey to [[Lothlorien]]. While the Galadhrim border sentries are even more distrusting of an outsider from [[Dunland]] than usual, the two are granted an audience. Galadriel shocks the player by saying that the dream had nothing to do with her, when [[Gandalf the White]] enters the conversation, having barely missed the Fellowship as they departed down the Great River days earlier. The Wizard insists that the dream must have had meaning and bids the player to explore the shores of Anduin downstream. After passing through Rohirrim border settlement of Stangard, the player and Nona arrive at the [[Brown Lands]], where they find a new threat: a corpse of a fell beast, slain by an arrow fired by [[Legolas]] as described in [[Fellowship of the Ring]], with its rider missing. On their way back to Rohirrim town, the player and Nona are attacked by first a band of [[Easterlings]] and later the [[Nazgul]] himself. Using the fire, the two manage to hold their ground, yet Nona is wounded - and whether by an Easterling blade or a [[Morgul]] one is unclear. With all haste the player takes her back to Lady Galadriel, who heals the wound, leaving Nona out of danger. Later, the Galadriel reveals to the player that in her Mirror she foresaw Nona's demise and that she was saved only by the player's actions.

==Trailer==
===Teaser===
{{#ev:youtubehd|VbN1fCOsYcs|500}}
===Electronic Entertainment Expo 2011===
{{#ev:youtubehd|HAZHEYmZzeI|500}}

{{references}}
* [http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/910 Rise of Isengard press released], LOTRO News (retrieved 9 January 2011)
* [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-is-coming/ Massively - The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard is Coming!]

{{lotro}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online]]
[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria

2012-06-22T15:32:29Z

Pinkkeith: /* See Also */

{{disambig-more|Mines of Moria|[[The Mines of Moria (disambiguation)]]}}{{video game infobox
| image=[[Image:The Lord of the Rings Online- Mines of Moria.jpg|250px]]
| name=The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] [[Midway Games]] [[Codemasters]] [[NHN Corporation]] (South Korea)<ref>{{webcite|author=William Dobson|articleurl=http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/lord-of-the-rings-online-launches-in-korea-and-russia/|articlename=Lord of the Rings Online launches in Korea and Russia|dated=23 April 2009|website=Massively|accessed=2 January 2012}}</ref>
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=[[18 November|November 18]], [[2008]]
| genre=MMORPG
|}}'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria''''' is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in [[Middle-earth]] during the time of [[The Lord of the Rings]]. It is the first expansion for ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' and is referred to as volume II of the game.

The game's story line starts at the beginning of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' Book II, Chapter III "[[The Ring goes South]]" and currently ends at the midpoint of Book II, Chapter VI "[[Lothlórien (chapter)|Lothlórien]]".

==Release==
The second volume of ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' was announced by Turbine on March 18, 2008 at at Codemasters Online Connect. The game was eventually released on November 18, 2008.
===Unlock the Mines of Moria===
The expansion was promoted through playing web-based minigames. Visitors could play three games: King Under the Mountain, Swig & Toss, Eleventy-Seven Morsels at the [http://www.unlocktheminesofmoria.com/ official site]. By performing certain tasks players could complete "deeds", three of which unlocked a "goodie". These included one trailer and three pieces of game art. By applying for a beta invitation, players could also receive a fourth game art.

==New Classes==

The expansion adds two new classes to the game: Warden and Rune-keeper.

'''Wardens''' primarily use spears (though they can opt for other small arms) and wear medium armour, making them neither a tank nor a DPS class specifically. Designed to represent the equivalent of a town sheriff, Wardens are protectors that specialize in combination attacks using their Gambit User Interface. The idea is that a Warden will execute their abilities in certain sequences that eventually culminate in a special attack only available after completing the prescribed set of moves. In practice, the Warden's Gambit UI is an array of two to five (depending on character level) squares that slot the abilities as you use them. Once all of the squares have been filled, a new skill will flash at the end of the bar as it becomes available.

'''Rune-keepers''' are the closest things to magic-users offered in The Lord of the Rings Online, but they aren't magicians in the traditional sense. Their new Attunement mechanic is represented by a bar with a sliding scale to illustrate whether they're attuned to dealing damage or healing wounds. As a Rune-keeper uses either healing or damaging abilities, the scale slides towards either end of the bar and the Rune-keeper's proficiency in either focus increases. As the Rune-keeper increases focus towards one end of the scale, more of those skills become available in greater power. However, the Rune-keeper will then also lose focus on the other end of the scale, making the skills associated with the opposite end unavailable. Therefore, the Rune-keeper can only effectively maneuver either their healing or damage abilities, but not both. Switching between proficiencies requires time. This release of this class was very controversial, as Turbine claims to have no use of magic in the Lord of the Rings worlds, as in the lore magic was restricted to the Valar.

As well as these new classes, current classes that were available with the release of [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]] were improved with added skills for the additional levels included in the expansion.

==Synopsis==
{{Lotromombooks}}
'''[[Prologue (Mines of Moria)|Prologue]]'''

'''Book I - [[The Walls of Moria]]'''

An expedition of dwarves known as the Iron Garrison begins its attempts to excavate and enter the [[Hollin Gate]], lead by Brogur and Bosi. They finally succeeding with the player's help, yet when the last rocks are cleared, the [[Watcher in the Water]] attacks the assembled dwarves, claiming the life of Brogur's son Broin. As they regroup, they turn their hope to a discovered cache of older weapons, tasking the player with discovering if one such weapon might be endowed with the power to fight off such a foe as the Watcher. After selecting, training with, and reforging such a weapon, the Iron Garrison faces the Watcher again. This time, it is forced from the [[Black Pool]], and the Iron Garrison passes into [[Moria]].

'''Book II - [[Echoes in the Dark]]'''

Establishing themselves in their new home, the Iron Garrison begins the task of rediscovering the lore and artifacts of their heritage. One such passage of lore speaks of an ancient dwarf-smith, favored by [[Durin VI|Durin]], who endeavored to create an axe of solid mithril. So large was the task that an entire forge was created specifically for it: [[The Heart of Fire]]. After searching the mines for clues to its location, the Heart of Fire is unearthed, yet the axe, [[Zigilburk]], is nowhere to be found. Nevertheless, the dwarves are heartened by the recovery of one of their greatest forges, and Brogur pushes onward into Moria, establishing a command post in the [[Twenty-First Hall]].

'''Book III - [[The Lord of Moria]]'''

Brogur sees to the defense of the Twenty-First Hall, only to learn of the presence of the White Hand's minions nearby. Meanwhile, excavation begins in the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]], producing the [[Book of Mazarbul]], a record of the demise of Balin's Company. While Bosi takes on the task of reading the tome in its entirety, his son Bori plans a strike against the White Hand in Broin's honor. While a pair of dwarves cause a diversion, Bori and the player sneak into the White Hand camp and confront the commander, Ashpar. Before he dies, he boasts that his is not the major power, and mentions the name Mazog. Brogur rests assured that Ashpar was simply boasting, yet the news weighs heavy on Bosi. [[Mazog]], he reveals, was the orc commander who slew Balin's company at Mazarbul.

'''Book IV - [[Fire and Water (Mines of Moria)|Fire and Water]]'''
[[Image:Gorrem - Orc of Moria.jpg|thumb|Concept art of an [[Orcs|Orc]] of [[Moria]].]]
The Orcs and Dwarves each prepare for war. Fearing that attacks may be imminent, Brogur and Bori see that the defenses are secured at the Twenty-First Hall, the [[Chamber of Crossroads]], and the Heart of Fire. The player is sent into the rotting Waterworks and orc-infested Flaming Deeps beneath Moria to both harass the orcs and gather supplies. In the meantime, Bori sneaks a look at the [[Book of Mazarbul]], finding mention there of a dwarf named [[Oin]] who went off in search of [[Zigilburk]]. Bori and the player follow Oin's path, arriving after a time at a flooded treasury, [[The Hall of Mithril]]. There they find not only Zigilburk, but also Broin (wounded, but alive) and the [[Watcher in the Water]]. The player drives the Watcher from the hall, and the dwarves return in victory. Yet Broin confesses from his sickbed that he feels a dread about Zigilburk, and fears it may be cursed.

'''Book V - [[Drums in the Deep]]'''

Broin is still worried about the repercussions of recovering Zigilburk, and asks the player to tell Bori of his reservations. Bori laughs them off, and sends the player to [[Zabadgathol]], Mazog's fortress, to defeat some of his bodyguards. Some of these in their dying words speak of an alliance they have obtained, and the player is again sent away to collect some of the treasure in Zabadgathol to see if it can shed some light on the issue. It is discovered that Mazog is indeed allied with [[Dol Guldur]]. After learning this, Bori plans a raid on Zabadgathol to defeat Mazog once and for all. Even with Zigilburk, Bori and the player are unsuccessful, and Bori along with the legendary axe are captured. After this blow, the player is sent by Brogur to consult with Bosi. He, too has lost hope in the expedition to reclaim Moria, and leaves it up to the player to see to the defenses during a major raid by Mazog's forces.

'''Book VI - [[The Shadowy Abyss]]'''

Even after the successful defense of several key locations, Bosi's spirits are still low. He sends the player to [[Lothlórien]] to seek help from the Elves of the Golden Wood. After proving to [[Haldir (elf of Lórien)|Haldir]] that you are indeed a friend, he asks the player to assist his brothers in patrolling the borders of the Wood while messengers are sent to [[Galadriel]] to relay Bosi's request for aid. By the time the task is done, a company of elves has already been sent to the Foundations of Stone, and the player is directed to help them. Once there, the player is directed to defeat some of Mazog's minions that are believed to have been sent into the Foundations to search for something, but the Elves believe Dol Guldur is behind this move of the orcs. After collecting confirmation that the orcs are indeed searching for something, the player is sent back to defeat some of them. After the player has slain many of the orcs, some more of the elves sent from Lorien ask for aid in other tasks. The player is instructed to find clues of [[Gandalf]]'s passage through the area, and also to help contain some of the nameless creatures that dwell in the Foundations. Finally, an elf named Magor has gone missing, and the others are getting worried. A clue is found outside a dark cave, and the player is sent in to see if Magor is inside. It is revealed that Magor was captured by orcs who took him inside the cave, and the player is able to free him from his captors. Magor then asks for the player's help in defeating the source of the evil that Galadriel sensed beneath Moria. After a hard-fought battle, the player defeats the nameless creature in the depths of the cave. Finally, hearing of the victory the Lady Galadriel summons the player to her garden where many secrets are revealed, including a partial explanation of the fate of Gandalf.

'''Book VII - [[Leaves of Lórien]]'''

The Fellowship rests in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]], while elves and dwarves take their first steps toward peace. Bosi is granted an audience with [[Celeborn]] and [[Galadriel]], resulting in a contingent of [[Galadhrim]] being dispatched to aid the dwarves in Moria. Among their first joint tasks is to sweep an infestation of Globsnaga from a recent excavation in Buzun-ghar - a matter that proves especially frustrating to Broin, in the wake of Bori's capture. Instead of working to free their kinsmen, Brogur is pushing ahead with mining efforts, tasking Broin with searching old mining records for notes on potential nodes. Yet such efforts once again prove fruitful, as one record speaks of a secret emergency passage leading from Durin's throne (on which Mazog sits) to Buzun-ghar. Through its use, and the cooperation of elf and dwarf, Mazog is soon captured, yet Bori is nowhere to be found, having been sent away to [[Dol Guldur]]. [[Celeborn]] grants the player an audience, commending them while also disagreeing on the notion of sparing Mazog's life. And afterword, [[Haldir (elf of Lórien)|Haldir]] confesses the time may be drawing near for the elves to cross the [[Anduin]] to confront the evil in [[Mirkwood]].

'''Book VIII - [[Scourge of Khazad-dûm]]'''

After talking to Haldir the player visits the elves of Lothlorien and their history keeper asks the player to recount the finer points of how the player escaped with Mazog from his throne room, causing the player to "relive" the escape with varying results based on your prowess. Broin here helps with a changeable banner and by fighting alongside the player. Things get dangerous in spots but eventually the player escapes with Mazog and Broin (who has to survive). Mazog lets slip a chilling fact, that he's not interested in being a king of Moria because Moria will soon not be fit to rule. This probably refers to the fungus taking over the lower regions. The player then talks to the elves about this vile pestilence.

==Trailer==
<youtube width="200" height="200">3wleboRZT2k</youtube>

==See Also==
*[[Mines of Moria (volume)|Mines of Moria]], the second volume of [[The Lord of the Rings Online]].

{{references}}

{{lotro}}

[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online|Mines of Moria]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]

Orcs

2011-10-13T14:22:52Z

Pinkkeith: /* Orcs */

{{rewrite}}{{sources}}
{{race
| image=[[Image:John Howe - In Mordor.jpg|250px]]
| name= Orcs
| dominions=[[Mordor]], [[Angband]], [[Misty Mountains]], [[Mount Gundabad]], [[Angmar]], [[Utumno]]
| languages= [[Black Speech]]; numerous [[Orkish]] languages of their own
| height= probably just above 5'{{fact}}
| length=
| skincolor= Sallow, Green, Brown, Grey
| haircolor=
| feathers=
| distinctions= Short, sallow
| lifespan=
| members= [[Gothmog, Lieutenant of Morgul|Gothmog]], [[Othrod]], [[Azog]], [[Gorbag]]
|}}
'''Orcs''' (also called '''[[Orcs#Orcs and Goblins|Goblins]]''') were the footsoldiers of evil overlords - [[Morgoth]], [[Sauron]] and the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]].

==History==
===Origins and early Years===

The Orcs were bred by [[Morgoth|Melkor]] in mockery of the [[Elves]], sometime during the [[The Darkness#The Great Darkness|Great Darkness]].<ref>{{S|3}}</ref><ref>{{TT|III4}}</ref>

[[Image:Warren Mahy-Orc Archer.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Orc by [[Warren Mahy]]]]

It is unclear when exactly Orcs were created, but it certainly happened before the [[War for Sake of the Elves]] in his stronghold of Utumno. If the Orcs where at this time a capable fighting force against the host of Valinor is not known. But at least some of them survived this war, probably hidden in the deep vaults of [[Angband]] and multiplied, waiting for their master.

When Melkor (now known as [[Morgoth]]) returned to Middle-earth he created new hordes of Orcs and invaded [[Beleriand]], where the [[First Battle of Beleriand]] took place. Orcs fought also in [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]].

===First Age===
Orcs appear in the [[First Age]] as the core force of [[Morgoth]]. Hundreds of thousands of Orcs were bred in [[Angband]] to participate in the [[Battles of Beleriand]], which lasted 587 years.

Orcs first appear in the [[First Age]] in the [[Battle of the Lammoth]], where they were defeated by [[Fingolfin]] and his [[Noldor]]. Orcs participated in battles such as the [[Dagor Aglareb]], [[Dagor Bragollach]], [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]], [[Fall of the Falas]], and finally in the [[War of Wrath]], were they were almost extinguished. Those that survived the defeat fled eastwards and hid probably in the Mountains of [[Angmar]] and the [[Ered Mithrin]].

===Second Age===
At around the year thousand Sauron reappeared, took the land of [[Mordor]] as his realm and started the construction of [[Barad-dûr]]. It is likely that most of his servants where Orcs at this time that he had gathered under his command. Still for a long time Sauron's foul servants did not play an important role, for the Dark Lord had chosen a more subtle way to overthrow the free people by creating the [[Rings of Power]].

During the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]], in [[Second Age 1700|S.A.1700]] Orcs formed the main power of Sauron's host. Despite the immeasurable number of Orcs, Sauron was defeated by the united hosts of Elves and [[Númenóreans]]. Still Sauron was powerful east of the [[Misty Mountains]] and the inlands and the Orcs that inhabited the mountains multiplied.

The [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]] started a war against the [[Dwarves]], resulting in the [[First Sack of Gundabad]] and its occupation by the Orcs. Finally, Orcs were the core force of [[Sauron]] during the [[War of the Last Alliance]], and fought in great battles such as the [[Battle of Dagorlad]] and the [[Siege of Barad-dûr]].

===Third Age===
During the [[Third Age]], Orcs were the standard troops of the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] and [[Sauron]] (both in [[Mordor]] and in [[Dol Guldur]]).

In [[Angmar]], Orcs fought in the [[Angmar War]]. Years later, they invaded [[Eriador]] under the leadership of the [[Necromancer]].

The [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]], one of the few (more or less) independent Orcish societies, and their leader [[Azog]] started out the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]], and after their defeat they retreated in their caves. They appeared again in [[Third Age 2941|T.A. 2941]], when the [[Battle of Five Armies]] took place.

The [[Orcs of Mordor]] fought in major battles during the [[War of the Ring]], such as the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]], but the entire [[Mordor]] force was destroyed in the [[Battle of the Morannon]].

The Orcs in [[Dol Guldur]] remained in [[Mirkwood]] until the [[Fall of Dol Guldur]], one of the last battles of the War of the Ring.

===Fourth Age and beyond===
Although the entire force of [[Sauron]] was destroyed after the [[War of the Ring]], it is assumed that many Orcs continued to live beneath the [[Misty Mountains]] and caused little trouble.{{fact}}

==Characteristics==

===Culture===

It is certain all Orcs were dependent on the Dark Lord in various ways: after their leader was defeated, the Orcs were confused and dismayed, and easily scattered by their enemies. In the millennia after Morgoth's defeat and banishment from Arda, they were without a leader they degenerated to small, quarrelsome tribes hiding in the [[Misty Mountains]]. Only when Sauron returned to power did they begin to reclaim some of their old power. The same happened after Sauron's defeat by the [[Last Alliance of Elves and Men]]: only when Sauron returned as the Necromancer of [[Mirkwood]] did the Orcs become a real danger for Middle-earth again.

It is interesting to note that to an extent, Tolkien did not regard Orcs as evil in their own right, but only as tools of Melkor and Sauron. He wrote once that "we were all orcs in the [[World War I|Great War]]".{{fact}}

===Lifespan===

It is unknown if the Orcs were immortal like the Elves. There is, in any case, a hint for a long livespan in the story of two of the most famous Orc-chieftains: [[Azog]] and [[Bolg]]. Bolg, being the son of Azog, was the chieftain of the Orcs who attacked Erebor in the Battle of Five Armies in {{TA|2941}}. Azog himself was killed in the Battle of Azanulbizar in {{TA|2799}}, so Bolg was aproximately 150 years old.

===Appearance===

In Tolkien's writing, Orcs are described as humanoid, roughly human-sized, ugly and filthy. Although not dim-witted, they are portrayed as dull and miserable beings, who corrupt words and are only able to destroy, not to create. They had sour black blood.{{fact}}

===Kinds of Orcs===

Tolkien loosely implies that there are actually several different breeds of Orcs, not simply in the wide variety in clans, but strains of Orc that were specifically bred for certain tasks.

The Fellowship usually encounters the large soldier-Orcs bred for war, and sometimes the "snaga" variety which were more geared towards being labourers. However, a strong hint at the variety of Orc breeds is when Frodo and Sam are in Mordor, and realize that they are being followed by two Orcs, then hide to observe them. One of the Orcs is a normal soldier-Orc, but the other is described as a "Snuffler", a breed specifically geared towards being a tracker. This tracker-Orc was, compared to the soldier-Orc, physically unimposing, but had vastly overdeveloped sensory organs, particularly a single giant nostril. While physically weak compared to the soldier-Orc, the "snuffler" was able to skilfully kill the soldier-orc when they got into a disagreement.

*[[Snaga]]
*[[Orcs of Mordor]]
*[[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]]
*[[Half-Orcs]] (and [[Goblin-men]])
*[[Uruk-hai]]
*[[Hobgoblins]]

===Orcs and Goblins===

The term ''goblin'' was used primarily in ''[[The Hobbit]]'' but also in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' where it is used synonymously with "Orc".<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref><ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 24</ref>

"Goblin" is an English word, whereas "Orcs" is Old English, the language used by Tolkien to represent Rohirric.<ref>{{App|F1iv}}</ref> Thus, there is no difference between Orcs and Goblins, and the two names of different languages have much the same relationship as ''dog'' (English) and ''hund'' (German).

The original edition of ''The Hobbit'' and early drafts of ''The Lord of the Rings'' first used "goblin" everywhere and used "[[Hobgoblins|hobgoblin]]" for larger, more evil goblins: when goblins were replaced with Orcs Tolkien invented the term Uruk-hai for his more evil Orcs.

==Etymology==
===Orc===
The word '''''Orc''''' is said to be the "''form of the name that other races had for this foul people as it was in the [[Rohirric|language of Rohan]]''".<ref name=App|F1iv/>

In his late, post-''Lord of the Rings'' writings, Tolkien preferred the spelling '''''Ork'''''.<ref>{{HM|PM}}</ref> This was evidently mainly to avoid the form ''Orcish'', which would be naturally pronounced with the c as /s/ instead of /k/. (In [[Languages|Tolkien's languages]] the letter ''c'' was always pronounced /k/.) It is also possible that the word is a Common Tongue Version of 'orch', the [[Sindarin]] word for Orc. The original sense of the word seems to be "bogey", "bogeyman", that is, something that provokes fear, as seen in the Quenya cognate ''urko'', pl. ''urqui''.{{fact}}

Tolkien derived the word ''orc'' from [[Old English]] believing it refers to a kind of evil spirits,<ref name=L144/><ref>[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], "[[Gene Wolfe 7 November 1966]]" (letter)</ref> which in turn derives from Latin ''Orcus'' "Hades". He also thought it survives in the modern language for sea-beasts,<ref>{{HM|N}}, p. 762</ref> such as the [[Wikipedia:Orca Whale|Orca Whale]].

''Orc'' is an [[Old English]] word that refers mainly to a kind of metal cup (from Latin ''Urceus'').<ref group="note">The word ''Orc'' occurs twice in ''[[Beowulf]]''.</ref> However, in a 11th century glossary, this entry was conflated with another entry which refers to evil giants such as ''[[Wikipedia:Jötunn|þyrs]]'' and other monsters, also glossed in Latin as ''Orcus''. This merge of the two entries made many philologists of the previous centuries, like Tolkien, to believe that ''Orc'' was an actual Old English word that refers to any kind of evil creature from the underworld.<ref>Bosworth and Toller's ''An Anglo-Saxon Dictionary'' (1898), corrected in later editions</ref>

The word ''Orcnéas'' is once found only in ''[[Beowulf]]'' (lines 112-113) and is cited as an example of the word "Orc" in Old English text. Actually its meaning is not clear, and it is thought to refer to corpses (''néas'') from the Underworld.

However, it is also mentioned that the word ''Orc'' is Anglo-Saxon for "Foreigner, Monster, Demon" and was used to refer to the Normans invading the Anglish in 1066.<ref>"[http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1329539/ 1066 The Battle for Middle Earth]" 2009 (documentary)</ref>
==="Orcs" in Tolkien's languages===
Tolkien said that one of the reason of choosing "Orc" over "Goblin" was the similarity with his fictional languages.<ref name=WJAC>{{WJ|AC}}, pp. 389-91</ref> Indeed most [[Elvish]], [[Mannish]] and other words for Orc, are similar to the English word.

The basic [[Primitive Quendian]] [[Sundocarme|root]], from which the words for Orc derive, is [[RUKU]] (said to refer to any "bogey" that scared the Elves)<ref name=WJAC/>:

*[[Quenya]] '''''orco'''''<ref name=PE17_47/> (pl. '''''Orkor'''''<ref>{{GA|27}}, p. 12</ref><ref>{{HM|MR}}, pp. 74, 194</ref>); [[Exilic Quenya]] '''''urko''''' (pl. '''''orkor''''' and '''''orqui''''')<ref name=WJAC/>
*[[Sindarin]]: '''''orch'''''/'''''Orch''''' (pl. '''''yrch'''''/'''''Yrch''''', class pl. '''''Orchoth'''''/'''''orchoth'''''<ref group="note">''Orchoth'' is likely a compound of ''orch'' + ''[[hoth]]''.</ref>)<ref name=WJAC/><ref name=L144/><ref name=PE17_52-4/><ref name=PE17_47/><ref name=App|F1iv/>; '''''[[glamhoth]]'''''
*[[Nandorin]]: '''''ūriʃ'''''<ref name=PE17_52-4>{{PE|17}}, pp. 52-4</ref>

*[[Adûnaic]]: '''''urku''''', '''''urkhu'''''<ref name=WJAC/>
*[[Westron]]: '''''orka'''''<ref name=PE17_47>{{PE|17}}, p. 47</ref>
*[[Black Speech]]: '''''[[Uruk-hai#Etymology|uruk]]'''''<ref name=App|F1iv>{{App|F1iv}}</ref><ref name=WJAC/><ref name=L144>{{L|144}}</ref><ref name=PE17_47/>
*[[Khuzdul]]: '''''Rukhs''''' (pl. '''''Rakhās'''''), possibly derived from an unknown [[Avarin]] word of the same meaning<ref name=WJAC/><ref group="note">''Rukhs'' appears to contain the radical R-Kh-S.</ref>
*[[Drúadan language]]: '''''gorgûn''''' ("orc-folk"; the form ''gorgûn'' is perhaps plural of an unknown singular form)<ref name=PE17_99>{{PE|17}}, p. 99</ref><ref>{{RK|V5}}</ref><ref name=WJAC/>

In the earliest versions of [[Qenya]], Tolkien had words such as "'''Ork (orq-)''' pl. '''Orqi''' and fem. "'''orqindi'''".{{fact}}

In [[Noldorin]], the earlier version of Sindarin, the word for Orc is the same: ''orch'' (pl ''yrch'').<ref name=LR379>{{LR|Etymologies}}, p. 379 (entry for ÓROK)</ref><ref>{{MR|P3I7}}, p. 195</ref><ref>{{MC|Secret}}, p. 217</ref> The [[Gnomish]] word for "one of a tribe of the orcs. a goblin" is said to be '''''Gong'''''.<ref>{{PE|11}}, p. 41</ref>

*''See also: [[Entish]] ''[[burárum]]''
===Goblin===
''[[Wiktionary:Goblin|Goblin]]'' is a folk word which according to ''The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Current English'' is probably derived from the Anglo-French ''[[Wiktionary:gobelin|gobelin]]'' a diminutive of ''gobel'' (cf. ''[[Wiktionary:kobold|kobold]]''). William D.B. Loos notes that ''goblin'' is a Romance-derived word, unlike other Germanic words preferred by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]].<ref>William D.B. Loos, [http://tolkien.slimy.com/tfaq/EnemyMisc.html#Orcs Enemies and Miscellaneous: What was the relationship between Orcs and Goblins?] at [http://tolkien.slimy.com/tfaq/ The Tolkien Frequently Asked Questions List] (accessed 3 July 2011)</ref>

==="Goblin" in Tolkien's languages===

In the [[The Etymologies|''Etymologies'']], the Elvish names used to translate "goblin" derive from root [[RUKU#Other versions|ÓROK]] and are:<ref name=LR379>{{LR|Etymologies}}, p. 379 (entry for ÓROK)</ref>

*[[Quenya]]: '''''orko''''' (pl. '''''orqi''''')
*[[Noldorin]]: ''orch'' (pl ''yrch'', archaic ''yrchy''<ref>{{VT|46a}}, p. 7</ref>)
*[[Nandorin|Danian]]: '''''urc''''' (pl. '''''yrc''''')
*[[Doriathrin]]: '''''urch''''' (pl. '''''urchin''''')

In an early linguistic writing, Tolkien translated the [[Gnomish]] word ''Gong'' as "one of a tribe of the orcs. a goblin."<ref>{{PE|11}}, p. 41</ref>

==Other Versions of the Lengendarium==
===Origin===
According to the oldest "theory" proposed by Tolkien, Orcs were made of stone and slime through the sorcery of Morgoth. But, Tolkien later changed the legendarium so that Morgoth could no longer produce life on his own.

While Tolkien originally saw all Orcs as descended from tortured Elves, later comments of his indicate, according to [[Christopher Tolkien]] in ''Morgoth's Ring'' ("Myths Transformed, text X"), that he began to feel uncomfortable with the theory that orcs were descending from Elves. However, Tolkien died before he could complete his upheaval of the cosmology, and in the published version of ''The Silmarillion'', the Elf origin of Orcs was adopted. It does not appear that the elder Tolkien ever decided on a definitive answer.

The origin of Orcs is an open question. In Tolkien's writings, evil is not capable of independent creation, making it unlikely that the [[Valar|Vala]] [[Morgoth|Melkor]], who was obviously the first to produce them, could do that ''ex nihilo''. In the ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' is mentioned that the Orcs were transformed from Elves — the purest form of life on [[Arda]] (the Earth) — by means of torture and mutilation; and this "theory" would then become the most popular. There are hints in the ''[[The History of Middle-earth|History of Middle-earth]]'' series of books, (especially in ''[[Morgoth's Ring]]'' in the section "Myths Transformed"), that some Orc leaders, such as the First Age's [[Boldog]], or the [[Great Goblin]] encountered by [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and the Dwarves, may in fact have been fallen [[Maiar]] which had taken Orc form.

Yet other Orcs may have begun as animals of vaguely humanoid shapes, empowered by the will of the Dark Lord (first [[Morgoth]], later Sauron): this may explain the references to their "beaks and feathers"{{fact}} in Tolkien's writings.

: ''The Orcs were beasts of humanized shape (…).'' ('Morgoth's Ring', "Myths transformed", text VIII')

==Controversy==
Tolkien's Orcs have ''allegedly'' been a subject of criticism of [[racism]]. Tolkien described Orcs as "squat, broad, flat-nosed, sallow-skinned, with wide mouths and slant eyes: in fact degraded and repulsive versions of the (to Europeans) least lovely Mongol-types".<ref>{{L|210}}</ref> Another possible offensive theme present in orcs (though not necessarily racist), is the fact that when the orcs talk, they often use the same phrases and accents that the English working-class is known to use.{{fact}}

==Portrayal in Adaptations==
===Orcs===
{{stub}}
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Orc-kind is a genus that include the species of Orc, [[Goblins]], [[Half-orcs]], [[Boggarts]], [[Bugans]] and [[Uruk-hai]].

:Orcs are very common in Middle-earth. They are about the size of a man with a hunchback.

===Goblins===
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Goblins have been made clearly distinct from Orcs.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Goblins have been made clearly distinct from Orcs.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Goblins are a separate race and can be found in [[Evendim]], [[the Shire]], [[Ered Luin]], [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands|Lone lands]], [[North Downs]], [[Misty Mountains]], [[Angmar]] and [[Moria]]. They are small in stature; a little shorter than [[Hobbits]]. In contrast, Orcs are about the size of [[Men]]. Goblins are also weaker than the orcs.

==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Orcs|Images of Orcs]]
*[[:Category:Images of Goblins|Images of Goblins]]

{{references|note}}
[[Category:Orcs| ]]
[[Category:Races]]
[[de:Orks]]
[[fr:encyclo/peuples/orques/orques]]
[[fi:Örkit]]

Burned dwarf

2011-10-12T17:16:59Z

Pinkkeith: Redirected page to Burned Dwarves

#REDIRECT [[Burned Dwarves]]

"burned dwarf"

2011-10-09T23:14:40Z

Pinkkeith: Redirected page to Burned Dwarves

#REDIRECT [[Burned Dwarves]]

The Lonely Mountain Band

2011-10-07T21:10:14Z

Pinkkeith:

{{disambig-more|Lonely Mountain|[[Lonely Mountain (disambiguation)]]}}
{{band
| image=
| name=The Lonely Mountain Band
| orgin=
| genre=Folk
| years_active=2007-present
| labels=
| website=[http://lonelymountainband.com/ Official Website]
| members=
| former_members=
|}}
'''The Lonely Mountain Band''' is a J.R.R. Tolkien inspired folk band made up of members of the Celtic rock band Fathom. They have released one full-length-album on [[22 September|September 22]], [[2010]], called ''[[Beyond the Western Seas]]''. Their second full-length-album, called ''[[Second Breakfast]]'', was made available digitally on [[22 September|September 22]], [[2011]] a CD release of the album will be launched on [[21 October|October 21]], [[2011]].

==External Links==
* [http://lonelymountainband.com Lonely Mountain Band]
* [http://www.fathom.tv/fr_fathom.cfm Fanthom]
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lonely Mountain Band, The}}
[[Category:Bands]]
[[Category:Folk music]]

The Lonely Mountain Band

2011-10-07T20:51:39Z

Pinkkeith:

{{disambig-more|Lonely Mountain|[[Lonely Mountain (disambiguation)]]}}
{{band
| image=
| name=The Lonely Mountain Band
| orgin=
| genre=Folk
| years_active=2007-present
| labels=
| website=[http://lonelymountainband.com/ Official Website]
| members=
| former_members=
|}}
'''The Lonely Mountain Band''' is a J.R.R. Tolkien inspired folk band made up of members of the Celtic rock band Fathom. They have released one full-length-album on [[22 September|September 22]], [[2010]], called ''[[Beyond the Western Seas]]''. Their second full-length-album will be launched on [[21 October|October 21]], [[2011]], called ''[[Second Breakfast]]''.

==External Links==
* [http://lonelymountainband.com Lonely Mountain Band]
* [http://www.fathom.tv/fr_fathom.cfm Fanthom]
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lonely Mountain Band, The}}
[[Category:Bands]]
[[Category:Folk music]]

Grimbold

2011-10-04T01:00:55Z

Pinkkeith:

{{rohirrim infobox
| image= [[Image:Grimbold.jpg]]
| name=Grimbold
| othernames=''of Westfold'', ''of Grimslade''
| position=Chief of a Company
| noinline=
| birth=Unknown
| rule=
| death=[[15 March|March 15]], {{TA|3019}}
| gender=Male
| description=
| parentage=
| spouse=
| children=
| ref=
|}}
'''Grimbold''' was a rider of [[Rohan]], who dwelt in [[Grimslade]]. He was a veteran of both [[Battles of the Fords of Isen]] and the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].

==History==
Grimbold was a valiant captain under the [[Second Marshal of the Riddermark|Second Marshal]]. He was instrumental in the [[First Battle of the Fords of Isen|defense]] of the [[Fords of Isen]]; after his Marshal [[Théodred]] fell, he managed to hold the eyot in the river until [[Elfhelm]] arrived. Soon after, the troops of [[Isengard]] left; their mission was over with the death of the Marshal.

Grimbold and his company were scattered after the [[Second Battle of the Fords of Isen]], though most of his troops survived. When [[Gandalf]] arrived, he sent Elfhelm to protect [[Edoras]] and Grimbold to join [[Erkenbrand]], who was making his way to the [[Hornburg]] in an attempt to lift the [[Battle of the Hornburg|siege]].

After the victory at [[Helm's Deep]] and the lighting of the [[Warning beacons of Gondor]], [[Théoden]] had to quickly reorganize his troops. The elderly [[Erkenbrand]] commanded the defense of Rohan, while Grimbold was elected to take over command of the muster of the West-fold based on the valour he had shown at earlier battles.<ref>{{UT|Isen}}</ref> At the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|battle]], Grimbold fought on the eastern side of the [[Pelennor Fields]], where he was slain. He was remembered in the ''[[Song of the Mounds of Mundburg]]'' as "doughty".<ref>{{RK|Battle}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:Grimbold is briefly glimpsed twice in this film. The first time is as [[Théoden|Theoden]] arrives at Dunharrow and calls out to Grimbold. In this scene he appears as an elderly man in the armour of the guard of Edoras. Later on in the film as the Rohirrim arrive at the [[Pelennor Fields]] Theoden gives Grimbold orders and tells him to "Go forth and fear not darkness!". In these scenes he was played by [[Bruce Phillips]].

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Grimbold can be found in his encampment in eastern Healthfells in the region of the [[Gap of Rohan]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Grimbold|Images of Grimbold]]

{{references}}
[[Category:Rohirrim]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[de:Grimbold]]
[[fi:Grimbold]]

Quickbeam

2011-10-03T20:42:28Z

Pinkkeith:

{{youmay|the [[Ent]]|the actor, writer and fan, [[Cliff Broadway|Cliff "Quickbeam" Broadway]]}}
[[Image:Quickbeam from Peter Jackson's The Two Towers.jpg|thumb|'''Quickbeam''' from [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]].]]
'''Quickbeam''', or in [[Sindarin]] '''Bregalad''', was one of the younger [[Ents]] of [[Fangorn Forest]] belonging to the people of [[Skinbark]]. His name was given because of uncharacteristic hastiness. He was the first ent to make his mind up at the [[Entmoot]]. He sheltered, in his home, the two [[Hobbits|hobbit]]s, [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]], and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] while the other ents made up their minds at the entmoot. The rowan-trees in his keeping (among them [[Carnimírië]], [[Lassemista]], and [[Orofarnë]]) suffered greatly at the hands of [[Saruman]]'s [[Orcs]], and he played a great part in the Ents' resulting attack on [[Isengard]].
==Etymology==
The name ''Quickbeam'' was given to him because he was hasty for an Ent.<ref>{{TT|Treebeard}}</ref> His Sindarin name, ''Bregalad'', means "quick (lively) tree", derived from *''[[BERÉK|breg]]-'' having to do with "violence, suddenness" and ''[[galadh]]'', "tree".<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 82</ref>

Quickbeam and Quicken are actual English names of the "[[rowan]]" or "mountain [[ashes|ash]]". It was not coincidental that "rowan" is mentioned in Quickbeam's song.<ref name="nomen">{{HM|N}}, p. 762</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Quickbeam can be found in a grove in the far eastern side of [[Nan Curunír]].

{{references}}
{{ents}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Ents]]
[[de:Flinkbaum (Bregalad)]]
[[fi:Äkkipää]]

Template:User lotro

2011-10-03T20:28:16Z

Pinkkeith:

{{userbox
| border-c=#F0E68C
| id=[[File:Lotro logo.png|94px]]
| id-c=#F0E68C
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| info=This user plays ''[[Lord of the Rings Online]]''.
| info-c=#FAFAD2
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[[Category:Userbox templates|Lord of the Rings Online]]</noinclude>
<includeonly>[[Category:Gatekeepers who play LOTRO]]</includeonly>

Category:Gatekeepers who play LOTRO

2011-10-03T20:16:52Z

Pinkkeith:

Gatekeepers who play ''[[Lord of the Rings Online]]''. You can add yourself to this category by adding the userbox: <nowiki>{{</nowiki>[[Template:User lotro|user lotro]]<nowiki>}}</nowiki>, or add the following to your [[Help:User page|user page]]:<pre>[[Category:Gatekeepers who play LOTRO|{{PAGENAME}}]]</pre>

[[Category:Gatekeepers]]

Category:Gatekeepers who play LOTRO

2011-10-03T20:16:09Z

Pinkkeith: Created page with "<div style="float:right;">{{user lotro}}</div>Gatekeepers who play ''Lord of the Rings Online''. You can add yourself to this category by adding the userbox: <nowiki..."

<div style="float:right;">{{user lotro}}</div>Gatekeepers who play ''[[Lord of the Rings Online]]''. You can add yourself to this category by adding the userbox: <nowiki>{{</nowiki>[[Template:User lotro|user lotro]]<nowiki>}}</nowiki>, or add the following to your [[Help:User page|user page]]:<pre>[[Category:Gatekeepers who play LOTRO|{{PAGENAME}}]]</pre>

[[Category:Gatekeepers]]

Template:User lotro

2011-10-03T20:12:55Z

Pinkkeith:

{{userbox
| border-c=#F0E68C
| id=[[File:Lotro logo.png|94px]]
| id-c=#F0E68C
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[[Category:Userbox templates|Lord of the Rings Online]]</noinclude>
<includeonly>[[Category:Gatekeepers who play LOTRO]]</includeonly>

User:Pinkkeith

2011-10-03T20:09:05Z

Pinkkeith:

{{user infobox
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| birthlocation=Cincinnati, OH
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I've been a fan of the world of Middle-earth ever since I first read ''[[The Hobbit]]'' when I was seven years old. I've been reading ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' ever summer since high school. Although I enjoyed the books I didn't really study them very closely until Peter Jackson's movies came out. It was about the time that I first read ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.

I'm also a huge video gamer. I've always been a fan of puzzles and trying to solve problems. I didn't really get into gaming until Zelda for the NES came out. I use to compete against other players for fun and in competitions with prize monies involved. Yet, after college, I haven't had the time to game regularly enough to be competitive and now I just do it for the joy of it.

I have played some Lord of the Rings video game titles, but not many of them impressed me much at all. The one exception is ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''. I played it about six weeks after it was released and haven't stopped since. Through my love of the video game I picked up ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' volumes.

My interest in Tolkien Gateway is to talk about how [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] relates to the lore of Middle-earth.

==Personal To-Do List==
* <strike>Create an article for each of the [[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]] (see below).</strike>
* Write up a synopsis for [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] main story line.
* Work on the article in my [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]]. (Started back in April 2009!)
* Actually attend one of the [[Tolkien Gateway:Meetings|Tolkien Gateway meetings]].

==Links==
* [http://my.lotro.com/pinkfae MyLOTRO] - My ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' blog where I talk about my adventures and my take on the Tolkien legendarium.
* My [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]] - the place where I write up articles and stuff and have some fun!
* [[User:Pinkkeith/Pinkfae|Pinkfae]]- My character from [[The Lord of the Rings Online]].

Template:User lotro

2011-10-03T20:08:25Z

Pinkkeith: Created page with "{{userbox | border-c=#F0E68C | id=94px | id-c=#F0E68C | id-fs=10 | info=This user plays ''Lord of the Rings Online'' | info-c=#FAFAD2 }}<noinclude>{{c..."

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[[Category:Userbox templates|Ref]]</noinclude>

User:Pinkkeith

2011-10-03T20:04:01Z

Pinkkeith:

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| userboxes={{user lore-2}} {{user balrogwings4}} {{user dagor-yes}} {{user entwives4}} {{User firefox}}
| BG1=#FC0FC0
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I've been a fan of the world of Middle-earth ever since I first read ''[[The Hobbit]]'' when I was seven years old. I've been reading ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' ever summer since high school. Although I enjoyed the books I didn't really study them very closely until Peter Jackson's movies came out. It was about the time that I first read ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.

I'm also a huge video gamer. I've always been a fan of puzzles and trying to solve problems. I didn't really get into gaming until Zelda for the NES came out. I use to compete against other players for fun and in competitions with prize monies involved. Yet, after college, I haven't had the time to game regularly enough to be competitive and now I just do it for the joy of it.

I have played some Lord of the Rings video game titles, but not many of them impressed me much at all. The one exception is ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''. I played it about six weeks after it was released and haven't stopped since. Through my love of the video game I picked up ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' volumes.

My interest in Tolkien Gateway is to talk about how [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] relates to the lore of Middle-earth.

==Personal To-Do List==
* <strike>Create an article for each of the [[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]] (see below).</strike>
* Write up a synopsis for [[The Lord of the Rings Online]] main story line.
* Work on the article in my [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]]. (Started back in April 2009!)
* Actually attend one of the [[Tolkien Gateway:Meetings|Tolkien Gateway meetings]].

==Links==
* [http://my.lotro.com/pinkfae MyLOTRO] - My ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' blog where I talk about my adventures and my take on the Tolkien legendarium.
* My [[User:Pinkkeith/sandbox|sandbox]] - the place where I write up articles and stuff and have some fun!
* [[User:Pinkkeith/Pinkfae|Pinkfae]]- My character from [[The Lord of the Rings Online]].

Quickbeam

2011-10-02T14:50:38Z

Pinkkeith:

{{youmay|the [[Ent]]|the actor, writer and fan, [[Cliff Broadway|Cliff "Quickbeam" Broadway]]}}
[[Image:Quickbeam from Peter Jackson's The Two Towers.jpg|thumb|'''Quickbeam''' from [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]].]]
'''Quickbeam''', or in [[Sindarin]] '''Bregalad''', was one of the younger [[Ents]] of [[Fangorn Forest]] belonging to the people of [[Skinbark]]. His name was given because of uncharacteristic hastiness. He was the first ent to make his mind up at the [[Entmoot]]. He sheltered, in his home, the two [[Hobbits|hobbit]]s, [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]], and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] while the other ents made up their minds at the entmoot. The rowan-trees in his keeping (among them [[Carnimírië]], [[Lassemista]], and [[Orofarnë]]) suffered greatly at the hands of [[Saruman]]'s [[Orcs]], and he played a great part in the Ents' resulting attack on [[Isengard]].
==Etymology==
The name ''Quickbeam'' was given to him because he was hasty for an Ent.<ref>{{TT|Treebeard}}</ref> His Sindarin name, ''Bregalad'', means "quick (lively) tree", derived from *''[[BERÉK|breg]]-'' having to do with "violence, suddenness" and ''[[galadh]]'', "tree".<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 82</ref>

Quickbeam and Quicken are actual English names of the "[[rowan]]" or "mountain [[ashes|ash]]". It was not coincidental that "rowan" is mentioned in Quickbeam's song.<ref name="nomen">{{HM|N}}, p. 762</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Quickbeam can be found in a grove in the far eastern side of [[Nan Curunír]].

{{ents}}
{{references}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Ents]]
[[de:Flinkbaum (Bregalad)]]
[[fi:Äkkipää]]

Grimbold

2011-10-01T16:33:26Z

Pinkkeith: /* Portrayal in adaptations */

{{rohirrim infobox
| image= [[Image:Grimbold.jpg]]
| name=Grimbold
| othernames=''of Westfold'', ''of Grimslade''
| position=Chief of a Company
| noinline=
| birth=Unknown
| rule=
| death=[[15 March|March 15]], {{TA|3019}}
| gender=Male
| description=
| parentage=
| spouse=
| children=
| ref=
|}}
'''Grimbold''' was a rider of [[Rohan]], who dwelt in [[Grimslade]]. He was a veteran of both [[Battles of the Fords of Isen]] and the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].

==History==
Grimbold was a valiant captain under the [[Second Marshal of the Riddermark|Second Marshal]]. He was instrumental in the [[First Battle of the Fords of Isen|defense]] of the [[Fords of Isen]]; after his Marshal [[Théodred]] fell, he managed to hold the eyot in the river until [[Elfhelm]] arrived. Soon after, the troops of [[Isengard]] left; their mission was over with the death of the Marshal.

Grimbold and his company were scattered after the [[Second Battle of the Fords of Isen]], though most of his troops survived. When [[Gandalf]] arrived, he sent Elfhelm to protect [[Edoras]] and Grimbold to join [[Erkenbrand]], who was making his way to the [[Hornburg]] in an attempt to lift the [[Battle of the Hornburg|siege]].

After the victory at [[Helm's Deep]] and the lighting of the [[Warning beacons of Gondor]], [[Théoden]] had to quickly reorganize his troops. The elderly [[Erkenbrand]] commanded the defense of Rohan, while Grimbold was elected to take over command of the muster of the West-fold based on the valour he had shown at earlier battles.<ref>{{UT|Isen}}</ref> At the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|battle]], Grimbold fought on the eastern side of the [[Pelennor Fields]], where he was slain. He was remembered in the ''[[Song of the Mounds of Mundburg]]'' as "doughty".<ref>{{RK|Battle}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:Grimbold is briefly glimpsed twice in this film. The first time is as [[Théoden|Theoden]] arrives at Dunharrow and calls out to Grimbold. In this scene he appears as an elderly man in the armour of the guard of Edoras. Later on in the film as the Rohirrim arrive at the [[Pelennor Fields]] Theoden gives Grimbold orders and tells him to "Go forth and fear not darkness!". In these scenes he was played by [[Bruce Phillips]].

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Grimbold can be found in his encampment in eastern Healthfells in the region of the [[Gap of Rohan]].

{{references}}
[[Category:Rohirrim]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[de:Grimbold]]
[[fi:Grimbold]]

The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard

2011-06-09T23:56:08Z

Pinkkeith: /* Trailer */

{{cleanup}}
{{video game infobox
| image=[[File:Rise of Isengard.jpg|250px]]
| name''=The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] [[Midway Games]] [[Codemasters]]
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=[[2011]]
| genre=MMORPG
|}}'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''''' is an upcoming expansion for ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' covering the rise of [[Saruman]] and the [[Grey Company]]'s arrival in [[Dunland]]. Three new regions - [[Isengard]], [[Dunland]] and the [[Gap of Rohan]] - will be released, the level cap will be increased up to level 75, and other new additions, including a new monster play region and a 24-man raid.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/through-turbines-palantir-developers-outline-lotros-future/ Massively - Through Turbine's palantír: Developers outline LotRO's future] (retrieved 24 April 2011)</ref> The game will be released [[27 September|September 27]], [[2011]].

==Trailer==
===Teaser===
{{#ev:youtubehd|VbN1fCOsYcs|500}}
===Electronic Entertainment Expo 2011===
{{#ev:youtubehd|HAZHEYmZzeI|500}}

{{references}}
* [http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/910 Rise of Isengard press released], LOTRO News (retrieved 9 January 2011)
* [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-is-coming/ Massively - The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard is Coming!]

{{lotro}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online]]
[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]
[[Category:Upcoming video games]]

The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard

2011-06-09T23:52:48Z

Pinkkeith:

{{cleanup}}
{{video game infobox
| image=[[File:Rise of Isengard.jpg|250px]]
| name''=The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] [[Midway Games]] [[Codemasters]]
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=[[2011]]
| genre=MMORPG
|}}'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''''' is an upcoming expansion for ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' covering the rise of [[Saruman]] and the [[Grey Company]]'s arrival in [[Dunland]]. Three new regions - [[Isengard]], [[Dunland]] and the [[Gap of Rohan]] - will be released, the level cap will be increased up to level 75, and other new additions, including a new monster play region and a 24-man raid.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/through-turbines-palantir-developers-outline-lotros-future/ Massively - Through Turbine's palantír: Developers outline LotRO's future] (retrieved 24 April 2011)</ref> The game will be released [[27 September|September 27]], [[2011]].

==Trailer==
{{#ev:youtubehd|VbN1fCOsYcs|500}}

{{references}}
* [http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/910 Rise of Isengard press released], LOTRO News (retrieved 9 January 2011)
* [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-is-coming/ Massively - The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard is Coming!]

{{lotro}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online]]
[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]
[[Category:Upcoming video games]]

File:LOTRO - Rise of Isengard.jpg

2011-06-09T23:51:52Z

Pinkkeith: {{fairuse-lotro|RoI}} Category:Images of logos

{{fairuse-lotro|RoI}}

[[Category:Images of logos]]

The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard

2011-06-07T16:27:19Z

Pinkkeith:

{{cleanup}}
{{video game infobox
| image=[[File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-2011-1-.png|250px]]
| name''=The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''
| developer=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]]
| publisher=[[Turbine|Turbine, Inc]] [[Midway Games]] [[Codemasters]]
| platform=Microsoft Windows
| releasedate=[[2011]]
| genre=MMORPG
|}}'''''The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard''''' is an upcoming expansion for ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'' covering the rise of [[Saruman]] and the [[Grey Company]]'s arrival in [[Dunland]]. Three new regions - [[Isengard]], [[Dunland]] and the [[Gap of Rohan]] - will be released, the level cap will be increased up to level 75, and other new additions, including a new monster play region and a 24-man raid.<ref>[http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/through-turbines-palantir-developers-outline-lotros-future/ Massively - Through Turbine's palantír: Developers outline LotRO's future] (retrieved 24 April 2011)</ref> The game will be released [[September 27]], [[2011]].

==Trailer==
{{#ev:youtubehd|VbN1fCOsYcs|500}}

{{references}}
* [http://www.lotro.com/news/pressreleases/910 Rise of Isengard press released], LOTRO News (retrieved 9 January 2011)
* [http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-is-coming/ Massively - The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard is Coming!]

{{lotro}}
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online]]
[[Category:Microsoft Windows games]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]
[[Category:Upcoming video games]]

The Lord of the Rings Online

2011-06-07T16:25:59Z

Pinkkeith: /* Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador */

{{disambig-more|The Lord of the Rings|[[The Lord of the Rings (disambiguation)]]}}[[Image:Lotro logo.png|250px|right]]
'''''The Lord of the Rings Online''''' (commonly abbreviated to '''LOTRO''' or '''LotRO''') is the common name for an MMORPG that takes place in the world of [[Arda]] during the time of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]].''

==Development==
[[Sierra Entertainment|Sierra]] began to develop the game in 1998, then called ''[[Middle-earth Online]]''. After Sierra was bought out by [[Vivendi|Vivendi Universal Games]], production of the game was shared with [[Turbine]]. The rights to the game were sold exclusively to Turbine in March 2004, after which they announced that the name of the project would be changed to ''The Lord of the Rings Online''.

While the majority of quests in the game are original content created by Turbine based on the history and lore of Middle-earth, the quests flagged as "Epic" quests depict specific events and scenes from the ''The Lord of the Rings'' storyline. While conducting Epic Quests, players interact with the main characters from the books, and assist in the advancing of the story toward the [[War of the Ring]] and the destruction of [[the One Ring]].

The game also attempts to mimic ''The Lord of the Rings'' by being broken down in volumes, books and chapters. The original game is called Volume I, the following expansion is Volume II and the current expansion is Volume III. Each one of the epic quests are broken down by "Books" and "Chapters".

Turbine has gone to great lengths to faithfully recreate the fantasy world created by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] with a high degree of attention to detail. Essentially every character named in the books appears in the game and can be interacted with during quests and other activities.

A closed beta was announced on [[September 8]], [[2006]]. An open beta began on [[March 30]], [[2007]], and was open to all who pre-ordered the game's Founders Club edition. On [[April 6]], [[2007]], the beta opened to the public.

===Shadows of Angmar===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar|Shadows of Angmar]]'' was released on [[April 24]], [[2007]]. It included books 1 through 8 of the epic quest line. Approximately once every two months a major free update is added to the Lord of the Rings Online. Each update is an extension to the epic quest called a book.

====Book 9: Shores of Evendim====
:''Main article [[Shores of Evendim]]''
The first free content update was released on June 14, 2007.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3611&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Book 9: Shores of Evendim Release Date Announced]</ref>

Updates included:
*Discovery of [[Evendim]]
*Over 100 new quests
*Raid in the Battle for Helegrod
*Nine new monsters
*Collectible armour sets

====Book 10: The City of Kings====
:''Main article [[The City of Kings]]''
The second free-content update was released on August 21, 2007 in North America and on August 24, 2007 in Europe.<ref>| [http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=3949&pagename=home&search=yes&keyword=Book%209 Codemasters Online and Turbine unveil Book 10: The City of the Kings]</ref>

Updates included:
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Legendary Play – Players can now use Destiny Points to play as a Ranger of the North or as a Troll.
*Critter Play – Players can now explore Middle-earth from a different viewpoint as a chicken.
*New Reputation and Bartering Systems – The Reputation system enables players to earn positive and negative standing with different races and groups in Middle-earth based on both monster kills and quest completions. The Bartering system allows players to trade trophies earned in battle for rewards, such as armour sets or mounts.
*Over 100 new Quests.
*More customizable user interface.

====Book 11: Prisoner of the Free Peoples====
:''Main article [[Prisoner of the Free Peoples]]''
The third free-content update was released on October 24, 2007 in North America<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/430 Turbine and Codemasters Online Gaming to Unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador for The Lord of the Rings Online]</ref> and October 25 in Europe.<ref>[http://www.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=4661&articletype=News Codemasters Online and Turbine to unveil Book 11: Defenders of Eriador]</ref>

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_11_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Epic Story arc, including 13 quests.
*Player housing – players will be able to customize their houses with items such as furniture and doormats.
*Second raid called "The Rift" – 12-player raid in which players encounter a [[Balrogs|Balrog]] for the first time. Turbine has stressed that this is not the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog from Khazad-dûm]].<ref>[http://lotro.tentonhammer.com/index.php?module=ContentExpress&func=display&ceid=287 Book 11 Preview: The Balrogs are Coming]</ref>
*Two new areas – Tâl Bruinen in the Trollshaws, where [[Gollum]] will be introduced for the first time, and Goblin-town in the [[Misty Mountains]], featured in ''The Hobbit''.
*More than 100 new quests.

====Book 12: The Ashen Wastes====
:''Main article [[The Ashen Wastes]]''
The fourth free content update was released on February 13, 2008 in North America; and February 14, 2008 in Europe.

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_12_Official complete release notes]):
*Continuation of the Story Line.
*Character customization - Increased character customization "ranging from haircuts, to some (possible) additions to the trait-system." In addition, the Outfit system, along with many special social clothing designed just for it, will be introduced where a second or third set of clothing can be slotted and displayed while retaining the statistical bonuses of the currently equipped items.<ref>[http://lotro.stratics.com/content/hoclog/hoc10.php Lord of the Rings Online: House of Commons ]</ref>
*The Delving of Frór - A new Monster Play PVE (and PVMP under certain circumstances) area will be introduced: An expanse of caves and catacombs located beneath the Ettenmoors.
*The Great Angmar Revamp - A revamp of the most high-level region of the game's current 9 PvE regions. The revamp included the reworking of many quests, areas and other changes, such as new horse routes.
*Barbershop - You can customize the look of your avatar in-game with around 50 new haircuts and second set of details.
*Updates to the Burglar, Guardian, and Champion classes.

====Book 13: Doom of the Last-King====
:''Main article [[Doom of the Last-King]]''
The fifth free content update was released on April 24, 2008 in North America and on May 1, 2008 in Europe.

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_13_Official complete release notes]):
*A new playable map area: the Ice Bay of [[Forodwaith|Forochel]].
*Players being able to see the ocean for the first time, confirmed as the Ice Bay of Forochel in recent developer chats.
*Fishing - the first of a new system in Lord of the Rings Online, called 'hobbies'.
*New PVMP Monster Healing Class - Orc Defiler.
*Looking For Fellowship- and Quest-panel improvements.

====Book 14: The Ring-forges of Eregion====
:''Main article [[The Ring-forges of Eregion]]''
The sixth free content update was released on July 22, 2008 in North America. It was released on July 24, 2008 in Europe.

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Book_14_Official complete release notes]):
*Climax of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added selected sections of [[Eregion]] (Region leading towards the Gates of Moria).
*Epic Quest events that will allow interaction between players regardless of server.
*Prelude quests for and leading up to the [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]] expansion. Which will have updates leading to Lothlórien, Fangorn, Rhovanion and Rohan.

====Book 15: Daughter of Strife====
:''Main article [[Daughter of Strife]]''
The seventh free content update was released on November 18, 2008. This update was released in tandem with the Mines of Moria expansion for players who did not purchase the expansion release.

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Category:Epic_-_Vol._I,_Book_15:_Daughter_of_Strife_Quests Epic - Vol. I, Book 15: Daughter of Strife Quests epic]):
*Conclusion of the "Shadows of Angmar" storyline.
*Added the zone of Eregion expanding on the selected sections from Book 14. The zone does not include the Hollin Gate leading to the Black Pool.
*Added UI enhancements

===Mines of Moria Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria|Mines of Moria]]'' was released on [[November 18]], [[2008]]. It included books 1 through 6 of the epic quest line. Like ''Shadows of Angmar'', ''Mines of Moria'' continues to regularly release updates. Updates have been less frequent than Shadows of Angmar.

====Book 7: Leaves of Lórien====
:''Main article [[Leaves of Lórien]]''
Book 7 was released on March 17, 2009. This update included:
* Continuation of the Epic Storyline.
* Expansion of the Lothlorien Area including the reputation gated city of Caras Galadhon and a conflict area north of the Golden Woods.
* A new raid entitled "Strange Happenings" in the Waterworks.
* The new faction of the Galadhrim.
* Crafting instances allows players to gather resources.
* Revised new player experience in Ered Luin for Elf and Dwarves

====Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dum====
:''Main article [[Scourge of Khazad-dum]]''
Book 8 was released on June 23, 2009. This update included:
* Four new raids and instances: Dar Narbugud (a multi-boss, radiance-gated 12-man raid) in The Foundations of Stone, The Halls of Crafting (a 6-man instance), Lumul-nar (3-man instance) in Zirak-Zigil and Nala-dum (3-man instance) in the Waterworks.
* Revised new player experience in Bree-land.
* The continuation of the storyline with the character returning to Moria.

===Siege of Mirkwood Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood]]''
''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood|Siege of Mirkwood]]'' was released on December 1, 2009 in North America and December 3, 2009 in Europe. Unlike the second expansion this edition was only available via a web based download. It included Book 9 and the epilogue of Volume II: Mines of Moria.

[[Kate Paiz]], Executive Producer for ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', released a letter on October 22, 2010 stating that updates will be more frequent but will not always be accompanied with a new book continuing the epic story.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/gameinfo/devdiaries/866-producers-letter-october-2010 Producer's Letter, October-2010] lotro.com, Dev Diaries</ref>

====Book 1: Oath of the Rangers====
:''Main article [[Oath of the Rangers]]''
Book 1 was released on [[March 1]], [[2010]].<ref> [http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=320404 Volume III: Allies of the King has arrived!]</ref>

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Allies_of_the_King_Official complete release notes]):
* The beginning of Volume III in the epic story line.
* The ability to solo the Volume I epic story line.
* A duo mode for most skirmishes.

====Book 2: Ride of the Grey Company====
:''Main article [[Ride of the Grey Company]]''
Book 2 was released on [[September 10]], [[2010]] in North America. ([[September 8]], [[2010]] for subscribers). It has since been delayed in Europe and a new release date has yet to be confirmed.

Updates include ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Release_Notes_Volume_3_Book_2_Official complete release notes]):

* New region: [[Enedwaith]]
* Lord of the Rings Online Free to Play subscription
* Book 2 in the Volume III epic storyline
* Scalable instances
* Improvements to the vault, and a new wardrobe system for cosmetic items
* Updates to the captain class
* The Lotro store, where players may purchase convenience items. Points either earned through gameplay, through the VIP program or by being purchased.
* The introduction of Lua Scripting
* DirectX 11 support
* Ranger sesion play

====Update 1: Journey to Winter-Home====
The first post Free-to-play update will be released in November 2010. Due to changes to how updates work this will not contain an epic book.

Updates include:

* A Barter Wallet for skirmish marks and anniversary tokens
* Opening of Moria, Lothlorien, Mirkwood and Enedwaith to free-to-play players, Volume II and Volume III will also be available, as well the legendary item system, and the lvl 65 level cap all to free-to-play players.
* Vault improvements
* Tasks: a new quest type for all levels
* Improved reputation mounts
* Updates to the Lore-Master, and Rune-Keeper class
* Ered-Luin starting area revamp

====Update 2: Echoes of the Dead====
The first update of 2011 was released on [[March 21]] in the United States and [[March 24]] for Europe.

Updates include:

* Two three man's, two six man's, and a 12 person raid were added for lvl 65 players.
* A special item required to craft a first age weapon which drop from the above raid.
* Radiance was removed.
* Legendary Items were updated.
* Character panel and cosmetic system were revamped.
* The Minstrel, Hunter and Burglar classes were updated.
* Volume III Book 3: Echoes of the Dead was added.
* Volume II was revamped and made soloable, including three instances which have been converted to skirmishes.
* Improvements to the PvP starter tutorial.
* [[Evendim]] was revamped, with [[Annúminas]] being scaled down to level 40.

====Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador====
''Lost Legends of Eriador'' was the third update. It was released on [[May 23]], [[2011]] and included: ([http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Update_3,_Lost_Legends_of_Eriador,_Official complete release notes]):

* Two new three-man scalable instances starting mid-game
* Two new skirmishes

===Rise of Isengard Expansion===
:''Main article [[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]''
The third expansion for the Lord of the Rings Online is entitled ''Rise of Isengard''. The expansion is will be available on September 27, 2011 and only as a digital download.<ref>[http://isengard.lotro.com/ The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard Official Homepage]</ref>

== Added Elements ==
There are a number of elements that do not appear in any of the published works. This includes characters, lineages, objects and locations.

===Characters===
* '''[[Amarthiel]]''' served for the [[Witch-king]] of [[Angmar]] during his first reign over [[Angmar]]<ref>In the game the Witch-king reigned over Angmar again shortly before the [[War of the Ring]].</ref> and wore the [[lesser rings|lesser ring]] [[Narchuil]]. She was slain by [[Narmeleth]] at the [[Battle of Fornost]] and her soul wandered [[Middle-earth]] for over a thousand years. She managed to possess Narmeleth and disguises herself as Sara Oakheart. She eventually revealed herself after the defeat of [[Mordirith]] by [[Golodir]] and becomes the Regent of Angmar.

* '''[[Andraste]]''' was a female [[Men|Man]] who served the [[Witch-king]].

* '''[[Jon Brackenbrook]]''' was a [[Men|Man]] who was captain of [[Archet]].

* '''[[Ronald Dwale]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] from [[Dwalling]]. He's an author and a member of [[The Inklings (LOTRO)|the Inklings]], that meets each others in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. He's based on [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] himself.

* '''[[Éogan]]''' was the second in command of the [[Blackwolds]] and took over leadership of the group after William Skunkwood's death.

* '''The Huntsman''' was a spirit found in [[Enedwaith]] who took the shape of a large man with horns of a stag. Many players thought this was [[Oromë]]. The developers confirmed that it wasn't Oromë but a [[Maiar|Maia]] of Oromë.<ref>[http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?359604-big-D-small-d&p=4996860&highlight=#post4996860 big D, small d] [[Jonathan Rudder]], lotro.com forums</ref>

* '''[[Ivar the Bloodhand]]''' was a Gaunt-lord from the [[First Age]].

* '''[[Mordirith]]''' was the Steward of Angmar.

* '''[[Narmeleth]]''' was an elf maiden of [[Rivendell]] and daughter of [[Laerdan]]. She slayed [[Amarthiel]] during the [[Battle of Fornost]] and became possessed by her soul over a thousand years later.

* '''[[Mundo Sackville-Baggins]]''' was a [[Hobbits|Hobbit]] who was mistakenly identified as having the ring.

* '''[[William Skunkwood]]''' was the leader of the [[Blackwolds]].

* '''[[Skorgrím]]''' was a dwarf and leader of the [[Dourhands]] he was slain during the Battle of Edhelion. His corpse was used as a vehicle by Ivar the Bloodhand who possessed it with a fell spirit to trick the Dourhands to ally themselves with the forces of [[Angmar]].

* '''[[Sambrog]]''' was the Wight-lord of the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Groups===
* '''The [[Blackwolds]]''' were a group of [[Men|Mannish]] brigands from [[Bree-land]].

* '''The [[Dourhands]]''' was a clan of dwarves aligned with the forces of [[Angmar]]. They were the dwarves that stayed behind to rebuild the Dwarven Halls in the [[Blue Mountains]] which were destroyed during the [[War of Wrath]].

* '''The [[Inklings (Shadows of Angmar)|Inklings]]''' are a group of [[Hobbits|Hobbit]]-authors who discuse about literature, they meet each other in the [[Bird and Baby Inn]]. Prominent members are [[Ronald Dwale]] ([[J.R.R. Tolkien]]), [[Owen Farfield]] ([[Owen Barfield]]), [[Carlo Williams]] ([[Charles Williams]]) and [[Jack Lewisdown]] ([[C.S. Lewis]]). The group and members are based on the real [[Inklings]].

===Objects===
* '''[[Narchuil]]''' was one of the [[lesser rings]] forged by the elven-smiths during the [[Second Age]].

===Locations===
* '''[[Agamaur]]''' was a vast swamp north of the [[East-West Road]] not far from the [[Last Bridge]]. It was a site of a major battle between [[Arthedain]], [[Cardolan]] and [[Rhudaur]]. To the west is the ruins of Haragmar, a fortress of [[Arnor]]. To the east lies the ruins of Garth Agarwen, a fortress of Rhudaur.

* '''[[Othrongroth]]''' was the oldest and largest Edain mound in the [[Barrow-downs]].

===Structures===
* '''[[Bird and Baby Inn]]''' was an inn in [[Michel Delving]].

==License==

For ''The Lord of the Rings Online'', [[Turbine]] has licensed the rights to the content and lore of ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. Turbine does not have license rights to the [[New Line Cinema]] film trilogy nor ''[[The Silmarillion]]'', ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' books or ''[[The Children of Húrin]]''. Turbine was bought by Warner Bros. on April 20, 2010 and through them now have the license right to the New Line Cinema film trilogy and the upcoming Hobbit films.

==Discrepancies from the source material==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' does not follow the story as told in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', but rather tells stories about events that happened during the same time period as the events told in J.R.R. Tolkien's book.

==Reception==
''The Lord of the Rings Online'' has been received very positively thus far, as reviews continue to appear since the game's initial release.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/pc/middleearthonline Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, The - Review] metacritic.com</ref>

GameDaily awarded the game 9/10, praising its rich, fantasy-themed universe, well-integrated trait and title system, and a story that remains true to the works of Tolkien. Yahoo! Video Games wrote a review with few negative mentions, awarding the game a score of 4/5,<ref>[http://videogames.yahoo.com/gamereview?cid=1990963744&tab=reviews&page=0&eid=513259 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] Yahoo! Games</ref> while ''Computer and Video Games'' called the game an essential purchase for ''Lord of the Rings'' fans, scoring the game a 9.2/10.<ref>[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161846&skip=yes PC Review: Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] ''Computer and Video Games''</ref> Eurogamer scored the game a 9.0/10, calling it tough to resist.<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=75657 Review - Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Eurogamer</ref> Gamespy gave it 4.5/5 stars, claiming the game "opened up Middle-Earth to the masses" but commented negatively on its weak PvP content,<ref>[http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar/785884p1.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] GameSpy</ref> while GameTrailers awarded it 8.5/10,<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/gamepage.php?id=754 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar] Game Trailers</ref> citing its interesting tweaks to the MMO genre. IGN.com ranked it a similar 8.6/10, praising it for its solid experience, though criticizing it for its lack of major improvements to the genre.<ref>[http://pc.ign.com/articles/787/787942p3.html The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar Review] IGN</ref> GamerNode.com awarded the game an 8.8/10, calling it the best MMO launch experience since ''Ultima Online''.<ref>[http://www.gamernode.com/PC/Reviews/2848-Lord-of-the-Rings-Online-Review/index.html Lord of the Rings Online] GamerNode</ref> The ''New York Times'' called the game "a major achievement of interactive storytelling, the first game truly worthy of the ‘Lord of the Rings' franchise and a must-play for just about anyone with an interest in Tolkien or the future of online entertainment."<ref>[http://lotro.turbine.com/article/356 Lord of the Rings Online Press Release] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In a GameSpot review, the product was awarded an 8.3/10, praising its appealing polish and intriguing Monster Play feature.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/middleearthonline/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=topten&tag=topten;all;score;5 The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC Review] GameSpot</ref> Gamepro.com's review gave it an overall 4.25/5, pointing out how engaging the epic quests are, as well as how faithful to the novels the game managed to stay.<ref>[http://gamepro.com/computer/pc/games/reviews/112000.shtml Review: The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC] Gamepro</ref> GameSpy declared ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 'Game of the Month' for May 2007.<ref>[http://uk.gamespy.com/articles/795/795353p2.html Game of the Month: May 2007] GameSpy</ref>

==Awards==

In August 2007, Codemasters announced that ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' had received five Golden Joystick Awards nominations for the five applicable categories for the game,<ref>[http://newsrss.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6925679.stm Music and vice top games awards] BBC News</ref> and in October 2007 that it had won the "PC Game of the Year" at these awards.<ref>[http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7693&Itemid=2 Gears Wins Big at Game Awards] Next-Generation</ref> and again won the same award on October 2008. In December 2007, GameSpy awarded ''The Lord of the Rings Online'' 6th place in the top 10 PC games of 2007.<ref>[http://goty.gamespy.com/2007/pc/6.html GameSpy's Game of the Year 2007] GameSpy</ref> On December 18, Turbine announced it had also won the GameSpy MMO of the Year award.<ref>[http://www.lotro.com/article/476 LOTRO Wins Top Honors from Gamespy!] Lord of the Rings Online</ref> In January 2009, mmorpg.com awarded Turbine both MMORPG studio of the year 2008<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2574/Best-MMO-Studio-of-2008-Winner MMORPG.com Best MMO Studo of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>, and MMO Expansion of the Year for ''Mines of Moria''.<ref>[http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/45/feature/2579 MMORPG.com Best Expansion of 2008] mmorpg.com</ref>

==Subscription Model==

In North America, players who pre-ordered the game were offered a special founder's offer, a lifetime subscription for $199 or reduced cost of $9.99 per month. Standard monthly fee is $14.99 with three, six, twelve month, and lifetime discounts available. European players had a similar program from Codemasters.

A Holiday subscription was available in December of 2007 and January of 2008 for $9.99/month for a 3 month commitment. A one year anniversary addition includes a $9.99/month subscription or a $199.99 Lifetime subscription, which was again offered during the lead up to the release of Mines of Moria.

Warner Bros. announced on June 4, 2010 that Lord of the Rings Online will offer a free-to-play model starting in the fall of 2010.<ref>[http://turbine.com/news/105-warner-bros-interactive-entertainment-announces-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-to-adopt-global-free-to-play-model.html Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces The Lord of the Rings Online™ to Adopt Global Free-to-Play Model] Turbine, Inc</ref> On August 18, 2010, Warner Bros. announced that the free-to-play model would go live on September 10, 2010. On October 21, 2010, [[Codemasters]] announced that a preview of Free-to-Play would be available in Europe on October 25, 2010.<ref>[http://community.lotro-europe.com/news.php?id=10839&pagename=news&type=news The Lord of the Rings Online Europe Preview Event]</ref>

{{references}}

==External Links==
* '''[http://lotro.com Official website]'''
** '''[http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/Lorebook_home Lorebook]''', the offical Lord of the Rings Online wiki
** '''[http://my.lotro.com/ My LOTRO]''', the offical Lord of the Rings Online members and developers blog
** '''[http://forums.lotro.com/ LOTRO Community Website]''' , the offical Lord of the Rings Online forums
* [http://lotro-wiki.com/index.php/Main_Page Lotro-Wiki], a fan created wiki
* [http://lotro.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page lotro.wikia.com], another fan created wiki

{{lotro}}

[[Category:The Lord of the Rings Online| ]]
[[Category:Turbine games]]