Tools for this page
Print

Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle Earth 2

(2006, Video Games - Real Time Strategy (RTS), Rated T, Play it on: Windows)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

    (Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)

    Not age appropriate for kids under 11, age appropriate for kids over 14; suggested age 11.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Good storytelling, average gameplay for tweens-up.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 11–14

The good stuff

  • Educational value:

    Not an issue.
  • Messages:

    Not an issue.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Plenty of battles, but most of the action is seen from a bird's eye view.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    References to the movies and books. Use of movie clips.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

This review of Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle Earth 2 was written by Jeremy Gieske

Parents need to know that this game contains many battles, but they are typically seen from a distance. There are campaigns for good and evil, and some characters can have repulsive looks and natures that may frighten young players. An online component allows players to challenge others over the Internet; Common Sense Media does not recommend online play for kids under 12.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • Families can talk about the art of storytelling in video games. How is the story told, and how does it compare to books, movies and other forms of media? How important is a good story in a game? What common themes and character types do you see in the video games you play?
Did this review help you decide?
Do you play it? Review It!

More on Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle Earth 2

What’s the Story?

LORD OF THE RINGS: THE BATTLE FOR MIDDLE EARTH 2 returns fans of the fantastical land of Middle Earth. Working as an extension of the books and movies, the game expands on the world J.R.R. Tolkien created.

Much of the game focuses on the battles not described in detail in the books or movies. But fans will recognize the source material: Players build up a force of troops to rally around familiar heroes, such as Elrond and Legolas, or Saruman and the Nazgul (if they play the forces of Mordor). Using the magical powers of their heroes and strategic placement of their troops, players work to defeat the enemy on the battlefield.

Close

Is It Any Good?

Players will find the storytelling engaging, which is enhanced with cut scenes often taken right from the big screen. But experienced gamers might find the game a bit simplistic and grow frustrated by lopsided battles (thanks to some ultra-strong hero characters). Overall, Tolkien fans will enjoy this bigger, badder version -- which includes larger wars and fun features, like the ability to create a personalized hero.

Close

Publisher’s Details

Released on 3/2/2006, price $49.99, not online enabled
ESRB rating: T (for Fantasy Violence)

Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.

Our Members Say

Do you play it? Review It!

  • What did you think about Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle Earth 2?
  •  I think this game is

    for ages

  •  I also give it

  •  Any concerns?

  •  Any highlights?

  •  Love it? Hate it?

  • or to post a review
See all 12 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 4.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Safety isn't an issue

    That is a lie there is no movie clips amd the consumerism is unnoticeable if there is any. all battles are seen from a birds eye view and the bodies disapear almost instantly. There is no blood or gore and the game is great.

  2. I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 4.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Safety isn't an issue

    That is a lie there is no movie clips amd the consumerism is unnoticeable if there is any. all battles are seen from a birds eye view and the bodies disapear almost instantly. There is no blood or gore and the game is great.

  3. Kid Reviewer Age 10
    I rate this title on and give it 0.0

  4. Kid Reviewer Age 10
    I rate this title on for age 10 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence

    • My highlights are:
    • Educational
    • Easy to play

    Perfect for 10 and up

    LOVE IT!!!! Its a fine game, with violence, but no blood or gore. Its strategey, so you see it from far away. The worst is when a troll dies, and the bones sink into the ground.

  5. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Missouri
    I rate this title on for age 9 and give it 5.0

    Very fun!

    My dad, brother, sister, and I really enjoy this game. The strategy of the levels are fun to figure out and some levels are tough when you aren't allowed many men to fight with. The violence isn't something to really worry about;no blood, no body parts flying, etc. Enemies simply fall to the ground and disappear.

More Great Stuff For Your Kids

  • New in Theaters

    Fantastic Mr. Fox

    Fantastic Mr. Fox

    Offbeat family adventure may charm adults more than kids.

  • Advice for Parents

    Are Your Kids Obsessed with Twilight & New Moon?

    Are Your Kids Obsessed with Twilight & New Moon?

    Discussion pointers for parents of "twilighters."

  • Must See TV

    Fanboy and Chum Chum

    Fanboy and Chum Chum

    Zany adventures are low on depth but high on imagination.

  • Issue Spotlight

    The 10 Most Violent Video Games (And 10 Alternatives)

    The 10 Most Violent Video Games (And 10 Alternatives)

    Our video game experts weigh in.

  • Game of the Week

    Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: New Year's Celebration

    Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: New Year's Celebration

    Virtual Chinese New Year with perfectly designed games.

Give Us a Minute, Get a Lot of Common Sense!
  • Age-appropriate best bets for your kids
  • Weekly email alert with the latest picks, reviews & advice
  • Post your own reviews and share them with friends

This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
A screen name protects your privacy
To post a review or comment you must become a Common Sense Member. It's easy!

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations.
A screen name protects your privacy

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
(optional)
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

We can make Common Sense just right for you. With a little info about you and your family, you'll get the most out of our site.

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!
Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations
A screen name protects your privacy
Register to add this school to your profile. You'll be able to see and share reviews from parents, teachers, and kids at your child's school.
I'm already a Common Sense member.
Kids under 13 must use a screen name