Parents' Guide to Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle Earth 2

Game Windows 2006
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Common Sense Media Review

By Jeremy Gieske , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Good storytelling, average gameplay for teens-up.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 10+

Based on 2 parent reviews

age 9+

Based on 10 kid reviews

Kids say this game is a highly enjoyable and strategic experience, particularly for fans of the franchise, blending fun with engaging gameplay. While there is a level of violence, it is largely non-graphic, making it suitable for younger audiences, and players appreciate the ability to control various races and build unique heroes.

  • fun gameplay
  • strategic experience
  • suitable for younger
  • minimal violence
  • franchise fans
Summarized with AI

What's It About?

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.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 2 ):
Kids say ( 10 ):

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.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • 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?

Game Details

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