INTRODUCTION
Welcome to Middle Earth! If you’re a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy epic, you’re in for a treat as we take a deep dive into the imaginative and immersive world of Lord of the Rings Online (LOTRO). This game allows you to explore iconic locations from the books, engage in exciting adventures, and roll out your own unique character either to compliment or challenge the classic Tolkien archetypes. Whether you’re entirely new to the world of online gaming or returning after a hiatus, this beginner-friendly guide will help get you started and fully enjoy your sojourn in this fantastical universe.
WHAT IS LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE?
Lord of the Rings Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Standing Stone Games. Set in the legendary world of Middle Earth, the game extends well beyond the narrative of the books to offer an expansive adventure filled with epic quests, fearsome foes, and untold treasures. The world of LOTRO feels vibrant and very much alive, with hundreds of other players populating the landscape, contributing to a very social and communal gaming experience. The game is free-to-play, although additional content can be purchased, providing an easy entry point for new players.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
Getting started with LOTRO is pretty straightforward. After downloading the game (available for Windows and Mac), your first task is to create your character. There are four races to choose from: Human, Elf, Dwarf, and Hobbit, each with its unique attributes, abilities, and set of starting quests. Additionally, you get to choose your character’s class which dictates the skills and style of gameplay.
After creating your character, you’ll begin your journey in Middle Earth with a series of introductory quests that introduce the mechanics of the game and familiarise you with the vast LOTRO universe. The game’s User Interface (UI) contains a mini-map for navigation, a quest log for tracking your ongoing quests, and a toolbar with your character’s abilities.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
Fundamentally, all you need to play LOTRO is a computer that meets the game’s system requirements, and an internet connection. LOTRO is quite an old game, and hence, runs decently even on older hardware. You’ll also need a free account on the LOTRO website to log in and play. The game is free to play, but expansions and VIP accounts can be purchased for access to more content and features.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Don’t Rush: LOTRO is more about the journey than the destination. Take your time to explore the world and enjoy the in-game lore.
2. Join a Kinship: These are in-game guilds where players can socialise, get advice and assistance.
3. Utilise Crafting: Crafting can provide gear upgrades, healing items, and can be a great source of in-game income.
4. Learn to use the Auction House: This is where players buy and sell items with the in-game currency. It can be a good way to find gear upgrades or sell items for profit.
5. Save Your LOTRO Points: The game has a currency called LOTRO Points which can be earned by playing or purchased with real money. It’s best to save them for purchasing quests, character slots or expansions.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
The internet is ripe with helpful resources for LOTRO beginners. The official LOTRO Forums and the r/lotro subreddit are great online communities where you can ask questions, get advice, or just engage in LOTRO-related discussions. LOTRO-wiki is an incredibly useful resource containing in-depth information about everything in the game. YouTube channels like ‘Louey7’ and ‘Andang’ offer helpful video guides for beginners.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. MMORPG: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game.
2. NPC: Non-Player Character. These are characters in the game controlled by the computer.
3. Quest: A task given by an NPC that rewards experience and often items.
4. Level: A measure of a character’s progression.
5. Dailies: Quests or activities that reset and can be done daily.
6. Dungeon: An area with challenging enemies and valuable loot.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Once you’ve started your journey in LOTRO, there’s a whole world to explore. Joining a kinship is highly recommended, as they can provide camaraderie and guidance as you grow your character. Keep completing quests, experimenting with crafting, and don’t be afraid to venture into more challenging areas for better rewards. Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the journey. Welcome to Middle Earth, it’s time for an adventure!
