INTRODUCCIÓN
Greetings, traveler! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to explore Middle-Earth, following in the footsteps of Frodo Baggins or Aragorn and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with friends to face the perils and adventures of a world steeped in Tolkien’s mythology? Welcome to Lord of the Rings Online (LOTRO), an immersive, expansive, and fulfilling Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG). Guiding you on this journey through this beginner-friendly guide, prepare for an adventure like no other.
WHAT IS LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE?
LOTRO is a free-to-play MMORPG set in the vast world of Middle-earth. Brought to life in 2007 by Standing Stone Games, it lets players create characters and embark on quests throughout the regions familiar from J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit”. Much like World of Warcraft or EverQuest, LOTRO invites players into a rich, complex universe where they can interact with each other, join forces, and write their own stories. However, LOTRO stands alone in its commitment to honoring the original lore and injecting the literary majesty of Tolkien’s world into every pixel of the gameplay.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
Your adventure in LOTRO begins with character creation. You’ll select a race—Human, Elf, Hobbit, or Dwarf—and a class: nine options, each with its specialties and skills. After your character is designed, you’re thrown into Middle-Earth, starting with a unique introductory scenario based on your chosen race.
Once within the game, like any MMORPG, you define your path. You can follow epic storyline quests, engage in player-vs-environment (PvE) combat, indulge in crafting and trading, or explore the vast landscape. Interaction with other players through role-play, combat, or forming fellowships (the LOTRO equivalent of a party) are significant elements.
LO QUE NECESITAS PARA JUGAR
To begin playing LOTRO, you need a computer that can handle the game’s requirements, an internet connection, and the LOTRO client, downloadable for free from the official website. It’s advisable to use a mouse and keyboard for easier navigation, though the game is accessible with just a keyboard. If you’re serious about your Middle-Earth adventure, consider investing in a comfortable gaming chair, a headset for in-game communication, and maybe snacks for those long gaming sessions!
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Choose your class wisely: Each has its own playstyle and role in groups. Research the classes to find what suits you best.
2. Explore: Middle-Earth is vast and full of surprises. Take time to roam.
3. Participate in events: LOTRO regularly hosts fun in-game events that offer unique rewards.
4. Learn to craft: Crafting can provide superior equipment and trade goods for in-game currency.
5. Make friends: LOTRO has a friendly community. Join a kinship (LOTRO’s guild system) to enhance your in-game experience.
RECURSOS ÚTILES
The LOTRO community is very active online. LOTRO’s official website and forums are great resources, while the subreddit (r/lotro) and LOTRO Players News site offer insights, advice, and news. YouTube channels like “The Tolkien Professor”, a specialist in Tolkien’s work, and “Louey7”, a seasoned LOTRO player, provide video guides and gameplay footage.
GLOSARIO
1. PvE (Player versus Environment): Gameplay which involves battles against computer-controlled enemies.
2. PvP (Player versus Player): Gameplay where players compete against each other.
3. MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online): A game where thousands of players share a virtual world.
4. RPG (Role-Playing Game): A game where players assume the role of a fictional character.
5. Kinship: A community of players who band together in-game, like a club or team.
PRÓXIMOS PASOS
Now you’re ready to take your first steps into Middle-Earth. Download the game, create your character, and taste the adventurous life in LOTRO. If you’re still hungry for more knowledge, read deeper guides about your chosen class or trading skills. Remember, every hero starts somewhere, and your tale in Middle-Earth just begun. So live your adventure – the journey gets more enjoyable and rewarding with every step.