Aside from the main storyline, optional side quests are included, designed to allow players a more personalized experience with the game. At times, they will encounter scenarios that may tempt them to cross over from the side of Good, and join the forces of the evil Sauron. Visiting locations from all three movies, such as Khazad Dum, Helm's Deep, Osgiliath, and Minas Tirith, players will interact with both heroes and villains as they travel across Middle-earth. Also notable is the ability to ride a horse or a warg in combat, both of which demand special skills.
Developed by EA's Redwood Shores studio, Lord of the Rings: The Third Age separates itself from its predecessors with its turn-based RPG format - it has been noted by designers that those who have played Final Fantasy should find the system familiar. Tolkien's beloved stories, players embark on a quest that will lead them through the events of all three films, in the roles of custom characters they create.
