Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor - What made it so unique?

Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor brought something unique into the gaming industry. At first it may not seem like much - it looks like a version of Assassins Creed set in a different theme and time. But what made it so special?

The story

Our main protagonist is named Talion. In the beginning, Talion's outpost is overrun by Orcs and his family as well as his soldiers are slaughtered. He dies too, although he mysteriously returns to life, because he is tied to an ancient wraith.Talion's personality gradually shapes itself from the revenge-driven soldier. Later on we can see a more in depth view on his traits. Along the way we meet a great number of other various characters, who are overall well written and fun to witness.

The Orcs

Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is heavily based on tracking and hunting numerous type of Orcs (or Uruks). If you haven't played this game, let me surprise you - each Orc chief has their own personality, weaknesses, strengths and such. Orcs may seem like they're brainless creatures, but in Shadow of Mordor, they are organized beasts prepared for anything.

Rather than facing pre-written Orc chiefs, the Nemesis system generates different personalities and traits for each and every one of them. It's all run by a chain of command - every Uruk has their own position of power.The most amazing thing for me was the formation of the relationships with Uruks. Every time you win or lose a battle against them, a certain relationship is formed with each one. Let's say you lost a previous battle with a certain Orc chief. You think he forgot that? He didn't. The next time you show up he will make fun of you because you lost. Even if you win a battle against an Orc, he may come back to make you pay for the injuries.Another very interesting fact worth mentioning is that once a regular unnamed Orc kills you, he does not remain unrewarded. He actually gets a title and a rank because him killing you was a great honor. And he will taunt you for some time, too!Some of them are scared of you and will just run away at the sight of you, while others welcome the challenge you bring. It's all generated by the way you shape the game!

The story shifts with or without your input as well

The Orcs have stories of their own. In reality, you just come in, mess everything up and shake the their natural order. But what's most interesting is that the game progresses without you as well. For example, an Orc that's willing to rise to power may make a move to progress to a more powerful position. An Orc chief that's weak may get thrown overboard, which leaves an empty position for another Orc to fill.Even the Orc that you are hunting may end up killed by another Orc while you view this spectacle behind the bushes. That's how dynamic Shadow of Mordor is.

Of course, Shadow of Mordor wouldn't be what it is without the open-world. You can do whatever you desire at any time, though be careful - Orcs are on the move.

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@cheaky