The defining feature of Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor was the evolving rivalries you'd develop between rival orc chieftains on your quest for vengeance. Shadow of War however, makes the nemesis system work both ways: Not only will your actions create dynamic rivalries, but also create dynamic allies who aid you in battle.
For a more comprehensive look into Shadow of War, read James' preview from last month. But during Microsoft's E3 press conference, Monolith Production's vice president of creative, Michael De Platter, took the stage to offer some new gameplay footage demonstrating how you'll recruit and ally and then use them in your war against the Dark Lord.
In the first game, you could use your spectral powers to dominate the minds of enemy orcs and turn them into thralls to do your bidding. In Shadow of War, that same ability is greatly expanded, allowing you to turn orcs into allies with their own personal story arcs that'll change dependent on your decisions.
In the trailer, this was showcased when Talion dominates the mind of Brüz the Chopper, an imposing hulk of an orc with a cheeky personality. From there, Brüz recommends Talion rally his forces and assault a nearby fortress to send a message to Sauron. In doing so, we're offered a very brief glimpse at the strategic planning that goes into Shadow of War's new fortress assaults as Talion must choose which orc captains will lead his troops and which types of units might best be used on the field of battle.
Shadow of War is coming to PC on October 10.
