Should I Play Shadow Of Mordor Before Shadow Of War?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You are a first‑time player who wants to experience the story in chronological order, appreciating the evolution of the Nemesis system and the protagonist’s arc from Talion’s revenge to his later battles.
• Good fit: You enjoy exploring a game world more deeply and want to master the core combat and stealth mechanics in the original title before tackling the expanded open‑world features and new enemy types introduced in Shadow of War.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: You already own both games, have limited gaming time, and are primarily interested in the latest graphics and gameplay advancements; jumping straight to Shadow of War may give you more immediate satisfaction.
• Warning sign: You prefer standalone experiences and find that revisiting an older narrative slows your momentum; the two titles share many systems, so playing the sequel first won’t leave you confused.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Chronological storytelling enhances emotional investment, as you witness Talion’s motivations evolve from revenge to redemption.
• Playing Mordor first provides a solid foundation for the Nemesis system, making enemy hierarchies and relationships feel more meaningful when they reappear in War.

Cons

• The gameplay loop in Mordor is less refined; you may encounter repetitive missions that feel dated compared with the smoother pacing of War.
• Both games require a similar time commitment, so playing Mordor first effectively doubles the total hours needed before you can move on to new content.

Decision Checklist

• Do I value narrative continuity enough to invest the extra 20‑30 hours in the first game?
• Am I comfortable with the older combat feel and fewer modern conveniences offered by Mordor?
• Is my gaming schedule flexible enough to accommodate playing both titles without sacrificing other priorities?

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re unsure, you could watch a concise storyline recap of Shadow of Mordor on video platforms before buying Shadow of War, giving you the narrative context without the time investment. Another option is to start with Shadow of War and later purchase Mordor at a discounted price if you find the world and characters compelling enough to revisit.

Final Recommendation

For players who prioritize story, want a deeper understanding of the Nemesis system, and have the time to enjoy both experiences, playing Shadow of Mordor before Shadow of War is the recommended path. If you’re primarily after the latest gameplay innovations, have limited time, or already own both games, it’s reasonable to start with Shadow of War and treat Mordor as optional. In any case, assess your schedule and narrative appetite before committing, and seek advice from seasoned gamers if you need more personalized insight.