LumiKin
Metacritic 8217+

Middle-earth: Shadow of War

Warner Bros. Interactive|2017ActionRPG

LumiScore

55

out of 100

Appropriate for ages 17+ with parental supervision

60 min/day recommended

Scored 4 days ago · Methodology v1.0 · 49-dim rubric · Last updated 1 week ago

Score breakdown

Benefits: higher is better. Risks: lower is better. Values highlighted when <30 or >70.

Growth

55/100

Growth Value

  • Strategic Thinking
  • Adaptive Challenge
  • Problem Solving

Risk

MODERATE

Engagement Patterns

Some engagement mechanics worth discussing.

Heads up

💸 Monthly cost: $0–$20/mo

Parent Pro-Tip

Parents should be aware of the game's M (Mature) rating due to significant violence and language. While the game offers deep strategic gameplay, the optional microtransactions should be discussed and monitored to prevent excessive spending. The Nemesis system can lead to extended play sessions, so setting time limits is advisable.

Top Skills Developed

Strategic Thinking5/5
Adaptive Challenge5/5
Problem Solving4/5
Critical Thinking4/5
Learning Transfer4/5

Development Areas

Cognitive?Problem solving, spatial awareness, strategic thinking, creativity, memory, and learning transfer. Weighted 50% of the Benefit Score.
70
Social & Emotional?Teamwork, communication, empathy, emotional regulation, and ethical reasoning. Weighted 30% of the Benefit Score.
30
Motor Skills?Hand-eye coordination, fine motor control, reaction time, and physical activity. Weighted 20% of the Benefit Score.
55
Overall Benefit Score (BDS)55/100

Representation?How diverse the game's characters are in gender and ethnicity. Higher = more authentic representation. Display only — does not affect time recommendation.

Gender balance
1/3
Ethnic diversity
1/3

Bechdel Test?The Bechdel Test checks whether a game has at least two named female characters who talk to each other about something other than a man. A simple measure of representation.Fails the test

The game focuses on a male protagonist and his interactions with mostly male orcs and other male characters. While there are some female characters, it's unlikely they have significant conversations with each other about something other than a man.

Parent Pro-Tip

The game can foster strategic thinking, problem-solving, and quick reflexes. Its rich narrative and dynamic world can also encourage engagement with fantasy literature and world-building.

What your child develops

Middle-earth: Shadow of War offers a rich action RPG experience with a dynamic Nemesis system that provides unique challenges and encourages strategic thinking, problem-solving, and adaptive learning. Players can immerse themselves in a vast fantasy world and engage in exciting combat.

Base: UnknownMonthly: $0–$20/moPlaytime: ~13hReviewed Apr 2026

Regulatory Compliance

Tap a badge for details. Grey = not yet assessed.

Compare this game

About this game

Middle-earth: Shadow of War is a continuation of Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor The game operates on the world and the characters of the books of JRR Tolkien. However, it will be more accurate to say that the game is closer to the cinematic version of this story, created by director Peter Jackson.