Lord of The Rings Online.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Hollar?..

http://www.gamestop.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=646609

[carbo-fation]

Interesting....an RPG. Do you have any more info on this?

[Bodie The Cursed]

My only other info is that I just ordered it.. Im hoping to join in on the Beta..

*bodie's nerd ststus rises*

[pixletwin]

My brother has been playing the beta version of this and thinks its pretty cool. From what I saw there isn't much going on in the game yet (all that I watched him do was kill a few wolfs, boar, and a bear).

[occulum]

*bodie's nerd ststus rises*
yeah man.
might as well place that order for the Cap PF now. :monkey5

[Bodie The Cursed]

yeah man.
might as well place that order for the Cap PF now. :monkey5

:lol

Here are some reviews

http://www.gamestop.com/ReadReviews.asp?product_id=646609#349754

[Seth Gecko]

Interesting....an RPG. Do you have any more info on this?


It's an MMORPG and i'll be starting a guild when the game starts.

[tomandshell]

I've been playing the LOTRO closed beta for a month or two and I really love it. It will be nice to have the official game go live so my character doesn't have to get erased every time they do a restart and implement changes!! But hey, that's what beta is all about, I guess.

It's a great game and even though my wife hogs the PC playing Star Wars Galaxies (which I gave up on a LONG time ago), she's having to learn to share now that I have gotten into LOTR online.

[Darth Caedus]

I've been playing the LOTRO closed beta for a month or two and I really love it. It will be nice to have the official game go live so my character doesn't have to get erased every time they do a restart and implement changes!! But hey, that's what beta is all about, I guess.

It's a great game and even though my wife hogs the PC playing Star Wars Galaxies (which I gave up on a LONG time ago), she's having to learn to share now that I have gotten into LOTR online.

I HATE YOU TOM !!!! I have literally been waiting for this game since RoTK came out in theaters. hated that the initial company created the game somehow stopped making it or didn't want to make it, WHATEVER, just glad that it is FINIALLY being made. So Tom, or anybody else who has played the beta, how is it? Great? Glorious? Grand? Any other word that starts with a 'G'. How does it compare to other RPGs currently on the market?

[Darth Caedus]

Also, I wouldn't put too much stock in that release date. I can remember a couple of years ago when they had it to be released in 2005, but I hope I'm wrong

EDIT: Amazon has it being released on March 31st.

[tomandshell]

I HATE YOU TOM !!!! I have literally been waiting for this game since RoTK came out in theaters. hated that the initial company created the game somehow stopped making it or didn't want to make it, WHATEVER, just glad that it is FINIALLY being made. So Tom, or anybody else who has played the beta, how is it? Great? Glorious? Grand? Any other word that starts with a 'G'. How does it compare to other RPGs currently on the market?

Now, my experience with MMORPGs is quite limited. I have had a Star Wars Galaxies account for almost three years now, but I haven't played in about two years. My wife still plays it almost daily and I have purchased all of the expansions for her. Aside from a few months with that, the only other experience I had was playing a free 10 day trial of World of Warcraft. I have had more fun playing LOTR online that either of those two put together. Both of the other games got boring fast, and left you feeling like you were just killing things over and over to get XP and grind your way to the next level. It gets tedious and repetitive and I just give up. Maybe it's my love for Tolkien, but I have yet to get bored playing LOTRO. I often level up without even realizing it because I am actually involved in playing the game and not just camping out near a lair to kill creatures over and over just to increase my level. There is a lot more to do than just fight, with a lot of rewards for exploring Middle Earth and uncovering different historically significant locations and items. The game is organized by chapters, and I felt like I was playing through a more linear story, which for me is what made it better than the others. Of course you can always just run around and do your thing, but if you want to progress through the chapters of the plot you can do so and feel a bit more guided if that's what you want. Another neat thing is how the world can change. You start the game (as a human character) in a village, and as you advance and reach a certain level, the village is attacked. Come back later and the village has been burned and damaged, with injured/demoralized NPCs. The worlds in these kinds of games are usually static and unchanging, and the steps that they ahve taken to give the game an "unfolding" feel set it apart and make it quite a lot of fun. If you don't feel like fighting, you can engage in a wide variety of quests. If you don't feel like fighting, hang around the Shire and pick apples for the Gaffer or deliver pies before they get cold. If that sounds lame, then forget the Shire and go into the wild and hunt trolls or orcs--or do some dirty work for Bill Ferny outside Bree. I think that this game has more variety and has kept me entertained better than the others. Much of the play is similar to World of Warcraft, but the setting and characters are what makes it so much better for me. Just getting the chance to go anywhere and see anything and anybody is so much fun if you have read the books and know what to look for. This is pretty much the ultimate game experience for a LOTR fan who wants to experience virtual life in Middle Earth. I can't wait for the game to get officially released to the masses--and I hope it's not too long before they make some expansions for Moria, Rohan, Gondor, Mordor, Mirkwood, etc. But there is plenty to do for now in Eriador.

[tomandshell]

Also, I wouldn't put too much stock in that release date. I can remember a couple of years ago when they had it to be released in 2005, but I hope I'm wrong

EDIT: Amazon has it being released on March 31st.

This game has had a long and complicated history, but it is finally ready and will be awesome.

Sierra On-Line first announced the development of a licensed, Middle-earth MMORPG in 1998. This caused some excitement among fans, who were awaiting The Lord of the Rings movies, and was also slightly controversial for a few design decisions. The most debated design idea was the planned use of "permadeath": When a player character would die in the game, that character would be permanently dead (most MMORPGs resurrect a dead character with minor penalties). Sierra had financial troubles in 1999 and replaced the staff working on the game.

Sierra continued to confirm development on the MMORPG was progressing, but did not release any development details over the next few years. Vivendi Universal Games, the parent company of Sierra, secured eight-year rights to produce computer and video games based on The Lord of the Rings books in 2001. Finally, Vivendi announced an agreement with Turbine in 2003 to produce Middle-earth Online (at that time expected to be released in 2004). In March 2005, Turbine announced that it had bought the rights to make massively multiplayer games based on Tolkien's literature and that Turbine will assume publishing duties on The Lord of the Rings Online from Vivendi. Closed Beta was announced on September 8, 2006, and rumored to have began on September 12, 2006 :cool: , and is expected to launch April 24, 2007.


One thing I forgot to mention--you can be "Quantum Leaped" out of your character and beamed into the woods where you temporarily assume the role of a troll and can jump into some PvP combat if that's your thing. Playing as a monster is a new feature that I have not tried, but is yet another fun thing to look forward in the future.

[Seth Gecko]

Are the system requirements out yet?

[The Godfather]

Thinking about picking this up but I am not sure if its aweful I will not be happy.

Bob

[The Josh]

This is for PC right?

[pixletwin]

This is for PC right?

Yes :D :cool:

[The Josh]

Ah. Nevermind I'll stick to my 360.

[nash]

Tom, is the game similar to WOW in that when you find new weapons or armor it will change the apperance of your character?

From what I've witnessed with my brother playing WOW, that's the coolest aspect of the game...having the chance to totally set yourself apart from the rest of the people in the world with rare or unique looking armor and weapons.

[Seth Gecko]

It's a MMORPG nash yes.

[nash]

It's a MMORPG nash yes.

hey promise me you'll let me know in advance when this thing is going to ship out, and I'll pick one up and guild with u guys.

[Seth Gecko]

I'll be getting it. we all gotta get on the same server etc and do it up.

[tomandshell]

Tom, is the game similar to WOW in that when you find new weapons or armor it will change the apperance of your character?

From what I've witnessed with my brother playing WOW, that's the coolest aspect of the game...having the chance to totally set yourself apart from the rest of the people in the world with rare or unique looking armor and weapons.

Yes, you start out with the basic clothes and continue to upgrade your gear as you progress. It's always fun to get nicer and better looking clothes to set your character apart visually from those around you.




I'll be getting it. we all gotta get on the same server etc and do it up.

Sounds like fun!!!

[Seth Gecko]

Until then i'll still be on City of villains :cool:

[WetaWork]

A search for an existing thread came up negative. What a great weekend. Leggy arrived and finally had the chance to beta test.

I'm happy to report this game is coming along rather well. It's much further along than I thought it would be with a few months before launch.

Anyone getting it? Here's the details on the "Founder" preorder:

Special Pricing:
$9.99 Monthly OR
$199 Lifetime

Open Beta Privileges:
Early Access — Be among the first to play
Keep your character after launch

Unique In-game Items:
Enchanted Cloak of Regeneration
Ring of Agility

Any Questions? http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=103

[nash]

The existing thread was actually a few threads below this one.

http://sideshowcollectors.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15990&page=3

[WetaWork]

The existing thread was actually a few threads below this one.

http://sideshowcollectors.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15990&page=3

Doh!!! :lol

[WetaWork]

I participated in this past weekends events and I'm sold. Looking forward to the Sideshow Fellowship. :ring

[tomandshell]

When we start the Sideshow Fellowship, I get to be the Hobbit Minstrel. (But only because Hobbits can't be Lore-masters.)

[Bodie The Cursed]

When we start the Sideshow Fellowship, I get to be the Hobbit Minstrel. (But only because Hobbits can't be Lore-masters.)

What other selections for chars are there?

[oxbeard]

Yeah, my brother-in-law has been beta-testing this one as well. Not seen it for myself, but he has been very excited about it.

[PosterBoyKelly]

Yeah can you be other types of people? Elves, Dwarves etc? I'd assume so, but what's the deal on that? Tom your review has gotten me interested. I nevere EVER played anything like this, not WOW or Galaxies but this for some reason is hooking me. Maybe because' I'm reading the books for the first time since highschool and getting all dorked out again over J.R.R.T. but I gotta check this out. I also hope, that one day, you can be a Wraith!

[Beren]

Unfortunately, this is not based on the designs of the LOTR film adaptations, is it? Has anyone played FOTR, I think it's the same company? EA has the film license and the other company can make games based on the book. I wasn't too impressed with FOTR, then again I never went far with it, especially after reading reviews AFTER I bought the game....

If this were based on the PJ version, I'd be ALL over it, never having played any subscription online thingies... walk through Minas Tirith, sigh....

Beren

[FrodoEyes]

I LOVED fotr. Don't read the reviews, they can have a different opinion to you. I enjoyed wandering around and meeting people on it - The Shire, Tom Bombadil, Moria.....it's a great game.

The company was Vivendi Universal, a Black Labels game I think. But I thought EA had snapped up the book rights too, and that's why they were able to include non movie stuff in their games?

SO, I hear you can bump into the fellowship, have you done that yet Tom? And have you met Tom Bombadil and Goldberry in the woods? Ran away from a black rider?

[WetaWork]

What other selections for chars are there?

I shouldn't say much due to the NDA. Take a look here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lord_of_the_Rings_Online

I will say the game does a great job in respecting Tolkien / Middle Earth lore. Everything I've encountered seems appropriate for Middle Earth.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Thanks WW..

Looking forward to this..

Is it too late to enroll in the beta?.. If not how do I join in.

[WetaWork]

Thanks WW..

Looking forward to this..

Is it too late to enroll in the beta?.. If not how do I join in.

I don't know about the closed beta but there will be an open beta for those that preorder. Details here:

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=103

[Bodie The Cursed]

Once again, thank you.

[WetaWork]

Once again, thank you.

No problem. BTW, I just got back from placing my preorder with my local EB Games. The Manager said they should be getting in the preorder retail boxes later in the week. :ogat

[Seth Gecko]

Are the system requirements out yet?
??????????

[WetaWork]

Here you go but keep in mind, this game, as most others nowadays, have an optional "detect optimium settings" check box in the setup menu and will nerf your graphic fidelity according to your detected hardware.

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=104

Anticipated Retail Recommended Requirements:
Processor: Intel Pentium® 4 1.8 GHz or equivalent
Video: 64 MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 3 or ATI® Radeon® 8500
DirectX: DirectX® 9.0c
OS: Windows® XP
RAM: 512 MB
Disk Space: 7 GB available
Internet: 56kbps Modem
Optical Drive: 2x DVD-ROM

Beta minimum System Requirements
Processor: Intel Pentium® 4 2.4 GHz or equivalent
Video: 64 MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 3 or ATI® Radeon® 8500
DirectX: DirectX® 9.0c
OS: Windows® XP
RAM: 1 GB
Disk Space: 7 GB available
Internet: Broadband DSL/Cable
Optical Drive: 2x DVD-ROM

Recommended System Requirements
Processor: Intel Pentium® 4 2.8 GHz or equivalent
Video: 128 MB NVIDIA® GeForce® FX 6800 or ATI® Radeon® X850
DirectX: DirectX® 9.0c
OS: Windows® XP / Vista
RAM: 1 GB
Disk Space: 10 GB available
Internet: Broadband DSL/Cable
Optical Drive: 2x DVD-ROM

[WetaWork]

Tonight's Dev Chat log:

http://lotro.warcry.com/news/view/68258-Developer-Chat-Log

Can you tell I'm really looking forward to this game? :D

[tomandshell]

EA has the film license and the other company can make games based on the book.

Actually, EA Games now has the rights to the books as well, so they can now include characters and events not depicted in the film. Battle for Middle Earth II had Tom Bombadil along with Ian McKellen's Gandalf and Hugo Weaving's Elrond, for example.

But LOTR online will not draw upon the film material, so don't expect Shore's music or the voices and likenesses of the cast as in the EA games.

[Seth Gecko]

Well i think i can handle it.

2.5 gig
ati 9600 pro 128
1 gig ram

[nash]

you got this on preorder J? Is there any chance it will sell out?

[Seth Gecko]

No i'll just buy it in a store

[tomandshell]

I'm going to wait to preorder until they announce the details of the Collector's Edition. If there is a really cool in-game item included then I might like to get it.

[WetaWork]

I'm going to wait to preorder until they announce the details of the Collector's Edition. If there is a really cool in-game item included then I might like to get it.

One of the questions I asked while I was preordering today was if I can change my preorder to a CE if one were released. Yep, you can.

[tomandshell]

Ah! Then it looks like I will be preordering ASAP. Thanks!!

Let's make sure we all end up on the same server.

[Bodie The Cursed]

How many servers are there? Or will there be?

[Darth Caedus]

Kind of suprised that the system requirements are not a little higher, but oh well, I have them. I want to play this game now. We can have our own SS Freak fellowship, i call dibs on gandalf !!!!!

(but you probably can't be him :monkey2 :monkey2 )

[tomandshell]

I don't know, but during my free 10 day trial of WOW I had to keep creating new characters because I was going to have to wait 30-45 minutes to get on the busy server as my main character.

I assume that LOTR online won't be like that!!




STONE TROLLS!!!

http://lorimages.turbine.com/admin_files/53/38/08/53/926.jpg

[tomandshell]

WEATHERTOP!!!

(I've been there...)

http://lorimages.turbine.com/admin_files/10/21/27/17/485.jpg

[tomandshell]

http://lotro.turbine.com/files/03/94/71/76/705.jpg

[tomandshell]

http://lorimages.turbine.com/admin_files/48/22/58/89/329.jpg

[nash]

what kind of graphics card are u running Tom?

[WetaWork]

How many servers are there? Or will there be?

Unknown at this time but I'm guessing 10 - 15 initially. Will most likely depend on preorder sales and initial monitoring of launch load.

[PosterBoyKelly]

MORE PICS TOM! I'm seriously getting excited for this! TOM...........Isengaurd?

[WetaWork]

MORE PICS TOM! I'm seriously getting excited for this! TOM...........Isengaurd?

Have you seen a shot of the Ringwraiths?

http://lotrovault.ign.com/screenshots/full_res.php?ss=30

[Bodie The Cursed]

SWEET!.. I wish you could be one.. I'd prefer the Darkside..:emperor


http://vnmedia.ign.com/screenshots/lotro/39003721.jpg

[WetaWork]

:drool indeed.

Graphically, this game is quite impressive for an MMO.


Interesting side note:

LOTRO is at the top of EB/Gamestop's best seller list today. We are talking all gaming platforms. :ogat

One game to rule them all...

Not too shabby considering open beta doesn't start until March 30th for preorders (Founders Program) and April 6th for the general public.

[nash]

can you play as the evil characters like orcs and stuff? or is it only the "good guys" ?

[WetaWork]

can you play as the evil characters like orcs and stuff?

Yes, it's called "Monster Play". The game will be launching with four main monster races that you can play once you reach lvl 10. The spider, the warg, the orc, and the Uruk-hai. This will allow PvE play while maintaining Middle Earth lore. Hobbits killing hobbits, while fun to some, just doesn't go over well with Tolkien purists. I'm sure we will see this get expanded to other creatures as well, but don't expect to play as one of the Nine Wraiths.

Here's how the developers describe it in a recent dev chat:

http://lotro.warcry.com/news/view/68258-Developer-Chat-Log

WarCry: PsionicFox: Could you tell us a little more about how the monster PvP will work?
RingLeader: Whew! Well a lot to tell, so I'll start with an overview...
RingLeader: We were faced with an interesting challenge for LOTRO and PvP. We know that conflict in MMOs is very important to players, and the War of the Ring is all about Good vs. Evil. At the same time, though, we really don't want hobbits and elves mercilissly PK-ing each other on the steps of Bag-end.
RingLeader: This is the discussion that eventually led us to Monster Play as it is now in LOTRO. Basically, you are able to go into a vast, PvP-specific region (The Ettenmoors) as one of several iconic Tolkien monsters, and get into it with other high-level player characters. There's a lot to do in the region and you'll always have something to take on, whether NPC or player.
RingLeader: While playing in Monster Play, you'll be collecting Destiny Points, that you'll be able to use to upgrade your monster, or even spend as buffs on any of your Player Mains.
RingLeader: As you face off with other players, you'll be rewarded for kills with Infamy (Monsters) or Renown (players) and these will drive your overall PvMP Rating. You'll be ranked against your opponents and everyone else in the world.
RingLeader: Finally, there are controllable areas in the Ettenmoors that can be raided and controlled by either side.
RingLeader: There is a lot to talk about, but this should help give you a basic idea....


WarCry: H4x0ticu5266: Monster play seems to be more difficult than regular play. Will solo quest be added to MP or will this be the eventual difficulty of the game for players as well.
Annuvin: Monster play tends to be more difficult than regular play, since there tend to be pesky hobbitses hunting you while you're trying to do simple things, like despoil hobbit villages, or slaughter the free people of Middle-Earth.
Annuvin: With that said, we plan on having solo viable monster play quests, for those people that just want to be monstrous alone, without pestering anyone.


WarCry: Bokmal: Are raids instanced only? Or are there some contested encounters ( Open for everybody ) to fight over
Annuvin: Well, I'll interpret that as two questions:
Annuvin: 1 - We have Raid bosses on Landscape. They tend to hang out in Angmar, on the Witch King's (old?) lawn. Use caution! (as Mithril_Miser stated, they will eat you)
Annuvin: 2 - We have Monster Play. There will be plenty of Raid targets for everyone to fight over.


WarCry: FastDwarf: Will being Monstrous automatically ally you with the Witch King or the Dark Lord? Or is EVERONE your enemy?
Annuvin: Being a Monster more or less allies you with Angmar and the Witch-King (and a good thing too, since they need all the allies they can get!)
Annuvin: (I mean, have you seen the rate at which the 'heroes' kill off their minions? It's pretty large. Just today, you've killed 2,374 Orcs!)
Annuvin: Anyhow, while there is some infighting among the forces of Darkness, the Witch King doesn't really incentivize it, and the Orcs don't want to lose their HMO (for reasons covered above).

WarCry: Erunaman411: Will monsters be able to brawl or even kill other monsters? (Think of the end of Two Towers and outset of Return of the King with the orcs in Mordor)
Annuvin: Monsters can in fact slaughter other monsters. They don't fight other Orcs/monsters loyal to the Witch King.
Annuvin: But that Bear over there... eyeing you hungrily? Yeah... he's asking for it.
Mithril_Miser: I don't know if bears are monsters per se.
Mithril_Miser: But they are the #1 threat facing Eriador.

[PosterBoyKelly]

Sounds like it has a lot of potential, this will be my first game like this I'm reeeeaallly interested now~ Thanks for the Wraith pic and interviews!

[darthviper107]

I really want to play, but I'd have to see if it works on this internet connection, I get really slow times because of everyone on the internet all at once.

[PosterBoyKelly]

Yeah I have mine linked up wirelessly and usually it's good, but on days with lots of rain and interferance, it gets sluggish, really annoying. But I'm still gonna go for it.

[carbo-fation]

After reading through this thread, I am getting really excited about this game.

[WetaWork]

After reading through this thread, I am getting really excited about this game.

As is the guy in your sig. BTW, I think he is due for a bed pan change. :lol

[tomandshell]

MORE PICS TOM! I'm seriously getting excited for this! TOM...........Isengaurd?

Isengard is too far South and will not be included in the initial game world, which only covers Eriador (the northwestern area of Middle Earth.)

[darthviper107]

Aww, too bad. Now we can't go on a quest to Mordor where we would most certainly meet our doom.

[carbo-fation]

Isengard is too far South and will not be included in the initial game world, which only covers Eriador (the northwestern area of Middle Earth.)

I forget but is Mirkwood included in Eriador? How about the Lonely mountains?

[Darth Caedus]

I forget but is Mirkwood included in Eriador? How about the Lonely mountains?

This will tell you the answer to that. http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/e/eriador.html

Now Khazad-Dum is on the border of Eriador, I wonder if that will be included....

[Bodie The Cursed]

Im having issues downloading the software.. I preordered, registered.. now cant download.. me dum dum.. any ideas?..

[FrodoEyes]

I LOVED fotr. Don't read the reviews, they can have a different opinion to you. I enjoyed wandering around and meeting people on it - The Shire, Tom Bombadil, Moria.....it's a great game.

The company was Vivendi Universal, a Black Labels game I think. But I thought EA had snapped up the book rights too, and that's why they were able to include non movie stuff in their games?

SO, I hear you can bump into the fellowship, have you done that yet Tom? And have you met Tom Bombadil and Goldberry in the woods? Ran away from a black rider?

Tum de tum, I'll ask again.... :D

[Darth Caedus]

Old Tom Bombadil is a merry fellow;
Bright blue his jacket is, and his boots are yellow."

[tomandshell]

Tum de tum, I'll ask again.... :D

The Old Forest:

http://lotro.turbine.com/files/93/70/00/51/655.jpg

http://lotro.turbine.com/files/72/14/61/71/658.jpg

The House of Bombadil:

http://lotro.turbine.com/files/75/23/79/70/649.jpg

http://lotro.turbine.com/files/78/50/56/07/651.jpg

Old Tom Bombadil is a merry fellow;
Bright blue his jacket is, and his boots are yellow."

Blue jacket: Check. Yellow boots: Check.


You meet Strider inside the Prancing Pony, and he accompanies you on a quest instance at one point.

The members of the Fellowship are waiting to meet you in Rivendell. (But they won't talk to you at first, other than giving you a prescripted response.)

[PosterBoyKelly]

I always thought of him fat, but still really cool that he's there!~

[FrodoEyes]

Nice one Tom! Although I am quite disappointed with Bombadil and his house....his jacket looks green and he's supposed to have a big blue hat! And I never knew he had a shoulder bag!

[Darth Caedus]

Nice one Tom! Although I am quite disappointed with Bombadil and his house....his jacket looks green and he's supposed to have a big blue hat! And I never knew he had a shoulder bag!

What is funny, is that in his shoulder bag is his laptop and pda. The game makers are taking some liberties and adjusting it to the here and now.....

[PosterBoyKelly]

Also the cut Jabba scene from the movie will be in here first as well as Greddo shooting Frodo first.

[Darth Caedus]

Also the cut Jabba scene from the movie will be in here first as well as Greddo shooting Frodo first.

A groping wookie included??

[smc100]

Im having issues downloading the software.. I preordered, registered.. now cant download.. me dum dum.. any ideas?..

I just downloaded mine last night. I used the link to download the software utorrent and then clicked on the link they give you to download the software and it worked fine. Took all night and then I realized you can't play it until March 30th unless they invite you to the closed beta.

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=86

[Bodie The Cursed]

I just downloaded mine last night. I used the link to download the software utorrent and then clicked on the link they give you to download the software and it worked fine. Took all night and then I realized you can't play it until March 30th unless they invite you to the closed beta.

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=86

I downloaded Utorrent but I dont really know what to do w/ it.. I know Im kinda lame when it comes to this stuff..:o

Advice?..

[lcummins]

I downloaded Utorrent but I dont really know what to do w/ it.. I know Im kinda lame when it comes to this stuff..:o

Advice?..

Take a computer class?
















j/k :rotfl :rotfl

I have no clue about bit torrent stuff... never used it.

[WetaWork]

I downloaded Utorrent but I dont really know what to do w/ it.. I know Im kinda lame when it comes to this stuff..:o

Advice?..

After downloading the Utorrent software did you install it? If so, click on this link it it will start the torrent download of the game installation software:

http://lotrodl.turbine.com/installers/lotrobeta2.torrent

When it reaches 100%, the download is done. It could take as long as 6 hours depending upon how many seeders there are (people who either partially or completed their download and are still contributing to making it available for download).

You will then need to open the directory to where your file downloaded and execute the game install file.

[Bodie The Cursed]

When I click that link I get a page that says this..

Windows has the following information about this file type. This page will help you find software needed to open your file.



File Type: Unknown

Description: Windows does not recognize this file type.

The following Web sites have a comprehensive list of file extensions. You might be able to find information about this file type there:
FILExt


I have Utorrent opened.. but not sure what to do w/ it..

[Darth Caedus]

I use BITLORD on my torrents, I think it's the best program out there for them. You just download the torrent and load it in your torrent program. BITLORD automatically pops up when you click on a torrent if you install it.

[darthviper107]

You need to install a Torrent client. BitTorrent is a format to connect people to create a sort of network so the more people there the faster it downloads, without using server bandwith. Get BitComet or uTorrent programs and then you'll be able to use the .torrent file.


For the people that have paid and downloaded it. Is there any other option besides a torrent? The network ports that the torrent programs use are blocked at my college connection and there would be no way to get past it. (people use torrents to spread movies and stuff illegally so it's blocked here).

[Bodie The Cursed]

Im lost .. is it the weed?.. I have Utorrent 1.6 installed and running.. Or maybe I dont.. can you guys supply links and steps?.. Im clueless.. Computer talk is like another language.. WTF is a torrent and why does it torment me..:emperor

[WetaWork]

Im lost .. is it the weed?.. I have Utorrent 1.6 installed and running.. Or maybe I dont.. can you guys supply links and steps?.. Im clueless.. Computer talk is like another language.. WTF is a torrent and why does it torment me..:emperor

Try right mouse clicking on the torrent file/link and select "OPEN WITH". Then choose utorrent as the application that will open the torrent file.

If u torrent doesn't work, then try installing a different client like BitComet.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Figured it out somehow.. Not sure what I did different.. But its all set.. Now I just wish I could play..


*sniffs finger*

[WetaWork]

The NDA has been lifted as of today. Feel free to ask any questions / discuss.

A few random notes:

I'm currently playing the beta as "Darwin" a Lvl 14 Elf Hunter on the Meneldor server. :legolas

I've been very happy with the game so far. Seems to be paced very well as are the obtaining of traits, the ability to train for new skills as well as crafting.

Quests and side quests are plentiful and appear to be faithful to middle Earth lore.

The music system is great. They already started a thread on the beta forum for sheet music as it relates to keystrokes. I ran into a group of minstrel's that were quite talented. These guys/gals were keystoking various parts of Howard Shore's score.

Edit to add: Who is getting the game for sure?

[Jair]

Being somewhat of an online computer gaming geek from EQ to WoW, I can honestly say the dropping of the NDA for LOTR online is a good thing.

Been playing in beta since mid last year and have leveled up quite a few characters of all types. There are a lot of good things about this game and a few not so good things. Turbine has really straddled the fence on this game, trying to keep the LOTR lore people happy and the online gamer folks happy.

I'd write up a long winded review if I had the energy which I don't, suffice to say its a pretty decent game, if you play WOW and are looking for something similar, your in luck. If you are a lore person who is looking for a life as a hobbit prepare to be transported to a world much closer to the PJ movies then the books by a longshot.

I'll answer any questions I can :)


Evan

[nash]

what the heck is a NDA?

[WetaWork]

what the heck is a NDA?

Non-Disclosure Agreement. All beta testers have to agree not to disclose any details of the game.

[tomandshell]

My wife signed the NDA and hasn't said a word about it online.

:naughty


She is playing as Bryseis, a level 22 Elf Hunter on Meneldor.

I didn't make a new character after the most recent wipe.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Any screen shots of the 3rd party angle?..

[tomandshell]

Any screen shots of the 3rd party angle?..

Not on my laptop...

[WetaWork]

Another dev chat:

http://www.stratics.com/content/port...oclog/hoc5.php :faq

To summarize, it looks like we will eventually be getting kinship housing, personal housing, fishing, switchable weapon cosmetics, more class diversity & crafting recipes, and mounted battles. :sancho

[Bodie The Cursed]

*bump for more insight*:o

[WetaWork]

*bump for more insight*:o

Ok, here's a tidbit right up your alley:

You'll especially enjoy the different types of weed you can grow and smoke. There are also dev rumors that besides the various types of smoke ring shapes you can blow, you will also experience different "effects" depending on the type you smoke. Ahhh, good ole Chocolate Toby Tie, Ya mon...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=IR0C3_5H3rM

:peace

[Seth Gecko]

Are the legit system requirements out yet?

[Bodie The Cursed]

Wow.. I think Im going to like this game..

What server do you guys plan to play?

Ok, here's a tidbit right up your alley:

You'll especially enjoy the different types of weed you can grow and smoke. There are also dev rumors that besides the various types of smoke ring shapes you can blow, you will also experience different "effects" depending on the type you smoke. Ahhh, good ole Chocolate Toby Tie, Ya mon...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=IR0C3_5H3rM

:peace

[Darth Caedus]

we need a SS Freak Kinship, that would be great. is their melee player killing?.....not that I would EVER do that to any of you of course....

[PosterBoyKelly]

So why are there like 4 different "Men"? There's "Man" than "The Champion" than "The Hunter" and than "The Guardian" huh? Why not just have "Man" and if he happens to be from certain regions, he gets those particular attributes? And why wouldn't Elves have different attributes too? I just saw the videos on youtube, and it's the only thing that bugs me. It would be way cooler if you made "man" than said "oh he's from Gondo" and than he gets the "Champion" attributes, but to just say "CHAMPION" that's not a race! And what's "Man" than if those other 3 cover everything, just some hack?

[Darth Caedus]

So why are there like 4 different "Men"? There's "Man" than "The Champion" than "The Hunter" and than "The Guardian" huh? Why not just have "Man" and if he happens to be from certain regions, he gets those particular attributes? And why wouldn't Elves have different attributes too? I just saw the videos on youtube, and it's the only thing that bugs me. It would be way cooler if you made "man" than said "oh he's from Gondo" and than he gets the "Champion" attributes, but to just say "CHAMPION" that's not a race! And what's "Man" than if those other 3 cover everything, just some hack?

I can see your point, but I would imagine that at the initial release, there isn't that many places for each race to come from. From what I read, it's pretty much Eriador, and each race is from a certain part of that area. It would be hard to find places for each race and then each attribute to come from. The race/attribute system is very much like Diablo II, which I loved, so I'm looking forward to it.

[darthviper107]

Hey guys, they are doing some competition thing on LOTR Online. A free thing, On the 23rd you'll be able to play the game until th 26th with a chance each day to win a good graphics card:

http://www.gamespot.com/betas/lord_of_the_rings_online/index.php

[WetaWork]

Hope to see some of you stress test next weekend. Hurry, go sign up.

For those looking for more info on the game, warcry has some great coverage:

http://lotro.warcry.com/content/beta

[darthviper107]

I'm really excited, and if the Stress Test runs well on my computer I'll really be hard pressed not to order the game.

[tomandshell]

Wow.. I think Im going to like this game..

What server do you guys plan to play?
Let's get this decided before we all create our characters next month when the open beta begins.

[Fritz]

Ok, I'm downloading it right now. I'm not sure if this is for me since I'm more of a console gamer and it's difficult to schedule a time to be on-line on a consistent basis but what the heck, the least I can do is give it a try during the stress test.

[nash]

seems way to similar to WOW. As much as I want to get excited about this since it is LOTR, I think I'll be bored pretty easily. :monkey2:monkey2

[darthviper107]

From what I've read it does have some similarities, but people have said it's more fun than WoW.

[pordey2]

Let's get this decided before we all create our characters next month when the open beta begins.

Again and again: Lucky Americans!

:o :monkey2

[Seth Gecko]

I just upgraded my video card for this game.I loved SWG till they wrecked it and LOTR is a good time to me so i'm sure i'll love this.!!!(i tend to like MMORPG's as long as i like the content in the first place.

[Seth Gecko]

Yeah it's gonna be fun to explore middle earth
http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2006/306/reviews/914860_20061103_screen009.jpg

[carbo-fation]

I am sorry if this has been addressed before already, but how do I go about getting my hands on the Beta version?? I am anxious to try it.

[WetaWork]

I am sorry if this has been addressed before already, but how do I go about getting my hands on the Beta version?? I am anxious to try it.

http://www.gamespot.com/betas/lord_of_the_rings_online/index.php

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=72

[carbo-fation]

Thank you very much!:)

[darthviper107]

By the way, the Stress Test is only for 3 Days, the open Beta will start later after that.

[Seth Gecko]

I'm not gonna be doing any beta etc. But i'll be there on day one when the game comes out!:cool:

[Darth Caedus]

I'm not gonna be doing any beta etc. But i'll be there on day one when the game comes out!:cool:

Likewise, too lazy to do all the hassel with the beta. Just play the game when it comes out.

[Seth Gecko]

Yup the less bugs the better.

[darthviper107]

What server is everyone playing on? Once the Stress Test starts I want to have some friends.

And remember, the Stress Test enters you in to have a chance to win a new graphics card.

[tomandshell]

I'm not gonna be doing any beta etc. But i'll be there on day one when the game comes out!:cool:

If you preorder it, you can access the Open Beta (if you choose), and your character will carry over when the real games starts. Plus, you will get some exclusive in game items (cloak and a ring that boost your stats). Plus, you will get a lifetime discount on your monthly fee--only $10 a month instead of $15.

[Seth Gecko]

If you preorder it, you can access the Open Beta (if you choose), and your character will carry over when the real games starts. Plus, you will get some exclusive in game items (cloak and a ring that boost your stats). Plus, you will get a lifetime discount on your monthly fee--only $10 a month instead of $15.


Well jeez where should i preorder from a certain place?

[Fritz]

...Plus, you will get a lifetime discount on your monthly fee--only $10 a month instead of $15.

Sorry for my ignorance but are you saying to play this game I'm dishing out $10-$15 per month on top of buying the game? What does WoW cost per month?

[Seth Gecko]

lol^(yeah it's called an mmorpg they all cost $$)

forget it i preordered, thats too good of a deal not to do. lower monthly rates plus ingame exclusive items count me in.

[Fritz]

Ok, I'm a moron when it comes to this "MMORPG" but isn't there a goal or task you have to complete and then the games over? For example, I buy Marvel Ultimate Alliance. There's a goal involved to complete the game. I can play on-line through XBox Live so other players can join in and we can complete the goal together as different heroes. Is there not a goal involved with this Game or WoW? Seriously, someone needs to point me to a link or give me a crash course about MMORPG.

[smc100]

You can actually choose between $10 a month or $199 lifetime membership.

[Seth Gecko]

Ok, I'm a moron when it comes to this "MMORPG" but isn't there a goal or task you have to complete and then the games over? For example, I buy Marvel Ultimate Alliance. There's a goal involved to complete the game. I can play on-line through XBox Live so other players can join in and we can complete the goal together as different heroes. Is there not a goal involved with this Game or WoW? Seriously, someone needs to point me to a link or give me a crash course about MMORPG.

Uh no!
(if theres a goal it takes months or years to accomplish)
I suggest doing a google search.

[nash]

Ok, I'm a moron when it comes to this "MMORPG" but isn't there a goal or task you have to complete and then the games over? For example, I buy Marvel Ultimate Alliance. There's a goal involved to complete the game. I can play on-line through XBox Live so other players can join in and we can complete the goal together as different heroes. Is there not a goal involved with this Game or WoW? Seriously, someone needs to point me to a link or give me a crash course about MMORPG.
Don't think of it as goals, in MMORPG they're mainly "quests". In WOW, one quest may be that you need to find 10 of a certain kind of animal skins that you get from killing that animal. Or you find 10 mushrooms in a forest then bring them back to a certain person to make a potion.

Things to that effect.

Also there are lots of things you can do on the side which will make use of certain jobs such as tailoring, making armors, etc.

there's just too many things to tell you, you'd be best to google or go to the world of warcraft website since that is one of the biggest MMORPGs out there.

I could be wrong, but I don't think that MMORPGs have an ending.

[Fritz]

Nevermind, it's obvious that this isn't for me. :monkey1 :monkey3

[Seth Gecko]

Some have end game content.But like SWG it was what you made of it(your place in the galaxy)I miss that game.(i'll be there for swg2!!! probably need a new comp by the time that comes out)

[darthviper107]

So which server should I join for the Stress Test? Gladden, Brandywine, Meneldor, or Windfola?

If it works well then I'll preorder this game. And it would go well with the LCD TV I'll get with my tax return.

[Seth Gecko]

Well obviously in beta/stress test everything is NOT gonna go well:D

[darthviper107]

I just want it to run during the day. It's kind of useless to pay for a game that can only be played late at night because of too many people on the internet.

[tomandshell]

The thing I like about LOTRO is that it actually does have a plot, and the story is divided up into chapters. If you follow that story line, you get the feeling that you are progressing through a linear plot with special events and battles that you are working towards. I got turned off from playing Star Wars Galaxies because there was no framework. Going wherever you want and doing anything you want got boring fast. I needed a little more focus and direction, and I found that in LOTR online.

A non-player character that helps you early in the game is attacked and "infected" by a Ringwraith, and his condition worsens as the story progresses. Ultimately, you have to join forces with Aragorn in a special quest "instance" and hunt down your former comrade. It is things like this that make LOTR online more fun that other MMORPGs where you need to go and kill 25 animals and harvest their hide so that you can level up and then kill 25 stronger animals for their nicer hide and level up again. I felt like LOTRO was giving me an advancing plot with changing characters and events which actually impact the world around you at times.

[Seth Gecko]

Sounds good!Just preordered should have my open beta key in a few days.Then i''ll be set for march 30th.Theres really no way you can beat that deal.

[Jen]

I've never played an online game before, just regular PC games and Playstation2. Being the LOTR lover I am, I preorderd a copy and I'm looking forward to trying it out. With my addictive personality, I already know I'll be having a lot of very long nights on the computer. What am I getting myself into?!?!? Well, regardless, it sounds like something right up my alley.

[Seth Gecko]

I just got my key for preordering. I am Downloading now,i won't be able to play till open beta on march 30th but i'm getting it all set up.(updates everything installed etc.):cool: :cool: :cool:

[darthviper107]

I've never played an online game before, just regular PC games and Playstation2. Being the LOTR lover I am, I preorderd a copy and I'm looking forward to trying it out. With my addictive personality, I already know I'll be having a lot of very long nights on the computer. What am I getting myself into?!?!? Well, regardless, it sounds like something right up my alley.

MMORPG's are really fun, it's like a second life but you can do cool things, and stuff...and kill people.

[Jen]

MMORPG's are really fun, it's like a second life but you can do cool things, and stuff...and kill people.

I've always enjoyed the killing part:D Just can't get away with that sort of thing in real life.

[Jen]

I just got my key for preordering. I am Downloading now,i won't be able to play till open beta on march 30th but i'm getting it all set up.(updates everything installed etc.):cool: :cool: :cool:


Who did you preorder your game from. I got mine from amazon and am still waiting for my key.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Who did you preorder your game from. I got mine from amazon and am still waiting for my key.

look at post #1

[Seth Gecko]

Got mine from gogamer.com(this is gonna be a loooong download)

[Fritz]

Here is the latest article at IGN.

http://pc.ign.com/articles/765/765809p1.html

It sounds very interesting but I just don't think I have the time required to get involved with it. I've heard the stories of lost souls playing WoW. :monkey5 I assume if you play as a group everyone has to be on-line at the same time. Isn't that a little hard to coordinate. I can see that getting stressful.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Here is the latest article at IGN.

http://pc.ign.com/articles/765/765809p1.html

It sounds very interesting but I just don't think I have the time required to get involved with it. I've heard the stories of lost souls playing WoW. :monkey5 I assume if you play as a group everyone has to be on-line at the same time. Isn't that a little hard to coordinate. I can see that getting stressful.

People who get lost in games have no lives to start with.. Ive played Ultima Online for the last 9 years and I run into those types who take the online world waaaay to seriously.. Those are the people I target to murder...:monkey3

Im looking forward LOTRO.

[darthviper107]

I think it'll be fun. I can't wait for the weekend Stress Test.

[WetaWork]

For those who are participating in the closed beta/stress test, I'll be on the Melendor (sp?) server this weekend. I'm an Elf Hunter by the name of "Darwin". If you create your character on Melendor server, post your name here and we can try to meet online.

[Seth Gecko]

I just downloaded the game(did the preorder) i only see 4 servers whats up?Anyway can't wait for march 30th i'm all set and waiting to go.(not gonna do the stress test but i'll be waiting for feedback)

[darthviper107]

I think they have at least one other server shut down for now.

[darthviper107]

YeY! I just got added to the Beta so now I can play for longer than just the Stress Test!

[Seth Gecko]

http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060105325.jpg
http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060107528.jpg
http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060109731.jpg
http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060111199.jpg
http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060112762.jpg
http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060114855.jpg
http://pcmedia.ign.com/pc/image/article/766/766238/the-lord-of-the-rings-online-shadows-of-angmar-20070220060116652.jpg

[darthviper107]

So far it's really awesome, I'm a Level 6 Champion (Male Human) It's pretty fun, a lot more fun than Star Wars Galaxies was.

[darthviper107]

Amazing!

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/6724/lotroscreenvy7.jpg

[Seth Gecko]

Awesome can't wait till the 30th of march

[WetaWork]

So far it's really awesome, I'm a Level 6 Champion (Male Human) It's pretty fun, a lot more fun than Star Wars Galaxies was.

Nice playing with you tonight. :ring

Darwin, Lvl 16 Elf Hunter

[Bodie The Cursed]

What are the Class/Race options ?

[darthviper107]

Right now there are Elves, Humans, Dwarves, and Hobbits. Male and Female of each except for Dwarves.

It's really fun, And be sure to go on the Meneldor server, get some friends.

[Fritz]

I installed and registered last night for the stress test. I wouldn't let me pick a server or start a character since I guess the stress test doesn't start until today.

[Bodie The Cursed]

PLayed a little this morning.. Ill wait till the open Beta to play more so I dont waste time developing a char..

Looks like good late night fun. Ill also most likely purchase the lifetime membership to avoid monthly fees..

So is Meledar (sp) the chosen server around here?..

[darthviper107]

Meneldor Yes. I'm Qymaen, currently I'm in Archet

[Darth Caedus]

PLayed a little this morning.. Ill wait till the open Beta to play more so I dont waste time developing a char..

Looks like good late night fun. Ill also most likely purchase the lifetime membership to avoid monthly fees..

So is Meledar (sp) the chosen server around here?..

I'm confused, is it out to play yet? Or still in beta?

[twistedfreak]

Is there a link where you can join the beta?

[WetaWork]

I'm confused, is it out to play yet? Or still in beta?


The game is in closed beta and there is a scheduled stress test (mass weekend closed beta). Open beta for preorders starts March 30th.


Is there a link where you can join the beta?

http://www.gamespot.com/betas/lord_of_the_rings_online/index.php

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=72

[tomandshell]

I'm on Meneldor. Was, actually. I am going to wait to create another character until the open beta, so that it won't get erased yet again.

[WetaWork]

So is Meledar (sp) the chosen server around here?..

So far, yes. At least for the closed beta and stress test users. We could stick with the server for the open beta and release as well.

Anybody have ideas for an official Sideshow Freak kinship/fellowship name? Perhaps a name that tries to adhere to Middle Earth lore but represents our mutual interest (collecting hobby).. Personally, I would prefer not to have the word "freaks" in the name but I will go with majority vote. Here's a few:

- Crack of Doom
- My Precious Collection
- The Sideshow Collector Fellowship
- Collect for Life Fellowship

Any ideas?

[Seth Gecko]

I like crack of doom.Don't like anything with SS in the name seems tacky.

[Seth Gecko]

Just tried the stress test for the hell of it and WOW.I can tell i'm gonna like this game.

[Jen]

I'm going to torture myself and wait until the open beta starts....though you people are tempting me to cave in and join the closed beta.....no! I won't do it! I won't! (famous last words...we will see if they remain true.)

[Seth Gecko]

Yeah i'm mostly waiting for march 30th open beta as well but i just wanted to pop in and see what it was like.And i saw and it was good.

hobbit i made real quick

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/2786/screenshot00000jn2.jpg

[Fritz]

I signed up on the Meneldor server this morning and it figures It's down for maintenance from 9-10ET :rolleyes: :lol

Keeping in mind I'm not a big PC gamer, In the 15 minutes I've played I've noticed two things. I don't like the keyboard intensive input. I'm used to a controller or heavier reliance on a mouse a la Diablo or Battle for Middle Earth.

I don't want to buy a new video card since it seems mine's doesn't give you the highest resolution possible and the opening video was just ever so slightly choppy. I'm using an NVIDIA GeForce 6600 w/256MB. I'm assuming my system is good enough since it's 3.2GHz CPU with 2GB RAM.

[WetaWork]

I like crack of doom.Don't like anything with SS in the name seems tacky.

So far we have "Crack of Doom". The name is appropriate for Middle Earth lore (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orodruin) and pays homage to Sideshow's 1st entry in the LOTR Diaorama line. Any other suggestions for a kinship name?

I'll start consolidating a list of those interested in playing:

Server: Meneldor

SSF Name - Closed Beta Name - Open Beta Name

WetaWork - Darwin - TBD
darthviper107 - Qymaen - TBD
Seth Gecko - Tarlo - TBD
tomandshell - TBD - TBD
Fritz - TBD - TBD
Jen
Bodie The Cursed

[nash]

WetaWork - Darwin - TBD
darthviper107 - Qymaen - TBD
Seth Gecko - Tarlo - TBD
tomandshell - TBD - TBD
Fritz - TBD - TBD
Jen
Bodie The Cursed

The list of future addicts and adult diaper customers :P

[SSC_Nerd]

I'm just wondering how all you people got on the beta. Did you all pre-order the game at gamestop, or did you apply for the beta at the official game site?

[WetaWork]

I'm just wondering how all you people got on the beta. Did you all pre-order the game at gamestop, or did you apply for the beta at the official game site?

The game is in closed beta and there is a scheduled stress test going on this weekend (mass weekend closed beta). Open beta for preorders starts March 30th.


http://www.gamespot.com/betas/lord_o...line/index.php

http://www.lotro.com/index.php?page_id=72

[Seth Gecko]

I'm assuming my system is good enough since it's 3.2GHz CPU with 2GB RAM.


With that rig you outta be PC gaming.(dunno about the vid card)I might go out today and get me some more ram i got 1 gig. but you can never have enough.( my vid card and everything is more than fine for me passes all requirements)I had lag last night but so did most people it was the stress test after all and it was said to be expected.But unlike SWG i could actually move.I had lots of fun and now i want march 30th to come sooner than ever.

[hairlesswookiee]

wish i could play, but i have to wait for a Mac version.....:monkey2 oh well, i guess it will be worth the wait.

[hairlesswookiee]

btw, where can i find system requirements?? if they aren't too much i might be able to fire up the good old desktop. is a 7800gt good enough for a graphics card?? if its not count me out because i dont want to upgrade up the windows machine.

[Seth Gecko]

System requirements

http://lotro.turbine.com/index.php?page_id=104

[darthviper107]

It's really fun so far. I'm Level 11, and by the way they are doing Trivia on the servers later today. Trivia on the Meneldor server is at 8:30 EST and they'll be giving away prizes.

It's really fun so far, I'm not sure if I want to do the preorder but I might cave in and do it. Especially since my current character will be deleted after the closed beta is done.

[Darklord Dave]

Love the screenshot - I just have to say WoW! As in - it looks just like Wow, maybe a bit more reality based, but the interface is very similar.

Might have to move over to it when it's released.

[pordey2]

System requirements

http://lotro.turbine.com/index.php?page_id=104

Check
check
check

Have gotten really excited about this after all the screenshot :monkey5

[Bodie The Cursed]

Might have to move over to it when it's released.

Move over before its released and you can get a big break on monthly fees as a founder or choose no monthly fees.. But Im sure you knew this..

[darthviper107]

Monster play!http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/1078/lotromonsterts0.jpg

[Darth Caedus]

System requirements

http://lotro.turbine.com/index.php?page_id=104

Is it just me, or are those requirements not as high as expected?

[WetaWork]

Is it just me, or are those requirements not as high as expected?

I think Turbine did a great job making this game accessible to as many as possible by striking the right balance of graphical options and hardware requirements.

[Darth Caedus]

I think Turbine did a great job making this game accessible to as many as possible by striking the right balance of graphical options and hardware requirements.

That is true. but I was hoping for a game that needed a huge amount of resources so it would look incredible. Granted it looks incredible as is, I wonder what it could have been had it used uber equipment.

[WetaWork]

That is true. but I was hoping for a game that needed a huge amount of resources so it would look incredible. Granted it looks incredible as is, I wonder what it could have been had it used uber equipment.

Have you tried the game at max settings? It's stunning, and not just for an MMO. Quite the accomplishment when you consider how large the world is.

[Darth Caedus]

Have you tried the game at max settings? It's stunning, and not just for an MMO. Quite the accomplishment when you consider how large the world is.

Hoping to get the game at retail, don't want to play it if there are any bugs in the beta...that might ruin the experience :chew :chew

[WetaWork]

Hoping to get the game at retail, don't want to play it if there are any bugs in the beta...that might ruin the experience :chew :chew

If you have the hardware to run at max settings, you'll be very happy with the graphical fidelity.

At this point in the beta, I'm amazed at how few bugs I've run into. You would think the game was released over 6 months ago. Ask anyone in beta who's had prior experience with MMOs and you'll hear a similar praise...

This is the most polished MMO pre-release.

[darthviper107]

Yeah, the game runs really really well. I've only seen one error so far, that was when a character I had to kill was recently killed by someone else and it wouldn't respawn the character, but then they restarted the server later and it came back up fine.

[PosterBoyKelly]

Looks cool! I might grab it on the 30th and check it out. I've never played WoW or any games like that, so this would be my first, a Noob in the purest sense, but LOTR gets me anytime.

[Darth Caedus]

Looks cool! I might grab it on the 30th and check it out. I've never played WoW or any games like that, so this would be my first, a Noob in the purest sense, but LOTR gets me anytime.

Likewise, I've played plenty of online games, but never a MMPORGs. A buddy of mine played star wars galaxies and the matrix online, and those looked interesting. But nothing THAT great to get me sucked in, then comes LOTR Online. I can't resist my tolkien love. Any word of big bosses in the game? Like Ugluk or Shelob?

[darthviper107]

I haven't met them, but there are plenty of bosses to kill. I've killed two major spiders already, plus some wolves and stuff.

The only problem I have with the game is that there can be several people doing the same quest as you and so you might find the place where the character is and there will be like 10 people already there waiting for it to respawn. But luckily I butted in and took it for myself the next time it spawned. :D

[Fritz]

I tried it yesterday morning and again for a while tonight and I just don't feel the love. Oh well, there's plenty of other's who will play.

Now back to Gears of War and I think I'll finally install and play Battle for Middle Earth II.

The biggest dislike for me is the keyboard controlled movement. I prefer using the mouse for movement. Like in Diablo or BFME where you click a spot and the character moves towards it. Or even if it allowed joystick control.

[darthviper107]

Well, I usually use the keyboard for movement, but I'd like to aim using the mouse instead of having to turn with the keyboard keys. But it is like the other MMORPG games. But I think it's easier to play and there's lots more to do.

[Seth Gecko]

lotta lag in town need more ram i got 1gb but this is a mmorpg:D

[darthviper107]

And it's Beta.

From the expected system requirements it looks like the final game should be much faster.

[Seth Gecko]

for sure can't wait.

[The Dwimmerlaik]

The game looks good, dont know if i shall buy it

[Darth Caedus]

The game looks good, dont know if i shall buy it

You know you want to, succumb to the peer pressure.

[Seth Gecko]

Bring on the 30th!

[Fritz]

Some videos posted at IGN.com

http://media.pc.ign.com/media/012/012112/vids_1.html

[The Dwimmerlaik]

You know you want to, succumb to the peer pressure.

Thats so true, ill order it when i got the money :D

[Seth Gecko]

Some videos posted at IGN.com

http://media.pc.ign.com/media/012/012112/vids_1.html

saw those the games gonna be a good one.

[tomandshell]

Just got this e-mail from Amazon:

Dear Amazon.com Pre-order Customer,


This message is just to assure "Lord Of The Rings Online: Shadows Of Angmar" and "Lord Of The Rings Online: Shadows Of Angmar Collectors Edition" pre-order customers that they WILL indeed receive Founder's Benefits, including access to the upcoming Open Beta (slated to begin March 30), as well as the other benefits listed at http://www.lotro.com/founder, as part of their pre-order through Amazon.com.

We apologize for the delay in getting customers their access codes and want you to know that you will have this information probably within a few days. As noted at the top of the detail page we will be delivering this to customers via 'Your Media Library'. Please familiarize yourself with this functionality and watch the discussion boards and your e-mail box for notification of when codes will begin to be delivered.

Thank You your patience and your business,


Amazon.com Video Games Editors

[Seth Gecko]

Nice what server we thinkin guys?( lets try to pic a not super popular one)

[WetaWork]

Nice what server we thinkin guys?( lets try to pic a not super popular one)

I don't think a final list of all the server names have been made public yet.

I agree that we should go with a server name that either wasn't available in the beta or was later added, or a less recognizable name so it is less crowded/popular and therefore would'nt have to wait as long for crafting and quest items to respawn.

[Darth Caedus]

I don't think a final list of all the server names have been made public yet.

I agree that we should go with a server name that either wasn't available in the beta or was later added, or a less recognizable name so it is less crowded/popular and therefore would'nt have to wait as long for crafting and quest items to respawn.

I think that our names should have the same prefix or suffix. Like an ID, so we know if one of us is online; I don't want to memorize everybody's names, I'm just too lazy for that.

[WetaWork]

I think that our names should have the same prefix or suffix. Like an ID, so we know if one of us is online; I don't want to memorize everybody's names, I'm just too lazy for that.

I don't think we need to do that, especially for those who want to create a name that is true to Tolkien lore. Adding "SSF" before or after our chosen names kind of looks cheesy.

The user interface allows you to add names of friends and monitor their online status, level and map location. When we create the "Crack of Doom" kinship and you decide to join, you should be able to distinguish between friends in the kinship and friends you made outside the kinship.

[Darth Caedus]

I don't think we need to do that, especially for those who want to create a name that is true to Tolkien lore. Adding "SSF" before or after our chosen names kind of looks cheesy.

The user interface allows you to add names of friends and monitor their online status, level and map location. When we create the "Crack of Doom" kinship and you decide to join, you should be able to distinguish between friends in the kinship and friends you made outside the kinship.

Oh, okay thats cool then. As long as there is a way to track people by their user name/friend list, that is cool. I really didn't want to be [SSF]Tulkas anyway, now just Tulkas. Sounds good.

[Seth Gecko]

whats everyone gonna be i can't decide?

[WetaWork]

whats everyone gonna be i can't decide?

I'm going to roll an Elf Hunter as my main. My secondary toon will probably be a Hobbit Burgler.

[Bodie The Cursed]

Ill start out w/ a Human Champion..

[Darth Caedus]

Think I'm also going to go with a Human Champion named Tulkas. (cause he will be a BAMF)

[Seth Gecko]

Think i'm gonna go elf guardian as my main and the 2nd toon will be a hobbit burgler.(or dwarf can't decide)

[tomandshell]

I'm sure as heck not going to be a Hobbit minstrel.

[WetaWork]

The release notes of the next update: :google This game is so playable now, it boggles my mind just how polished it will be when it gets released.

Of Special Note
Lutes for all! Due to the popularity of the music system in general, and the relative lack of popularity of the clarinet in particular, all classes can now use Lutes at level 5. In addition, Minstrels can get their additional instrument proficiencies at level 5 instead of 20.
The XP curve has become less mountainous, but does have a longer run distance. However it has very little (if any) effect on the low levels. Never fear however, heavy quest support will be released (as quoted by Made of Lions) within a month to support the hardcore achievers who’ll be out ahead of the curve.
When inviting players into a fellowship in the same newbie experience, but different layers, we now teleport the invited player to the same layer as the leader of that fellowship. This means newbie players will now be able to meet up with their friends right away. However, please note the following exceptions:
A player that has completed the newbie experience can no longer invite a player to fellow if the other player is still in the newbie experience.
A player in the newbie experience can no longer invite a player to a fellowship if the invited player has already finished the newbie experience.
Players can no longer invite players that are in different newbie experiences into their fellowships. (Archet cannot invite players in Ered Luin and vice versa.)
Large cities throughout Middle-earth now have NPCs who will appear and tell you the current state of the battle in the Ettenmoors.
Burglars can now track many chests in which quest items are found.
Armour points have been redistributed and rebalanced, so expect a change in the armour value of all armour suits in the game.
The repair cost of heavy armour has been addressed, and we addressed some repair cost inconsistencies with armour in general. The overall change here is that heavy armour should cost less to repair, light armour has seen a slight increase, and there is no change to medium armour.
Mouse steering and looking can now be done even when the focus is in the chat entry window.
For all dialogs, you can now press the enter key to perform the "Accept" response.
We've added support for the Logitech G15's LCD panel. When you're in character generation and selection, you'll see the name of the game. Once you've logged in, we show your morale (numbers and progress bar) your mood (number) your power (numbers and progress bar) and the landscape area you’re in. Nifty!
Rewrote the way all static content (buildings, trees, etc.) gets managed on the client. This should significantly improve client performance.
Travel to and from the Ettenmoors is now available from East Bree, Michel Delving, and Thorin's Gate.
Celondim is now part of the Postal system!
Monsters are able to reach you when you're in water. You are no longer safe.
A great number of changes have been applied to reduce the amount of money in the game.
An ambient sense of Hope in the recently expanded-into portions of the Shire and Bree-land is now present, bringing these areas in line with other previously hopeful areas.
Reflecting Pools now always allow you to join your fellowship in an instance.
Friends lists are now shared across all of your characters per shard; monster players will have a separate friends list that is also shared across all of your monster players per shard. Your friends lists will be cleared for this change.
Bree-town now has a bank!

Gameplay
Lore-masters using staff and sword now properly attack with both weapons during auto-attack.
Fixed a race condition that could lead to an NPC being stuck permanently dazed.
Fixed an issue that caused monsters to become stuck and unable to attack if they aggro'd while idling during a patrol.
Multiple active toggle skills which increase focus or fervour will not override each other.
You now lose all focus or fervour when you're defeated.
Monsters should stop being quite so easy at level 40 when you are a higher level than they are.
Fixed a bug that was causing players to occasionally lose all accrued rest bonus experience.
Fixed a bug that was causing some items to show as busy (hourglass icon) on the quickslot bar when the player was executing skills.
The Fellowship maneuver assist button will no longer show up for monster players, or for players who have not yet earned their Fellowship skills.
Fixed how auto-attack works with the "skill target forwarding" option enabled so the correct attack (melee or ranged) is used. This will be most noticeable for those trying to use ranged auto-attack with this feature.
Tracking distance has been decreased to 360 meters.
Tracking ends when your target is defeated.
AIs will fail path-planning much less often.
Monsters should enter anti-exploit mode less often.
Monsters will no longer attempt to move to you if they cannot get to you.
Pets are more loyal, and will be less likely to stop following you.
Players can no longer attack Dirk's sheep in the Archet newbie area. That includes shouting at them, you mean Captains, you.
Casting multiple auras works!
Targeting numbers for AOE damage for the Minstrel has been adjusted, as well as the cooldown on his AOE damage skills.
Attributes have been re-examined. In general, they should have more impact depending on class and choice. However, some skill buffs have also been adjusted to take these new changes into account.
Rebalancing changes and cooldown channel modifications have been made to the Minstrel.
We’ve made some new updates to regeneration times, and pet damage has been impacted by the regeneration rebalance.
Attribute curves have been changed for all classes for rebalancing.

Skills
Champion:
Blade Storm now does twice as much damage, costs additional power and has a longer cooldown
Blade Explosion now does additional damage, costs additional power, and has a longer cooldown.
Dire Need now heals 2 points of health for every point of power consumed.
Clobber can now be used as soon as the previous skill finished. It no longer waits for you to recover.
When Fervour is toggled on, the Champion cannot block, parry, or evade, but receives a 15% bonus to damage and increased power regeneration.
While dual-wielding, Savage Strikes only costs 2 fervour to activate and Brutal Strikes only requires 3 fervour to activate. While this change is small, it does provide a tempo boost to Champions that choose to dual-wield instead of using a 2-handed weapon.
Brutal Strikes now does 5% more damage per attack, and uses the off-hand weapon for the final attack when dual-wielding.
Sudden Defence can no longer be used while fervour is active.
Merciful Strike can now be used when the target is at less than 20% health, and now does 100% of weapon damage instead of 150%.
The Bleed associated with Cleave now only applies 50% of the time, but does over double the amount of damage it currently does per tick.
Wild Attack, Savage Strikes, and Brutal Strikes have been adjusted to reduce the amount of time they prevent you from performing other actions.
Sudden Defence and Hamstring no longer flash on and off out of combat, and cannot be used out of combat.
Hamstring now slows targets by 30%.
Updated the Cleave skill description to reflect the fact that it only applies its DOT half of the time.
Champion - The Action Contribution Duration of his buff skills (Flurry, Exchange of Blows, Sprint, Battle-Frenzy) has been reduced. This reduces the global reset after their use, and keeps them from blocking other skill plays.
“Sprint” is now a flat 35% speed increase instead of being on a progression.
Guardian:
Shield Taunt has had its reset time extended to 10 seconds.
Thrill of Danger has had its reset time extended to 7 minutes by default and 5 minutes when improved.
Stamp now animates more quickly and delivers its attack hook nearly instantly.
Guardian's Promise now requires the Guardian to perform an induction when he is summoned.
“Thrill of Danger” is no longer useable outside of combat.
Hunter:
“On the Move” has been renamed to “Press Onward,” has been given a new animation, and is not useable while moving.
“Intent Concentration” and “Needful Haste” recovery were reduced to 3 minutes and can be further lowered with the “Swift Recovery” trait.
“Quick Shot” while in Strength Stance movement debuff increased from 30% to 40%
Endurance Stance no longer penalizes damage, but its power cost reduction is lowered to 10% (20% with trait)
Minstrel:
“Ballad of Aiglos” and “Chant of the Stalwart” have had the following changes:
They now have a 30 minute cooldown.
The magnitude of the effects has been reduced (no longer 100+ % to attack or defense).
Increased the duration on these effects to 5 minutes.
They are no longer capable of stacking with similar item-effects.
Updated the effect icons on both of these effects.
“Chant of the Stalwart” now buffs the fellowship instead of debuffing them.
Captain
Captain Trainers now offer the Rank 2 Evade Passive Skill at level 21, as opposed to the Rank 1 Evade Passive Skill (which was already being offered at level 13)
There is no longer a cooldown for summoning a Herald.
The cooldown for all of the Captain's Mark skills has been reduced to 10 seconds.
The skill descriptions for Command: Focus, Last Stand, and all of the Captain’s Marks have been updated to be 105% more accurate and 27% less misleading.
The descriptions for all of the Captain Herald’s skills now mention their cooldown timers.
The Herald skill Coordinated Attack now has a chance of stunning the target, as opposed to being a guaranteed stun, and is now on a 60 second cooldown. It also does slightly more damage.
The cooldown on the Herald skill Infuriating Tactics has been reduced to 15 seconds.
Words of Courage no longer has a cooldown, has a 3 second induction, and costs slightly more power to use.
The Herald skill Lend Will now has a 90 second cooldown.
All of the Captain's Mark skills now enable the Herald's skills Coordinated Attack and Infuriating Tactics.
"Herald's Mark" has been renamed to "Noble Mark" and now applies a small light damage DoT to the target.
Known Issues: **Captains please read**
Captains were being given a Block Passive Characteristic before they could use shields. Yeah, we thought that was weird too. We have since reordered when Captains will receive their Block and Parry Passives. Unfortunately this change may require you to visit your Trainer to repurchase these Characteristics.
Pressing Attack and Noble Mark are now bestowed at levels 10 and 12, respectively. This change may require you to revisit your Trainer to retrain these skills.

General:
Fixed a bug preventing the out-of-range indicator from showing up on some Skill quickslots when it should, e.g. the Warleader "Field Promotion" skill.
“Runic Use” passive skill has a new icon.
Traits/Titles/Accomplishments
Fixed a bug that prevented a player’s active title from being cleared when hitting the "Clear Active" button inside of the Title UI.
Fixed a bug that would display the player’s title even if Show Titles was turned off in the Options UI.
Fixed a bug that would prevent a player’s active title from being displayed when they first entered the game.
Player characters who join a raid and defeat targets listed as an accomplishment while in a raid will now properly receive credit for these kills.
You get a much clearer error when you try to drop a trait into the wrong kind of slot.
We have reduced the maximum number of Virtue trait slots from 8 to 5. Virtues are not lost, but you may have to visit a Bard to reconfigure your Virtues as you see fit.
Fixed items to show as usable when a trait that changes the player’s allowed equipment categories is slotted.
Updated the Shield Expertise Trait so it now modifies armour.
The bonus for the trait “Defensive Line” is now +10 Vitality instead of -2% to the Fervour damage penalty.

Adoptions/Notary System/Bios
The Character Bio page will now properly update when adopting or abandoning relationships.
The chat window now displays feedback when a player sets their surname in the Notary UI.
Fixed a bug that was preventing the player’s name from showing up in the Family Tree.
When a player selects a surname from the Notary, they are now granted a title to go with it.
The Notary UI now properly enables and disables the Abandon button.
The Notary UI now displays the proper fee for abandoning a relationship.
Changing your generation via the Bio UI will now generate the appropriate chat feedback.
The Change Generation button on the Character Journal’s Bio Page will now enable and disable itself if a player adds or removes relationships.
The Generation Menu on the Character Journal’s Bio Page now displays the character’s current generation by default.
Added a tutorial hint for the Notary UI.

Monster Play
Title system fixes to update title correctly when PvMP rank changes.
Monster players can now use the maps they earned by completing monster quests.
Monster players will now correctly receive credit and begin working toward the slayer achievements available in the Ettenmoors upon successfully killing a player of any race.
Troll Tyrants in the Ettenmoors will no longer hide the fact that they are members of the Krahjarn Tribe.
There was a bug where creatures in the Ettenmoors were continuing to drop normal loot. This has been fixed. Creatures in the Ettenmoors will now drop only the special Ettenmoors items that were created for monster play.
Rangers and Uruk Iron-defenders in the Ettenmoors, who defend the respawn locations, are now rooted to the ground and will see players attempting to approach close enough to attack recently rescued warriors. Be cautious - they pack a punch from a distance!
The Krahjarn guards protecting the respawn points in the Ettenmoors took a few too many blows to the head and thought that they were members of the Ongbúrz Tribe. After a severe beating from the War Tyrant, the Iron-defenders once again understand their true allegiance. Right, Uruks? They're cowering. I swear it.
Snowreap trolls now support the Goblins of Grothum from the valley below the Isendeep Mine in the Ettenmoors.
Trophy drop rates on items needed for quests in the Ettenmoors have been adjusted to drop more frequently.
We made another pass at the quests obtained in monster play. These quests now have two-hour, ninety-minute, and one-hour long delays between completions. You will also find the items needed to complete these quests more often.
Ettenmoors Guards stationed at Glan Vraig for players and Gramsfoot for monster players, as well as guards for both near their rally points, will detect stealthed players.
Addressing some crowd control concerns for monster players by making changes the monster player side of things:
The Orc Reaver's "Resilience" skill's recovery was reduced from 5 minutes to 3 minutes (allows recovery from any negative state)
The Uruk Warleader's "Snap Out of It!" recovery was reduced from 60 seconds to 20 seconds (helps others out of negative states)
We’ve introduced potions for monster players that allow them to break free from roots and stuns. These consumable items have recovery timers, and can be purchased from a Tarkripper Quartermaster near you!
Map notes in the Ettenmoors for keep control now contain the name of the location.
Monster player “Slay Player” accomplishments should be working now.

Auctions
The Auction UI now properly lists "Armor" as "Armour".
Fixed a bug in the Auction System that was preventing more than ten bids from displaying in the Auctions UI.
The number of allowed active auctions has been raised to thirty.
Cancelling an auction now sends the correct mail message to the player who cancelled the auction.
Fixed a typo in outgoing auction mail.
Fixed an Auction UI bug that would cause the Bid and Buyout buttons to stay enabled even if the auction list was empty.
The "Name" search field on the Auction UI is now correctly labeled "Item Name" search field.
Fixed a bug that was preventing the Auction UI's Sort menu to work properly.
The chat window now displays a message when an auction is cancelled.
The Auction UI will no longer display zero value for buyout on auctions when no buyout has been specified.
Added a tutorial pop-up to the Auction House, which will be displayed the first time the Auction House is opened.
The Auction UI will now update the Bids page when the user places a bid.
Auction UI: Inside of the Auction Category Tree, the Light Armour "Back" category has been removed and replaced with a "Cloak" category, located under Armour.
Auction UI: Fixed the "Book" search category to search for Lore Master Class items.
Auction UI: Fixed the "Oil" search category to search for Hunter Class Items.
Auction UI: Fixed the "Tool" search category to search for Burglar Class Items.
Replaced the Auction UI's "Pennants" search category with "Armaments.”
Added "Runes" to the Auction UI's search category tree, to search for Champion Class Items.
Added "Shield Spikes" to the Auction UI's search category tree, to search for Guardian Class Items.
Fixed a bug that was preventing players from buying out an auction they were already the high bidder on.
Mail
The cost of mail has been increased: 50 copper for mailing a basic message. Mailing items will now cost a great deal more!
Fixed a bug in the Mail UI which could cause the compose mail button to stay disabled for the remainder of the play session.
Fixed a bug in the Mail System that would cause two error messages to be displayed when attempting to mail a bound item.
Using a Mail Box for the first time will now popup a tutorial hint.
The Mail UI now displays the time remaining to the nearest hour or day, depending on how much time is remaining.
You can no longer delete mail with attachments.
Returned Mail now has its own status icon.
Fixed a bug in the Mail UI which would prevent a letter from opening on double-click.
Fixed a bug in the Mail System that was preventing “Return to Sender” mail from actually being returned to the sender.
The Compose Mail UI will now clear its subject when removing an item from the attachment field. This will only happen if the player has not specified a subject.
Fixed a bug that would prevent the Delete Mail button from being enabled.
It is no longer possible for the Free Peoples to send mail to the Forces of Darkness, and vice versa. They’re hardly on speaking terms, anyway.
Fixed a bug that could cause the Send button on a letter to become permanently disabled.
Fixed a bug in the Mail UI that was causing the postage cost to be truncated.
The Postage cost of sending a letter with an item attached is now 50 coppers + 20% of the item’s vendor value.
It is now possible to send mail with extended ASCII characters in the subject field. This fixes a problem when sending items through the mail with accented characters.

Crafting
Jeweller
Execution of Jeweller recipes no longer requires the player to be near a Study or Superior Study. These recipes now require the player to be near a Workbench or Superior Workbench.
Updated the names of many Jeweller products and recipes.
Some tier 4 rings and necklaces were equipping to the wrong item slots. This has now been fixed.
Fixed the plural display names for both "Beryl" and "Polished Beryl."
Some of the re-balanced Jeweller recipes were using incorrect quantities of ingredients. This has been fixed.
Updated the descriptions on all Edhelharn tokens to include spell effect durations.
Tier 4 jewellery rings/necklaces can now be worn in the correct inventory slots.
Tailoring
o All Light Armor Boots are now "Shoes." Also updated the names of related Light Armor recipe scrolls.
o All Light Armor Helms are now "Hats," "Hoods," or "Caps." Also updated the names of related Light Armor recipe scrolls.
o All Light Armor Gauntlets are now "Gloves." Also updated the names of related Light Armor recipe scrolls.
o The tier 3 tailor recipes for the "Traveller's" armour set were producing the wrong armour pieces when a critical result occurred. This has now been fixed.
Woodworking:
Stout Ash Hammers were incorrectly giving their weapon type as "Mace." This has been fixed, and they are now correctly identified as "One-Handed Hammer."
Metalworking:
Updated icons for the tier 3, 4, and 5 Component ingredients.
Updated the names of most crafted shields. Also updated the names of the recipes that produce these shields.
Increased the level requirements for all tier 2 metalworking crafted heavy armour sets. This change may cause some armour pieces currently equipped to be removed to the player's inventory if they are no longer high enough level to wear the armor.
"Iron" armour set: Increased level requirement to 18 (was 15).
"Thick Iron" armour set: Increased level requirement to 18 (was 15).
"Crafted" armour set: Increased level requirement to 21 (was 19).
"Well-Crafted" armour set: Increased level requirement to 21 (was 19).
"Heavy Iron" armour set: Increased level requirement to 18 (was 15).
"Hardened Iron" armour set: Increased level requirement to 18 (was 15).
"Forge-Crafted" armour set: Increased level requirement to 21 (was 19).
"Temper-Crafted" armour set: Increased level requirement to 21 (was 19).
Farming:
Adjusted the experience values for all farming recipes. Recipes that produce vegetables, fruit, and pipe-weed have had their experience rewards increased slightly. Recipes that produce harvestable fields, and recipes that produce seed have had their experience rewards decreased slightly.
Changed induction bar to read "Working..."
Updated the names of all pipe-weed, vegetable, and fruit fields.
Updated icons for pipe-weed seeds, fair pipe-weed plants, poor pipe-weed plants, bushels of fair vegetables, and bushels of poor vegetables.
Poor plants are no longer valued the same as good pla