I was looking for an action adventure game to play during the holiday season. For a long time, I had my eye on Shadow of Mordor. I like the action of the game. It took me a few hours to get a feel for the game. The graphics are great. I am still playing so I am still trying to get a feel for the story line. As with most games these days, you can do side missions and digress from the main story. I like the slash and move tactic to eliminate foes. Therefore, the battle system works, especially when you are fighting 20 plus foes. It was a lot at first, but you learn tactics and gain abilities to help you eliminate them all. Leveling up your character is interesting and fun. You can use points to obtain various abilities that you can use in battle. Weapons are automatically drawn so you do not have to waste time doing that. You have the ability to climb walls, assassinate enemies from above, interrogate foes, threaten bosses, ride beasts, etc. I can see the comparison to the Assassin Creed series. I do like the fact that you eliminate one enemy, another one rises up. There seems to be a boss hierarchy system, so there is no shortage of these bosses to fight in the game. The game is fun, but it can get a bit repetitive at times. There are in-games challenges that you can complete for points that you can use to level up. I am half way through the game and though it is a bit repetitive, it can be fun. As I continue to progress in the game, perhaps the story will become more prevalent. If you like action/role playing games, then I do suggest that you give this one a chance. It was on sale for nearly $20 so the price is not bad at all. If you are a Gamer Club member, you will get a discount on the game. Also, this is the game of the year addition, so there are some extra missions that come along with it. I hope this helps.