Rating: 10/10

Gollum, the latest venture from Daedalic Entertainment, takes players on a unique and psychological journey into the tortured mind of one of Middle-earth's most iconic characters. While not without its flaws, Gollum manages to deliver a distinctive gaming experience that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

The game's greatest strength lies in its narrative and character exploration. Gollum's internal struggle between his Smeagol and Gollum personas is portrayed with nuance and depth. The storyline offers insights into the character's past and motivations, shedding light on the complex nature of Gollum's obsession with the One Ring. The voice acting and motion capture work for Gollum are outstanding, capturing the essence of the character made famous by J.R.R. Tolkien's writings and Peter Jackson's films.

Gollum's stealth-based gameplay is a departure from traditional action-oriented Middle-earth games. The emphasis on sneaking and climbing adds a layer of tension and strategy to the experience. The mechanics align well with the character's nature, as players navigate the shadows and utilize Gollum's agility to outwit enemies. The level design, while not groundbreaking, successfully captures the eerie and treacherous atmosphere of Mordor.

However, Gollum falls short in certain technical aspects. The graphics and animations, while serviceable, lack the polish seen in some other contemporary titles. The controls can be finicky at times, leading to frustration during critical moments. Additionally, the pacing of the gameplay may not suit everyone, as the slower, methodical approach may not be appealing to those accustomed to more action-packed experiences.

Despite its flaws, Gollum is an undeniably fascinating journey for fans of the Lord of the Rings universe. The game's commitment to storytelling and character development sets it apart, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved figure. While it may not achieve perfection, Gollum is certainly worth playing for those who appreciate a narrative-driven experience and are willing to overlook some technical shortcomings. With a rating of 10/10, Gollum stands as a commendable addition to the Middle-earth gaming catalog, providing a unique lens through which to view the world of Tolkien.





Reviewed on Jan 05, 2024


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