The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien is one of the most acclaimed literary pieces of the 20th century. The ultimate story of good vs. evil is known to readers of all genres, and inspires hope in anyone who has ever had to face seemingly insurmountable odds. This fantasy icon has acquired prestige not only for its story, but for the world that was built around the tale.
In The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien references certain events that are not described in great detail; for example, Gandalf’s battle with Saruman on Weathertop. He also leaves out some potential minor and major ramifications of the quest of the Fellowship, such as what happens to Moria after the Fellowship passes through and stirs up the evil within. Furthermore, the world of Middle-earth has a history and culture as rich and vibrant as our own. Arda is peopled with a healthy variety of races and civilizations; some of whom meet the Fellowship, and others which are merely referenced by Tolkien in appendices.
In The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien references certain events that are not described in great detail; for example, Gandalf’s battle with Saruman on Weathertop. He also leaves out some potential minor and major ramifications of the quest of the Fellowship, such as what happens to Moria after the Fellowship passes through and stirs up the evil within. Furthermore, the world of Middle-earth has a history and culture as rich and vibrant as our own. Arda is peopled with a healthy variety of races and civilizations; some of whom meet the Fellowship, and others which are merely referenced by Tolkien in appendices.
Using this living, breathing world, and some of the allusions made by Tolkien himself, The Lord of the Rings Online™ (LOTRO) design team has created what we call the Epic Storyline. The Epic Storyline snakes through the Fellowship’s quest, intersecting with it at key points and allowing for contributions that supplement the lore in exciting and believable ways. The Epic Storyline is broken up into Books, and each Book is broken up into chapters.
LOTRO’s storyline lets your character be a hero in a story that has a predetermined cast and ending. Meet Aragorn, and aid his Ranger brothers while he protects his Hobbit charges. Help Gandalf’s fellow Wizard, Radagast, drive back an ancient evil. Walk with Frodo in Rivendell, and ease his mind as he contemplates what lies before him.
The stories of Middle-earth are not limited to the journey of the Fellowship. Travel the Epic Storyline, and witness the ramifications of their legendary passage first-hand.
