Pre-Order and Collector's Editions Announced!

[SnowblindTina]

It's basically a loot-lover's paradise. Enjoy, and don't forget to pre-order!

The Collector’s Edition includes:

Ranger of the North Quiver Case
War in the North art book featuring concept art of key characters in the game, various enemies and beautiful environments in Middle-earth
Inside Look: The Music of War in the North—content includes: interviews and footage of legendary composer Inon Zur at Abbey Road Studios and the E3 2011 Concert event, along with three tracks from the game soundtrack
Digital content:
Ranger of the North Avatar for Xbox Live (Xbox 360 sku) - includes the Ranger armor set, helmet, quiver and bow
War in the North Theme Pack (PS3 sku) - includes War in the North wallpaper, fonts, icons and much more!
The Lord of the Rings: War in the North video game


If you choose the standard edition, battle against Sauron’s evil forces and help turn the tide of the War of the Ring with these special pre-order incentives from the following retailers:

Amazon.com
Exclusive to Amazon.com, pre-order the game and get early access to part two of the War in the North Digital Comic written by Brian Wood, illustrated by Simon Coleby and produced by DC Entertainment. The comic book reveals the back story leading up to The Lord of the Rings: War in the North. Players will also receive the Orc Champion sword for in-game use.

Best Buy
Embark on an Elven adventure with the Elf Theme Pack, equipped with a mystical Elven sword, armor and helmet

GameStop
Visit the Citadel of the Stars and the Tower of Stone with the Human Theme Pack equipped with an exclusive human sword, armor and battle attire of the Human Ranger

Target
Immerse yourself in the sounds of Middle-earth with three exclusive tracks from the War in the North soundtrack.

Wal-Mart
A Dwarven quest lies ahead for everyone who chooses to pre-order at Wal-Mart; the Dwarf Theme Pack includes an exclusive dwarf sword, armor and helmet.

Edited on 9/30 to remove the Challenge maps references, as Challenge maps are now included on disc for everyone!

[Dubious-Daydream]

Please release this in Europe!

[SnowblindTina]

Dubious-Daydream. Final details for Europe are still being worked out. As soon as we have them, we'll send them out. :)

[Stevurn]

Toys r us LOL

The most notable thing here is "Osgiliath" and "challenge map". (Y)

[ElveHaldir]

Toys r us LOL

The most notable thing here is "Osgiliath" and "challenge map". (Y)

Yeah :D
It reminds me of the Batman: Arkham Asylum where you could do "challenge mission", which were short versions of an arena where you get points for specific kills.

Thanks for sharing this so fast, SnowblindTina :D

[Arya]

Artbook sounds really nice..i remember how we actually wished that the special edition could have something like this. :)

I have never before pre-ordered or bought special editions of any games..Maybe War in the north is the first one,who knows. You cant get these items from anywhere else,can you?

[Duneire]

Thanks for the info, Tina!

As a couple of you guys mentioned - challenge map? I think this is the closest we have gotten to official news of bonus content (horde/siege type mode). :D

Anywho, the Collector's Edition looks awesome, pity I won't really be able to afford it! (Well, I don't know if I could justify paying more than a certain amount for a game, even with all the awesome extras :p)

[Freezeplz]

This looks great! I think I'm just going to Pre-Order from Best Buy or Gamestop...but I don't know WHICH! Both look like some great content, hopefully they become DLC or something. This update is great! Thanks (now people will start posting threads on what does "Fall" mean and which months SB feel fit this category)

[Arya]

Oh,i completely missed that Challenge map part! This sounds really nice..pity it's only in these special versions :)

Osgiliath and Lothlorien,though? And in different versions?

It's really difficult to choose between these two. Both are great and really interesting,especially Osgiliath which lies at the southern parts of the Middle-earth. Maybe we'll see other famous places aswell?

You people might want to wait until you get more information about this,though.

[ElveHaldir]

Oh,i completely missed that Challenge map part! This sounds really nice..pity it's only in these special versions :)

Osgiliath and Lothlorien,though? And in different versions?

I think it means more like "there is a challenge mode and if you buy the special edition you will get a bonus map" and not the mode itself as a bonus. We still need some more information on what it will exactly be, but that sounds pretty good, even if you're not buying the special edition :D

Anyway, choosing will be hard, though I think they'll pop up as DLC later on :)
(though they won't say that because else the deals with online stores sound less exclusive and people might wait for it to become DLC rather than buy the SE. Though that's just a guess :P )

[Duneire]

Oh,i completely missed that Challenge map part! This sounds really nice..pity it's only in these special versions :)


I have a feeling (and that's only a feeling) that the Osgiliath and Lothlorien challenge maps will be bonus maps on top of the ones that everyone will get when they buy the game. Of course, this is all based on the idea that the challenge maps are some sort of extra playable content, like in Batman: Arkham Asylum (as ElveHaldir mentioned). :p

EDIT: Posted this before I saw ElveHaldir's above post :p

[Legolas14]

Any UK information going to be released soon?

[jullingen]

You must be kidding me! Is it not clear that the EU will drop the "extra edition"? then I have only one question: Will I be able to buy extra edition package from amazon or any other Internet business even though you live in Europe? =O

[SnowblindTina]

All European details are in the process of being finalized. As soon as we can share that information with you, we will be sending it out to the international sites.

[Marc89]

I will buy this day one. I can't find this edition on Amazon.com yet but the second I can I will pre order it. Way to go snowblind this is one of the coolest pre-orders I have ever seen. I rarely shell out the extra money for collectors editions but I will make an exception for this.

[Cathe]

Ohmygod that sounds amazing. Hopefully the UK gets a decent collectors edition too - i'll wait patiently (probably!) until more news is released ;)

[Lalaith]

Nice! I do not know if I will buy the normal version, depends on what I see in the coming months. The game looks good but I think it lacks too things to be the LOTR game I would like to buy. Admittedly, this edition is very good, if Snowblind has an ace up his sleeve and surprises from now on, I'll buy that.

[hopfrog16]

I will buy this day one. I can't find this edition on Amazon.com yet but the second I can I will pre order it. Way to go snowblind this is one of the coolest pre-orders I have ever seen. I rarely shell out the extra money for collectors editions but I will make an exception for this.

I ditto this. =)

[Samwise]

For those who are unable to preorder it, will they be able to purchase Osgiliath and Lothlorien through DLC? Also, could you explain challenge map b/c i don't want my spirits of a horde mode to get shot down so its best i don't get them hyped up without confirmation that 'challenge map' means horde mode

[Fexelea]

Wooot!!!

Awesome!

Seems we get a combination of the stuff from the Special Edition Yay or Nay thread :D

I gotta ask tho, will there be an Asia version or do I have to import?

[TolkienIsTruth7]

LOVE IT! Great design choices for the SE... absolutely brilliant! :) Ill be pre-ordering the 360 SE from Wal-Mart to get the dwarf pack. :)

[Djomblade]

If this sounds too negative I apologize to all in advance...seriously. Im too old, have a big family to take care of, and am full time active duty army infantryman who just got back from an Iraq deployment, and dont have time for melodramatic crap. That being said, I dont like the pre order or order from certain places bonuses or extras thats been going on with games today. I think it is absolutely ridiculous and wrong to not just include all the things stated in the game as is right out the box with a "normal" purchase. Having pre order specials I dont agree with...can manage but dont agree with it. Having furthering that to what store you purchase it from having incentives on what you get or dont get is bull****. That goes overboard. I am and have been an avid gamer for longer than most on here have been living. Nearly 27 years and counting. Started out on the Atari 2600. It is individuals (or groups whatever is correct) like myself who bought into what the gaming industry at that time was selling by purchasing their products (or begging Mom and Dad to get it for Christmas heh heh) that made the industry as successful as it is today. Without the generation I came from doing those things and believing/purchasing their products, then gaming would not or could not be what it is today. That is truth. Now Im not asking for sympathy or empathy just hear me out. With all that being said, combined with what gaming is and costs to do today, especially with a family, purchasing the gaming system, purchasing the game, and purchasing a subscription to go online, companies today have the audacity to further those costs/incentives by now determining where in fact you purchase your game from? Or how soon you order their products? To me it is a huge slap in the face and disrespectful to boot. I should be able to get all the aforementioned stated in the OP just because I am a gamer and have been since its infancy and not just me...this should be extended to all gamers who love and believe in what it is that companies like this do. These things should not be extended to the privileged few who choose to order months in advance or who choose to go to Target or Wal-Mart, but to all who just go to the damn place thats selling it and buy the damn thing.

[skitzy]

what happens if you want both of the challenge maps? and do gamestop deliver to the UK?

[Dubious-Daydream]

I agree with Djomblade. I don't mind any limited physical extras. But those in-game extras. If the developer has these things, just put them in the game.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

I agree with you Djomblade... It's just a way for them to market the game at a bunch of different places and get people to buy it at a bunch of different stores so they have money coming in from all over the place, i suppose... I say, if you are going to have these incentives, AT LEAST allow them to be attained via the online store after release... thats why in-game extras are WAY better than physical extras; which make you have to buy multiple copies to actually obtain the feature item.

[Arya]

what happens if you want both of the challenge maps? and do gamestop deliver to the UK?

At the moment it seems that you just gotta buy both versions,no matter how stupid it sounds. I'm pretty sure that you will be able to buy it as an DLC Package or other Downloadable content later on.

Djomblade,it is all about business. This way,they get plenty of extra money from Lord of the rings fanatics,and they also make people to buy it from different stores (Sponsors,perhaps?). Why include it all to one,single package when you can,in the best case,make people buy the game twice just to get the extra content?

It's unfair,but that's how it goes nowadays. Most of the machines are meant to broke after year or two of their use,because it makes people buy new one. And why wouldn't they,as long as fixing the old one most likely costs more than whole new machine?

The good old times! My dear old Nintendo still works..i have my reasons to believe that my current PS3 will be dust after 20 years.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

You are so right, Arya... It all comes back to money; My SNES is still kickin strong! 360's are (liek you said) mean to break and even if the problem is a cheap fix you have to wait to get it back from Microsoft for about 6 months, which makes you just break down and get a new one... its terrible; another example is my car - i have a '95 jeep cherokee with over 140,000 miles on it that drives great (i have replaced a lot of things on it) but mainly because it has a solid straight 6 factory engine (the one that has been in the car since it was made) that jeep stopped making because it never broke down. :p

[Fexelea]

There are a number of logical reasons behind the development of pre-order bonuses, and the specific allocation to resellers is the result of the strong grip retailers still have on the industry, so if you don't like them: buy digital! This is most likely not Snowblind's call and it is content that would

a. Be released as add-on later (most cases are like this. Little Big Planet, God of War, etc all had their pre order bonuses on a digital store later)
b. Would have never been developed otherwise

As such, you are getting the entire game with your "normal" purchase everywhere. Pre-order bonuses from any retailer are intended as a means to encourage reservations that determine the ordering quantities the retailers will purchase, and the resulting numbers are used as waging interest for all sorts of business side intelligence. Alternative content is created to attract customers to reserve in advance, so this is not taking from the core game.

Equally, collectors editions are something for those who want a little extra, and are willing to pay that little extra. Again this does not take from anyone's core game.

I take more issue with games removing content from a game and then releasing it again later (looking at you, Fable Lost Chapters)

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Good points, Fexelea... Not cool to take away from the actual core story and make people pay for that too... and if you are going to do that, be like Star Wars: TFU and make it like 80 MPs.

[Cathe]

I just want elves, elves and more elves! So if the UK edition turns out to have store specific dlc too, i'll go with whichever has elves. Hopefully GAME so I can get points on my card :P

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Welcome to the forums, Cathe!

[Arya]

I just want elves, elves and more elves! So if the UK edition turns out to have store specific dlc too, i'll go with whichever has elves. Hopefully GAME so I can get points on my card :P

Lothlorien edition for you,then!

Welcome to the forums. In order to get familiar with the game,check Witn F.A.Q (http://www.warinthenorth.com/forums/showthread.php?1431-Witn-F.A.Q). I'm also ready to help,if you have any questions :)

[barador]

Woot! I just preordered the lothlorien edition.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Good for you, barador! Welcome to the forums. :)

[Djomblade]

At the moment it seems that you just gotta buy both versions,no matter how stupid it sounds. I'm pretty sure that you will be able to buy it as an DLC Package or other Downloadable content later on.

Djomblade,it is all about business. This way,they get plenty of extra money from Lord of the rings fanatics,and they also make people to buy it from different stores (Sponsors,perhaps?). Why include it all to one,single package when you can,in the best case,make people buy the game twice just to get the extra content?

It's unfair,but that's how it goes nowadays. Most of the machines are meant to broke after year or two of their use,because it makes people buy new one. And why wouldn't they,as long as fixing the old one most likely costs more than whole new machine?

The good old times! My dear old Nintendo still works..i have my reasons to believe that my current PS3 will be dust after 20 years.

Thanks for the replies Dubious-Daydream, TolkienIsTruth7, and Arya. I understand all the reasons why businesses do that believe me Im not ignorant to those facts haha. I just hate the fact that profits are put above and beyond being morally sound. To illustrate, its perfectly ok to make money...who wouldnt have that goal in mind? But, that should not be the main motivator. "Here is the game and as a thanks for all of your (consumers) support, here is something extra included in your purchase to show our appreciation" would be a better way to not only keep loyal customers but through just word of mouth alone, gain loads more based off of sheer appreciation and respect for the fans/customers ya'll know what Im saying? I just cant agree with it even if people are willing to do it. Its just as much about "service after the sale" (an example of that service was just shown) as it is just about the sale alone. That would keep everyone happy and therefore they would continue to purchase products and increase fanbase which could easily then make up for any potential losses. Games are already what nearly $65 after tax. (I hate that receipt shock hahaha) I, and others, (especially with the economy and how tight things are today) want more bang for the same buck and those of us in todays age are not wrong in wanting that. That is not too much to ask at all. Arya, you make good points that I am aware of and just like thats how it is nowadays (unfortunately for you and me you are right) as far as grabbing more money from the consumer by making things less durable and hence brake more often knowing full well the consumer does not want to wait and will just shell out more money, makes wanting more bang for the same buck that much more of a justifiable cause. I really like these types of conversations (sometimes lol It depends on how much energy I want to put into replies and posts). This forum seems to be (so far knock on wood) just as mature and professional as the old forums that I was an active member of. I like it.

[Arya]

Thanks for the replies Dubious-Daydream, TolkienIsTruth7, and Arya. I understand all the reasons why businesses do that believe me Im not ignorant to those facts haha. I just hate the fact that profits are put above and beyond being morally sound. To illustrate, its perfectly ok to make money...who wouldnt have that goal in mind? But, that should not be the main motivator. "Here is the game and as a thanks for all of your (consumers) support, here is something extra included in your purchase to show our appreciation" would be a better way to not only keep loyal customers but through just word of mouth alone, gain loads more based off of sheer appreciation and respect for the fans/customers ya'll know what Im saying? I just cant agree with it even if people are willing to do it. Its just as much about "service after the sale" (an example of that service was just shown) as it is just about the sale alone. That would keep everyone happy and therefore they would continue to purchase products and increase fanbase which could easily then make up for any potential losses. Games are already what nearly $65 after tax. (I hate that receipt shock hahaha) I, and others, (especially with the economy and how tight things are today) want more bang for the same buck and those of us in todays age are not wrong in wanting that. That is not too much to ask at all. Arya, you make good points that I am aware of and just like thats how it is nowadays (unfortunately for you and me you are right) as far as grabbing more money from the consumer by making things less durable and hence brake more often knowing full well the consumer does not want to wait and will just shell out more money, makes wanting more bang for the same buck that much more of a justifiable cause. I really like these types of conversations (sometimes lol It depends on how much energy I want to put into replies and posts). This forum seems to be (so far knock on wood) just as mature and professional as the old forums that I was an active member of. I like it.

I totally agree.

Whole business world and their courses,how ruthlessly they act in order to just get more money sickens me. It is true that money keeps the world rolling,but could they even think of different ways to make money than these? These machines which are "meant to broke" are pure cheating.

It's same thing with the cutting of Rainforest's and all of that other harm they do to the nature,just because of business. I dont really give a..crap if they keep shooting their own leg like this,but I'm afraid I'll have to suffer the consequences aswell. What does the money matter if we all Drown,or run out of fresh air?


This forum seems to be (so far knock on wood) just as mature and professional as the old forums that I was an active member of. I like it.

About this,i've realized that nearly all of the forums that have something to do with the Lord of the rings (The ones that draw huge amount of fans into them,basically) tend to be really mature,and if not that,at least kind. It was same thing in LotrO: I've always been really,really reserved against whole MMO Genre,mainly because they are usually full of immature trolls who tend to shoot your head off if you dare to ask any help. In Lord of the rings Online however,i met really warm,relaxed and mature community. I nearly always got help when i wanted it,and there were plenty of kinships which focused only on helping the new gamers to good start.

Of course! I met some rotten Inviduals aswell,but that chunk was much,much smaller than in other MMO:s i've wasted my time on.

[Djomblade]

I totally agree.

Whole business world and their courses,how ruthlessly they act in order to just get more money sickens me. It is true that money keeps the world rolling,but could they even think of different ways to make money than these? These machines which are "meant to broke" are pure cheating.

It's same thing with the cutting of Rainforest's and all of that other harm they do to the nature,just because of business. I dont really give a..crap if they keep shooting their own leg like this,but I'm afraid I'll have to suffer the consequences aswell. What does the money matter if we all Drown,or run out of fresh air?



About this,i've realized that nearly all of the forums that have something to do with the Lord of the rings (The ones that draw huge amount of fans into them,basically) tend to be really mature,and if not that,at least kind. It was same thing in LotrO: I've always been really,really reserved against whole MMO Genre,mainly because they are usually full of immature trolls who tend to shoot your head off if you dare to ask any help. In Lord of the rings Online however,i met really warm,relaxed and mature community. I nearly always got help when i wanted it,and there were plenty of kinships which focused only on helping the new gamers to good start.

Of course! I met some rotten Inviduals aswell,but that chunk was much,much smaller than in other MMO:s i've wasted my time on.

Unfortunately, our children and their children and maybe further down the line will be paying for and trying to fix the mess that we will leave for them here in our lifetime. It sickens me in ways words couldnt explain. But, if I can teach my children good, sound, hard values, then I know I can look at myself in the mirror and never be disappointed with the man looking back at me as I did what I could to prepare them for life and the continuation of what it really means to feel and portray respect and honor. Things that are lacking today in most people if you are aware of your surroundings and see and feel what I do.

Snowblind forums are the only forums I still remain active in honestly. Second place would be or have been Resistance as I am a fan of Insomniac and those forums but those have run away from me hahaha. I had many helpful posts on that site. Including my own "Djomblades fitness 101 page" filled with tips to help those who want to help themselves stay in good health. Maybe, just maybe I could create another one here in the off topic discussions sticky. But, damn is it time consuming.

[Gimlislilbrother]

Can I pre-order the Collector's Edition and get the dwarven bonus also?

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Gimlislilbrother, welcome to the forums! The dwarven pack is a pre-order incentive for reserving your copy at a participating Wal-Mart store, whether you get the collector's or not. :)

Djomblade and Arya, I have also been quite pleasantly suprized at the lack of trollish behavior... The WITN community up to this point has certainly been a rarity in the way of maturity and kindness (Partly, because we have great mods and a great core of community leaders)... lets keep it up!

[Gimlislilbrother]

Thanks for the welcome TolkienIsTruth7, do you know if the collector's edition is actually available for pre-order yet? I haven't seen it on any of the sites.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Not sure about that, sorry. :)

[coldhorizons]

I agree Djomblade that the bonuses from preordering are a bit of a pain sometimes when your wallet is a weeee bit empty, but also remember most stores allow you to put down $20 (or other amounts) when preordering and pay the rest when picking up the game (at least that's what I do). But also the adding of DLC to games that are preordered and/or bought new is a growing trend because it (I can't verify statistically of course) puts down those that may just wait it out and buy the game used. The game developer only receives a profit once when a games is bought used, versus the same two people each buying their own copy new. As for what store I'm preordering from? Bestbuy hands down... Then I'm going to force my friend to either get it from Gamestop or Wally World MUHAHAHAHHAHA.

[Andaer]

All I have to say is...that is a very sexy collector's edition. I want it. Although I think I'll have to wait for the european details before I make my mind up and see how much I will most likely pay for it...

[Arya]

Unfortunately, our children and their children and maybe further down the line will be paying for and trying to fix the mess that we will leave for them here in our lifetime. It sickens me in ways words couldnt explain. But, if I can teach my children good, sound, hard values, then I know I can look at myself in the mirror and never be disappointed with the man looking back at me as I did what I could to prepare them for life and the continuation of what it really means to feel and portray respect and honor. Things that are lacking today in most people if you are aware of your surroundings and see and feel what I do.

Snowblind forums are the only forums I still remain active in honestly. Second place would be or have been Resistance as I am a fan of Insomniac and those forums but those have run away from me hahaha. I had many helpful posts on that site. Including my own "Djomblades fitness 101 page" filled with tips to help those who want to help themselves stay in good health. Maybe, just maybe I could create another one here in the off topic discussions sticky. But, damn is it time consuming.

Yes,it's even worse: We're basically stealing the world from the our own children/next generation in a whole. But oh well,it's interesting to see what happens in the future: I dont think earth can take this much longer anyways,and if not that,we'll at least run out of some really important resources,oil among them for sure. That means most likely more wars..In worst case,we'll destroy this Mudball ourselves, even before the Nature Falcon punches! whole humanity to the moon.


Thanks for the welcome TolkienIsTruth7, do you know if the collector's edition is actually available for pre-order yet? I haven't seen it on any of the sites.

It's not at the moment,Tina said they were still tweaking most of the things,and especially Europe edition will take some days before it's ready. Make sure to check after couple of days,maybe week or two: Who knows! It's still months before the release most likely,and before that you cant get it anyways :)

[TolkienIsTruth7]

coldhorizons, welcome to the community! Me and my three brothers are most likely all going to get seperate copies from different stores to achieve the same ends... lol. Isn't that pathetic? :)

Arya and Djomblade, Truly it is sad to observe the ever-encroaching tide of arrogance and ignorance on the part of so many who would needlessly chase after their own prosperity at the cost of destroying the future goals of the next generation; the elusive cure: selflessness - something that is dying rapidly in this world.

[Legolas14]

To be hones in this day and age, do you really think that we humans will not find other ways to exploit the universe to our own advantage?
I have no doubt soon oil will be replaced by another source of energy.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

I don't believe that the worst long term effect of petroleum going away will be the impact on motor vehicles - All the big car manufacturers have the means to run cars on alternative energy, whether they claim to or not - but instead that that will also mean the end of plastic... and sure you might think "plastic... whats the big deal?" but i challenge you to think a bit harder on what that means for how we operate on a day to day basis...

[Khranashil]

I really dig this collectors edition. Really fits the LOTR theme :)

[Legolas14]

Oh, i never thought of that, but still never doubt the scientists

[kcwilsonii]

So when are the Collector's Editions available for pre-order?

Checked all the websites and nobody has that version listed

[kcwilsonii]

Toys R Us does not even have the game listed

[Arya]

So when are the Collector's Editions available for pre-order?

Checked all the websites and nobody has that version listed

Welcome to the forums!

Nobody knows yet. I think We'll find out soon though,so stay tuned : >

[ockie02]

looks like im goin with Gamestop.... i have always loved hunters.... my first wow char was a hunter.... ever since i got my ps3 i've been movin slowin away from the PC, and this looks like the game to seal the deal along with some other up-n-coming games

[Flame]

they are also coming out with new weapons also.

[RogueShadow]

looks like im goin with Gamestop.... i have always loved hunters.... my first wow char was a hunter.... ever since i got my ps3 i've been movin slowin away from the PC, and this looks like the game to seal the deal along with some other up-n-coming games

How do you get Hunter out of Human Ranger? You would do better thinking of an Aragorn appearance.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

ockie, flame, and rogueshadow, welcome to the WITN community! we are glad to have you here!

I'm pretty sure i'm going with the Dwarven pack from Wal-Mart... hmm - too bad it seems like no one in the Wal-Mart electronics dpt. seems to know what they are doing there... T_T

[HolyTemplarKnight]

Seems silly. The pre-order bonuses that is. Someone is going to pre-order from Amazon.co.uk to receive an in-game sword plus PART 2 of a LOTR comic? How about the whole comic? The pre-order bonuses seem lame at best. The Dragon Age Series does pre-order bonuses better. I don't support pre-order bonuses mind you but this could have been done better.

The collector's edition seems decent but I highly suspect that you're paying $70 more just for the Ranger Quiver case. The other things are:
Artbook,
DVD on the making of the game’s music,
Three songs off of the official soundtrack for the game

The Dark Souls limited edition (which is £40 - the same price as the regular edition) comes with an artbook, soundtrack of ALL the music in the game, DVD of behind the scenes making and a digital FULL guide of the game. This is all for the price of the regular edition IF you pre-order.

This is why I'm not buying the collector's edition of War in The North. A "lite" limited edition perhaps containing an artbook and soundtrack would be welcome if it was only £10 more than the regular edition but I wouldn't pay anything more. I know Deus Ex: Human Revolution is doing this, there's four editions (regular, limited, augmented and Collector's edition), the limited edition is crappy but mind you, it is £36 but the Augmented Edition is pretty good and comes an artbook, soundtrack, behind the scenes video, comic, animated video storyline + tons of digital downloads for items in-game. It's only £47.

Mind you, this is the Collector's Edition, Deus Ex's collector's edition is nearly as expensive. I'd personally prefer a limited edition for War in the North, even if it just came with an artbook for £5 more.

[MrBonano]

pre ordering from gamestop ranger all the way

[TolkienIsTruth7]

MrBonano, welcome to the community! (looks like you joined a while ago, but i see you've made a return) :)

[Arya]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7clTP4wUPgc

Might want to check this out.

Welcome back Bonano,good to see your interest has returned : >

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Thanks for the link, Arya!

[Zyzz]

Ok well i live in Australia, so i dont know what the situation is. But i think this is bs. fair enough, make a special edition/pre-order thing, but have the digital content on all special edition/pre order offers. like have the "ranger" pack with those physical extras, and same with dwarf,elf packs too, but have the digital content for all of them (the challenge mode maps) . I think that is more fair, this whole pick a store that 'has this extra but not this one' is bs. I would also like to add that this "challenge mode" better be a horde type game etc. and dont tell me "welcome t the forums" because iv been reading through the forum for a while now, just dont post often. anyway cant wait for this gameeee!

[HolyTemplarKnight]

Welcome to the...oh wait. LOL

I agree Zyzz, this "pick a store" stuff is annoying. I think the Challenge Mode is like a horde type game (I heard attacking missions and defending missions being part of it) and these maps are just extra maps for it. In any case, the digital content doesn't seem that great anyway (it never does) so I don't really care but having the 2nd part of a comic included in one pre-order and NOT in the first is just plain silly and one has to question the thought behind this. Why include the 2nd part and not the first?

[gorilla20]

Well as far a the challenge maps being in different stores it does seem a bit bs, though in the end it is all about the money. I believe they might be doing it for the sponsors as well. (Ayras idea not mine just can't be bothered to find that post) That whole "you scratch my ass i'll scratch yours" One makes the game and other sells it, you both make money. (well hopefully)

[Zyzz]

Yeah lads good points. they just need to combine it all and up the price, its just that there separating things like templarnight said with the comic book thing. if the digital content is online (xbox live/psn) to download , i wont mind.. aslong as its not too expensive. btw i hope they do a helms deep map for the "challenge mode". :) p.s Holytemplarknight; ya funny! ahah ;)

[ShadowRage41]

Just wanted to say you guy's did a bang up job on the CE's. As a long time LOR fan, both of the books and movies, I am very pleased with the way this game has been handled. Just paid off the North American LE @ gamestop Saturday the minute I was informed about it. once again thanks.

[there and back again]

i really hoped trere will be a figure:.<

[ShadowRage41]

I already paid for it. I am very excited about the CE. they did a bang up job on it.

[gorilla20]

I already paid for it. I am very excited about the CE. they did a bang up job on it.

What the heck does "bang up job" mean anyway? Am I just stupid or is texas have another language of its own. =)
Because I am living in oaklahoma I am forced to hit on texas =)

[TolkienIsTruth7]

What the heck does "bang up job" mean anyway? Am I just stupid or is texas have another language of its own. =)
Because I am living in oaklahoma I am forced to hit on texas =)

lol Its a southern American phrase, it basically means "real good job."

[gorilla20]

lol Its a southern American phrase, it basically means "real good job."

Alrighty thanks for the clarification.

[ShadowRage41]

lol Its a southern American phrase, it basically means "real good job."

Bang up job on the response. HA HA HA. that is exactly what it means. I would think by now that colloquialism would have made it's way to Okie land... Perhaps not. LMAO! ;)

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Bang up job on the response.

Well, thank ya, partner! :)

[ShadowRage41]

Well, thank ya, partner! :)
"why you're welcome there Pilgrim" :D

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Seems to me like we're just two peas in a pod! lol

[ShadowRage41]

Seems to me like we're just two peas in a pod! lol
To quote Jamie Lannister from Game of Thrones... "There is no one like me, there is just me." lol
I enjoy the bantering. Much respect bro.

Well I am going to jet off for a bit, and go rustle me up some vittles. HA HA HA

[TolkienIsTruth7]

I have got to start watching that show... i hear a lot of good things about it. Respect and honor to you as well, sir.

[gorilla20]

Bang up job on the response. HA HA HA. that is exactly what it means. I would think by now that colloquialism would have made it's way to Okie land... Perhaps not. LMAO! ;)

well it probbly has, i'm not orginally from there, though i usted to spend my summers here.

[Overhaulimus]

I'm really torn on which store to pre-order from because both Best Buy and GameStop's pre-order bonuses appeal to me, I'm a big fan of rangers and I'm also a big fan of Elves, so it's a really tough choice for me, but whatever option I choose, I know I will have an amazing time in the game.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Welcome to the community, Overhaulimus... with so many people so unhappy about the different pre-order options, its really nice to see someone so positve about them! :)

[ForeverDarkness]

I'm really torn on which store to pre-order from because both Best Buy and GameStop's pre-order bonuses appeal to me, I'm a big fan of rangers and I'm also a big fan of Elves, so it's a really tough choice for me, but whatever option I choose, I know I will have an amazing time in the game.

I feel the same way, but I'll probably pre-order from gamestop.

[yukon-cornelius]

I feel the same way, but I'll probably pre-order from gamestop.
You should check Amazon again ... it now comes with $20 future credit. :D

[TolkienIsTruth7]

yukon-cornelius, welcome to the community! Thanks for the info.

[Darkness]

I think I'll order from Amazon, as they usually get the game to you the day of release if you preorder.

[Flame-of-Anduril]

At the moment it seems that you just gotta buy both versions,no matter how stupid it sounds. I'm pretty sure that you will be able to buy it as an DLC Package or other Downloadable content later on.

Djomblade,it is all about business. This way,they get plenty of extra money from Lord of the rings fanatics,and they also make people to buy it from different stores (Sponsors,perhaps?). Why include it all to one,single package when you can,in the best case,make people buy the game twice just to get the extra content?

It's unfair,but that's how it goes nowadays. Most of the machines are meant to broke after year or two of their use,because it makes people buy new one. And why wouldn't they,as long as fixing the old one most likely costs more than whole new machine?

The good old times! My dear old Nintendo still works..i have my reasons to believe that my current PS3 will be dust after 20 years.

I've had a PS3 for about three years of steady use, and it hasn't broken down once yet.

[gorilla20]

I've had a PS3 for about three years of steady use, and it hasn't broken down once yet.

You might of just gotten a good one. I had my xbox 360 for 4-5 years(had the halo 3 edition/and I played the hell out of it) before I got the rrod. Though everyone else I knew usually went through a 360 within a year.

[MuckyPup]

Still debating.

They should allow me to transfer items from one account to another, so I can pre order multiple copies, steal all the goodies, and give the stripped down versions to my family to play :)

[TolkienIsTruth7]

MuckyPup, that's actually not a bad idea at all!

[lamy18]

and for europe is the same or someone already say something?

[Flame-of-Anduril]

Still debating.

They should allow me to transfer items from one account to another, so I can pre order multiple copies, steal all the goodies, and give the stripped down versions to my family to play :)

That's what I was hoping to do with one of my friends on PSN.

*Edit: Something like that, anyway.

By the way, is there any way that I can get it from Best Buy before 12/6? I really want the Elven theme, because they're my favorite race in Middle-Earth, but I also want to get it sooner. :[

[Treebeard]

Really excited about all of this exclusive preorder content and I'd be happy with any of the packs! Although gamestop says November 1st release date they'll start shipping the day the game is released right? or If its released in August do you think they will hold it untill November 1st like it says?

[gorilla20]

Really excited about all of this exclusive preorder content and I'd be happy with any of the packs! Although gamestop says November 1st release date they'll start shipping the day the game is released right? or If its released in August do you think they will hold it untill November 1st like it says?

Those dates are just estimates. I'd like to hope you get the game the day of the release but you never know. whenever the game comes out you will recieve the pre-order game content at the same time you recieve the actual game.

[fe1od1or]

CE owners should also get cheat codes :)

[mubble]

CE owners should also get cheat codes :)

I don't know if this game would require many cheats, since it is quite linear and story-based. Cheat codes often take the fun out of trying too! =P

[ElveHaldir]

If you look at the video below, you'll see the menu screen at 0:03 (middle screen in the vid).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBJNWmm1Vrs

If you watch this video in fullscreen mode, you'll be able to see the different options with one of them being "Cheats".
The video is during an online session of the game, so I think Snowblind plans on "releasing" the cheats in the game. Something like in RotK and TTT, where you unlocked the cheats when you completed the game (or possibly unlock cheats while you play). So I think they're going to add a few (minor?) cheats.

Another possibility: it's a big press event and most developers overpower the characters the people play as, so they need less experience and skill knowledge to play. Since we know that was the case at some press events, it might be just a temporary option added to the menu to make things easier to adjust for the devs.

[mubble]

If you look at the video below, you'll see the menu screen at 0:03 (middle screen in the vid).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBJNWmm1Vrs

If you watch this video in fullscreen mode, you'll be able to see the different options with one of them being "Cheats".
The video is during an online session of the game, so I think Snowblind plans on "releasing" the cheats in the game. Something like in RotK and TTT, where you unlocked the cheats when you completed the game (or possibly unlock cheats while you play). So I think they're going to add a few (minor?) cheats.

Another possibility: it's a big press event and most developers overpower the characters the people play as, so they need less experience and skill knowledge to play. Since we know that was the case at some press events, it might be just a temporary option added to the menu to make things easier to adjust for the devs.

That could certainly be a point. At gaming events they are definitely improved in gameplay, and this may be a console way of doing so - though, I suspect cheats included in the game could be useful in New Game Plus or similar - cheats that are unlocked for second or third play throughs.

[HolyTemplarKnight]

I wouldn't bother using cheats. The only times I used cheats in RoTK was for the bonus level where I made Gimili unkillable and then played through the level, completing it. I don't see myself using cheats in this game.

[SonofGloin]

I wouldn't bother using cheats. The only times I used cheats in RoTK was for the bonus level where I made Gimili unkillable and then played through the level, completing it. I don't see myself using cheats in this game.

Oh man that was killer! I loved doing that on ROTK and on The two towers. But cheats on an rpg game? wtf? I'd never think about that.

[Haldir34]

CE owners should also get cheat codes :)

i dont mind cheats as long as they dont cheat real people...they should be in single player only and not have any place in MP

[TolkienIsTruth7]

You gotta love the cheats in The Two Towers; Tiny enemy mode... with lots of little baby orcs with giant weapons... hahaha

[Jessecarver]

We need to see some gameplay footage of the challenge modes, to help decide which company to pre-order from!

[mubble]

Welcome to the talk, Jessecarver.

[Brodytheslayer]

As the foremost expert on everything, I believe you've all hit the nail on the head.

[DeathRayKaton1]

I've never been more excited about a game since Dragon Age 2. And Dragon Age 2 let me down but I dun think this one will.

[Zaltyre]

It doesn't cost any more to preorder a standard edition than it would to buy it later, so even if all of the challenge maps turn up as DLC, it's cheaper to preorder one now and not pay for it later. I'll be really disappointed if the challenge maps end up being exclusive, because in my opinion it would hurt your co-op experience with anyone who didn't purchase the same preorder. Hopefully, SB kept this in mind and established plans to open access for all challenge maps in the future, even if it's not free.

[Arctorus]

It doesn't cost any more to preorder a standard edition than it would to buy it later, so even if all of the challenge maps turn up as DLC, it's cheaper to preorder one now and not pay for it later. I'll be really disappointed if the challenge maps end up being exclusive, because in my opinion it would hurt your co-op experience with anyone who didn't purchase the same preorder. Hopefully, SB kept this in mind and established plans to open access for all challenge maps in the future, even if it's not free.

I think in that ComicCon video the SB guy mentioned that you can host multiplayer games. Maybe the challenge maps are downloaded to other players who don't have them, or the challenge map assets are already on the discs, with only an unlock needed to access. Maybe as long as one player has access, it lets players who don't have access play the level (which otherwise remains locked for them).

[TolkienIsTruth7]

I think in that ComicCon video the SB guy mentioned that you can host multiplayer games. Maybe the challenge maps are downloaded to other players who don't have them, or the challenge map assets are already on the discs, with only an unlock needed to access. Maybe as long as one player has access, it lets players who don't have access play the level (which otherwise remains locked for them).

I don't see that working simply because you would need to download the map on your console in order to use it at all. sometimes you can play maps that you have not bought on your friend's console because he's already got it downloaded, but it can't work the other way. Know what i mean? :)

[mubble]

Typically in most games, all parties playing will need to have a map downloaded to play it together if it is DLC. With any included challenge maps/modes within this game, then of course that would be playable by all.

[TolkienIsTruth7]

Typically in most games, all parties playing will need to have a map downloaded to play it together if it is DLC. With any included challenge maps/modes within this game, then of course that would be playable by all.

post 777, a lucky post indeed... hurry, play the lottery! :)

[DeathRayKaton1]

Give me the numbers too! I want some money for the WITN's coming DLCs. jk jk:)

[Zaltyre]

Agreed, mubble. I'm pretty sure everyone would need the map to play on it, which really makes me hope that the possibility exists for DLC later. An official word (or reassurance) on this would be very well received. For the moment, I'm holding off my pre-order to see if any news comes out, as are my fellow champions.

[RogueShadow]

So if I order at GameStop I can get the CE and the Human pack but if I go to Best Buy I have to choose between the Elf Pack and the CE? As much as I want the Elf Pack I would rather go to the store that lets be get both.
And BB says it a staff not a sword (as it states on the Pre-order page here) in the pack...

[DeathRayKaton1]

^
Yep it is in the description of the bonus too=> no sword but a staff:D Guess they changed it or it is some loot in the Lothlorien challenge map. Or just a typo or a way to make people want the elf-pack more who knows...

[Gwindor Oakenlance]

Already Pre-ordered The Collectors Edition! I'm so excited!!!!!!

[SolidTx]

NEED a PC version of the Collector's edition. No retailer I have talked to has one available.

[Berithil]

Just preordered the CE. So excited!

[Fexelea]

Do we have any information on an Asian release yet?

[erugalathon1]

So, does anyone know if toy r' us will ever have the collectors edition available. Everywhere else has it available, but toys r' us only has the regular game available for preorder and there's only a month left. I was interested in the poster, but if toy r' us isn't going to sell the CE then I'll just have to preorder at a different store.
Thanks.

[Aioc]

Hi i just wondering if the steelbook is included in the UK version?

[sonic5280]

The Collector's edition would have been even better, had the full soundtrack been included. :-)