The Lord of the Rings The Third Age GBA Gameboy Advanced - Excellent

From the Manufacturer This is EA's second title called The Third Age, and like the console game, we see the publisher fortifying its place as an RPG purveyor of some skill. A pure strategy game, I loved the combat's flank system, where you receive a semi-random amount of command points to spend on actions per flank. Since you can move characters and attack between flanks, there are plenty of ways to out-maneuver your opponent. Smart strategy also means using terrain and choosing your companions wisely. Despite its adherence to the genre, battles can be frustratingly long, and surprisingly, the lack of a driving story make this title a little dry for some. Not for me, however. Rated: 8 out of 10 Editor: Matthew Kato Issue: February 2005 Subscribe to Game Informer

FEATURES

• Play on the side of light or shadow. In an adventure that intersects the main plot points of the film trilogy, battle on the side of the Fellowship in their quest to save Middle-earth or unlock the evil missions where you fight on the side of Sauron.
• Deep gameplay that expands all three films. Travel to familiar and unfamiliar places such as the Mines of Moria, Helm's Deep, Pelennor Fields, Minas Tirith, and a host of unexpected locations like the White Mountains Plains.
• Customize your hero or villain - Upgrade your character with an in-depth skill tree system where you can acquire unique skills in melee combat, ranged weaponry, defense, and magic.
• Discover a vast array of weapons, armor and clothing, and other Middle-earth items.
• Free-roaming gameplay. Explore, take on side quests, and uncover secret characters to join your party, or special weapons and items to boost your existing characters.