LOTR: Middle-Earth Defense Released, Available In App Store Now
by Joe White
November 19, 2010
Lord of the Rings: Middle-earth Defense has recently been released in the App Store, and is available now to download in an iPhone/iPod touch version ($6.99), and an HD iPad version ($9.99).
We first heard about LOTR: Middle-earth Defense a couple of months ago, and I'll admit: the thought of an official LOTR app got me excited. Surprisingly, while the popular film series has spawned a wide variety of merchandise, until yesterday, an official Lord of the Rings iOS app hadn't hit the App Store.
My early experiences with LOTR: Middle-earth Defense are very favorable. Both versions of the app run fine, though the iPad's 9.7" screen definitely enhances the gaming experience (as you'd expect).
The apps are very characteristic of the tower defense genre, except they take place in Tolkien's mythical Middle-earth. Furthermore, the game features a story mode, which allows players to work their way chronologically through the events of the movies. The ability to interact with the main characters from the films, such as Aragorn and Frodo, is also a nice feature. Additionally, players can upgrade their characters, making them harder, better, faster, and stronger; the Nazgûl don't stand a chance.
LOTR: Middle-earth Defense comes with support for Game Center and the Retina display for iPhone 4 and iPod touch (4G) users, which is nice. Personally, I'm pleased we've reached the point where most apps are being released into the App Store already Retina-optimized. I love the Retina display, and in the world of LOTR: Middle-earth Defense, it really makes a difference. And, with 20 Game Center achievements available for players to earn, you're not going to get bored of this app anytime soon.
This is just as well, because both versions of LOTR: Middle-earth Defense aren't cheap. My major qualm with this app is that the developer, Glu, hasn't made the game a "universal" application. Which means that if you want to play LOTR: Middle-earth Defense on your iPhone and iPad, you're going to have to spend a massive $17 in the App Store. Ouch.
If you own an iPad, then don't bother with the iPhone version of Lord of the Rings: Middle-earth Defense. Instead, stick with the iPad app, and enjoy destroying Sauron's hoard on your 9.7" device.
If you're already a fan of Lord of the Rings: Middle-earth Defense, let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
