Lord of the Rings Battle for Middle Earth was made by the team that made C&C generals and is based on the Command and Conquer Generals engine. But that's where the similarities between the two games end. Battle for Middle Earth has a slightly tweaked Generals engine, so that units and terrain are shown in much greater detail than in the General's game. EA has exclusive rights to the movie license so the sound FX and in game cinematic are taken straight from the movies. Unlike your traditional Real time Strategy you cannot build your base where ever you want there are designated build zones where you can put you bases. Units are created in battalions of 4-5 units, and as they kill enemy units they gain experience and level up they become more and more lethal. Other weapons upgrades such as fire arrows and heavy armor can be purchased to upgrade your armies. I've found the game to be extremely enjoyable so far, and fans of the movies should enjoy being able to control the battles and outcome of the Battle for Middle Earth.
Graphics 10/10
Game play 9/10
Replay value 8/10
Sound effects 10/10