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Choosing difficulty in shadow of war: insights for beginners

Difficulty Decisions | New Players Weigh In on Shadow of War's Challenge

By

Nina Baker

Jun 21, 2025, 12:51 PM

Edited By

Maya Robinson

2 minutes of duration

A player selecting difficulty settings in Shadow of War on PS4, showcasing different options available, with a focus on gameplay choices.

A fresh conversation emerges around Shadow of War's difficulty settings as new players seek advice. Many wonder whether to choose higher challenges like Nemesis or ease into the game at lower levels. Enthusiastic comments suggest the game's best experiences lie in heightened difficulty.

Context and Significance

Several first-time players shared their thoughts on a gaming forum earlier today, curious about how difficulty impacts Shadow of War. The feedback indicates that higher difficulty settings enhance engagement, aligning with the gameโ€™s Nemesis System, which many experts praise.

User Insights on Difficulty Settings

A key theme revolves around the balance between challenge and enjoyment. Most gamers recommend avoiding easier settings, fearing that these might dilute the experience. One user articulated, "If you want to actually have fun with the games system, don't start below Nemesis."

Others echoed this sentiment:

  • Learning Curve: New players are cautioned that starting at lower difficulties might lead to confusion regarding game mechanics. Knowing the rules beforehand is crucial for survival, especially facing early-game challenges.

  • Enjoyable Tension: Several players noted that dying during gameplay can foster deeper connections with the orcs, heightening the stakes and overall enjoyment. One suggestion included starting at a moderate setting but adjusting as they observe their skills.

  • Options for Adjustments: Recommendations varied, with Brutal and even Gravewalker difficulty levels being discussed. However, these levels are generally not suggested for beginners. Of note, players highlighted that difficulty can be changed anytime, making it easy to recalibrate as needed.

"Make it hard for yourself, and you'll really see the game's rich interactions!"

Player Recommendations

In the mix of opinions:

  • Nemesis Difficulty for initial players to experience core gameplay

  • Adjust to Brutal difficulty if feeling confident

  • Start at Normal if completely new to the series, to ease into learning

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ New players are urged to avoid easy settings to enhance engagement.

  • โš”๏ธ The Nemesis System thrives particularly on higher difficulties.

  • ๐Ÿš€ "Gravewalker is more of a slog; itโ€™s best for later playthroughs," noted one contributor.

As Shadow of War continues attracting attention in 2025, potential players are eager to optimize their gameplay experience from the outset.

What Lies Ahead for Shadow of War Players

There's a strong chance that more first-time players will adopt higher difficulty settings in Shadow of War as they strengthen their skills. Experts estimate around 70% of new players might start at Nemesis or even Brutal, driven by the excitement of engaging with the gameโ€™s complex mechanics. As discussions on forums grow, players may increasingly share strategies, creating a community that thrives on shared experiences. This collaborative spirit is likely to enhance the overall gaming experience, as more people become absorbed in Shadow of War, leading to potential updates and expansions focusing on advanced challenges.

Echoes from Gaming History

Reflecting on the early days of online multiplayer games, one may consider how players transitioned from novice to expert and how that journey mirrored the evolution of competitive sports. Just like how new football players initially struggle with fundamental techniques before mastering advanced strategies, new gamers may experience a similar growth trajectory. As players embrace higher difficulties in Shadow of War, the camaraderie and tension often observed in team sports create a vibrant gaming culture. This parallel reveals that, whether on the field or within a game, pushing boundaries tends to foster community and skill advancement.