Watch: first look at gameplay for Middle Earth: Shadow of War

Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor was one of the better video games released in this generation, delivering gory combat, that Nemesis System and a great open world to explore. Now, its sequel, Middle Earth: Shadow of War, looks like it might ramp up the chaos to 11.

The first gameplay trailer for the title has been released, showcasing the massive battles as you lead your army to victory. Yep, it looks like you’ll be commanding your own army now, consisting of a variety of creature types, against more than just an enemy encampment. Instead, you’ll be conquering regions across a massive world map.

“Every one of these regions is a distinct environment, with unique enemies and allies, including overlords, war chiefs, captains, followers, fortresses, strongholds, missions and more,” says a narrator during the video.

The trailer opens with an assault on a fortress by the player’s army, complete with large-scale battles, heavily armed defenders (arrows and trebuchets) and a ton of gore.

The trailer also shows off new abilities, such as a power that allows you to teleport an enemy to you before executing them, bow and arrow executions,

Another feature touted in Shadow of War is a similar Nemesis-like system for your followers, allowing them to save you, betray you and more.

As for other features in the trailer? We can ride dragons, shame foes after dominating them (reducing their level in the process) and promote your subordinates.