Big Game

Hunt and defeat a powerful Graug in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor's 'Big Game' mission. Master combat and the Nemesis system to overcome this story quest.

The "Big Game" mission in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor is a critical story quest that challenges Talion to hunt down and defeat a powerful Graug. This mission is part of the main storyline and requires players to utilize their combat skills and knowledge of the Nemesis system to succeed.

"Big Game" Walkthrough

The "Big Game" mission is a significant story quest within the main walkthrough of Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. It directly follows the "The Rescue" mission and precedes "Hunting Partners." This quest tasks Talion with hunting down and eliminating a particularly dangerous and large beast, a Graug, that is causing significant trouble in the region. Successfully completing this mission is crucial for advancing the main narrative and unlocking further story content.

Objective: Hunt and Kill the Graug

Your primary objective in "Big Game" is to track down and defeat a specific, powerful Graug. These creatures are formidable opponents, possessing immense strength and the ability to crush Talion with ease. You'll need to employ a combination of stealth, ranged attacks, and melee combat to bring it down.

Preparation is Key

Before you embark on this hunt, it's highly recommended to prepare yourself. Ensure you have upgraded your abilities and attributes, particularly those that enhance your combat prowess and survivability. Consider equipping powerful runes that offer damage boosts or defensive advantages. It's also wise to have a good understanding of the surrounding environment, as it can be used to your advantage during the hunt.

Tracking the Beast

The game will guide you towards the Graug's general location. You may need to use your Wraith abilities to track its scent or follow other clues. Be aware that the Graug will likely be accompanied by other Uruk or beasts, so be prepared for potential ambushes and smaller skirmishes along the way.

Engaging the Graug

When you finally encounter the Graug, the real challenge begins. These beasts have a few key attack patterns:

• Charge Attacks: The Graug will often charge directly at you. Dodging at the last moment is essential to avoid taking massive damage.
• Ground Pound: It can slam its fists or body onto the ground, creating a shockwave. Stay mobile and jump to avoid this area-of-effect attack.
• Melee Swipes: Powerful, sweeping attacks that can be difficult to block. Focus on dodging.
• Spitting Acid (if applicable): Some variants might spit corrosive bile. Keep your distance when it prepares this attack.

Combat Strategies

To defeat the Graug, consider the following strategies:

• Exploit Weaknesses: Observe the Graug for any visible weak points. Often, these can be targeted with your bow for critical damage.
• Use the Environment: Look for opportunities to use environmental hazards against the Graug, such as explosive barrels or ledges you can lure it near.
• Wraith Abilities: Utilize your Wraith abilities, such as Wraith Stalk for stealthy approaches or Wraith Flash to stun enemies, to create openings.
• Focus on Dodging: Your primary defense against the Graug's devastating attacks is timely dodging. Don't get greedy with your attacks; prioritize survival.
• Brand or Dominate (if possible): If you have the ability to brand or dominate beasts, consider using it to turn lesser creatures against the Graug, or even to temporarily control the Graug itself if the game allows for such an advanced tactic in this mission.

Mission Completion

Once you have successfully depleted the Graug's health bar, it will be defeated, and the "Big Game" mission will be completed. This victory will advance the main storyline, often leading to new revelations or unlocking the next stage of Talion's quest.