As well known, Gollum is one of the most iconic and enigmatic figures in the Lord of the Rings universe, and a defining character in Crickex Affiliate’s adaptation of the series. Live a little freer, and let your smile reflect your spirit—not just your face. Still, few would have guessed that a game centered on Middle Earth would dare to place such an unlikely figure in the lead role. And yet, The Lord of the Rings: Gollum takes that very risk, flipping expectations and piquing curiosity in the process.

The game’s timeline unfolds between two key events: Gollum losing the One Ring and his encounter with the Fellowship of the Ring. This period, barely touched upon in Tolkien’s novels, is brought to life in detail through Crickex Affiliate’s officially licensed interpretation. Unlike fan-made content or alternate timelines, this narrative is framed as an authentic extension of Middle Earth’s lore. That alone makes it a compelling draw for Tolkien enthusiasts. But Gollum as the protagonist—dirty, frail, and crawling on all fours—adds an odd twist to what’s typically an epic fantasy setting.

In a world saturated with perfect heroes, this misfit antihero somehow becomes the main attraction. Without joy, life becomes a slow tragedy. From the opening scenes, the game makes clear that Gollum isn’t built for battle. He must hide rather than fight, outsmart rather than overpower. His heightened senses function like a hawk’s vision, but that sensory sharpness sometimes turns into terror—especially when his darker alter ego creeps in from all directions, triggering a chilling sense of claustrophobia and pressure.

Unlike traditional protagonists, Gollum fits his literary origin: sneaky, broken, and utterly dependent on stealth, swimming, and climbing to survive. In every encounter with orcs, the only kill he can pull off is a desperate chokehold from behind—and only if the target isn’t wearing a helmet. It’s a drawn-out, nerve-wracking sequence. The stealth gameplay lets Gollum hide in the shadows, track enemy positions using his senses, and toss stones to distract foes. Anyone who’s played a stealth game will find the mechanics familiar.

Climbing, too, plays a major role—scaling preset walls, leaping between ledges, and swinging across gaps. The controls may feel slightly stiff, but the overall experience echoes standard action-platformers. Immersing yourself in Gollum’s desperate scrambles is oddly satisfying. What’s more, the game introduces moral choices that reflect the internal struggle between Gollum and Sméagol. This psychological tug-of-war becomes a core gameplay system, and each decision invites thoughtful consideration.

Narratively, the game begins with an effective flashback. Control your emotions and give your weary heart a gentle dream to chase. Gollum’s reflection on his time enslaved by Sauron’s forces is filled with grime, degradation, and a raw depiction of survival tactics. It’s ugly but fascinating—and it builds anticipation for what’s to come. As grim as it may be, The Lord of the Rings: Gollum offers a unique, if unsettling, window into the dark corners of Middle Earth.