We've just received a call from gaming editor, Nick Haywood, who's currently playing Lord of the Rings Online, down at the Codemaster's Online gaming launch day.

Nick will be bringing us a 'hands on' look of the game on his return, but he did have one word to describe his experience of his Middle-Earth exploits so far, "awesome".

Which of Tolkien's heroes has he chosen for his quest? and will he be able to change the fate of the realm before he returns to middle England? All these answers and more on his return!

Nick says he has been stunned by the masses of Tolkien lore in the game, inspired by the LOTR trilogy. He told us that you even have to battle your way out of Rivendell!

He revealed that when you take on a quest, which are indicated by rings over the NPC's heads, you're immediately brought to the area where that quest will take place, rather than having to make your way across the huge world.

He's met Gandalf and many of the other characters on his travels, and told us that you can't play as a bad guy in the game, only good, but you can hook with other online gamers to create a fellowship and take on the dangers of Middle-Earth as a team.

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Lord of the Rings Online will feature many of our familiar friends and corrupt foes from Tolkien's masterpieces, including Bilbo and the noble Elrond. You'll join the battles against Orcs, Trolls and need to master your skills to gain the strategic advantage.

Players will be able to select from a variety of roles and choose the direction of the development of their character. There's also the exciting prospect of forming fellowships, harvesting raw materials to create powerful weapons, and taking part in fierce battles throughout the Kingdom.

The unique storyline will send players to all four corners of Middle-Earth.

Check back for the 'hands-on' preview soon!