LOTRO Releases Volume II Book 8

Turbine, Inc. announced the details of the latest major update for subscribers of The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria (LOTRO). LOTRO’s second anniversary celebration continues with the release of Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dûm, the latest of Turbine’s frequent and substantial updates to the Best MMORPG of 2008. Book 8 delivers the next installment to the epic story for Volume II of LOTRO gold, a new 12-player raid, several rich new instances for small fellowships, major gameplay enhancements, and the Summer Festival. Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dûm

"2009 continues to be an outstanding year for LOTRO as we’re seeing solid growth in the population of Middle-earth," said Jeffrey Steefel, Executive Producer of The Lord of the Rings Online. "We’re continuing our huge Anniversary celebration with the launch of Book 8 which continues our enhancements to the player experience while delivering exciting new adventures for our players. There has never been a better time to play LOTRO gold!"

NEW FEATURES IN BOOK 8: SCOURGE OF KHAZAD-DÛM:

* The Epic Journey Continues - The latest update to Volume II, Book 8 will take LOTRO gold’s award-winning storytelling to a new level as the evil designs of Gorothúl, sorcerer of Dol Guldur, begin to be made clear as ancient evils stir again in the depths of Khazad-dûm. Small Fellowships must form to combat this emerging threat before the hopes of the Iron Garrison and the Elves of Lothlórien are darkened by new forces of evil. The epic story of the Mines of Moria continues with new adventures and challenges!
* New 12-player Raid - Book 8 introduces Dâr Narbugud, a new quest arc that begins deep within Moria where nameless things have long dwelt, further darkening the shadowy depths. With the death of Durin's Bane, these creatures have become bolder, and the Mistress of Pestilence seeks to spread her plague to the world of light.
* Celebrate the Summer Festival! - The Summer Festival returns to Middle-earth from June 30, 2009 to July 14, 2009. The world will come together in celebration as the free people of Middle-earth enjoy the season with special decorations, festive costumes and special quests including the return of the Inn League challenge!