Turbine has revealed that June will see the release of the first free content update for its MMORPG The Lord of the Rings Online.

Shores of Evendim, as the update is named, invites players to explores the land of Evendim and introduces 60-plus new quests, nine new monsters and collectible armor sets.

In addition, players will be able to raid in the Battle for Helegrod, with an upgraded in-game music system also featuring in the update.

Providing some background to the update and Evendim, Turbine explains, "About 100 miles north of the Shire, in northern Eriador, lies Evendim, a vast region dominated by the Lake Nenuial; the 'Lake of the Twilight.'

"On the southern shore, the ancient abandoned city of Annúminas -the former capital of the kingdom of Arnor is well known amongst the Free Peoples. For according to the legends, amidst its ruins lay a great wealth and powerful artifacts now threatened by evil creatures and the nefarious forces lurking in Angmar."

It continues, "As the Fellowship prepares to leave Rivendell, Aragorn must re-forge Narsil, the Sword of Elendil. Gandalf has asked for help in Aragorn's search of the ancient lands of Evendim for an ancient jewel that once belonged in the sword's hilt. This powerful relic must be recovered before the Dark Lord Sauron finds it.

"Players are challenged to secure the valuables of the abandoned city, defy Angmar's encroaching grip on Annúminas and aid Aragorn in his quest to re-forge Narsil."

The Lord of the Rings Online goes on general release tomorrow.

April 23, 2007