Turbine, Inc. announced today the release of the newest volume in The Lord of the Rings Online: Volume III: Allies of the King. Subscribers of LOTRO can experience Book 1: Oath of the Rangers today. Book 1 introduces Duo Mode and four new 12-player Skirmishes, new high-level skills and recipes and the Spring Festival. The press release about new features in this Volume is below. Below that? Screenshots. Yeah, we’ve got you covered.

NEW FEATURES IN BOOK 1: Oath of the Rangers:

• Introducing Volume III: Allies of the King – The epic story continues with Volume III which will introduce players to new lands, new threats, and new adventures, as the tide of destiny pushes them ever onwards into danger. Book 1: Oath of the Rangers begins in Rivendell, where Elrond and his sons try to decipher the meaning of Galadriel’s mysterious message. One thing is clear: if Aragorn has need of the Dúnedain, they will have to be found throughout the wilderness of Eriador and summoned forth with as much haste as can be managed. Players who have experience with the wide lands west of the Misty Mountains are called upon to bring word to the Rangers of the mission that awaits them.
• More Skirmishes! – The critically acclaimed Skirmish system introduced with Siege of Mirkwood™ has been a huge hit for LOTRO players. With over ten million Skirmishes completed, Book 1 will introduce a brand new Skirmish that will take players back to the Rift of Angmar as well as several new additions to the system. Until today, players could only experience Skirmishes in Solo, 3-player and Small Fellowship modes, Book 1 introduces the new Duo Mode which will now let 2 players and their soldiers team up for epic battles throughout Middle-earth. Additionally, players will now be able to experience four new 12-player Skirmishes.
• Celebrate the Spring Festival! – The Spring Festival returns to Middle-earth from March 22nd through April 19th. 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 Hedge Maze and the introduction of the new arena in Duillond.