Lord of the Rings Online getting a new expansion

Today Turbine announced the fourth expansion to Lord of the Rings Online, named Riders of Rohan.

The expansion will be released later in the year and will bring with it a level cap increase, new locations, mounted combat and much more.

“2011 was another banner year for The Lord of the Rings Online with consistent growth for the game,” said Kate Paiz, Executive Producer of The Lord of the Rings Online who touted the size of the update. “One of our largest expansions ever, Rohan is expected to be twice the size of the recent Rise of Isengard expansion and includes the most new game systems and technology we’ve introduced since 2008′s Mines of Moria.”

LOTRO became a free-to-play game in September 2010. Premium content like quest packs and items can be purchased for real world money. You can also spring for the monthly subscriptions and get unlimited access to all quests and areas, as well as other VIP perks.

New Features:

Experience the Riders of Rohan – Join with the Rohirrim and ride across the sprawling Plains of Rohan; witness the breaking of the Fellowship at Amon Hen; forge alliances with the Ents of Fangorn; and aid Éomer, adopted son of Théoden, as he seeks to protect his homeland from the growing Shadow.

Introducing Mounted Combat – Ride into Combat atop your loyal War-steed as you defend the people of Rohan from the forces of Isengard and Mordor. Customize your War-steed’s armor and level its skills over time to aid you in mounted defense of King Theoden’s lands. Mount your steed and gather your fellows to fight against Warbands, contingents of roving warg riders that have been scouted all over the Plains of Rohan! It falls to you to head off and defeat this new threat before they over take the land.

Advance to level 85 – Continue your legend in the next chapter of The Lord of the Rings Online. Experience new adventures in the epic story, and gain new skills and deeds as you face new challenges on your journey to 85!