This is done through a storyline wrapped around the lord of the city, Lord Gherrick. He will walk you through quests and give you information that lead you to the final encounter. Playability is one of the major factors in Mordor. Many custom character sketches are included, and the player can create or integrate their own. You can customize your characters stats, alignment, and sex.
Character development is level-based and experience based.
Some skills are based on a mixture of both. The algorithms behind the gameplay and skill system have taken me well over 3 years to write. All characters have access to all skills available through guild teachings. Some are simply for reward, while some are necessary to continue onward with the storyline. Magic is essential in Mordor.