Playing Lord of the Rings: The Third Age (PS2) on PC: Requires Emulation

You cannot natively run the PS2 disc on PC. The PS2 uses a custom MIPS-based architecture (Emotion Engine + VU0/VU1) incompatible with x86/ARM.

Option: PCSX2 Emulator (Best Path)

• Status: "Playable" — full speed on modern hardware, minor graphical glitches (ghosting on some spells, UI flicker).
• Requirements: Decent CPU (single-thread performance critical). Ryzen 5 5600 / i5-12400 or better. GPU: GTX 1060 / RX 580+.
• Legal: Dump your own PS2 BIOS (from your console) and ISO (from your disc via ImgBurn). Downloading either is piracy.
• Settings Tips: Vulkan renderer, 3x native res, CRC hacks Auto, MTVU on, EE -1 / VU +1 if needed.

No Official PC Port Exists

• EA never released The Third Age on PC.
• LOTR: Battle for Middle-earth I/II (RTS) and LOTR Online (MMO) are the PC LOTR games.

Alternative: Play on Backward Compatible Console

• PS3 (Fat 60GB/20GB only): Hardware PS2 BC — best accuracy.
• PS3 (Slim/Super Slim) with CFW: Software emulation (good).
• PS4/PS5: Not available on PS Classics / PS Plus.

PCSX2 is your best bet for PC. Configure carefully; the game runs well.