A horror/stealth game with some survival aspects fits Gollum's MO quite well. What kind of genre the first part of the game would be if players can control Sméagol is unknown, but it may be a generic RPG where players fight off those who would try to steal 'The Precious', and could shift once Gollum starts to become more prevalent. Just like Sméagol and Gollum are two vastly different entities, the game could split in two as Sméagol becomes no more. Whether or not LOTR: Gollum is considered canon, there's the chance that the game will revolve around Sméagol falling to the Ring's corruptive influence in a different way. Choosing to sacrifice some of Sméagol's sanity by accepting a part of the Ring's influence in exchange for better stealth or attack could greatly improve immersion by giving players more control of the game. If this is the case, then branching perk and ability trees could come along with it. Giving players the option to resist the Ring and stay as Sméagol instead of descending into the madness of Gollum could be just what it needs in order to attract new and old fans alike. The game is unlikely to be a direct retelling of the classic tale, so it will need something to set it apart. There's also the possibility that LOTR: Gollum could work better if it's not canon, and allow players to reject the One Ring instead of immediately succumbing to it. Related: Why Frodo Won't Be In The Lord Of The Rings: Gollum Increased attack damage but lower health does seem like a fitting change when Sméagol starts to truly become the creature that most fans know him as, and could vastly improve gameplay. The more physical and mental changes that occur, the stronger or weaker that players could become in different areas.

The sharp fangs that Gollum sports in the Misty Mountains are a far cry from Sméagol's smile, after all, and that's just one aspect of his corruption. As they become closer to Gollum and farther away from Sméagol, players could unlock new abilities or perks/debuffs. If LOTR: Gollum does indeed show Sméagol before he became Gollum, then his corruption could be a major part of how the game is played.

Lord of the rings gollum bites finger