Tales of the Shire is a new game from Wētā Workshop that is being developed by Private Division and published by Take-Two Interactive. It wouldn’t be a far stretch to think of Tales of the Shire as The Sims Lord of the Rings edition but in watching the trailer one can get a sense that the game does stay close to its roots in recreating the iconic imagery from The Hobbit. The game takes place in an unincorporated part of Hobbiton called Bywater where players will help nurture the community into becoming an official village. Tales of the Shire launches for PC and consoles in 2024.
Players can personalize the appearance of their Hobbit as befits a halfling of Middle-Earth. They will also be able to further customize and decorate their Hobbit home to create the coziest place in Hobbiton but no home is complete without its own pantry of food so harvesting fresh food from the garden is a must as is fishing. Time will pass in the Shire so players can experience the full range of the seasons. Exploration will yield treasures and rewards as the story progresses and one never knows when they might bump into a familiar face when out on a stroll.
Game description (per official site):
“Welcome Home, Hobbit! – From the creative studio, Wētā Workshop, live the cosy life of a Hobbit in the wonderfully serene landscape of the Shire. Discover, decorate, and share in this idyllic corner of Middle-earth. Join friendly Hobbits and familiar faces awaiting your arrival in Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings™ Game.
Create your own Hobbit as you set forth in Bywater. Though not yet established as an official village in Hobbiton, play a big part in helping the quaint town flourish. Greet comfort at the door as you decorate your own Hobbit home, tend to your garden, fish at the clear ponds, forage wild fruits and herbs, or trade with townsfolks. Prepare homemade meals to share with fellow Hobbits and foster relationships. With much to see and lots more to eat, enjoy days of splendor in the picturesque forests, lakes, and pastures.
Unwind in the place where what matters most are all the little things. Help bring the community together to achieve village status in Bywater. Experience delight in Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings™ Game”