Wētā Workshop has announced a delay for their upcoming life simulation game, Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings Game, which is now set to launch on July 29, 2025, instead of its initial date of March 25, 2025.
Developer’s Statement on the Delay
The developer, renowned for their work in visual effects and board games, shared the news on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). They stated that the game “needs a bit more simmering…” to meet the expectations of fans.
Dear Fellow Hobbits,
A good Hobbit feast takes time, and so does Tales of the Shire! We’re taking a little longer to ensure that every Hobbit, on every platform, can enjoy the same cosy experience. The game will now launch on July 29, 2025.
We want this game to feel like a warm hug from Middle-earth, and we are making sure that no matter where you play, you’ll feel right at home in The Shire. From foot-hair styles to the fluffiest cakes, every detail will be just right.
We appreciate your patience and cannot wait for you to experience life in The Shire this summer. In the meantime, arrange the table, polish your silver and get ready for a feast fit for a Hobbit!
Looking forward to welcoming you to Bywater.
– From the folks at Weta Workshop Game Studio
Game Features and Background
Originally announced in April 2024, Tales of the Shire allows players to create their own hobbit character and engage in various activities within the quaint hamlet of Bywater, an unofficial town of Hobbiton. The game features resource collection, community building, farming, gardening, and significant cooking elements.
This marks the second delay for the title; it was initially postponed from a fall 2024 release to early 2025, which was later specified as March 25, 2025.
Publisher and Industry Updates
The game’s publisher, Private Division, experienced a change in ownership in November 2024 when it was sold to an undisclosed buyer by its parent company, Take-Two. Recent reports indicate that former staff from Annapurna Interactive have acquired the studio’s portfolio under a new brand this year.
Are you disappointed by the delay of Tales of the Shire? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
