“Tales of the Shire” offers a refreshing take on the Middle-earth gaming experience, departing from the traditional combat-focused fantasy and embracing a bucolic, slice-of-life approach instead. The game, to be released later this year, revolves around building a home in Hobbiton. Players can design their own Hobbit character, furnish their homes, forage for ingredients, fish, garden, cook, and participate in local festivals. Gameplay footages show a marked departure from the traditional high-stakes fantasy action, suggesting a relaxing lifestyle simulator set in Middle-earth.
The game aims to bring a cozy new dimension to Middle-earth, as suggested by Kelly Tyson, head of product at Wētā Workshop, the studio behind the game. She emphasized the departure from previous games that typically focused on epic battles and violent encounters. Instead “Tales of the Shire” gives players the chance to foster relationships with local villagers through shared activities, such as gardening and enjoying communal meals.
“Tales of the Shire” is set in the village of Bywater, a place featuring thatched-roof houses known from “The Hobbit”. It’s here that Bilbo Baggins and his entourage of dwarven companions frequented the Green Dragon Inn. By distinguishing itself from the recent releases in the Lord of the Rings franchise, including the “Return to Moria” or the “Lord of the Rings: Gollum”, “Tales of the Shire” clearly caters to fans seeking more laid-back and cozy experiences in Middle-earth.
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