When Does Tales of the Shire Come Out?

The highly anticipated Lord of the Rings game, Tales of the Shire, promises a charming Hobbit life simulation experience. Here's an update on its release and what to expect.

Release Date Update:

Tales of the Shire is currently scheduled for release on July 29, 2025. This marks the game's third announced release window, following initial projections of a 2024 launch and a subsequent March 2025 target. The delays, according to developer Wētā Workshop, are attributed to the need for additional time to refine the cross-platform experience across all target platforms. This commitment to simultaneous release on all platforms contrasts with the staggered release of The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria.

The decision to prioritize a polished, simultaneous launch across platforms appears to have been a key factor in the multiple delays. Unlike Return to Moria, which faced challenges due to late-stage console port announcements, Tales of the Shire was designed from the outset as a cross-platform title.

Gameplay and Features:

Tales of the Shire offers extensive customization options, allowing players to personalize their Hobbit appearance and decorate their homes using a flexible, grid-free placement system for furniture and décor. Farming, cooking, and hosting dinner parties are key gameplay elements. Exploration is also a significant component, featuring a trading system with interactions with iconic characters and Hobbit families.

Platforms:

Tales of the Shire will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows on July 29, 2025.

This article was updated on 02/25/25 to reflect the latest release date information.