Reports indicate that a new third-person action game set in the Lord of the Rings universe is currently under development, with ambitions to rival the commercial success of “Hogwarts Legacy.”
Insider Gaming sources suggest that this unannounced project has secured significant funding, including approximately $100 million USD from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). An official announcement regarding this funding might be made soon.
The rumored game is also said to involve Embracer, the conglomerate holding the rights to Lord of the Rings adaptations, along with developer Revenge.
Both Embracer and developer Revenge have refrained from commenting on these rumors, stating their policy not to discuss speculation.
While specifics about the new Lord of the Rings game are scarce, its aspiration to compete with “Hogwarts Legacy” is notable. “Hogwarts Legacy,” released in 2023, was a massive commercial hit, becoming the top-selling game in the US for that year, and a sequel is now a high priority for Warner Bros.
Conversely, recent Lord of the Rings titles have faced challenges. “The Lord of the Rings: Gollum” experienced a disastrous launch in 2023, leading its developer to cease game production. “Tales of the Shire,” released this year, received lukewarm reception.
A new Lord of the Rings game from Embracer aligns with previous statements; over a year ago, the company announced it was prototyping several new games. Lee Guinchard, Embracer`s head of Lord of the Rings adaptations, has previously expressed a desire for a “renaissance” in games based on the franchise.
This new, undisclosed project is not the only Lord of the Rings game in development by Embracer, which is also collaborating with Amazon Games on a new Middle-earth themed MMO.
Throughout the years, the franchise has produced numerous memorable games. Early movie tie-ins were often critically acclaimed, as were the more recent “Shadow of Mordor” and “Shadow of War” (though their developer, Monolith, is no longer active). Lighter, more family-friendly titles like “Lego Lord of the Rings” and “Lego The Hobbit” also hold a special place in players` memories. A gallery showcasing some of the best Lord of the Rings games is included below.
The Best Lord Of The Rings Games, Ranked
Beyond the gaming realm, Embracer is collaborating with Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema on several upcoming cinematic projects, notably “The Hunt for Gollum.” Andy Serkis, known for his portrayal of Gollum in Peter Jackson`s iconic Lord of the Rings films, is slated to direct this new movie.