Get ready for the ultimate cozy Hobbit life simulation experience in the upcoming *Lord of the Rings* game, *Tales of the Shire*. This highly anticipated title promises fans a chance to live out their idyllic Hobbit dreams, but when exactly can you expect to start your Shire adventure?
Does Tales of the Shire Have a Release Date?
The current release date for Tales of the Shire is July 29, 2025. This marks the game's second official release date, following previous announcements targeting a 2024 launch and then a March 2025 launch. Wētā Workshop, the developer, cited the need for additional time to polish the experience across all platforms as the reason for the delay. This commitment to a simultaneous release across PC and consoles contrasts with the staggered launch of The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria, highlighting Wētā and publisher Private Division's proactive approach to cross-platform development.
The challenges faced by Return to Moria, with its later-announced console ports leading to a delayed release, underscore the benefits of Wētā's early commitment to cross-platform development for Tales of the Shire. While the delays are undoubtedly frustrating, this approach suggests a smoother, more polished final product.
What Can You Expect From Tales of the Shire?
Prepare for a deeply immersive experience filled with customization options. Personalize your Hobbit's appearance, deck them out in the finest Shire attire, and arrange your Hobbit-hole home with a flexible, grid-free placement system for furniture and décor. Engage in farming, cooking, and even host virtual dinner parties! Explore the Shire, interacting with iconic characters and familiar Hobbit families through a dynamic trading system. The game promises a rich and engaging experience that captures the essence of Hobbit life.
Related: Is Tales of the Shire Coming to Nintendo Switch?
Tales of the Shire arrives on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows on July 29, 2025.
The above article was updated on 02/25/25 by the original author to include new information about Tales of the Shire.
