Another game to add to the list of “games planned for fall 2024 but not released until 2025”, as Weta Workshop and Private Division’s (=Take-Two) single player life simulator will not finally reach gamers this year either.

Weta Workshop announced the delay and the reasons behind it on Twitter: “All of us here at Weta Workshop are looking forward to welcoming you to the Shire, a peaceful corner of J.R.R. Tolkien’s world. When a new Hobbit steps into Bywater for the first time, we want that moment to be everything you’ve ever hoped it would be. To ensure that we deliver on this vision, Tales of the Shire will now launch in early 2025. Thank you for your patience and continued support. Be sure to tune in to our A Hobbit Day Showcase on September 22nd to learn more about Tales of the Shire and our new release date.”

An important update for all Hobbits. pic.twitter.com/NuhOrdmvWX

— Tales of the Shire (@talesoftheshire) September 12, 2024

Live the cozy life of a Hobbit in the wonderfully serene landscape of the Shire. Explore, decorate, and share this idyllic corner of Middle-earth. Join the friendly Hobbits and familiar faces that await your arrival in Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings game. Create your own Hobbit as you make your way to Bywater. Although not yet established as an official village in Hobbiton, you play a big part in helping the quaint town flourish. Welcome comfort at the door as you decorate your own Hobbit hole, tend to your garden, fish in the clear ponds, forage for wild fruits and herbs, or trade with townsfolk. Prepare homemade meals to share with other Hobbits and foster relationships. With so much to see and so much to eat, enjoy days of splendor in the picturesque forests, lakes, and meadows. Relax in a place where the little things matter. Help bring the community together to achieve village status in Bywater. Experience the joy of Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings game.

Personalize your look and flaunt your best Hobbit gear with a variety of customization options. Decorate your own Hobbit home and transform the cozy space with grid-free placement to position furniture and decor to your liking. Discover the wonders that each new day brings to Bywater as you settle into your peaceful homestead for some much-needed rest. No Hobbit’s day is complete without food. Fish, garden, and forage to stock your pantry with the fruits of your labor. Harvest seasonal crops and flowers as time passes in your homestead.

Enjoy the warmth of the kitchen and show off your culinary skills with mealtime recipes. Join a second breakfast or host a dinner party with other Hobbits. Share meals with invited guests to forge new relationships. Discover secret glades and lost treasures throughout the Shire.

Experience ever-changing weather that affects daily routines and seasonal surprises based on the time of year. Earn rewards as your story progresses. Meet iconic characters and familiar Hobbit families to trade for upgrades to your skills, clothing, home, and more. Participate in club missions to complete daily activities and help achieve official village status in Bywater.

…but we won’t be able to experience all of this until early 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PC (Steam) and Nintendo Switch.

Source: Gematsu