Tales of the Shire Release Date Announced

Fans of the *Lord of the Rings* universe eager to dive into a cozy Hobbit life simulation should mark their calendars for *Tales of the Shire*, which is set to launch on July 29, 2025. After a few delays, this release date marks the game's second scheduled launch and third announced window. Initially, Wētā Workshop aimed for a 2024 release, but this was pushed to March 2025, and then further adjusted to the current July date. The good news is that both the PC and console versions are slated to release simultaneously, a decision that has contributed to the delays. Wētā's commitment to delivering a seamless experience across all platforms was clearly stated in their February 2025 announcement, where they emphasized the need for additional time to perfect the game "no matter where [people] play." This approach stands in contrast to the staggered release of the 2023 game *The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria*, which saw its Xbox Series X/S version released nearly a year after the Windows version due to scope creep and late announcements of console ports.

Wētā and publisher Private Division's early focus on making *Tales of the Shire* a cross-platform title has seemingly helped them avoid similar issues, despite the multiple release date adjustments. So, what can players expect from *Tales of the Shire*? The game promises extensive customization, from personalizing your Hobbit's appearance to decking out your Hobbit-hole home with a "grid-free placement" system for furniture and decor. Additionally, the game will feature engaging farming and cooking mechanics, allowing players to host virtual dinner parties. Exploration and trading with iconic characters and familiar Hobbit families will also be key elements of the gameplay, enriching the immersive experience of life in the Shire.

*Tales of the Shire* will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows. This article was updated on February 25, 2025, to reflect the latest information about the game's release.