Fans of *The Lord of the Rings* are eagerly awaiting *Tales of the Shire*, a game that promises to immerse players in the ultimate cozy Hobbit life simulation experience. Here's the latest on when you can expect to dive into this enchanting world.
Does Tales of the Shire Have a Release Date?
*Tales of the Shire* is set to launch on July 29, 2025. This marks the game's second release date and third release window. Initially, Wētā Workshop aimed for a 2024 release, but delays pushed it first to March 2025, and then to July 2025. The good news is that both PC and console versions are slated to release simultaneously. Wētā Workshop's commitment to ensuring a polished experience across all platforms, as stated in their February 2025 announcement, underscores their dedication to quality. This approach contrasts with the staggered release of *The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria* in 2023, which saw its Xbox Series X/S version released nearly a year after the Windows version due to scope creep and late console port announcements.
Wētā Workshop and publisher Private Division planned *Tales of the Shire* as a cross-platform title from the start, which has helped them avoid similar release bottlenecks, despite the multiple delays.
What Can You Expect From Tales of the Shire?
When *Tales of the Shire* finally arrives, players can look forward to a rich experience filled with customization options. You'll be able to personalize your Hobbit's appearance and choose from a variety of Hobbit attire. Your Hobbit-hole home will also be customizable, thanks to a "grid-free placement" system that allows for flexible arrangement of furniture and home decor.
The game will feature engaging farming and cooking mechanics, allowing you to host virtual dinner parties. Exploration is a key component, with a trading system that lets you interact with iconic characters and familiar Hobbit families.
*Tales of the Shire* will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows, offering a seamless experience across all platforms.
This article was updated on February 25, 2025, to reflect the latest information about *Tales of the Shire*.
