Tales of the Shire Review
Life as a Hobbit doesn't need to be exciting, but Tales of the Shire makes the simple life feel like a chore.
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Nothing pains me more than facing continued disappointment at video game adaptations of The Lord of the Rings, but unfortunately, cozy Hobbit life simulator Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game has me right back at rock bottom.
It attempts to capture the world and lives of Tolkien's halfling heroes, but instead posits a torturously slow and boring glimpse into the joys of such menial tasks as walking with slight urgency and inventory management.
- Platform reviewed: Xbox Series S
- Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC
- Release date: July 29, 2025
A wizard arrives precisely when he means to, but Tales of the Shire did not.
Author's summary: Disappointing Lord of the Rings game adaptation.