Summary
There is certainly no shortage ofLord of the Ringsgames out there, with the industry taking full advantage of the IP when and where they can. However, while there may be no shortage ofLord of the Ringsvideo games, the market is somewhat short on unique titles based on the IP, with most of them adopting the art style and imagery established by Peter Jackson’s film series. This is ultimately where Weta Workshop and Private Division’s upcoming cozy farm life simTales of the Shirecomes in, with an art style that is unlike anyLord of the Ringsgame that has come before it.
Tales of the Shire’s art style is incredibly distinct, and while that might make it difficult to justify it as aLord of the Ringsgame at first glance, that judgment is likely the result of decades of being exposed to the same dark, serious imagery of Middle-earth. As such, whileTales of the Shire’s art style may be a tough pill to swallow for some, there might be a lesson in there somewhere for futureLord of the Ringsgames, especially given how many of them have missed the mark.
Tales of the Shire’s Art Style Should Inspire Future LotR Games to Be So Bold
Tales of the Shire’s Art Style Offers a Contrasting Perspective of Middle-earth
Tales of the Shire’s genre and gameplayare already a significant departure from whatLord of the Ringsfans have become accustomed to over the last couple of decades, and its unique art style only further solidifies that. Depictions of Middle-earth in gaming have long applied dark and moody tones to their imagery, showing the grittier side of the War of the Ring and other contentious times and events throughout Middle-earth’s history.Tales of the Shire, on the other hand, adopts a cozy life-simulation approach, which is ultimately reflected in its warm, cartoonish art style.
Tales of the Shire’s art style is incredibly distinct, and while that might make it difficult to justify it as aLord of the Ringsgame at first glance, that judgment is likely the result of decades of being exposed to the same dark, serious imagery of Middle-earth.
Ultimately,Tales of the Shire’s art style offers a contrasting perspective of Middle-earth than mostLord of the Ringsgames have in the past with their emphasis on epic battles and dark landscapes. By leaning into more whimsical imagery,Tales of the Shirecan showcase the pleasant andpeaceful side of Middle-earth, which is especially necessary with a setting like the Shire. In the long run, this allows players andLord of the Ringsfans to have a more well-rounded experience with the IP’s representation in gaming, and it’s something futureLotRgames should consider adopting as well.
Tales of the Shire’s Art Style Broadens Accessibility and Appeal
Tales of the Shire’s unique art stylealso broadens the accessibility and appeal of the IP. Gamers who might not even beLord of the Ringsfans, perhaps even on account of its traditionally more serious tone, may still find themselves drawn toTales of the Shire. The game’s warm and inviting visuals are likely more apt to attract a much broader audience than otherLord of the Ringsgames may be capable of, especially those who prefer the more relaxing gaming experience thatTales of the Shireaims to provide.
All in all,Tales of the Shirerepresents a big movefor theLord of the RingsIP in gaming, and although its success or lack thereof has yet to be determined, its art style offers undeniable evidence of what aLotRgame can accomplish if it reaches beyond the borders of tradition. If futureLord of the Ringsgames were to venture into this unfamiliar territory by showcasing the brighter side of Middle-earth, perhaps the IP’s fan base would not only grow, butLotRgames might also see their reputation finally restored.
