Tales of the Shire, a new life simulator set in Middle-earth’s Third Age, offers a unique blend of rustic charm and familiar gameplay mechanics. Players take on the role of a recent transplant to Bywater, a quaint town struggling to become an official village. The game’s art style, inspired by Tolkien’s world, creates a cozy atmosphere with its chunky visuals and whimsical touches.
As a Hobbit, the primary goal is to feed and be fed, with daily tasks revolving around foraging, fishing, and cooking. While the gameplay loop is well-familiar, it can feel overly repetitive and sleep-inducing. However, investing in relationships with other characters can unlock new skills and recipes, including a culinary mini-game that combines elements of Cooking Mama and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Despite its charming atmosphere, Tales of the Shire falls short in exploring the emotional depth of Middle-earth’s world. Interpersonal issues are resolved quickly and without tension, leaving the game feeling naive and placid. Diehard Tolkien fans and lovers of cozy games may find themselves underwhelmed by the lack of challenging quandaries and hard emotions.
The game’s promise is overshadowed by endless fetch quests, which can feel like a disservice to the rich source material that inspired it. With its familiar mechanics and shallow exploration of Middle-earth’s world, Tales of the Shire may not be the best choice for those seeking a more immersive experience.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/games/2025/jul/29/tales-of-the-shire-a-lord-of-the-rings-game-review