As a devoted fan of The Lord of the Rings, I often find myself pondering a captivating question: Would people genuinely want to live in the Shire? The cinematic location from the first act of the movie has transformed into a popular tourist attraction in Matamata, New Zealand. This iconic setting, with its rolling hills and cozy Hobbit holes, has been featured in several video games based on this beloved fantasy franchise, including titles from Lego’s The Lord of the Rings series and other adaptations. The developer Wētā Workshop, alongside publisher Fictions, aimed to bring the charm of Hobbiton to life with their new life simulation game set in a small town called Bywater. However, this cozy simulation may not align with what many fans envision for a video game adaptation of such a cherished universe. Does this factor affect the game’s appeal? Let’s delve into that.
Tales of the Shire distinguishes itself as a life simulation game that offers a unique perspective on the peaceful Hobbiton village of Bywater. Players step into the shoes of a customizable Hobbit who has recently moved to the area, inheriting Rose’s old Hobbit hole. Their task is to transform this humble abode into a comfortable and charming home. As they interact with the diverse residents of Bywater, they discover a variety of activities and chores to engage in, from refurbishing and cooking to fishing, gardening, and foraging for resources. This immersive exploration of Bywater encourages players to fully embrace the daily lives of the Hobbits, fostering friendships and contributing to the community.
Once players establish themselves within the town and connect with other Hobbits, they must collaborate on restoring their village to its former glory, ultimately seeking recognition from higher authorities to have Bywater declared an official village. On the surface, the narrative of the game shares a striking resemblance to that of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, as both titles serve as cozy village simulators in which players create a character and work on rebuilding a community. This premise may appeal to dedicated fans of the genre, offering them a new world to inhabit and explore. However, it could also be perceived as uninspired or repetitive by those seeking a more innovative experience.
The mini-games featured in Tales of the Shire, especially those revolving around everyday chores, are deliberately simple and easily accessible. While gardening and fishing provide fun and straightforward gameplay, cooking introduces a bit more complexity, requiring players to grasp different recipes and techniques. Overall, the activities present in the game lack challenging segments that elevate the experience; this could either be considered a welcome respite for players seeking a break from more intense or competitive gaming or a dulling experience for those craving excitement.
Given that this game is based on The Lord of the Rings franchise, it is reasonable to assume that some players might find it to be lacking, particularly since the original stories are renowned for their epic battles, powerful wizards, and legendary creatures. In contrast, Tales of the Shire features minimal action and conflict, prompting players to prepare for a more relaxed storefront, often akin to a home-building chore simulator. Additionally, the game primarily focuses on the quaint village of Bywater; players who hope to explore more iconic locations within the Shire, such as the Prancing Pony or the lush countryside, may find themselves feeling quite disappointed.
The character creation system in Tales of the Shire is another area that leaves much to be desired. Although customization is a crucial feature in life simulation games, the options presented here are limited, offering only a handful of customization options and clothing choices. While players may unlock more items through in-game stores as they progress, the initial selection can feel quite restrictive and unsatisfying for those wishing to create a genuinely unique Hobbit.
One of the standout features of Tales of the Shire is its visually stunning art style. The game’s aesthetic, with its whimsical quality and vibrant colors, is reminiscent of illustrations found in children’s books or fantasy novels. This charming design creates an inviting atmosphere that effectively captures the essence of a cozy life simulator set in the Shire. The art style not only enhances the gameplay experience but also helps to transport players into a world that feels both familiar and magical.
In conclusion, Tales of the Shire is a game that caters to a specific audience. It is designed for fans who appreciate slow-paced, life-simulation gameplay and who are eager to immerse themselves in the whimsical world of Hobbits. However, its lack of challenging gameplay, limited exploration, and basic character customization options may deter some players who expect more action or innovation from a title associated with such a grand franchise. Ultimately, whether or not fans will find joy in this game depends on their preferences for pacing and gameplay style. Fans seeking a tranquil retreat into the Shire may find a cozy haven here, while those looking for the epic thrills of Middle-earth may feel left wanting.
Overall Score: 7 out of 10
Reviewed on: PlayStation 5