After over two years of development, a previously announced video game based on The Lord of the Rings is no more. Amazon, Inc. announced the cancellation to Bloomberg, saying, “we have been unable to secure terms to proceed with this title at this time.” The spokesperson added “We love the Lord of the Rings IP, and are disappointed that we won’t be bringing this game to customers.”
It was never clear whether or not the game would be based on Amazon’s upcoming TV series, or other parts of the franchise. But Amazon paid $250 million for the TV rights, setting the show budget at a record $465 million. It’s possible that a game tie-in might have required further royalties the company didn’t prepare for. Or additional negotiation with the Tolkien estate. The original TV deal allowed the estate certain unspecified creative restrictions.
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Gamer fans of Middle-earth aren’t completely out of luck, however. Daedelic’s Gollum-centric, single-player game still seems on track for release next year. Meanwhile, Diamond Select just launched a new toy line based on the original movie trilogy. MMORPG fans, however, must adjust their expectations anew. Ultimately, the franchise remains too big and too lucrative to eschew such opportunities forever.
Are you disappointed the MMORPG is dead for now? Do you think it will revive any time soon? Let us know in comments.
Recommended Reading: J.R.R. Tolkien 4-Book Boxed Set: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings
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