EA Announces Lord of the Rings RPG

Returning to the profitable Middle-earth once again, Electronic Arts has announced The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age. While the prior two Lord of the Rings offerings were of the action variety with light role-playing elements, The Third Age is a full-fledged role-playing title. The turn-based battle system is described as innovative, though at the time further specifics are unavailable.

Players will assume the role of a new character that will battle alongside the Fellowship. However, at times the player will be given opportunities to betray their party and assist Sauron. As such, the story of the films is being modified to fit within the game design, though the changes are suspected to consist mostly of the player's presence within the Fellowship. During the course of the game, parties will travel through Mines of Moria, Osgiliath, and Helm's Deep, participating in the epic battles associated with the respective location.

Currently in development by EA's Redwood Shores studio, The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age is planned for a fall release. More details are expected at the upcoming E3 show this May.