A new report suggests that the studio behind Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Warhorse Studios, could be working on an ambitious open world game set in the world of The Lord of the Rings.
According to industry insider claims, the project is said to be a large scale AAA RPG with a budget reportedly around $100 million. While details remain limited, the most notable part of the report is the potential involvement of Warhorse Studios, a developer known for its grounded, historically inspired approach to role playing games.
If accurate, this could signal a very different direction for a Lord of the Rings title. Warhorse built its reputation on realism, deep systems, and immersive world design with Kingdom Come: Deliverance, focusing on authentic combat, survival mechanics, and player choice rather than traditional fantasy spectacle. Applying that philosophy to Middle earth could result in a more grounded interpretation of Tolkien’s world.
Rather than leaning heavily into magic and large scale cinematic battles, the game is expected to emphasise realism, with a focus on moment to moment gameplay, detailed environments, and a living world shaped by player actions. This would mark a significant shift compared to previous adaptations of the franchise, which have typically prioritised action and spectacle.
The project is reportedly being developed under Embracer Group, which currently holds the rights to The Lord of the Rings for video games. Embracer has previously stated its intention to expand the franchise with major new titles, and a high budget open world RPG would align with that strategy.
However, it is important to note that the information has not been officially confirmed by either Warhorse Studios or Embracer Group. The report originates from an industry source rather than a formal announcement, meaning plans could change or may not materialise at all.
If the rumours prove to be accurate, the involvement of the Kingdom Come team could make this one of the most distinctive Lord of the Rings games to date, offering a more grounded and immersive take on one of the most iconic fantasy worlds in gaming.
