Warhorse Studios, the creators of "Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2," are reportedly developing a large-scale open-world RPG set in the "Lord of the Rings" universe, according to industry expert Ryszard Chojnowski. The project is said to have a budget of around $100 million and will take a realistic, mature approach to Middle-earth.
This open-world RPG delivers a gritty, grounded experience. True to form, the title prioritizes raw performance and realistic art direction over stylized visuals. The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) provides the capital. Meanwhile, Embracer Group—parent company to Warhorse and holder of the Middle-earth IP—steers the project’s high-level strategy. This isn't your typical fantasy romp. High stakes, proprietary tech.
Realism instead of high fantasy
Should the information prove true, it marks a significant strategic shift for the franchise. While previous titles like "Shadow of War" relied on supernatural mechanics, the involvement of Warhorse suggests a more grounded interpretation. The studio has demonstrated its mastery of complex medieval systems, authentic architecture, and deep RPG mechanics with the Kingdom Come series.
Following its 2022 acquisition of Middle-earth Enterprises for nearly $400 million, the Embracer Group is under pressure to refinance this massive investment. After the Gollum debacle and the subsequent cancellation of the Tomb Raider title, the pressure is on. Warhorse Studios is one of the most capable teams within the Embracer structure for large-scale role-playing games. A $100 million budget would represent a significant leap for the studio compared to the production costs of the Kingdom Come games.
The rumor is logical, but risky. Warhorse is a master of medieval settings, but Tolkien's fantasy elements require new assets and physics systems that the studio has avoided so far. The $100 million budget sounds substantial, but for a modern AAA open-world game, it's almost the bare minimum if it wants to compete with heavyweights like "Hogwarts Legacy."
For players, however, the news is a win: A Middle-earth without "magic bling-bling", but with the dirt and steel atmosphere of Warhorse, would be the first real innovation in the franchise in years.
UpdateAccording to recent reports, Crystal Dynamics, not Warhorse, is the lead developer. Further details are available. here.
Yeah, then let's fire the translator and put them in AI's hands. Because it's just a literary source.