Shire Stories: Waiting Room Playlist

Alright, let’s dive right into this quirky take on gaming in the Shire and beyond.

So, Tales of the Shire is almost here. It’s like, ever had that feel when you’re half-awake in a field with hobbits? No? Just me? Okay, scratch that. Anyway, this game is coming in July, finally. Yep, after some hiccups. And if you’ve ever thought, “Man, I wonder what life would be if I lived small and cozy in Middle-earth,” well, bam! Here you go. It’s different from all those other smash-and-slash, giant war games. You know, like less Sauron-punching, more, um, gardening? Cozy vibe for sure.

Imagining Hobbiton as a life sim? Seems pretty obvious. Why didn’t anyone do it sooner? Ugh, missed opportunities! But hey, here’s a kick in the right direction for fans tired of, I dunno, battling dark lords every other game. Let’s take it easy, have a pint, maybe grow some taters.

Oh, and while you’re waiting (because we always gotta wait), here are some games to keep you busy:

Stardew Valley: The ultimate chill farm game. It’s got this retro charm — kinda like listening to vinyl when everyone else is streaming. Socialize with quirky townies or just be a hermit. It’s all good. Honestly, got a good feeling Weta Workshop peeked at Stardew for some inspiration. But, who knows?

Side note: Eric Barone, the genius behind this, is cooking up something new called Haunted Chocolatier. Chocolate and ghosts? Intriguing combo, right?

The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria: This one isn’t quite as mellow, but it’s a survival game that lets you play as a Dwarf. Imagine camping in the Misty Mountains, but you’re rebuilding instead of roasting marshmallows. Mixed reviews, but some folks really dig it — especially on Steam. The online crowd has spoken, I guess?

Palia: Free, fantasy, and life-sim fabulous. Seems like the kinda place you’d want to hang if you’re into exploring and crafting all day. I’ve heard, like, it’s a great warm-up for Tales of the Shire. Plus, it’s got this rich lore; like reading a novel, but without paper cuts.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Can’t forget about this one. It’s Nintendo’s darling in the cozy game lineup. Chat with animals, collect stuff, build your dream island. Ah, but Nintendo, seriously, when’s more news on the next gen, huh? Insert hopeful sigh here.

Last up, The Lord of the Rings Online. It’s been around since 2007. Doesn’t exactly have cutting-edge graphics but nails that Middle-earth feel. Role-playing in this world is like slipping into a warm blanket of nostalgia. If that makes sense? Maybe not.

Well, there you have it. A totally unordered guide to embracing your inner Hobbit until July rolls around. Now, go forth and game, or garden, or whatever suits ya!