Turbine Inc. has announced that it has reached an agreement with Tolkien Enterprises which effectively extends their license to create games based on The Lord of the Rings series until 2014. In addition, the deal states that the rights can further be extended until 2017.
This is a pretty good move from the part of both companies considering the success of Turbine's The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar MMORPG. Jim Crowley, president and CEO of Turbine Inc, shared some of his thoughts on this new deal:
We’re thrilled with the global success of The Lord of the Rings Online since its launch in 2007. With the recent announcement of what are sure to be two blockbuster films based on The Hobbit and a sequel, we expect the success of the license and our relationship with Tolkien Enterprises to grow for years to come.
The sentiment was shared by Executive Vice President of The Saul Zaentz Company and its merchandising division Tolkien Enterprises Albert M. Bendich who said:
We have had a wonderful working relationship with Turbine over the past several years. We look forward to our continuing success with Turbine as it pushes the envelope for compelling online entertainment and gameplay to bring the compelling characters of Middle-earth to life for Tolkien fans around the world.
Fans of The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar have a lot to look forward to in the next few years. Hopefully, this renewal of the license spurs the creation of even more content and expansions for gamers to enjoy.
Titles
