ans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic Middle-earth saga have something new to look forward to this August. The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria, a survival crafting RPG set in the Fourth Age of Middle-earth, is officially making its way to Xbox Series X|S and Steam. Originally released in October 2023 as an Epic Games Store exclusive and later on PlayStation 5 in December 2023, the game is now expanding its reach to new platforms, offering fans a fresh opportunity to explore the depths of Moria. With the arrival of a major new update, The Golden Update, the game promises to bring an enriched experience to both new and returning players.
A New Chapter for Return to Moria
Release Details and Pricing
Return to Moria will be available on Xbox Series X|S and Steam starting August 27th, 2024. Publisher North Beach Games announced the expansion to new platforms following the end of their exclusivity contract with the Epic Games Store. For a limited time, the game will be offered at a discounted price of $19.99, giving fans an affordable way to dive into this Middle-earth adventure.
What is Return to Moria?
The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria is a unique entry in the vast array of Tolkien-inspired games. Set during the Fourth Age of Middle-earth, the game invites players to explore the legendary Dwarven mines of Moria. As a survival crafting RPG, players must gather resources, craft weapons and armor, build fortifications, and fend off the dangers lurking in the dark depths of the ancient city. With a strong focus on cooperative gameplay, Return to Moria offers a fresh take on the survival genre within a beloved fantasy world.
The Golden Update: Breathing New Life into Moria
A Major Update Across All Platforms
Coinciding with its release on new platforms, The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria will also be receiving a substantial update titled The Golden Update. This update is set to be free across all platforms and brings a host of new features, improvements, and content to the game.
Key Features of The Golden Update:
- Sandbox Mode: Previously available only in beta on the Epic Games Store, the new sandbox mode will be fully launched, allowing players greater freedom to explore and create in the world of Moria.
- Crossplay Support: The update introduces crossplay functionality, enabling players on different platforms to team up and tackle the challenges of Moria together.
- New Weapons and Armor: Players can look forward to a variety of new weapons and armor options, enhancing their ability to survive and thrive in the depths of Moria.
- Enhanced Building Mechanics: The update brings improvements to the building mechanics, along with new decorative options to personalize your Dwarven fortresses.
- New Difficulty Settings: For those seeking a greater challenge, new difficulty options will be available, allowing players to tailor their experience to their preferred level of intensity.
- Bug Fixes and Quality of Life Improvements: The Golden Update also includes a wide range of bug fixes and quality of life improvements, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
Reception and Anticipation: From Rocky Start to Redemption
Initial Reception
Return to Moria faced a lukewarm reception upon its initial release. Reviewers, including IGN’s Travis Northup, were critical of the game’s execution, with Northup rating it 4/10 and describing it as a “disappointing” entry that failed to live up to its potential. The game was criticized for its lack of polish and its inability to fully realize the promise of its concept.
User Reviews and Improvements
Despite the initial critical reception, user reviews on platforms like the Epic Games Store told a different story. Return to Moria earned a 4.4 out of 5 from players who appreciated the game’s unique setting and cooperative gameplay. Much of this positive feedback can be attributed to the free updates and improvements that developer Free Range Games has consistently rolled out since launch.
Renewed Hopes with The Golden Update
With the upcoming Golden Update and the game’s expansion to new platforms, there is renewed optimism among fans and potential new players. The update addresses many of the issues highlighted in early reviews, and the additional content and features promise to make Return to Moria a more robust and engaging experience.
A New Beginning for Return to Moria
The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria is poised for a resurgence with its launch on Xbox and Steam, coupled with the release of The Golden Update. The game offers a compelling blend of survival, crafting, and cooperative play within one of the most beloved fantasy worlds ever created. While its journey began with mixed reviews, the ongoing support from its developers and the positive reception from its player base suggest that Return to Moria is evolving into a title worthy of Tolkien’s legacy.
For those who have been waiting to explore the depths of Moria on their preferred platform, August 27th marks an exciting opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to Middle-earth, Return to Moria invites you to rediscover the lost halls of the Dwarves and craft your own legend in the shadows of the Misty Mountains.
