Lord of the Rings Games Announced

Universal Interactive will publish games based on J.R.R. Tolkien's worldwide best-selling saga "The Lord of the Rings," the company announced today. As part of Vivendi Universal Publishing's long-term deal with Tolkien Enterprises, the company acquired the exclusive rights to develop interactive entertainment based on selected Tolkien literary works. Universal Interactive will create games for multiple next-generation and PC platforms. Game content will derive from Tolkien's novels "The Fellowship of the Ring," "The Two Towers" and "The Return of the King."

"I am delighted that Universal Interactive will be bringing the enchanting and timeless world of Middle-Earth to life in its upcoming games," said Laurie Battle, director of licensing of Tolkien Enterprises. "Their expertise in creating and developing well-known, best-selling products rich with character and story make them a welcome addition to our family of licensees. These games will draw on the depth and complexity of Tolkien lore to create a world compelling to long-time fans of the books and enticing to those just being introduced to this magical realm."

"Universal Interactive has assembled a talented team of Middle-Earth enthusiasts to develop and market these games," said Jim Wilson, president of Universal Interactive. "The people who know and love the legendary epic best have a mandate to create games that completely immerse players in a rich mythological world populated by Tolkien's myriad original characters."