The Ultimate Fantasy Games for Die-Hard Lord of the Rings Fans

The Lord of the Rings, initially published in 1954, continues to have a vast and devoted fanbase, partially owing to the trilogy directed by Peter Jackson in the early 2000s. Consequently, the creators of this beloved fantasy series have produced an array of merchandise, toys, spin-off series, and video games.

While numerous games centered around Tolkien's Middle Earth have been exceptionally well-received, the books themselves are widely acclaimed as some of the most influential works of fiction in history. Therefore, there is a constant stream of new video games released that draw inspiration from The Lord of the Rings. Many of these games cater perfectly to both fans of the films and enthusiasts of the books.

7 Fable Series

Fable (2004)

Platform(s) PC, Xbox (Original), Xbox 360Released September 14, 2004Genre(s) Action RPG

Following the conclusion of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy in 2003, fantasy enthusiasts were left longing for more captivating content to fill the void. Fortunately, one year later, Lionhead Studio's Fable emerged, providing exactly what they were craving.

While the initial game didn't fully deliver on its marketing promises, this role-playing game centered around making choices was an ideal match for fans of The Lord of the Rings. Set in the medieval fantasy realm of Albion, players had the option to wield magic, archery, or a sword, enabling them to become either a benevolent hero or a malevolent tyrant. With its clever humor and incorporation of quintessentially British elements, the Fable series offers a delightful opportunity for fans to exert influence over a landscape reminiscent of Tolkien's creations.

6 Mount and Blade Series

Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord

Platform(s) PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series SReleased October 25, 2022Genre(s) Action RPG, Strategy

The Lord of the Rings movies offer fans the unique opportunity to witness spectacular battles on a grand scale that have never been seen before in cinema. Unfortunately, there are few video games that provide the same level of excitement, especially for those who are not fans of real-time strategy games. Thankfully, the Mount and Blade series allows players to immerse themselves in the thrill of commanding and participating in full-scale warfare on vast open plains, reminiscent of Theoden's heroic charge across the Pelennor Fields.

Both Mount and Blade: Warband and Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord are captivating RPGs that transport players to a medieval kingdom based on historical events. Whether starting as a humble merchant or joining epic wars on behalf of your king, these games provide an immersive experience like no other. The only aspect missing from this Lord of the Rings-inspired warfare simulation is the inclusion of mythical creatures.

5 Age of Empires 4

Age of Empires 4, the latest installment in the popular real-time strategy series, offers players the opportunity to build and expand their own medieval empire. Unlike its predecessors, this game lacks fantasy elements and focuses on realistic gameplay. Players can lead armies, including cavalry and War Elephants, and engage in combat using various methods such as on foot, on horseback, or by boat. The possibilities for growth and domination are endless, limited only by the player's creativity.

4 Dark Souls

Dark Souls

Platform(s) PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Switch, PCReleased September 22, 2011Genre(s) Action RPG

Players who have yet to experience a Dark Souls game are likely only familiar with its reputation for difficulty. However, within the Dark Souls universe, an awe-inspiring and fantastical world awaits, teeming with epic swordplay and sorcery.

Although the Souls series delves into darker themes compared to the likes of Lord of the Rings, players are still treated to encounters with majestic dragons, formidable knights, eerie spirits, and imposing giant spiders. Similar to delving into the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece, embarking on a new Dark Souls adventure guarantees the constant thrill of uncovering hidden wonders.

3 Baldur’s Gate 3

Baldur's Gate 3

Franchise Baldur's GatePlatform(s) PC, Stadia, macOS, PS5Released August 3, 2023Developer(s) Larian StudiosGenre(s) RPG

The iconic fantasy RPG board game, Dungeons and Dragons, was significantly influenced by The Lord of the Rings. This is why fans of the books and films will surely appreciate a video game franchise that delves into a captivating fantasy realm, originally crafted by Gary Gygax and involves the roll of a dice.

Baldur's Gate 3 enables players to design and assume control of their own unique Dungeons and Dragons character. They embark on a thrilling journey where they encounter both allies and foes, engaging in battles against goblins, trolls, and demons. This immersive experience replicates the feeling of embarking on an epic quest in Middle Earth, truly encapsulating the essence of a remarkable Dungeons and Dragons campaign.

2 Dragon Age: Origins

Dragon Age Origins

Released November 3, 2009Developer(s) BioWareGenre(s) RPG See at Xbox Games Store See at Amazon

The Dungeons and Dragons formula was first attempted to be recreated in a console game with Dragon Age: Origins. This game, released in 2009, gave players the option to begin their adventure as a man, elf, or dwarf. From there, players embarked on an incredible journey to defeat monsters and build alliances.

Although Dragon Age: Origins offers slightly fewer choices compared to other games in its genre, it had a significant impact on fantasy enthusiasts at the time. Its success even led to a sequel, Dragon Age: Inquisition.

1 The Witcher Series

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Released May 19, 2015Developer(s) CD Projekt RedGenre(s) RPG, Action, Adventure

The Witcher game series, much like Lord of the Rings, is also based on a book series. It takes place in the fantasy world known as the Continent, where players assume the role of Geralt, a monster slayer, and embark on a vast open-world adventure.

Undoubtedly, the most popular installment in the series is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which was released in 2015 and has even inspired a Netflix streaming series. The game effortlessly blends mythical creatures with real-world adversaries. Initially, players may find themselves battling local wildlife, but as the game progresses, they encounter an array of monsters and humanoid enemies. Along the way, players undertake epic quests that transport them to breathtaking locations reminiscent of Middle Earth.