Game Rant is thrilled to present an exclusive first look at Old Noakes, one of the charming residents players will encounter in Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game. This heartwarming life simulation adventure, set to launch in late July 2025, invites players to experience the idyllic lifestyle of Middle-earth's most beloved hobbits.

Developed by New Zealand's renowned Weta Workshop, Tales of the Shire promises to deliver a cozy gaming experience unlike any other in the Lord of the Rings universe. After several development adjustments, the game is finally scheduled for release on July 29, 2025, across all major platforms including PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch.

Our exclusive preview focuses on Old Noakes, a well-known figure in Bywater within the Lord of the Rings lore. This cantankerous yet wise hobbit has a particular passion that plays a significant role in the game's mechanics - fishing. Players will find Old Noakes frequently near water sources, ready to share his extensive knowledge about the local fish species.

Fishing isn't just a background activity in Tales of the Shire - it's one of the core gameplay elements. The developers have created an intricate fishing mini-game where players can cast their lines in various locations including the Bywater Pool and along the Water River. The game features over a dozen unique fish species, some of which only appear at specific times or locations, adding depth to the fishing experience.

Old Noakes serves as more than just a colorful NPC - he's actually a key figure in the fishing mechanics. Game scripts reveal that he may provide players with valuable tips about the best fishing spots and techniques. This aligns perfectly with the game's relationship-building system, where sharing meals (including your fresh catches) with other hobbits helps strengthen bonds throughout the Shire.

The culinary aspect of Tales of the Shire adds another layer to the gameplay. Players can prepare various dishes using ingredients they've gathered, with different NPCs having particular preferences. In Old Noakes' case, fish-based meals are naturally his favorite, making him an excellent character to practice your cooking skills on.