Xbox Gaming in South Africa

Warner Bros and Snowblind Studios have teamed up to develop Lord of the Rings: War in the North, an "epic multiplayer action/RPG", presumably stuffed with hobbits, elves, and tall men with manly stubble. The game will feature "innovative online, interdependent co-op play for up to three players", who get to make their own special fellowship and fight Sauron's minions in... the North. I guess someone had to clean up everywhere else while Frodo and his pals were nibbling elf biscuits in Lothlorian.

"With The Lord of the Rings: War in the North we are taking a mature approach to the widely celebrated property with authentic portrayals of battles and all new storylines," said Martin Tremblay, President, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. "Utilising the award-winning and passionate development team at Snowblind Studios, we are looking to evolve the RPG experience and deliver The Lord of the Rings game fans have been waiting for."

"In The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Snowblind will deliver an action RPG for core gamers featuring authentic narrative and environmental locations from J.R.R. Tolkien's original The Lord of the Rings," said Ryan Geithman, Founder and Studio Head of Snowblind Studios. "This game is a natural evolution of the acclaimed RPG gameplay that Snowblind has consistently delivered over the past years. Players and fans will experience an innovative approach to online co-op gameplay, woven throughout every facet of the game in a way that only Snowblind can deliver."

The Lord of the Rings: The War in the North is set for a 2011 release.