EA have announced in a rather cryptic statement that they are currently developing ideas for a new game based around the popular books and movies. In a statement, Glen O'Connell, Head of PR at EA UK had the following to say:

"EA does have plans to produce a number of further titles within our official Lord Of The Rings Licence beyond our existing Return of the King game ... we are currently looking into a variety of different options for further console-based titles using the official licence"

Cryptic, but indeed interesting. The unofficial line is that the game will be an all-new title using the licence from the film series. Look for more news in the New Year for a release around the 3rd quarter of 2004

Meanwhile, the most recent game to follow the movie franchise -Return of the King, is holding steady in the charts. Last week it was at number four in the Gamecube Charts and fifth in the All Formats.

Let's hope that EA take the opportunity to create an original and non-derivative game that will break the gaming mould and usher in a new era of innovative design and inspired development! Or more likely: They won't.