The 3D role-playing game (RPG) will immerse players in the Middle-earth world where they will choose their identities from a cast of archetypal Tolkien characters, form kinships, build race-specific dwellings, explore the landscape, craft unique items and weapons, and perform myriad other activities to bring the world-renowned fantasy realm to life.

"We are extremely excited to be working with a world-class developer like Turbine. Their track record and proven expertise in building, launching, and supporting massively multiplayer games is exceptional, making them the right partner for a franchise as beloved and well-known as J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings,'" said Jim Wilson, EVP Product Development, Vivendi Universal Games. "Together, our goal will be to bring the vision and spirit of the literary works of J.R.R. Tolkien to life in 'Middle-Earth Online.'"

Middle-Earth Online is the first Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game based on The Lord of the Rings. This epic storyline expands the Fellowship's quest and takes players to the far corners of Middle-earth.

Players can select the path of the battle-worn warrior or a more simple life of crafting and harvesting. No matter the path, adventure, fame, and fortune await all in Middle-Earth Online.

Game Features Include…

• Playable races include Elves, the race of Man, Hobbits, and Dwarves.
• An in-depth character creation system allows the player to design a unique individual from a variety of faces, hairstyles, clothing, armor and more.
• Through game advancement, players can purchase upgradeable race-specific dwellings.
• Ally with other players to form Fellowships and wage war for or against the Dark Lord Sauron.

A PC CD-ROM game, Middle-Earth Online will be available late 2004.

More information about "Middle-Earth Online" can be found at the official Middle Earth Online website.