Lord of the Rings experienced an incredible boost im popularity when the movies where made. When the games were made…not so much, but they have still been around for years. But in recent years, particularly as The Hobbit movie comes closing to releasing, there has been a steady stream of games and spin-offs that don’t really have anything to do with the book series. And apparently, Tolkien’s estate managers have had enough.
They are now suing Warner Bros. for $80 million, claiming Warner Bros. is "usurping rights to which they are not entitled" with regards to Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit merchandising materials, specifically virtual slot machines and online games (yes you read that last part correctly).
There was apparently an agreement that allows Warners Bros. to only create tangible merchandise based on Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, not digital content.
"Not only does the production of gambling games patently exceed the scope of defendants' rights, but this infringing conduct has outraged Tolkien's devoted fan base, causing irreparable harm to Tolkien's legacy and reputation and the valuable goodwill generated by his works."
Games on Facebook and mobile devices aren’t exactly looked upon well by the estate either. Despite all of this, Warner Bros. reportedly partnered with a studio to create two new Hobbit-based free-to-play strategy games to come out this year.
Kind of makes you wonder when they thought enough was enough. You can read the full suit here.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter via Gamespot
