Insider Gaming reports that Crystal Dynamics, known for the Tomb Raider series, is the main developer on at least one Lord of the Rings project for Embracer Group. This comes shortly after rumours emerged about Warhorse Studios also pursuing a Middle-earth title. Both studios and Embracer have declined to comment on the speculation.
Insider Gaming revealed on March 31 that sources close to the project's development identified Crystal Dynamics as leading a Lord of the Rings game under Embracer. The report follows the site's exclusive from October 2025 about Embracer's involvement in such a title, potentially backed by ADIO and involving multiple studios. Embracer has teased a major return to high-profile Lord of the Rings games, leaving room for more than one project in the works. Warhorse Studios, developers of Kingdom Come: Deliverance, recently posted job listings for a mystery Unreal Engine game, fuelling separate speculation about their role in Middle-earth adventures. Crystal Dynamics currently handles two Tomb Raider projects: Legacy of Atlantis, a second remake of the original, and Catalyst, slated for 2026 and 2027 releases respectively. The studio has faced four rounds of layoffs in recent times. When contacted by Insider Gaming, Embracer stated it does not comment on rumours or speculation. Crystal Dynamics also declined to provide comment.
