Codemasters retains LOTRO Europe

Eurogamer has learnt that The Lord of the Rings Online will continue to be distributed and run by Codemasters in Europe, despite Warner's recent purchase of developer Turbine.

"Turbine will continue to work with Codemasters in Europe on distribution of The Lord of the Rings Online game," Martin Tremblay, president of Warner Bros. Interactive, told Eurogamer.

A Codemasters spokesperson added: "Turbine's recently announced acquisition is very positive for the future of its titles. The move will not impact European players where Codemasters Online retains co-publishing and operator rights for The Lord of the Rings Online."

Martin Tremblay said we should "stay tuned" for news about other Turbine games Dungeons & Dragons Online and Asheron's Call.

The acquisition of Turbine means Warner now owns all game rights to The Lord of the Rings. How long Codemasters will be a part of the picture remains to be seen.

The Lord of the Rings Online launched in 2007 and is considered to be Codemasters' most prominent and successful MMO. The game expanded in December 2009 with the Siege of Mirkwood and confidently marches towards matching Asheron's Call's 10-year lifespan.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/co...s-lotro-europe