Lord of the Rings Online for Xbox 360?

Due to a very recent online survey, the internet rumor mill has begun to churn. The survey quizzed people on their desire for future console MMORPGs. Specifically, with regards to one MMO in particular, Turbine’s critically praised creation, The Lord of the Rings Online.

This move is not without precedent as we have seen these types of surveys before. The last time I remember this type of thing popping up was a survey asking consumers if they had any desire to see BioShock come to the PS3, and obviously that one came true.

Also, the Xbox 360 is no stranger to massively multiplayer titles. For years it has played host to players of Final Fantasy XI, and the game also enjoyed a relatively healthy critical reception so we know that it’s certainly possible to create a good product.

The only issue I see with this move coming to fruition is the potential conflict of interest between Turbine’s need to create a long-standing community that consistently pays monthly fees, and Microsoft’s desire to eventually end the console generation and move on to a new generation of Xbox. It’s virtually impossible for an MMO to make money within the first year. There is constant maintenance and tons of costs that cut into profits. Therefore the only way this move makes sense is if Turbine knows that it stands a chance at at least three solid years before consumers start shoving their 360s into the closet in favor of Microsoft’s latest concoction.

Given Microsoft’s track record for ignoring developer’s wishes and moving on to new hardware preemptively, I don’t think that’s a risk that EA and Turbine can afford to make. This generation is different though in that Microsoft is experiencing a sizeable market share, and a tanking economy. It doesn’t make sense for them to release a new console within the next three to four years, so theoretically Turbine may have time to let LotRO gain a fan base on the console before its put out to pasture.

TGR Rating: Possible, but unlikely.