From IGN: Electronic Arts is shutting down another slew of online game servers. Besides closing many of its now out-dated servers for its sports franchises, such as FIFA, NHL, and NCAA, EA is also doing away with its Lord of the Rings servers as well.

“Our licensing deal with Middle-earth Enterprises has expired, forcing us to shutdown the online services for The Lord of the Rings games,” EA says. “We hope you have enjoyed playing these games online and appreciate your patronage.”

EA also says that while it’s difficult shutting down servers for any game, the teams would rather focus on the more popular titles. More..

Below is the expected date for these games to go offline:

Jan 11, 2011 Online Service Shutdown
The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II for Xbox 360
The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II, The Rise of the Witch-king for Xbox 360

Dec 31, 2010 Online Service Shutdown
The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth for PC
The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II for PC
The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-earth II, The Rise of the Witch-king for PC