Paige Stegina | A&E Editor
Ever since readers were introduced to Harry Potter and the wizarding world through the novels, and then movies, people have been wanting to explore the fantastic world of Hogwarts. There have been many attempts at creating the wizarding world in a video game, but all have been unsuccessful. Avalanche Software has produced their attempt at creating the wizarding world. With at least five years of development and multiple delays, Hogwarts Legacy has finally been released for players to enjoy on Friday, February 10th. Despite the controversy around the original series' author, the game is topping the charts in Steam and the PlayStation Store. It is also the most viewed single player game on Twitch.
Unique to any other game that has been released previously, Hogwarts Legacy does not take place during the timeline of the novels and movies. Instead, the player arrives at Hogwarts in the 1800’s as a fifth-year student. Your character is there to learn about the magic we learned from books, but the game introduces an ancient magic connected to Merlin that your character can wield and control. The game is open world, allowing the player to explore every inch of the castle and grounds. The player is sorted into their Hogwarts house and gets a wand from Ollivander's (both of which can be changed to fit the player). Familiar classes, such as Defense Against the Dark Arts and Potions, all with unique professors and headmaster, teach spells. Not only does the game allow exploration of the secrets of Hogwarts, but opens up the world to Hogsmeade, the Forbidden Forest, the Highlands, and beyond. Even though the game takes place before Harry Potter’s time, there are many recognizable names, such as the ancestors of both the Blacks and Weasleys. The developers also included Peeves, the mischievous poltergeist of the castle who was never included in the movies. Joining an exclusive dueling club hones combat skills necessary for quests and storyline progression.
Aside from the main missions and story of the game, the true draw for many is the opportunity to explore a place they have only been able to experience through ink and the big screen. The player can choose their own path, whether noble and good, or take the turn for darker, more sinister magic. Even within the first week of release, this game offers strong gameplay, a compelling story, and the unique opportunity to explore the wizarding world.
Hogwarts Legacy is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.