The Future of Harry Potter is in Gaming!
True story. By now you've realized I'm a huge nerd. I mean I like all of it. Anime, from Full Metal to MHA, I'm in. Lord of the Rings (Books, movie, games), The Witcher Series (books, TV series, and Games), Harry Potter? Of course! Which brings me to some of the best news from the Wizarding World, or Potter-verse, I've heard since they wrapped up the Fantastic Beasts Saga. The future of the Wizarding World lies on our current generation consoles in the upcoming Hogwarts Legacy. Although, it seems that the future of the Harry Potter Universe will actually be taking a look into the past!
Hogwarts Legacy is said to be an immersive, open-world, action role-playing-game set in the 1800s wizarding world, which puts players at the center of their own adventure. Good news, its being published by Warner Brother's and with huge successes with titles like the Arkham Night Series, and the Lord of the Rings Shadow series, its sure to be visually stunning and not be lacking in gameplay or story. That being said, Warner Bros. Games is publishing Hogwarts Legacy under the Portkey Games label. The game is being developed by Avalanche Software
And according to the gaming website FAQ:
"Each experience offered under Portkey Games will take place in the wizarding world and will be authentic to it. J.K. Rowling is supportive of Portkey Games and has entrusted the design and creation of the games to Warner Bros. Games and the developers involved. Her team have also collaborated with Warner Bros. Games on all aspects of Hogwarts Legacy to ensure it remains a true part of the Wizarding World experience and is in line with the creativity and magic that fans expect. However, The story showcased in the game is not a new story from J.K. Rowling."
In addition they state, "While Portkey Games are not direct adaptations of the books and films, the games are firmly rooted in the magical universe of the Wizarding World. While remaining true to J.K. Rowling’s original vision, Portkey game developers chart new territory by creating fresh ways for fans to immerse themselves in the Wizarding World."
This new experience and story allows you to take control of you own foundling witch or wizard with high customization features and chances to grow their character in different scenarios and even in classes in early game play demos. Speaking of which, players will also be able to explore a fully realized Hogwarts Castle. There they will attend classes, discover dungeons, secret passageways, and challenging puzzles. But don't worry, you won't just be stuck in the castle; Hogwarts Legacy will take players beyond Hogwarts to new and familiar locations including the Forbidden Forest and Hogsmeade Village. And did I mention? Broom Flight!
For the nerd that grew up reading Harry Potter, watching the movies, and recently playing the Harry Potter Lego Games with my kids; Lets just say I'm ready for something a bit more substantial. This game is it. Which house will you choose on your witch or wizard's path!? Hogwarts Legacy looks set to release during the holiday season of this year (2022).