Hogwarts Legacy Review

The Harry Potter franchise is a cultural phenomenon for those born in the 90s, similar to the impact of Star Wars for those born a generation earlier. It has inspired theme parks, Broadway shows, and a plethora of merchandise, but has never had a major video game adaptation – until now.

However, due to controversial remarks made by the creator, J.K. Rowling, regarding transgender rights, some fans are set to boycott the new game developed by Avalanche Software. Although Rowling was not involved in its creation, she will surely be financially compensated since it’s her IP.

Avalanche Software’s latest offering, a highly-anticipated open-world RPG, takes players on a spellbinding journey set a century prior to the iconic adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. With over 30 hours of immersive gameplay, the game is nothing short of a triumph for those who have long yearned for a triple-A Hogwarts experience.

The game is a triumph for those who have long yearned for a triple-A Hogwarts experience.

As a student with a late-blooming magical aptitude, players begin their journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the fifth year. Customization is key, allowing players to mold their avatar to their heart’s desire, from skin tone and hairstyle, to choosing the gender-neutral term of either a witch or wizard.

But the game’s magic runs much deeper than a mere cosmetic alteration. The player’s character is gifted with a mysterious connection to ancient magic, hidden deep within the halls of Hogwarts. Unbeknownst to them, this magic has also piqued the interest of a group of Goblins, who seek to eliminate all wizardkind due to a perceived bias against their kind. As players delve deeper into the game, they soon realize that their powers are not limited to harmless pranks and pet transformations, but instead hold the key to unlocking the secrets of a powerful magic that threatens the very fabric of the wizarding world.

However, like any great Harry Potter story, the player must navigate the trials and tribulations of saving the world while still attending classes and making friends – and this is where Hogwarts Legacy truly shines. The role-playing fantasy of being a student at the iconic school of witchcraft and wizardry is brought to life with unparalleled authenticity.

It’s important to note that this is not a school simulator; it’s not Hogwarts meets Persona. While classes are a part of the gameplay, serving as a means to learn spells and to interact with a diverse cast of students and professors, they are not the main focus.

At the start of the year, Deputy Headmistress Weasley warns the player of the upcoming O.W.L. exams, which serve as a backdrop for the Field Guide – a magical encyclopedia that the player fills in as they explore new areas of the castle and the Scottish highlands surrounding the wizarding village of Hogsmeade. This structure provides an excuse for players to immerse themselves in the rich and fantastical world of Hogwarts.

The iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is a character in and of itself, and its in-game representation is nothing short of breathtaking. The outer facade of the school, inspired by the film version, remains untouched in its iconic silhouette nestled in the Scottish hillside.

But it’s within the walls of the school that the developers truly let their imaginations run wild. The game’s version of Hogwarts boasts virtually every classroom mentioned in both the films and books, and the newly created areas that connect the building together are rich with detail and authenticity, inviting players to spend hours exploring and getting lost in its enormity. The castle’s layout and design, both physically and metaphorically, is truly immersive and impossible to resist.

Your classmates, who will befriend you and accompany you on quests, are some of the most memorable and lovable characters in the game. They will also play a crucial role in helping you improve your magical abilities. With each interaction, you’ll grow closer to characters like Sebastian, the confident and morally flexible Slytherin, or Natsai, the brilliant and fearless Gryffindor. Engaging in relationship questlines with these characters enhances your social links and makes your time at Hogwarts all the more delightful.

Combat in Hogwarts Legacy is both challenging and engaging, with death often looming around the corner, waiting to pounce on you when you least expect it. Whether it’s through recklessly flaunting your new spells or being caught off guard by an elusive goblin, the thrill of experimentation and the rush of adrenaline from a well-timed parry make for a heart-pounding experience. With color-coded shields on enemies, you’re forced to constantly switch up your spellcasting tactics, making sure you have the right elemental spell ready to break through each type of shield.

Despite the excitement of the combat system, the variety of enemies quickly wears thin

However, despite the excitement of the combat system, the variety of enemies quickly wears thin. Over time, you’ll find yourself facing the same dark wizards, spiders, goblins, trolls, and magical armor repeatedly, leaving you wishing for more varied foes from the rich Harry Potter universe. While the occasional giant evil frog or zombie may make a rare appearance, it’s disappointing that these unique enemies are not utilized more often in the main dungeons and levels. Instead, you’re bombarded with hundreds of spiders in a row, making for a sometimes monotonous and unsatisfying experience.

I completed the main story in 32 hours but went back for more side quests and exploration. Quidditch is absent and banned for one year, but over 100 side quests provide ample distractions from the main story. Some side quests are basic errands, but others offer fun experiences such as learning to pot plants and helping classmates. Legacy offers plenty of opportunities to immerse in the world of Hogwarts and being a student there.

Verdict

Hogwarts Legacy is a mesmerizing feast for fans of the Wizarding World, delivering on the promise of an immersive Harry Potter RPG. From the moment you step into the iconic castle, you’ll be transported to a world of magic, mystery, and wonder. The game’s open-world design allows you to freely explore the hallowed halls of Hogwarts and the surrounding lands, discovering hidden secrets and hidden gems along the way.