Game: Hogwarts Legacy
Platform: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Rating: T for Teen
Cost: $69.99
“Something wicked this way comes” with the latest video game iteration in the Harry Potter Universe, Hogwarts Legacy. Fans are now able to further immerse themselves into the magic of J.K. Rowling’s fantasy in this open-world action RPG set in the 1800s. While the story takes place centuries before the Boy Who Lived, there are still plenty of Easter Eggs from the films and books to feast upon.
Story
Hogwarts Legacy allows you to create and customize your very own character from the color of your eyes to the freckles on your face. Players will begin as a new fifth-year student starting off their journey in Hogwarts. Since your character is a late bloomer to magic to help prevent them from falling behind Hogwarts’ staff enlisted the aid of Professor Eleazar Fig, who teaches Magical Theory, to tutor you over the summer. Your misadventure begins when you are attacked on your way to Hogwarts and are thrust into a never-ending Voldermort-esque with the leader of the Goblin Rebellion, Ranrok.
Gameplay
The graphics, voice acting, combat, and intricate narrative have enhanced the overall gameplay in this open-world adventure. You don’t just get to explore the grounds of Hogwarts, which in itself are vast beyond belief, but also Hogsmeade, the Forbidden Forrest, and other magical areas in a World Map. Hogwarts Legacy is very much an RPG game reminiscent of Skyrim, where you can choose your house (Slytherin, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw) and take part in completing side quests and collecting items to further upgrade your abilities. The best part in upgrading your abilities is learning new spells with lessons from Deputy Headmistress Weasley, Professor Helcat, and other staff as you attend Herbology, Potions, Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and more. The spells range from illusion charms to disarming abilities like expelliarmous, and you can even practice the three Unforgivable Curses: Crucio, Imperio, and Aveda Kedava.
Conclusion
Hogwarts Legacy showcases a world of Harry Potter filled with ancient magic, and the threats that the wizarding world faces due to those who seek control of immeasurable magical power. It is up to you, the friendships you build, and the lessons you learn to create your own legacy. Fans of the books and films will rejoice when they explore the grounds of Hogwarts, attend classes, and even meet the ghosts roaming the corridors. Get ready for hours of fun, puzzles, and a mysterious story that will keep you guessing till the very end. This game is not just about attending classes and learning spells, you must battle for your life and future of the magical realm.
