Hogwarts Legacy is a big game. There is a lot to do, a lot to see, and a lot to experience within the wizarding world. When Avalanche showed off gameplay for the first time, I got the feeling that this game would be a “jack of all trades, master of none” type of game. It felt too ambitious. Surely there was no possible way the game would incorporate all of these elements and they would actually be fun?
Hogwarts Legacy takes place in the 1800s, a hundred years before a young Harry Potter roamed the halls of Hogwarts. You are tasked with creating your own unique witch or wizard using the game’s rather robust character creator. Within the first five minutes, you’re being swept away on a magical adventure. The first section of the game is rather linear but once you get to Hogwarts for the first time, it is truly a magical experience.
One concern I had from the gameplay previews was the combat. It looked like it had the potential to be boring. Now, after completing the game, I can safely say that the combat mechanics are some of the best available in an RPG right now. Stringing together combos and spells just feels right. They somehow managed to make wand combat fun. My only real gripe here is the limited number of spell slots. This can be expanded through gameplay, but I still find myself disregarding spells for hours at a time. The only real gameplay element that is missing from this game is Quidditch and its absence is explained early on.
Exploring the world is breathtaking. You are not restricted to just Hogwarts, but you are also able to visit Hogsmeade and several tiny cities and towns. Almost every building you come across can be entered, although not at first. Alohomora anyone? The only real drawback here is the lack of a Diagon Alley. It would’ve been really great to visit a place as iconic as that.
The voice acting for Hogwarts Legacy is just okay, and after 30 hours, I am sick and tired of hearing the Floo Powder lady and my constant reflection on how “all roads lead to Hogsmeade.” The cast is headlined by Simon Pegg as Headmaster Black, however his presence isn’t much.
Hogwarts Legacy manages to cram a lot of gameplay and a lot of story. The story, while nothing spectacular, is still a fun adventure for those who are fans of Harry Potter and the Wizarding World.
Nerds with Mics opposes the harmful viewpoints of the mind behind the world of Harry Potter and the Wizarding World and we stand with and support the trans community. We realize that this game’s release has been very controversial. If you’re in the United States, please consider supporting the Equality Act which would provide anti-discriminatory protections for the transgender community. More information may be found here.
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Overall
Summary
For fans of the Wizarding World, you will finally be able to experience this magical world.
