Hogwarts Legacy has finally arrived, granting Harry Potter enthusiasts the opportunity to immerse themselves in their very own magical adventure. Developed by Avalanche Software, this open-world RPG is set in the wizarding world and has been eagerly anticipated by fans of the books for quite some time.
In this game, players will step into the shoes of a student in the 1800s, exploring the famed school of witchcraft and wizardry before the events of the Harry Potter books.
So, what’s the story behind Hogwarts Legacy?
According to the game’s official website, players will embark on a perilous journey to uncover a hidden truth about the wizarding world. As they attend classes and explore Hogwarts Castle and other locations beyond, players will have the opportunity to customize their character, select a Hogwarts house, and develop their magical abilities by brewing potions, mastering spells, and taming beasts. While Hogwarts Legacy remains true to the beloved Harry Potter lore, it doesn’t rely on adaptation of the books and films.
Here are some essential details you need to know before you jump into this magical adventure, including information about the game’s release dates across different platforms:
- Hogwarts Legacy is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
- The game has officially launched on all platforms.
- To purchase the game, players can visit the official website, digital storefronts, or physical retailers.
So, if you’re ready to delve into the wizarding world and embark on a thrilling journey filled with adventure and magic, Hogwarts Legacy is the perfect game for you.
System requirements for Hogwarts Legacy
If you’re eager to start your journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, you’ll need to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for the game. Here are the recommended specifications for Hogwarts Legacy on PC:
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600
- Memory: 16GB RAM
- Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super / AMD Radeon RX 5700
- DirectX: Version 12
- Storage: 75GB available space
Note that these are the recommended specs and that your system may be able to run the game at lower specs.
Hogwarts Legacy release dates
If you’re eager to start your Hogwarts journey, you’ll want to know when the game is available on your platform of choice. Here’s what you need to know:
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC versions of the game launched on February 10, 2022.
- The release date for the PS4 and Xbox One versions of the game has been pushed back to May 5, 2023.
- Nintendo Switch users will have to wait until July 25, 2023, to play Hogwarts Legacy.
It’s worth noting that the game was initially announced in 2020 and has had several release date changes. The game is published by Warner Bros. Games under its Portkey Games label.
Early access for Hogwarts Legacy
If you’re itching to get your hands on Hogwarts Legacy early, there is some good news. The Deluxe Edition or Digital Deluxe Edition for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC included 72 hours of early access, starting on February 7, 2022. However, early access was not available for the PS4 and Xbox One versions of the game.
Where to buy Hogwarts Legacy?
If you’re eager to purchase Hogwarts Legacy, you’ll be happy to know that the game is available at a variety of retailers. Here’s where you can purchase the game:
- The Standard Edition of the game can be purchased for $70 (about £57, AU$99) for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions at stores like GameStop, Amazon, and Best Buy. You can pre-order the PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch versions of the game for $60 (roughly £49, $AU85).
- The PC version of the game can be purchased for $60 on the Steam and Epic Games Store.
- If you’re interested in purchasing the Deluxe Edition or Collector’s Edition, you can visit the game’s official website for more information on where to buy.
Note that the Collector’s Edition has already sold out, but you may be able to find it online for a markup. The official site breaks down what comes with each edition.
Critic reviews for Hogwarts Legacy
As with any highly anticipated game, critics have weighed in on Hogwarts Legacy. According to Metacritic, the game has a score of 84 on PS5 (the score is higher on Xbox Series X|S and slightly lower on PC, but the PS5 score is based on the most reviews).
The general consensus among many players is that Hogwarts Legacy successfully captures the magic and excitement of the early Harry Potter books, offering an original and compelling narrative, a diverse range of gameplay mechanics, and a meticulously crafted world to discover.
Critics have applauded the game’s attention to detail and immersive environment. However, some have expressed disappointment with the game’s combat system and limited character customization options. Ultimately, the decision to purchase and enjoy Hogwarts Legacy rests with each individual player, who must determine if the game aligns with their personal preferences and expectations.
Discussions around J.K Rowling and Hogwarts Legacy
The release of Hogwarts Legacy has generated controversy due to the game’s connection to Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling. In recent years, Rowling has faced criticism for comments she has made that have been perceived as mocking transgender individuals, leading to calls for a boycott of her work.
While the Hogwarts Legacy website notes that Rowling is not involved in the creation of the game, her writing is still the foundation for the project, and she still receives royalties from sales. This has led to a debate among fans about whether it’s ethical to support a game that is connected to an author whose views may be considered harmful or offensive.
It’s up to each player to decide for themselves whether or not they want to support Hogwarts Legacy and its connection to J.K. Rowling. However, it’s important to be aware of the controversy and make an informed decision before making a purchase. You can learn more about these hot discussions by visiting our article discussing Hogwarts Legacy and the ongoing struggle for inclusivity in gaming.
