Video Game Review: Hogwarts Legacy
I am not a Harry Potter fan. In fact, I’ve never read the books and only watched bits of the movies. Harry was never my thing. Whilst everyone was reading the HP books I was discovering Middle Earth. Then comes along Hogwarts Legacy and I’m pleased to say that even a non-Harry Potter fan like myself was still able to enjoy it immensely.
Developed by Avalanche Software and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, this action role-playing game (RPG) takes us back to the captivating world of J.K. Rowling's Wizarding World, and it's safe to say that it's a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.
Graphics and Audio: 9/10
The game's stunning visuals and art style transport you directly into the magical world of Hogwarts. The iconic locations like the Great Hall, Hagrid's Hut, and the Forbidden Forest have been beautifully recreated and are a delight to explore. Character models are detailed and expressive, which adds depth and realism to your interactions with both familiar and new faces.
The music and sound design are just as enchanting. The orchestral score by renowned composer Chuck E Myers manages to capture the whimsy and wonder of the Harry Potter films while still adding its own unique touch to the experience. Sound effects, from the swish of a wand to the roars of magical creatures, are immersive and perfectly complement the game's atmosphere.
Gameplay and Story: 9/10
Hogwarts Legacy offers an open-world experience that allows you to create your own custom witch or wizard, who then embarks on a thrilling adventure through the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Set in the late 1800s, the game offers a fresh and original storyline that is separate from the main series, allowing for new tales to be told.
Character customization is robust, and the choices you make in creating your witch or wizard, from appearance to House selection, have a meaningful impact on your journey. The game is filled with engaging side quests, intriguing mysteries, and memorable characters that keep you coming back for more.
The gameplay mechanics are well designed, with a deep and satisfying spell-casting system, as well as a rich variety of potions, magical creatures, and customization options for your character. Combat is fluid and responsive, with various spells and strategies available to suit different playstyles.
The game isn't without its flaws, however. At times, the pacing of the main story can feel a little slow, and some of the side quests can feel repetitive. Additionally, the game occasionally suffers from minor technical issues, such as frame rate drops and texture pop-ins.
Replayability: 8/10
With the variety of choices in character creation and the decisions you make throughout the game, Hogwarts Legacy offers a high degree of replayability. The open-world structure means there's always more to discover and new side quests to complete. The game's branching narrative encourages multiple playthroughs to experience different outcomes and fully explore the relationships with other characters.
Overall: 9/10
Hogwarts Legacy is a lovingly crafted and immersive experience that is a delight for both Harry Potter fans and action RPG enthusiasts. The stunning visuals, captivating story, and deep gameplay mechanics make it a must-play for those who have always wanted to experience the magic of Hogwarts. Despite some minor flaws and technical issues, the game succeeds in delivering a truly enchanting adventure that leaves you wanting more.
