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Hogwarts Legacy

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Hogwarts Legacy
Item: Hogwarts Legacy
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Single Player

AvailableFeb 7, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperAvalanche Software

Overview

Hogwarts Legacy is an immersive, open-world action RPG set in the world first introduced in the Harry Potter books. Now you can take control of the action and be at the center of your own adventure in the wizarding world. Embark on a journey through familiar and new locations as you explore and discover fantastic beasts, customize your character and craft potions, master spell casting, upgrade talents, and become the wizard you want to be. Discover the feeling of living at Hogwarts as you make allies, battle Dark wizards, and ultimately decide the fate of the wizarding world. Your legacy is what you make of it.

Elsewhere

8.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy impresses with engaging character development and a rich narrative that resonates with Harry Potter fans, praised for its unique 19th-century setting. However, it suffers from predictability, simplistic plots, and pacing issues, with some characters feeling generic. Critics are divided—while some celebrate its immersive experience, others criticize its lack of depth and narrative consistency. Ultimately, it entertains but falls short of delivering a truly compelling story.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Hogwarts Legacy has garnered a mix of positive reviews from various critics, highlighting aspects such as engaging character development and a well-crafted narrative that resonates with fans of the Harry Potter universe. Critics like Game Informer and God is a Geek praised the game for its ability to weave the daily life of a Hogwarts student with an exciting adventure, creating a rich tapestry of experiences. The narrative is described as engaging, with critics like We Got This Covered and Impulsegamer noting the intriguing mysteries and well-developed characters that enhance the storytelling. Additionally, the game’s setting in the 19th century provides a fresh perspective on the familiar world, allowing for exploration and expansion of the Harry Potter mythology, which critics like Jeuxvideo.com and Wccftech appreciated. However, the narrative has also faced significant criticism for its predictability and lack of depth. Many reviewers, such as Digital Trends and GamingBolt, pointed out that the main plot feels overly simplistic and lacks the emotional weight necessary to make it truly memorable. The character of the protagonist has been described as generic and lacking personality, as noted by critics like Push Square and GameSpot. Furthermore, several reviews highlighted issues with pacing and narrative structure, suggesting that the story often feels sporadic and fails to maintain tension throughout, as mentioned by GameSpot and Attack of the Fanboy. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Hogwarts Legacy offers an engaging and immersive experience for fans, it falls short in delivering a compelling and well-rounded narrative. Critics are divided, with some praising the game’s unique setting and character interactions, while others lament the predictable plot and lack of depth in storytelling. The game successfully captures the magical essence of the Harry Potter franchise, yet it struggles with narrative consistency and character development, as reflected in the mixed reviews from sources like IGN and PC Gamer. Ultimately, Hogwarts Legacy presents a story that, despite its flaws, has the potential to entertain and engage players, particularly those invested in the wizarding world.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy impresses with its engaging combat and immersive world, earning praise for its spell system and exploration. Critics highlight the depth of character customization and diverse activities. However, issues like quest repetition and unchallenging gameplay mechanics detract from the experience. Overall, it’s a captivating blend of action RPG elements that resonates with Harry Potter fans, despite some flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Hogwarts Legacy has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its engaging combat system and immersive world. Reviewers from outlets like PlayStation Universe and PC Gamer highlighted the combat as a standout feature, describing it as "fantastic" and "challenging," with a diverse range of spells and combos that allow for strategic play. The game also encourages exploration and interaction with the Hogwarts environment, which critics like PSX Brasil and Xbox Tavern noted as a significant aspect of the experience. The inclusion of character customization and the ability to attend classes to learn spells adds depth and authenticity, making players feel like true students of Hogwarts. Furthermore, the variety of activities, including puzzles and side quests, contributes to a rich gameplay loop that many found satisfying, as noted by COGconnected. However, the gameplay is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers pointed out issues with repetition and a lack of challenge in certain aspects of the game. Digital Trends and GameSpot expressed disappointment with the repetitiveness of quests and the uninspired nature of some gameplay elements. DualShockers and Game Revolution echoed these sentiments, mentioning clunky mechanics and the unchallenging difficulty level as detractors from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics like Ragequit.gr and Metro GameCentral noted that while the combat has depth, the limited variety of enemies and the nature of boss battles can lead to a sense of monotony as the game progresses. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hogwarts Legacy offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly in its combat and world-building. While there are notable criticisms regarding repetitiveness and certain gameplay mechanics, the majority of reviewers found the game to be a satisfying blend of action RPG elements and immersive storytelling. Critics like IGN and Gamereactor UK emphasized the game's ability to captivate players with its spellcasting and exploration, suggesting that despite its flaws, Hogwarts Legacy succeeds in delivering a magical experience that resonates with fans of the Harry Potter universe.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy impresses with stunning graphics and detailed environments that capture the magic of the Wizarding World, earning praise from critics for its artistic design. However, technical issues like texture pop-in, frame rate inconsistencies, and visual glitches detract from the experience. While the game excels visually, there’s notable room for improvement in its execution, particularly with secondary character models. Overall, it’s a captivating yet imperfect immersion into Harry Potter's universe.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Hogwarts Legacy is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's artistic direction and attention to detail. Reviewers like LevelUp and Hey Poor Player highlight the impressive recreation of Hogwarts, noting the detailed environments and character models that evoke the magic of the Wizarding World. Critics such as Gamersky and MondoXbox emphasize the faithful representation of iconic locations like Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade, with PCMag commending the game's thoughtful and imaginative world. The enchanting visuals, vibrant colors, and intricate designs contribute to an immersive experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise, as noted by Ragequit.gr and Digital Trends. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable issues that detract from the visual experience. Reviewers like Game Revolution and IGN Brasil mentioned technical problems such as texture pop-in, inconsistent frame rates, and graphical bugs that can disrupt immersion. Critics like PC Games and Dexerto also expressed concerns about the limited population of characters within the castle and the presence of visual glitches, which could hinder the overall experience. Additionally, IGN and Xbox Achievements noted that while the primary character models are well-designed, some secondary NPCs lack the same level of polish, indicating a disparity in visual quality across various elements of the game. In conclusion, the consensus among the critics is that while Hogwarts Legacy excels in delivering a visually stunning and detailed world that captures the essence of the Harry Potter universe, it is not without its flaws. The majority of reviewers appreciate the game's artistic achievements and the immersive environments, as highlighted by SpazioGames and Generación Xbox. However, the technical issues and inconsistencies mentioned by several critics suggest that there is room for improvement. Overall, Hogwarts Legacy is regarded as a visually impressive title that successfully brings the beloved Wizarding World to life, despite some shortcomings that may impact the experience for certain players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy shines with its immersive sound design and standout musical score, drawing praise for capturing the magic of the Harry Potter universe. Critics rave about its nostalgic yet fresh orchestral arrangements reminiscent of John Williams. However, issues like inconsistent voice acting and audio desynchronization detract from the experience. Overall, while technical flaws exist, the game's audio landscape enhances gameplay, solidifying its status as a captivating entry in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Hogwarts Legacy have garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere that resonates with the Harry Potter franchise. Critics like Game Informer and Cognoscenti noted the standout musical score that captures the essence of the Wizarding World, with Cognoscenti specifically praising its orchestral arrangements reminiscent of John Williams' iconic compositions. The music is described as fresh and engaging, enhancing the magical experience of the game, as noted by GamingBolt and PlayStation Universe. Many reviewers, including KeenGamer and Hey Poor Player, emphasized how the soundtrack evokes nostalgia while also introducing new themes that fit seamlessly into the game's environment. The attention to detail in sound design, particularly in creating ambient sounds that contribute to the immersive experience, has been acknowledged by critics such as We Got This Covered and Impulsegamer. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the audio experience. Issues with voice acting consistency were highlighted by several critics, including GamingBolt and Pocket-lint, who pointed out that some performances felt detached or lacked emotional depth. Additionally, KeenGamer mentioned instances where environmental sounds did not align properly with their sources, leading to confusion during gameplay. The audio desynchronization reported by Noisy Pixel further indicates that while the overall sound design is commendable, there are technical flaws that detract from the experience. Critics such as Vandal also pointed out that while the original soundtrack is enjoyable, certain elements like the Spanish dubbing and sound positioning could use improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hogwarts Legacy excels in sound design and music, creating a captivating and immersive experience for players. The majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully captures the magical atmosphere of the Harry Potter universe, with many praising the soundtrack's ability to evoke nostalgia while also introducing original compositions. Critics like Game Rant and PlaySense reinforced the idea that the music enhances the gameplay experience, making it memorable for fans and newcomers alike. While there are some criticisms regarding voice acting and minor audio issues, these do not overshadow the overall positive reception of the game's audio landscape. The sound design and music in Hogwarts Legacy ultimately contribute significantly to the game's success, making it a noteworthy entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy boasts largely praised voice acting, bringing characters to life with charm and believability. Critics highlight excellent performances, especially from side characters, and commend diverse accents. However, issues like static dialogue, robotic tones, and inconsistent NPC quality dampen the experience for some reviewers. Overall, while there are notable flaws, the voice acting adds depth and immersion to the game, capturing the Wizarding World effectively.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Hogwarts Legacy has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting the quality and charm of the performances. Reviewers such as Attack of the Fanboy and Game Informer commend the voice acting for its ability to bring characters to life, describing them as "charming and believable" and noting that the dialogue is "uniformly excellent." Critics like Hey Poor Player and GGRecon also emphasize the impressive performances of side characters, which contribute to the game's immersive experience. Additionally, GameOver.gr praises the diverse accents present in the voice acting, further enhancing the authenticity of the characters within the Wizarding World. However, not all feedback is favorable, as several critics point out notable shortcomings in the voice acting. Eurogamer Poland criticizes the dialogue and character animation, describing conversations as "static and unnatural," while Push Square mentions the protagonist's voice as "boring and robotic." Finger Guns echoes this sentiment by pointing out that certain features, like voice pitch changes, can sound robotic. Moreover, some critics, such as Xbox Tavern, highlight issues with voice inflections and autotuning, which detract from the overall experience. This inconsistency is echoed by GamingBolt, which notes that while main characters are well-cast, side NPCs suffer from poor voice quality due to filters. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Hogwarts Legacy features a strong foundation in voice acting, with many characters being well-received for their engaging performances. While there are criticisms regarding certain aspects, such as the protagonist's delivery and some NPC inconsistencies, the overall sentiment remains positive. Critics like We Got This Covered and PCMag affirm that the voice acting adds depth to the story, making characters memorable and enhancing the immersive experience. Despite some flaws, the game successfully captures the essence of the Wizarding World, largely due to its commendable voice performances.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy delivers a visually stunning experience across platforms but suffers from significant technical issues. The Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch 2 versions are praised for smooth performance, while the PS5 variant faces frame rate drops and bugs. Critics agree the game, despite its engaging gameplay, falls short of the polish expected from a AAA title, highlighting a need for future updates to address these performance concerns.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Hogwarts Legacy has garnered mixed reviews across various gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, the Xbox Series X version has been praised for its overall smooth performance, with critics like Pure Xbox noting that it offers multiple graphical options, providing a balance between impressive visuals and near 60FPS gameplay. Similarly, the Nintendo Switch 2 version has received commendations for its stability and performance, with critics like Jeuxvideo.com highlighting its consistent framerate and reduced loading times compared to earlier Switch versions. On the PlayStation 5, some reviews, such as from Atomix and Metro GameCentral, laud the game's polished technical performance, mentioning stable frame rates and minimal bugs, which contribute to an engaging gaming experience. On the flip side, the technical shortcomings of Hogwarts Legacy cannot be overlooked. Critics on Xbox Series X, such as GameMAG and IGN Brasil, have pointed out issues like optimization problems, long loading times, and various graphical bugs, which detract from the overall experience. For the PS5, reviewers like Games.cz and LevelUp have reported frequent frame rate drops, glitches, and crashes, with some even comparing the game's performance unfavorably to Cyberpunk 2077. Additionally, critics like NME and Wccftech have noted performance issues on PC, including poor framerates and bugs, indicating that the game has not fully optimized its potential across platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Hogwarts Legacy offers an engaging experience with beautiful graphics and a rich world, its technical performance is marred by various issues across all platforms. Critics like Game Revolution and BaziCenter have pointed out that the game exhibits a mixed bag of performance, with minor to significant issues that could benefit from future patches. The sentiment suggests that while the game is enjoyable, it lacks the polish expected from a AAA title, leaving room for improvement in upcoming updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy offers a sprawling world and engaging gameplay that can captivate players for over 100 hours, with strong praises for its rich environments and character customization. However, criticisms arise regarding the repetitiveness of side quests and a lack of meaningful rewards, making 100% completion feel tedious. While fans of the franchise will likely enjoy the replay value, those seeking diversity and challenge may feel less motivated to return. Overall, it's a game best suited for dedicated fans, with enjoyment varying by player preference.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Hogwarts Legacy is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's expansive content and engaging gameplay mechanics. Several reviewers, such as NPR and GamingTrend, highlight the extensive world filled with collectibles, side quests, and puzzles, suggesting that players can easily spend upwards of 100 hours exploring and completing various activities. The game is noted for its rich environment, with Everyeye.it and Metro GameCentral emphasizing the enjoyable main campaign and optional quests that contribute to a captivating experience. The character customization options and the ability to explore different paths, as mentioned by TrueAchievements and MondoXbox, further enhance the replayability, making it appealing to a wide range of players. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the depth and diversity of the content available. Critics like KeenGamer and Gamersky point out that while the game offers a plethora of side quests and collectibles, many of these can feel repetitive and lack meaningful rewards. Pocket Tactics echoes this sentiment, suggesting that players who did not enjoy the core gameplay may not find much incentive to return. Additionally, We Got This Covered mentions that achieving 100% completion can become a tedious slog, indicating that the game's design may not sustain interest for all players. In summary, while Hogwarts Legacy boasts a wealth of content and engaging gameplay that appeals to fans of the franchise, its replay value is tempered by concerns regarding the repetitiveness of certain activities and the lack of depth in some systems. The overall consensus among critics suggests that the game is well-suited for dedicated fans eager to explore the Wizarding World, yet it may not hold the same allure for those seeking a more varied or challenging experience. As noted by Press Start Australia, the compelling world and variety of experiences do make it worth replaying, but the enjoyment may vary significantly based on individual player preferences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Hogwarts Legacy is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its immersive world and faithful representation of the beloved Harry Potter universe. Critics like Game Revolution and Gamereactor UK highlight the game’s ability to capture the essence of Hogwarts and provide a magical experience for fans. The open-world design is frequently commended, with IGN Brasil noting the exploration opportunities and Dexerto emphasizing the level of immersion that draws players into the wizarding world. Additionally, Carole Quintaine elevates the game by comparing it to iconic titles like Zelda: Breath of the Wild, suggesting that it offers a grand adventure filled with possibilities. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and PlayStation LifeStyle, express that the game is not just enjoyable but a significant achievement for fans of the franchise. However, despite the many accolades, Hogwarts Legacy is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers point out that the game suffers from a lackluster narrative and repetitive gameplay mechanics. For instance, Guardian describes the story as thin and uninteresting, while KeenGamer mentions technical issues and a repetitive battle system. Critics like Riot Pixels and The Loadout echo these sentiments, expressing that while the game is fun, it falls short in delivering a truly immersive and impactful experience. Furthermore, some reviews, such as those from The Enemy and PC Gamer, acknowledge ethical concerns surrounding the game's creator, which may affect some players' enjoyment. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Hogwarts Legacy is a highly enjoyable game that successfully brings the magic of the Harry Potter universe to life, albeit with some flaws. The majority of reviews lean towards a favorable verdict, with many recommending it primarily for fans of the franchise. While some critics, like Softpedia and M3, celebrate its immersive qualities and engaging exploration, others caution potential players about its narrative shortcomings and technical issues. Ultimately, Hogwarts Legacy is seen as a worthy addition to the gaming landscape, particularly for those enchanted by the Wizarding World.

TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy is largely praised for its immersive world and faithful representation of the Harry Potter universe, with critics highlighting its open-world design and magical exploration. However, it faces criticism for a thin narrative and repetitive gameplay, along with ethical concerns about its creator. Overall, it’s a fun experience for fans, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

231 reviews found

100

IGN Adria

PlayStation 5

Feb 13, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy fulfills the expectations of Harry Potter fans and serves as an excellent introduction to those interested in the magical world. The game offers a captivating and immersive open-world experience.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Feb 8, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy captures the magic at the heart of the Harry Potter story, and puts every bit of it on screen and in the world for you to enjoy. It's hard to imagine another game topping this one in 2023. The game is hard to fault, with the story being engaging, the gameplay being fun, and the graphics being impressive.

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100

MeuPlayStation

PlayStation 5

Feb 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy is a game that captures the magic and essence of the Harry Potter franchise and is a must-play for fans and anyone who wants to experience the world of Hogwarts in a new and immersive way.

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100

Carole Quintaine

PlayStation 5

Feb 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy is a monumental video game that rivals the likes of Zelda Breath of The Wild and Elden Ring, offering a grand adventure filled with freedom, possibilities, and a sense of journey. The meticulously crafted universe by Avalanche is rich, mysterious, and populated with well-written characters within an exciting story. It is an unforgettable epic.

100

IGN Portugal

PlayStation 5

Feb 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer is impressed with Hogwarts Legacy, stating that it exceeds expectations and sets a precedent for future RPGs. Despite some initial reservations about the story and characters, the gameplay and world are vast and full of surprises. The final score is not explicitly stated, but the reviewer guarantees it is higher than 7/10.

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100

Vgames

PlayStation 5

Feb 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised as a dream come true for fans of the Harry Potter universe, offering an immersive experience with a large open world and challenging combat mechanics.

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Areajugones

PlayStation 5

Feb 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The author expresses admiration for Hogwarts Legacy but refrains from giving it a perfect score due to some minor flaws.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Feb 7, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy is a brilliantly massive open-world RPG that offers hours of content to discover, quest, and fight through. The game allows players to create an extensively unique character and offers choices that affect character interactions. The developers should be proud of this well-polished addition to the wizarding world.

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GamingTrend

Feb 7, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy sets a new standard for licensed products and is a strong contender for Game of the Year.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Feb 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hogwarts Legacy is praised as a must-have for RPG and Harry Potter fans. It is described as a masterclass in fantasy-RPG goodness, with a faithful and stunning recreation of the beloved fantasy world. Some minor flaws are mentioned, but they don't overshadow the overall positive experience.

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