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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 garners mixed reviews: some praise its engaging mysteries and character depth, while others slam its predictable, cliché-ridden plot, likening it to "bad fanfic." Critics highlight a captivating late 1800s setting, yet many feel the story lacks substance and tension, with side quests outshining the main narrative. Overall, it entertains but fails to meet the rich storytelling legacy of the Harry Potter franchise.

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 opinions regarding the story of Hogwarts Legacy present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics highlighting its engaging aspects. Several reviewers, such as IGN and We Got This Covered, commend the game for its intriguing mysteries and well-developed characters that contribute to an authentic Harry Potter experience. The narrative's setting in the late 1800s, as noted by critics like PlayStation Universe and Xbox Achievements, allows for a fresh take on the Wizarding World, with the protagonist navigating a new environment and uncovering dark forces. Critics like Gaming Age appreciate the blend of familiar elements with original storytelling, suggesting that the game successfully captures the magic and allure of the franchise while introducing players to a unique adventure. Conversely, many reviewers express disappointment with the story's execution, citing issues such as predictability and lack of depth. Twinfinite bluntly describes the main story as "bad fanfic," while GamingBolt criticizes the protagonist for being an overly perfect hero, leading to a lack of tension in the narrative. Destructoid mentions the clumsy storytelling of the main villain, Ranrok, and how the overall plot feels disjointed. Critics like Malditos Nerds and CD-Action echo these sentiments, pointing out that while the side quests may offer richer experiences, the main narrative suffers from repetitiveness and weak resolutions. The consensus among many critics is that the story fails to live up to the high standards set by the original Harry Potter books. Overall, the critical reception of Hogwarts Legacy's story reveals a divide between those who appreciate its engaging elements and those who find it lacking in substance. While some reviewers, like Game Informer and Atomix, highlight the strong dialogue and character development that enhance the narrative, others, including DualShockers and PC Gamer, argue that the plot is riddled with clichés and fails to provide a compelling experience. The majority of critics seem to agree that although the game offers a captivating setting and some interesting character arcs, the overall story leaves much to be desired, ultimately positioning Hogwarts Legacy as an experience that may entertain but does not fully satisfy the narrative expectations of its audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy impresses with its "fast-paced and fluid" combat, allowing players to create spell combos in a captivating open world filled with quests. Critics praise its immersive experience and character customization, but caution about repetitive gameplay and clunky mechanics, particularly with navigation and spell equipping. Overall, while the game has flaws, its engaging combat and rich spell variety make it a must-try for fans and newcomers alike.

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, highlighting several engaging aspects. Many reviewers praised the combat system, which is described as "fast-paced and fluid" by TrueAchievements, and "satisfying" by Movies Games and Tech. The ability to create spell combos and utilize a variety of spells adds depth to the combat experience, with IGN noting that the combat is "fantastic, challenging, and captivating." Additionally, the game's expansive open world, filled with numerous quests and activities, has been appreciated by critics such as We Got This Covered, who emphasized the impressive gameplay experience that allows for exploration and interaction with the environment. The inclusion of various magical abilities and the freedom to customize characters further enhances the overall enjoyment of the game. Despite the numerous positives, some critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay mechanics. Digital Trends and GameSpot both noted that the gameplay can feel repetitive and uninspired over time, with GameSpot specifically mentioning that the quests become uninteresting. DualShockers highlighted frustrations with clunky navigation and the process of equipping spells, while Guardian expressed that the combat becomes increasingly fiddly as players accumulate more enchantments. Furthermore, GameMAG criticized the execution of school activities, stating that most lessons are presented as cutscenes, which detracts from player engagement. These criticisms suggest that while the core mechanics are enjoyable, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of Hogwarts Legacy, with many appreciating the combat system and the immersive world of Hogwarts. While there are valid concerns regarding repetitiveness and some clunky mechanics, the majority of reviewers found the gameplay to be engaging and enjoyable. Critics like PC Gamer and GameGrin echoed this sentiment, noting that the gameplay is fun and varied, with a rich array of spells and abilities to explore. Ultimately, while the game has its flaws, the positive aspects of the gameplay experience shine through, making it a worthwhile venture for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy impresses with stunning visuals and a captivating portrayal of the Harry Potter universe, earning high praise for its detail and atmosphere. Critics celebrate its vibrant graphics, especially on next-gen consoles, but note issues like graphical bugs, rough textures, and uneven detail in some areas. While technical flaws are acknowledged, the overall sentiment is positive, with many agreeing that the game's art direction and immersive world more than compensate for its shortcomings.

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 stunning recreation of the Harry Potter universe. Reviewers like PC Games and IGN France noted the impressive detail in iconic locations such as Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade, with Gamer.nl highlighting the game's ability to capture the enchanting atmosphere of the Wizarding World. Critics from Game Informer and NPR emphasized the meticulous attention to detail, mentioning the interactive elements and hidden secrets that make the environment feel alive and immersive. The vibrant colors and artistic style, particularly on platforms like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2, were also commended, with Jeuxvideo.com and GamingBolt acknowledging the well-optimized visuals that maintain a stable framerate. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics. Issues such as graphical bugs, rough textures, and limited character models were mentioned by PC Games and SECTOR.sk, who noted that the game does not match the visual polish of other contemporary titles. Additionally, some critics like KeenGamer and Hardcore Gamer observed that while Hogwarts is beautifully rendered, other areas, such as the Scottish Highlands, lack the same level of detail, leading to a mixed experience. Technical problems, including long loading times and visual glitches, were also cited by multiple reviewers, indicating that while the game excels in many areas, it is not without its flaws. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Hogwarts Legacy delivers a visually impressive experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise. While there are valid criticisms regarding technical issues and certain graphical shortcomings, the majority of reviewers agree that the game's art direction and attention to detail create a captivating world that successfully brings the magic of Harry Potter to life. Critics such as GamersRD and The Games Machine encapsulated this sentiment by praising the game's ability to faithfully recreate the beloved universe, suggesting that the positives significantly outweigh the negatives in the overall visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy impresses with its immersive sound design and engaging soundtrack, praised for capturing the magic of the Harry Potter universe. Critics commend its fresh score and orchestral arrangements, along with nostalgic film themes. However, some issues with voice acting inconsistencies, audio desynchronization, and overpowering environmental sounds detract from the experience. Overall, the game's audio enhances immersion, making it a significant part of the magical journey despite its flaws.

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 been widely praised by critics, with many noting the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere that resonates with the magical world of Harry Potter. The soundtrack is often described as both fresh and engaging, enhancing the overall experience of the game. Critics like GamingBolt and Press Start Australia highlight how the original score captures the whimsical and enchanting essence of the Wizarding World, while C.O.G. Connected emphasizes the stunning orchestral arrangements that evoke nostalgia. The inclusion of recognizable themes from the Harry Potter films, as noted by Game Rant and Hey Poor Player, further enriches the experience for fans, making it feel authentic and connected to the beloved franchise. However, despite the overall acclaim, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the sound design and music. Several reviewers pointed out inconsistencies in voice acting, particularly among side NPCs, as mentioned by GamingBolt and Pure Xbox. Additionally, issues such as audio desynchronization, as noted by Noisy Pixel, and the mixed quality of voice performances in different languages, highlighted by Game Pro Germany, detracted from the otherwise immersive experience. Critics like KeenGamer also pointed out that while the music is powerful, there were instances where environmental sounds, such as the loud honking daffodils, could overshadow character dialogue, leading to potential confusion during gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hogwarts Legacy delivers a commendable sound design and musical experience that significantly enhances the game's atmosphere. While some voice acting and audio alignment issues were noted, the majority of reviewers agree that the soundtrack is a standout feature, effectively capturing the magic of the Harry Potter universe. Critics like Game Informer and We Got This Covered encapsulate this sentiment by praising the well-crafted audio that elevates the player's immersion. The combination of dynamic sound effects and a captivating score has left a positive impression, making Hogwarts Legacy a noteworthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy features generally praised voice acting that enhances character charm and immersion, with critics lauding its quality and diverse accents. However, some reviewers criticize stiffness, robotic delivery, and inconsistencies in character voices, indicating room for improvement. Overall, it's a mixed bag—strong performances shine, but flaws hold back the experience.

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 received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the quality and charm of the performances. Reviewers such as Attack of the Fanboy and Game Informer praised the characters as "charming and believable," with Game Informer specifically noting that the dialogue and voice acting are "uniformly excellent." Critics like GGRecon and We Got This Covered echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the voice acting brings the characters to life and adds depth to the story. Furthermore, the inclusion of various accents, as mentioned by GameOver.gr and Metro GameCentral, contributes to the immersive experience, making the characters feel more authentic within the Wizarding World. However, not all feedback is favorable, as several critics pointed out notable flaws in the voice acting. Eurogamer Poland criticized the dialogue and character animation for being static and unnatural, while Finger Guns mentioned that some voice pitch changes sounded robotic. Additionally, Push Square highlighted the protagonist's voice acting as "boring and robotic," and Xbox Tavern criticized the use of similar voice pitches across different characters, leading to peculiar inflections. This inconsistency in quality was also noted by GamingBolt, which pointed out that while main characters were well-cast, side NPCs suffered from voice filters that detracted from immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a significant number praising the voice acting for its quality and ability to enhance the game's narrative. While many reviewers, such as Hey Poor Player and Malditos Nerds, commended the performances of side characters and the immersive experience provided by the voice acting, others raised valid concerns about stiffness, repetitiveness, and inconsistencies in delivery. As a result, while Hogwarts Legacy showcases a commendable effort in voice acting, it is clear that there are areas that could benefit from further refinement to achieve a more cohesive and engaging auditory experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy shows mixed technical performance across platforms. Xbox Series X offers smooth gameplay but faces bugs; PS5 struggles with loading times and glitches; Nintendo Switch 2 improves stability but still has issues. Despite its visual appeal, widespread performance problems hinder player enjoyment, prompting calls for patches and updates to fix the experience.

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 received a mixed reception across various platforms, with some positive highlights. On the Xbox Series X, critics like Generación Xbox and Xbox Tavern noted that the game runs smoothly with quick loading times, and the overall experience is commendable despite some minor issues. The Nintendo Switch 2 version has garnered praise for its improved stability and performance compared to previous versions, with reviewers from Jeuxvideo.com and Pocket Tactics highlighting smooth gameplay and reduced loading times. On the PlayStation 5, several critics, including Atomix and Hey Poor Player, reported impressive technical performance, mentioning stable frame rates and effective use of the DualSense controller, which enhances the gaming experience. However, there are significant concerns regarding technical issues across all platforms. On the Xbox Series X, critics like GameMAG and Riot Pixels pointed out optimization issues, bugs, and graphical glitches that detract from the experience. The PS5 version has been criticized for frequent loading times, frame rate drops, and various glitches, with reviewers such as Games.cz and IGN highlighting that the game can feel broken at times. The Nintendo Switch 2, while improved, still suffers from occasional bugs and loading times, as noted by critics like Impulsegamer and Eurogamer Germany. Overall, many PS5 reviews, including those from Vgames and Malditos Nerds, echoed sentiments of performance issues that disrupt gameplay. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that while Hogwarts Legacy offers a visually appealing and immersive experience, technical performance issues significantly mar the enjoyment across all platforms. Xbox Series X players face optimization and bug-related challenges, while PS5 users contend with frequent glitches and loading problems. The Nintendo Switch 2, although improved, still presents some performance hurdles. Critics like GameMAG and IGN have drawn comparisons to other troubled launches, indicating that despite its potential, the game requires further patches and updates to fully realize its capabilities and provide a smoother experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy boasts strong replay value with extensive quests and engaging side stories that can significantly extend gameplay, appealing to fans with its immersive world and character customization. However, criticisms arise over a lack of depth and repetitiveness in gameplay, with some reviewers noting that the absence of a New Game+ mode limits replayability. Overall, while it's a hit for franchise fans, it may fall short for players seeking more dynamic experiences.

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 highlighting the abundance of content available to players. Reviewers such as Jeuxvideo.com and Generación Xbox emphasize the extensive main quest and numerous side quests, which can extend gameplay significantly—often doubling or tripling the initial playtime. Critics like GameSpew and TierraGamer note the engaging side quests and character stories that enhance the immersive experience. The ability to explore different houses and their unique narratives, as mentioned by TrueAchievements and Gaming Nexus, adds another layer of replayability, encouraging players to experience the game from various perspectives. Additionally, the inclusion of character customization and activities like flying and potion crafting, as pointed out by Noisy Pixel and Xbox Tavern, further enriches the gameplay experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's depth and potential for repetitiveness. Critics such as Gamersky and GameOver.gr express concerns about the lack of depth in systems and the simplicity of many side quests, which can lead to a feeling of tedium over time. Pocket Tactics echoes this sentiment, suggesting that if players did not enjoy the core gameplay initially, they are unlikely to find renewed interest. The absence of a New Game+ mode, as highlighted by IGN, also detracts from the potential for replayability, leaving some players wanting more in terms of revisiting the game with new challenges. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Hogwarts Legacy offers a wealth of content and engaging gameplay that can keep players occupied for many hours, there are concerns about the depth and variety of that content. Many reviewers appreciate the immersive world and the variety of activities available, as noted by Press Start Australia and LevelUp, but some warn that the repetitiveness of certain elements could hinder the overall replay value. The game seems to cater well to fans of the franchise and those looking for a rich exploration experience, but it may not fully satisfy players seeking a more varied and dynamic gameplay loop.

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 experience and visual fidelity. Reviewers like GamersRD and Gameblog.fr highlight the captivating world and engaging combat, noting that the game successfully captures the essence of the Harry Potter universe. Critics such as Daily Star and Press Start Australia emphasize its strong combat mechanics and the depth of the open world, making it a worthwhile experience for both fans and newcomers. The game has been described as a dream come true for Harry Potter enthusiasts, with GGRecon and Vgames noting its ability to transport players into the Wizarding World and fulfill long-held fantasies of attending Hogwarts. However, several critiques point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Reviewers like GameSpot and DualShockers argue that while the game is visually stunning, it lacks innovation and depth in its story and gameplay mechanics. The RPG elements are often described as light or underdeveloped, as noted by NME and GamePro Germany, which detracts from the potential for a more engaging role-playing experience. Furthermore, some critics have raised concerns about technical issues and the repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements, as highlighted by Destructoid and GAMES.CH, suggesting that the game may not fully meet the expectations set by its franchise. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of Hogwarts Legacy. Many reviewers, including IGN Italia and Attack of the Fanboy, assert that it stands as one of the best representations of the Harry Potter franchise in video game form. The game is seen as a significant achievement in licensed products, with GamingTrend even suggesting it could be a contender for Game of the Year. While some critics express reservations about its lack of innovation and depth, the majority agree that Hogwarts Legacy offers a magical and immersive experience that resonates well with fans and provides a solid foundation for future titles in the genre.

TL;DR

Hogwarts Legacy is largely praised for its immersive experience and stunning visuals, capturing the magic of the Harry Potter universe. Critics highlight its engaging combat and expansive open world, making it a hit for fans and newcomers alike. However, some point out weaknesses in its story depth and RPG mechanics, along with technical issues. Despite these flaws, it’s regarded as one of the best Harry Potter game adaptations, with potential Game of the Year accolades on the horizon, offering a magical experience for players.

MONSTER

Reviews

231 reviews found

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

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

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

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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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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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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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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BaziCenter

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2023

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

Hogwarts Legacy is a highly anticipated title that offers a desirable experience for Harry Potter fans. It receives a rating of 9.5 out of 10 from GameCenter.

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