Hogwarts Legacy 2 could disappoint fans – and Harry Potter may be the reason

Amid all the leaks surrounding HBO’s Harry Potter series, it is easy to forget that another major release in the Wizarding World is also on the horizon: Hogwarts Legacy 2. While the series adaptation is increasing anticipation for the game among some fans, it is raising concerns among others.

The game is not only expected to launch around the same time as the series (possibly in 2027), but there are also rumors that the timeline of Hogwarts Legacy 2 could be linked to the show, meaning it might be set in the 1990s. The speculation is based on an interview with former Warner Bros. Interactive boss David Haddad, who said the series and game are connected to some extent.

Fans do not want to stand in Harry Potter’s shadow

For many fans on Reddit, the first game (PS5 version available on Amazon for $26) worked especially well because it told its own story set in the 1890s – one that made the player character feel like the hero while still feeling authentic. In the 1990s, Harry Potter would already be the central figure, which would inevitably make the player character feel less important.

Instead, many fans would prefer a direct sequel with the same protagonist. It could, for example, cover the sixth and seventh school years as well as unresolved storylines involving Sebastian, Ominis, Poppy, Natty, Anne and ancient magic. If the Hogwarts Legacy sequel really is set in the timeline of the series or books, Avalanche Software and Warner Bros. Games would have to make sure players still get an independent story. Many fans apparently do not want to be reduced to a supporting role in Harry Potter’s shadow.

What fans want instead

Another Reddit thread specifically discusses what fans hope to see in Hogwarts Legacy 2. Instead of the same game with a different story or a larger open world, many primarily want a more lively Hogwarts. A frequent criticism is that while the castle looked impressive in the first game, it was underused from a gameplay perspective. The wish list includes more secret rooms, lessons with real gameplay, house points, more meaningful common rooms, more everyday school life and stronger relationships with classmates.

The lack of consequences in the first game is also a major topic. Players can use unforgivable curses without the world reacting in any meaningful way. For Hogwarts Legacy 2, many would like to see a real morality system, alternative story outcomes, NPC reactions and tangible consequences for dark magic. If the game manages to preserve the essence of its predecessor while integrating some of these new features, the sequel should be well received by many fans.