As confirmed via various social media channels, the highly anticipated Hogwarts Legacy has been delayed into 2023. The game was previously slated to release Holiday 2022, and as we reached the latter parts of the year, many fans expressed concerns about a potential delay. Though the concerns turned out to have merit, we won’t have to wait much longer than expected. Hogwarts Legacy is now slated to release on February 10, 2023.
News about Hogwarts Legacy has been circulating since a leak in 2018 showed off some of its gameplay and customization options before anyone even knew the game’s name. The title was officially announced in a PlayStation showcase in 2020. Then, earlier this year, it received a dedicated State of Play where they went over a lot of information, such as the game’s world, gameplay, story, characters, and various features. Many rumors were brought forth about the game’s potential release date, but fans have to speculate no longer.
A video uploaded by Avalanche Software, the development team, had community manager Chandler Wood reveal the news of the delay. He states that though some may be disappointed the game was pushed out of 2022, the team is excited to finally reveal a specific release date. Furthermore, he states, “we’re excited about what we’re creating here at the studio, and we just need a little bit more time to deliver the best possible experience for everyone.”
A noteworthy detail that was relayed along with this announcement is that the Nintendo Switch version of the game is not included in the previously mentioned release date, and will release sometime in the future. The February 2023 date is only for the PC, Xbox, and PlayStation versions (including PS4 and Xbox One). The only other bit of info given was that the Nintendo Switch release date “will be revealed soon.”
In terms of performance, the Nintendo Switch is the lesser of the major consoles on the market, so it could be the dev team needs even more time to optimize what appears to be a very large game. With its open exploration around Hogwarts and its grounds, a seemingly robust combat system, and numerous side activities, this might be the most immersive virtual experience of the Wizarding World yet. So, it’s no surprise why fans of the Harry Potter franchise are so excited.
