Hogwarts Legacy Has “Spectacular” Start Despite Controversy, WB Games Boss Says

While Hogwarts Legacy unit sales numbers are staying under wraps for now, Warner Bros. Games has confirmed other statistics that speak to the game’s strong start amid a backdrop of controversy surrounding author JK Rowling.

WB Games president David Haddad told Variety that the “player engagement” in Hogwarts Legacy so far has been “spectacular” following the game’s launch earlier in February. WB Games confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy played have collectively logged 267 million hours in the game, grown 393 million plants, and brewed 242 million potions. Players have defeated 1.25 billion Dark Wizards.

“We are very pleased with the initial launch and see a bright future for our other platform launches,” Haddad said, referring to the game’s release on PS4/Xbox One in April and then Switch in July.

Hogwarts Legacy put up huge stats on Twitch and Steam as well, and the game remains Steam’s top-selling game as of February 23. The game is near the top of the Xbox best-seller charts, too.

Hogwarts Legacy has generated a lot of criticism, controversy, and debate. One outlet, GamesHub, posted an editorial about Rowling and her comments instead of a review.

Players begin their magical career as a fifth-year student coming to Hogwarts in the 1890s. In addition to exploring the castle and learning spells, players venture beyond the castle walls.

Players hoping that Hogwarts Legacy adds Quidditch in a future expansion may be out of luck, as the developer said it has no plans for DLC, at least not right now.

Hogwarts Legacy is developed by Avalanche Software, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. The game has been embroiled in controversy due to transphobic remarks from Harry Potter author JK Rowling. Although she is not personally involved with its development, she stands to profit from its success. For more, read our in-depth article on how Rowling’s comments have impacted the trans community. In this article, you will also find links to trans creators you can support, as well as charities you can donate to.