Without a doubt, one of the most hotly anticipated games of 2023 is Hogwarts Legacy. This open-world adventure is poised to give Harry Potter fans everything they’ve ever wanted from a video game set in the Wizarding World and more.
If you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan looking to sling some spells before the game drops later this quarter, look no further, because we’ve rounded up the top Harry Potter games that will transport you right into the Hogwarts universe.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
First up, we have Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone for the PS1 and PC. This game, based on the first book and movie, allows players to attend the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and explore its halls and mysteries. While it touches on a lot of the beats from its source material, the game also injects a few elements of its own, making it feel like a new take. Apart from exploring the school grounds and interacting with other HP characters like Hermione and Ron, you can also play Quidditch matches. It’s a classic that still holds up today, particularly if you’re playing the PC version as the PS1 port is a downgraded mess.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
Next, we have Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets for the PS1 and PC. The sequel to the first game, this game naturally continues Harry Potter’s story based on the book and movie. In addition to attending classes and exploring Hogwarts, the game elevates its predecessor’s experience by also including solving puzzles and battling dark creatures. It’s a great follow-up to the first game that adds more depth and action while still giving fans more of what they enjoyed.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban for the PS2, Xbox, and PC is another must-play as it is EA’s culmination of lessons learned from the previous two titles. Coupled with the fact that it launched on next-gen hardware and there’s a recipe for success. This game, based on the third book and movie, introduces the concept of the Marauder’s Map, which injects a bit of stealth by allowing you to sneak around Hogwarts undetected. On top of that, you can also ride the Hogwarts Express and play as Sirius Black, the titular prisoner of Azkaban. It’s an exciting and unique addition to the series that does its legacy justice.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
Next up we have Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire for the PS2, Xbox, and PC, the fourth game in the series. This is admittedly a controversial pick this high up on the list because it heavily departs from the exploration design of its predecessors. However, this entry is more action-oriented, giving you the ability to compete in the Triwizard Tournament and attend the Yule Ball among other cool in-universe events. Despite the controversial change, this game is an excellent representation of the fourth book and movie, and it’s a great way to relive the most iconically epic moments from the Harry Potter world.
Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup
Do you know what’s better than a great Harry Potter game? An amazing Harry Potter game that’s also a solidly designed sports game. Quidditch was already a pretty thrilling fantasy sport to experience in the book and movies. This game lets you fully immerse yourself in the sport by translating its rules and mechanics near perfectly. Our biggest gripe is that the AI isn’t challenging even on the highest difficulties. Playing against a friend, though, is highly entertaining.
LEGO Harry Potter: The Collection
At the top of our list of top Harry Potter games, we had to have this one. LEGO games are already highly addictive, family-friendly, and incredibly easy to get into. When you couple that with the world of Harry Potter, you have a surefire hit. Apart from having some of the most engaging mechanics on this list, LEGO Harry Potter: The Collection puts a spin on all of the books and movies by injecting its trademark humor. It’s one of the best ways to relive the full seven years of Harry’s time at Hogwarts.
