EVERYTHING
According to Collider, the Wizarding World is expanding its interactive offerings with a new tabletop RPG titled Harry Potter: Defenders of Hogwarts. The project is being spearheaded by MinaLima, the renowned studio responsible for creating iconic props such as the Marauder’s Map and the Hogwarts acceptance letters seen in the films. This partnership ensures that the aesthetic of the game will align closely with established cinematic designs.
Narrative choices and gameplay mechanics
The game is designed to place players in a high-stakes environment set immediately before Voldemort’s invasion of Hogwarts. Unlike traditional cooperative adventures, this RPG introduces a moral divide where participants must decide their allegiance. Players can choose to represent their respective houses to defend the school or join the Dark Forces to assist Lord Voldemort in securing his victory.
Key features of the tabletop experience include:
- Support for 2 to 5 players per session.
- A target playtime of up to 90 minutes per match.
- Age rating suitable for players aged 13 and up.
- Mechanics focused on honing spell-casting skills and exploring the school grounds.
Design and authenticity
While MinaLima provides the visual pedigree, the core game design is handled by multi-award-winning industrial designer David Waterman. The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between high-end prop design and interactive gaming. By focusing on the "look and feel" of the Wizarding World, the developers intend to offer a premium experience for dedicated enthusiasts who value historical accuracy within the franchise.
This release comes at a time when fans are eagerly awaiting news on the sequel to Hogwarts Legacy. While the video game sequel remains in development with few concrete details regarding its scope or connection to upcoming HBO series, Defenders of Hogwarts provides an immediate way for fans to engage with the lore. The Kickstarter campaign will serve as the primary vehicle for bringing this new tabletop adventure to the wider gaming community.