Wands at the ready! In honor of the launch of Harry Potter Quidditch Champions, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top Harry Potter games.
For those who fall under a certain age bracket, it’s highly probable that the universe of Harry Potter has a strong enchantment on them. While it’s true that some of the later Potter films may not have been up to par, this franchise held great significance for many during their formative years.
Therefore, considering this and the launch of a fresh Potter game (Yes, we are aware it is Quidditch Champions, but it still counts!), we believe that the present moment is perfect for ranking the ten finest Harry Potter games. Narrowing down to ten was unexpectedly challenging due to the abundance of mediocre Potter titles, but I am certain that I have selected the top games for this list.
Therefore, why not follow Professor McGonagall’s lead and take a look at this list before giving us an Outstanding grade?
10. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
Synopsis: In his fourth year at Hogwarts, Harry must confront the return of Voldemort and the manipulative Dolores Umbridge, who has been placed at the school to keep an eye on Dumbledore.
Why it stands out: While it may not be a great game, Order of the Phoenix still surpasses Goblet of Fire (which isn’t saying much). You may be wondering why it made it on this list. The reason is that, let’s face it, most Harry Potter games are not very good. However, in this game, you can explore a Hogwarts that is incredibly accurate to the on-screen depiction. This may not seem like a big deal, but for 15-year-old me, it was a dream come true.
9. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
About the movie: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince allows you to immerse yourself in the world of Hogwarts as you and Dumbledore make preparations for the upcoming battle against the Dark Lord, Voldemort. This tie-in game is based on the popular movie of the same name.
Reasons for our preference: Although Half-Blood Prince may not be considered the top choice for many players, it stands out as the superior option among the later movie tie-ins. It boasts significant advancements in exploration compared to Order of the Phoenix and features enjoyable minigames, with the potion-making segments being a standout. While the gameplay may not be particularly difficult, it is engaging and much more enjoyable than the monotonous wizards duels required in the game.
Wonderbook: Book of Spells (2012)
What the game entails: Wonderbook, an augmented reality game, allows players to immerse themselves in their Hogwarts dreams by learning spells and completing wizard tests. However, one may begin to question if this game is just a clever disguise for schoolwork.
What draws us to it: Wonderbook is a remarkably innovative game that utilizes the PlayStation movie controller to create a fun playing experience. However, the initial difficulty in mastering spell-casting gestures is overshadowed by the game’s limited selection of spells and repetitive levels, causing it to lose its appeal rather quickly.
7. Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup
Subject matter: Would it surprise you to learn that it involves a game of quidditch?
Reasons for our interest: Despite its inclusion on the list, we were skeptical about Quidditch World Cup. However, upon further examination, we found that while the game’s rules may be convoluted, the actual gameplay is enjoyable as long as you don’t overthink it. Additionally, the visuals are visually appealing. However, the game falls short due to slow controls and monotonous gameplay, failing to accurately capture the fast-paced and thrilling nature of the Wizarding World’s most beloved sport.
6. Book to Film Adaptation: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2003)
After discovering he is a wizard, Harry Potter enrolls in Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to begin his magical education. As he forges new friendships and collects beans, an ancient threat resurfaces, determined to obtain whatever secret Dumbledore is protecting on the third floor.
Our fondness for it: Although there may be a sense of nostalgia at play, the 2003 remake of The Philosopher’s Stone (while the original may be comical to watch now, it was a lackluster and uninteresting platformer) provided Potter fans with a mystical experience at the time. Granted, the gameplay was simplistic, but being able to wander around Hogwarts, discover new spells, and embark on a thrilling adventure was truly a dream come true.
Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets (2002)
Synopsis: As students at Hogwarts fall prey to a mysterious attacker, Harry takes it upon himself to uncover the Chamber of Secrets before the Ministry of Magic shuts down the school permanently.
Reasons for our preference: This game holds a special place in my heart as it was the first Harry Potter game I ever played. Despite its relatively basic gameplay, it remains a favorite. It was the first game to feature a coherent 3D Hogwarts, unlike the disappointing version in the original Philosopher’s Stone game. This alone earns it a spot on our list. What’s more, the game allows you to fly around the school on a broomstick, giving you the opportunity to explore all of its hidden nooks and crannies and uncover its secrets.
Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban (2004)
As Harry and his friends begin their third year at Hogwarts, a notorious dark wizard breaks out of Azkaban prison with a thirst for vengeance against the Boy Who Lived.
What we appreciate about it: Prisoner of Azkaban, the first Harry Potter game to allow players to control Ron and Hermione, is an enjoyable RPG that doesn’t completely change the formula, but instead improves upon it. It’s likely the top game in the series based on the movies, mainly due to its building upon previous installments. However, the addition of new gameplay mechanics and spells keeps the experience engaging.
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1–4 (2010)
What makes it so appealing: Similar to the charismatic Gilderoy Lockhart, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1–4 brings a lot of joy and entertainment. It successfully combines enjoyable gameplay with a delightful sense of humor, which is perhaps its biggest strength. Each level is filled with hidden surprises, clever jokes, and references that will amaze even the most devoted Potter aficionado.
Lego Harry Potter: Years 5–7 (2011)
The game, a sequel to LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1–4, concludes Harry’s journey with the epic Battle of Hogwarts.
Reasons for our preference: While there are not many differences between this game and its predecessor, I personally rank it slightly higher due to my preference for the later books. Similar to the first game, this one boasts excellent level design, captivating gameplay, and a humor that is so bright you may need shades. Additionally, the multiplayer and co-op mode are top-notch, providing an opportunity for you and a friend to venture through the Wizarding World together. What more could one ask for?
1. Hogwarts Legacy (2023)
About the game: Taking place a century before Harry Potter’s time at Hogwarts, this game allows you to play as a fifth-year student who discovers a nefarious plot involving malevolent wizards, mischievous goblins, and ancient magic.
Why it’s a favorite: This game embodies the childhood dream of every Potter fan who gazed into the Mirror of Erised. The stunning visuals are captivating, and the decision to allow players to explore not only the intricately designed school, but also the charming surrounding villages and unique characters, was a brilliant move. However, the true highlight is the gripping story and dynamic gameplay. The combat system, a rarity in Potter games, is surprisingly enjoyable, and the ability to combine spells for powerful combos is incredibly satisfying. Undoubtedly the best Potter game to date, and quite possibly the best one we’ll ever see.
As a dedicated fan of Potter, you won’t want to miss out on our extensive collection of magical content. We’ve compiled a list of every playable character in Harry Potter Quidditch Champions, as well as a comprehensive guide to all the easter eggs found throughout the game.
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