Hogwarts Legacy appears to have everything it needs to be one of the bestselling games of 2023. It is based on a popular IP, and it features immersive open-world gameplay that has proven to be a magnet for gamers. Unfortunately, the game has had to battle with negative publicity, and most of it arises from J.K. Rowling's transphobic comments.
If Avalanche Software is thinking about its long-term plans, it likely doesn't want Hogwarts Legacy to be its last Harry Potter game. However, it does not seem like Rowling is going to stop being a problem soon. Hence, the studio needs to find a way to fully divorce its future games from the controversial author.
J.K. Rowling's Negative Effect on Hogwarts Legacy
For most of her career, J.K. Rowling has been a beloved figure admired for her creativity and her philanthropic work. The Harry Potter series preaches tolerance and acceptance, causing it to gain sentimental value among youths who relate to the protagonist's feelings of not fitting in. Although there has been criticism of some elements of the Wizarding World, the belief that Rowling acts in good faith has kept both her and her franchise with a wholesome image.
Things changed when Rowling publicly espoused trans-exclusionary views. Rowling claims that her concern lies with the protection of women and womanhood, though her words and actions have been harmful to trans people. Hogwarts Legacy, which is inspired by Rowling's novel series, has inevitably found itself drawn into the controversy. The developers have made sincere attempts to distance Hogwarts Legacy from Rowling. Public statements have been made clarifying that the author is not involved in the game's development, and the game goes out of its way to be as inclusive as possible. Nevertheless, Rowling's loud transphobia has ensured that the game can never completely run away from the outrage she generates.
In response, some gamers have called for a boycott of Hogwarts Legacy. ResetEra has also banned discussion on the game. Despite these obstacles, Hogwarts Legacy has attracted heaps of pre-orders, causing it to top charts on Steam and Amazon. This illustrates that interest in the Harry Potter IP is still high, though future games will have to take serious steps to ensure they do not find themselves linked to Rowling.
Rowling Remains a Stone Mill Around Harry Potter's Neck
Although she has faced severe public backlash from fans and performers that have appeared in past Harry Potter films, Rowling has firmly and unapologetically stuck to her position, believing herself to be morally justified. With her showing no signs of slowing down her transphobic tirade or apologizing for her past statements, it seems that her transphobic legacy is something all future Harry Potter products will have to grapple with. Consequently, many projects related to Harry Potter have attempted to distance themselves from Rowling.
With enthusiasm as high as it is for Hogwarts Legacy, it could be the beginning of a very lucrative franchise. Unfortunately, it appears that Rowling is a problem that won't go away. Although Hogwarts Legacy's developers do not share Rowling's views, they will have to think of ways to further disconnect future titles from the disgraced author. At the same time, they need to ensure that the games stay true to the source material to please hardcore fans.
Rowling has left gamers between a rock and hard place. Supporting the game signals that her creations will thrive regardless of the hate she spews. However, boycotts are more likely to affect innocent developers rather than the wealthy author. If Avalanche Software could succeed in giving Hogwarts Legacy an identity separate from Rowling without compromising on authenticity, it could have a very successful franchise on its hands.
Hogwarts Legacy launches February 10 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, with PS4 and Xbox One versions coming April 4, and a Switch port releasing July 25.
