With the release of Hogwarts Legacy fast approaching, it has been revealed that the game will work with Steam Family Sharing. This feature enables Steam users to share their game libraries with up to five other accounts via an authorization process. This makes games like Hogwarts Legacy far more affordable for households with multiple users with similar interests and also enables users to borrow digital copies of games from their friends rather than ponying up the cash to buy a game outright.Hogwarts Legacy has been surrounded by a dark cloud of controversy that threatens to envelop it, but remains one of 2023's most anticipated games. The hype is a result of its promise to fulfill the fantasy of those Harry Potter faithful who lament the fact that their Hogwarts acceptance letter never arrived via owl post or otherwise.WB Games Support confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy will work with Steam Family Sharing while responding to questions about the game's upcoming release. Users who have access to shared libraries will be able to enjoy all features included with the host's version of the game - this includes content from Hogwarts LegacyDeluxe Edition, as well as Early Access for those who have pre-purchased Hogwarts Legacy. It is important to note that those hoping to play Hogwarts Legacy via Steam Family Sharing will only be able to do so when the host's library is not in use.
Another important caveat for Steam users to keep in mind is that shared DLC content will only be available if the borrower doesn't already own the base game - that is, if a user has the base game in their library, they will not be able to enjoy any Hogwarts Legacy additional content via Steam Family Sharing. Playing Hogwarts Legacy through a shared library will also require a persistent internet connection, and if the library owner logs on to play, they will naturally be given preference. Steam won't automatically kick shared library players who are in-game - they will be given a few minutes to either log out or buy the game.
Players on PC might feel somewhat discouraged that they don't have the option to preload Hogwarts Legacy - it has an 85 GB install size, which could mean an agonizing wait for those with slow internet connections that somewhat offsets the benefit of having three days of early access before the official launch date. That said, the news that Steam Family Sharing will be supported is surely music to the ears of many due to the far-reaching appeal Hogwarts Legacy holds.
Hogwarts Legacy launches February 10 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, April 4 for PS4 and Xbox One, and July 25 for Nintendo Switch.
