Hogwarts Legacy was released not too long ago but has already achieved massive popularity. Not only has the RPG become the number one bestselling game across multiple gaming platforms, but the game has also received near-universal critical acclaim. Given the enduring popularity of the Harry Potter franchise and Hogwarts Legacy, developer Avalanche Software's recent announcement might be a surprise. The studio has made it clear that there is no DLC content in development for Hogwarts Legacy and no plans for paid expansions in the future. Instead, Avalanche Studios has planned on free post-release content drops, though some Hogwarts Legacy fans may see the lack of DLC as a missed opportunity.
The Harry Potter franchise has an expansive universe with many potential events, opportunities, and characters to explore and meet. The franchise has also been scrutinized due to author J.K. Rowling's controversial statements about the Trans community. At the same time, it's unknown whether Rowling's bigoted comments are the reason for the lack of future DLC. When taking the RPG as it is, Hogwarts Legacy's use of the Harry Potter IP leaves the door open for additional canon-inspired content, whether the developers intended to or not.
Hogwarts Legacy Could Have Used DLC To Add Gameplay Fans Wanted
Hogwarts Legacy has had a particularly rough road to development, and some fans may have been surprised to see the game release without all the expected features. While Hogwarts Legacy has received the most positive reviews from fans and critics, a frequent theme among players is that more could have been added regarding social dynamics and non-combat gameplay. For instance, rumors exist that Hogwarts Legacy was designed with romance mechanics in mind, but those mechanics were removed throughout development. Avalanche Studios has justified the lack of romance in Hogwarts Legacy. Still, the gameplay elements could have been added as DLC for fans who wanted to use them.
Similarly, Hogwarts Legacy players were expected to be able to play Quidditch, but that functionality has also been removed completely from the game. Akin to the romance mechanics, there are rumors that Quidditch was originally part of the game but removed before release. Outside a quick announcement at the beginning of Hogwarts Legacy declaring the Quidditch season was canceled, there's no other explanation for the missing sport. Older games like Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup allow gamers to play Quidditch and include multi-school tournaments. Hogwarts Legacy could have created a DLC focused on previously used Quidditch tournament mechanics.
Hogwarts Legacy Could Have Used Events From Harry Potter Canon to Create DLC
On a long list of memorable moments from the Harry Potter franchise, one that remains unique is the Triwizard Tournament from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Hogwarts Legacy could have created vast DLC content using a tournament-style test. For instance, the DLC could have occurred after the main story's events and established the player character as the champion for Hogwarts. A Triwizard Tournament DLC could then have introduced students from different wizarding schools, including Uagadou. It would have been great to hear about schools in other countries and meet, duel, and hang out with their students at Hogwarts.
The trials introduced in the DLC could have been adapted from The Goblet of Fire or derived from new and unique Hogwarts Legacy gameplay. Not to mention, one of the most distinct elements of the fourth Harry Potter book is an underlying storyline that intercedes through the competition in devastating ways. A DLC inspired by the Triwizard Tournament could have included a separate storyline that required the player character to work with old and new companions to explore. While Hogwarts Legacy has nailed the Harry Potter experience for most fans, some feel the lack of DLC is a missed opportunity for more.
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.
