Hogwarts Legacy managed to captivate players with its breathtaking visuals and intricately detailed map of Hogwarts, bringing the beloved world of magic to life like never before. While the game had many strengths, one aspect that flew under the radar—especially in comparison to the original Harry Potter films—is its presentation of magical creatures.
With a sequel to Hogwarts Legacy now in development, there’s a treasure trove of content to pull from that the first game only scratched the surface of. Being the most comprehensive and lore-drenched Harry Potter game so far, any follow-up needs to build on this strong foundation. A great way to achieve this would be to introduce more magical creatures, enriching the game’s vibrant ecosystem and making it feel more alive.
Hogwarts Legacy’s first installment featured 13 magical beasts, each with a unique charm. Among these, the iconic Hippogriff stands tall, recognized by Harry Potter fans thanks to Buckbeak. Then there’s the mischievous Niffler, introduced in the Fantastic Beasts films, along with the majestic Unicorns, enigmatic Thestrals, and the mythical Phoenixes, all lending their charm to the game.
Players can create vivariums to harbor these fanciful creatures, saving them from the clutches of poachers and gathering resources for potions and spells. The sequel would do well to maintain these features while also boosting their significance to the storyline, making each creature’s presence more purposeful.
The sequel, Hogwarts Legacy 2, holds potential for an enriched storyline that explores a greater variety of creatures. Introducing unseen beings could enhance the lore and breathe life into familiar favorites. For instance, allowing players to choose a pet—be it an owl, cat, rat, or toad—could add depth to the game, similar to how Herbology plants are used strategically in battles.
Werewolves, a familiar concept due to the beloved character Remus Lupin, could offer intriguing questlines or emotional character backstories. The presence of werewolves in the game’s narrative could delve into their complex and often feared status in the wizarding community, providing layers of depth and interest.
Another exciting avenue could involve the Basilisk, the legendary serpent from the Chamber of Secrets. Its inclusion could set the stage for a thrilling quest involving petrification and venomous encounters, creating a memorable boss battle. Dragons, too, could elevate the experience; despite making an appearance in the first game, there’s still plenty to explore, as showcased in the Goblet of Fire.
Then there are Dementors. Their eerie presence was mostly missed due to their limited appearance in the first game, specifically in the unique Hufflepuff quest to Azkaban. Expanding their role could be thrilling, depending on the narrative direction, and it could allow for more players to face these menacing foes.
The Harry Potter universe is vast, brimming with opportunities for further exploration. Enhancements like these in Hogwarts Legacy 2 could undoubtedly take the game to new heights. The magical creatures were a notable feature in the first game, yet there remains untapped potential for richer quests and storytelling, with these enchanting beings guiding the way forward.
