Introduction to ‘Harry Potter: Magic Awakened’
Just over a year after it launched on PC, Warner Bros. has announced the shutdown of ‘Harry Potter: Magic Awakened’ in the Americas, Europe, and Oceania. The game, which blends card collection and RPG elements, initially launched in China and Taiwan in 2021 on mobile devices and later went global in July 2023.
Launch Journey and Global Expansion
The journey of ‘Harry Potter: Magic Awakened’ to the PC platform was full of twists and turns. After its initial mobile launch in Asia, the game expanded globally but maintained limitations. While it did reach Windows users, the servers for the PC version were restricted to Southeast Asia. Despite these constraints, players outside of Asia could still access the game via the official PC client.
Technical Challenges and Account Systems
One significant issue faced by players was the separate account systems operated by NetEase and Warner Bros. This meant that you could not link a WB-operated mobile account, available to users outside of Asia, to a NetEase-operated PC account. This separation created barriers for players wishing to switch platforms while retaining their progress.
Shutdown Announcement
Warner Bros. has now decided to shut down the game across major regions, a move expected to take place in October. The reasons behind this decision remain speculative, but the community has expressed disappointment over the limited lifespan of what many saw as a promising addition to the Harry Potter gaming universe.
Conclusion
While ‘Harry Potter: Magic Awakened’ experienced a diverse and challenging journey, its announced shutdown marks the end of an era for fans worldwide. Players had hoped for a longer-lasting and more integrated experience, but the technical and regional restrictions may have contributed to the game’s early demise.