Mystical Parallels: How Bookwalker's Enchanting Universe May Shape Hogwarts Legacy 2

Hogwarts Legacy was a project brimming with ambition, but it had the advantage of being able to rely on the vast pre-existing lore. From the iconic Hogwarts castle to lesser-known features like the enigmatic Room of Requirement, it skillfully utilizes the arsenal of elements that Harry Potter has established. While it incorporates many recognizable aspects, Avalanche Software's offering merely scratches the surface, leaving ample room for future expansion given the commercial and critical success of the first game.

Having this level of creative freedom allows the developers to explore specific plot points from the novels or films, enriching the story being told. The introduction of The Bookwalker to Xbox Game Pass in June introduced a narrative twist where players can enter a book and modify its events. This concept will resonate with fans familiar with Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, potentially making it a compelling narrative thread to explore in the second game of Avalanche's budding franchise.

The Bookwalker is Similar to One Chamber of Secrets Plot Point

The Bookwalker: Thief of Tales immerses players in the role of a former writer turned thief, who delves into different stories in each chapter to overcome writer's block. Protagonist Etienne Quist embarks on a quest to steal precious artifacts from the books he enters, becoming deeply entwined in the narrative of each tale. This concept sets the game apart, as it not only distinguishes itself from other games, whether indie or AAA, but also creates a unique and captivating experience across its six chapters. It evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of a particular scene in Harry Potter.

In the second Harry Potter film, there is a captivating moment where Harry enters Tom Riddle's diary, revealing insights into Voldemort's past at Hogwarts and his framing of Hagrid for opening the Chamber of Secrets. This addition provides crucial context to Riddle's character and further enriches the film's storyline. Hogwarts itself is a rich, elaborate setting with a fascinating history, offering numerous decades for exploration in Hogwarts Legacy's sequel. Incorporating the effortless narrative concept of entering a book, as demonstrated in The Bookwalker, could serve as a viable and intriguing gateway to an immersive world of compelling historical events.

Hogwarts Legacy Could Use More Harry Potter Plot Devices

Revising the content:

Taking players back to the late-1800s, much like Hogwarts Legacy did upon its release in February, would be a solid idea. The continuation of the first game's story provides a safe direction. Nevertheless, with Ranrok and Victor Rookwood's plans foiled, the sequel has the freedom to explore various paths. The setting and timeframe should align with the narrative being presented. It would be wise for the developer to capitalize on the opportunity of employing a plot device that transports characters to a different era for exposition, especially considering that this aspect is already established in the Harry Potter universe.

While The Bookwalker: Thief of Tales may not possess the budget or reputation to compete with esteemed titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Final Fantasy 16, or Resident Evil 4 for numerous Game of the Year awards, its impact on the industry can still be apparent. If Avalanche Studios is open to drawing inspiration from its core narrative premise, Hogwarts Legacy's sequel can acknowledge and indirectly support The Bookwalker's influence, nurturing and enhancing the idea that it introduced.

Hogwarts Legacy is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, with a Switch release scheduled for November 14, 2023.