One of the key factors that made Hogwarts Legacy immersive was its extensive level of customization. This customization aspect greatly contributed to the game's RPG elements. The game's protagonist approach played a major role in this customization, as it allowed players to create their own character.
Although this approach was successful in handling the protagonist of Hogwarts Legacy, there are certain drawbacks that might require a different approach in a potential sequel. Specifically, a sequel to Hogwarts Legacy could gain advantages by implementing a scripted and universal approach for its main character.
The Pros and Cons of Hogwarts Legacy's Protagonist Approach
Hogwarts Legacy offers extensive options for character creation, including the ability to select gender, voice, and appearance of the protagonist. This level of customization adds greatly to the immersion factor, as players can truly personalize their playthrough experience.
The character creation system in Hogwarts Legacy seamlessly integrates with the game's RPG mechanics, granting players even more control over the narrative and the portrayal of their protagonist. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that this system also has its drawbacks.
Hogwarts Legacy's Sequel and a Scripted Protagonist
To enhance player interaction and create a memorable protagonist, it is crucial for the game to accommodate a diverse range of potential main characters. However, the current approach of keeping the lead figure vague and universally relatable obstructs meaningful connections with other in-game characters. Consequently, the player character fails to leave a lasting impression, resembling more of an empty vessel rather than a well-crafted persona within the game's storyline. As evident in Hogwarts Legacy, this system exhibits both advantages and disadvantages, prompting a potential sequel to explore the advantages of a more focused protagonist approach.
Although there is no official confirmation yet, the potential triumph of Hogwarts Legacy may pave the way for a future installment set in a different time period within the Harry Potter universe. This forthcoming game would naturally retain many of the foundational elements from its predecessor but ought to adopt distinct strategies in crucial aspects to distinguish itself and expand upon the initial release.
Instead of allowing players to create their own characters, the sequel to Hogwarts Legacy should consider implementing a predetermined protagonist with a scripted narrative and personality. Although this would sacrifice the immersive customization aspect, it would greatly enhance the sequel's storytelling. By focusing on a singular character with a defined background and longevity, more resources could be dedicated to developing a well-rounded protagonist. Currently, the vague identity of the protagonist diminishes their impact and relevance. However, a scripted protagonist would address this criticism and allow for a more immersive and significant presence within the Harry Potter franchise. Despite having a predetermined character, the sequel could still offer a variety of branching narratives and interaction options, but with a clearer overall direction.
Losing the character creation feature from the original would be unfortunate for Hogwarts Legacy's sequel. However, opting for a scripted protagonist would greatly enhance the narrative perspective. Addressing representation is a challenge that Hogwarts Legacy must face, and by utilizing a scripted and named protagonist, inclusivity and representation can still be incorporated. Given that players have already enjoyed the role-playing aspect in the first game, the sequel could place more emphasis on its central characters through a scripted protagonist approach. Currently, Hogwarts Legacy is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, with a Switch version slated to release on November 14.