Highlights
Hogwarts Legacy, the game that has reigned as the top-seller throughout 2023 while amassing a staggering $1 billion in revenue, continues to secure its triumph with a series of successful releases. Nevertheless, one potential concern remains: its early release on various platforms greatly increases the probability of it being overshadowed and overlooked as the awards season approaches.
Hogwarts Legacy has a bright future ahead with its upcoming release on Nintendo Switch on November 14. This highly anticipated launch is poised to boost the game's already impressive popularity and sales figures. Additionally, the timing aligns perfectly with the Game Awards in December, increasing the chances of Hogwarts Legacy receiving acclaim and possibly even winning awards, as it remains fresh in the minds of audiences.
2023 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for the video game industry. From the incredible remakes of Resident Evil 4 and Dead Space, to the highly anticipated sequels of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and the exciting new IPs like Hi-Fi Rush and Dredge, the 2023 Game Awards ceremony is expected to be jam-packed with exceptional contenders in every category. And without a doubt, Hogwarts Legacy will undoubtedly secure a place in several Game Awards categories.
Initially launched in February for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, Hogwarts Legacy has garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success. Its impressive reputation has only continued to grow, and with the upcoming release for Nintendo Switch, the game's triumph is expected to reach new heights. This opens up possibilities for Hogwarts Legacy to earn even more nominations for the esteemed Game Awards in 2023.
Hogwarts Legacy's November Switch Release Date Could Be a Blessing in Disguise
Hogwarts Legacy is currently the top-selling game of 2023, surpassing most AAA releases with its remarkable sales. Even though The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom briefly took its place, Hogwarts Legacy's sales have soared to an impressive $1 billion by the end of May. The game's initial success was impressive, but it truly thrived when it was released on Xbox One and PlayStation 4, bringing a second wave of sales and popularity. And there is even more success on the horizon for Hogwarts Legacy before the year ends.
On November 14, 2023, Hogwarts Legacy is scheduled to launch on Nintendo Switch, marking its third release wave. Much like the previous release on Xbox One and PlayStation 4, this third wave is anticipated to perform exceptionally well, adding to the already impressive success story. The Nintendo Switch release of Hogwarts Legacy is expected to bring in substantial revenue for Warner Bros., but that's not the only advantage of having a third release wave later in the year.
The Game Awards has quickly become a prominent and highly regarded annual event within the gaming industry. While winning the esteemed Game of the Year award is not the ultimate measure of success, it does provide a definitive seal of approval for a game and can broaden its audience. While Hogwarts Legacy already enjoys significant attention, aiming for the top award is always advantageous, especially considering its upcoming release on the Switch in November, putting it in a favorable position.
Historically, games released at the beginning of the year often receive less attention at the Game Awards compared to those released closer to the event. Although there are exceptional titles like last year's Elden Ring that cannot be overlooked, many games tend to go unnoticed, even if they received critical acclaim upon their initial release. However, Hogwarts Legacy has strategically positioned itself differently. Despite its initial launch earlier in the year, Hogwarts Legacy has stayed relevant throughout 2023 through staggered releases. The final release on the Switch in November presents a perfect opportunity to sustain conversations around the game leading up to the Game Awards in early December. While popularity alone is not a guarantee of winning awards, it will undoubtedly boost Hogwarts Legacy's chances.
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.