Hogwarts Legacy has made a significant splash in the gaming world, particularly capturing the interest of casual gamers. For many Harry Potter enthusiasts who wouldn’t generally delve into action-RPGs, this game was a must-try, quickly climbing to the top of the sales charts in 2023. Its success bolsters the Harry Potter franchise in the world of interactive media.
While fans eagerly await any news of a sequel, which seems almost inevitable, such projects may take some time to come to fruition. Meanwhile, both indie and major game developers might try to tap into Hogwarts Legacy’s success, reminiscent of how movies and books once rode the Harry Potter wave back in the 2000s. This could lead to a mix of quick cash-ins, but it might also spur the creation of projects driven by genuine passion—projects that otherwise might not gain much attention. Enter Witchbrook, an indie title launching this winter, which appears to be one of those passion-driven projects.
Witchbrook is nestled in a world much like Harry Potter’s, set in a gentle urban fantasy where magic isn’t confined to medieval times or alien worlds, but mingles subtly with the everyday. The game immerses players in Witchbrook, a charming witchcraft college located in the tranquil seaside town of Mossport. Players can enjoy a variety of social simulation and romance features while developing their character across many dimensions. The game’s pixel art style and cozy vibe might remind players of Stardew Valley, as it offers seasonal changes and specific holidays that lend it a very Stardew-like feel.
Beyond its similarities to Stardew Valley, Witchbrook promises a rich, engaging experience with a solid premise. Players get to attend classes, forge romantic connections, and customize a “cosy woodland cottage.” There are plenty of mini-games, side activities, and even some light farming—all while enjoying co-op play with up to three friends. Such cooperative gameplay and its school-life focus might even surpass certain elements of Hogwarts Legacy. The latter, although expansive, has been critiqued for its limited school-life narrative and lack of multiplayer features—a gap Witchbrook seems ready to fill with its romance and social simulation aspects.
In any case, Witchbrook’s debut is a reminder that Harry Potter doesn’t have to be the sole proprietor of magical school settings. While it might not match the combat or graphical fidelity expected from a potential Hogwarts Legacy sequel, its cozy gameplay and academic charm offer a compelling alternative for those looking for something different in the magical genre.
