As ‘Harry Potter’ Backlash Continues, Warner Bros. Axes Upcoming Project
For decades, the Harry Potter franchise has been a cornerstone of pop culture, spinning off blockbuster films, theme park attractions, a baking reality series, and a best-selling video game. But while the wizarding world continues to grow, not every planned project makes it to the finish line. One much-anticipated expansion has just been axed, and it all comes down to cost.
Warner Bros. Discovery has been steadily expanding its Harry Potter slate, even as the franchise navigates controversy surrounding J.K. Rowling. The author’s comments on gender identity have drawn backlash from fans, celebrities, and even former cast members like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and David Tenannt. However, the studio remains committed to the brand, developing an HBO television reboot and other projects aimed at keeping Harry Potter relevant for a new generation.
Warner Bros. Cancels ‘Hogwarts Legacy’ Expansion
One of the most successful modern Harry Potter projects has been Hogwarts Legacy, the 2023 open-world video game that allowed players to explore the wizarding world a century before Harry’s time. Despite calls for a boycott due to Rowling’s views, the game sold over 30 million copies, becoming one of the best-selling games of all time.
Set in the 1800s, it allowed players to craft their own Hogwarts student, explore an expansive magical world, and uncover hidden lore without being tied to the events of the main series. From learning spells and flying broomsticks to battling dark wizards, the game balanced nostalgia with fresh storytelling, making it a hit among both longtime fans and newcomers.
An expansion was widely expected, with rumors suggesting a Definitive Edition that would bundle new storylines with the base game. But according to Bloomberg, Warner Bros. Discovery has scrapped the project after determining that the additional content “was not substantial enough to justify the price being considered.”
The decision surprised fans, given Hogwarts Legacy’s massive commercial success. Many had hoped for new locations, characters, or even a multiplayer component. Instead, Warner Bros. is shifting focus elsewhere—including a full-fledged sequel, though details remain scarce.
Warner Bros. Games Faces Setbacks
The cancellation comes amid challenges for Warner Bros.’ gaming division. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, the studio’s highly anticipated DC Comics game, flopped upon release, drawing criticism for its always-online format and lackluster gameplay. Poor sales led to layoffs at developer Rocksteady Studios, adding to growing uncertainty within the company.
In response, Warner Bros. Discovery has restructured its gaming approach. A planned Wonder Woman game was canceled, and three studios have been shut down. The company has stated it will now focus on its most lucrative properties, including Harry Potter, DC, Game of Thrones, and Mortal Kombat.
While the Hogwarts Legacy expansion is no longer happening, the franchise isn’t disappearing from the gaming world anytime soon. A sequel remains in development, with fans speculating whether it will take place in the same era or explore a post-Harry Potter and the Cursed Child storyline. Warner Bros. has also hinted that elements of Hogwarts Legacy may be woven into the upcoming HBO reboot, though how that will play out remains a mystery.
What are your thoughts on the future of Hogwarts Legacy? Would you have played the canceled expansion?
