LEGO Harry Potter Collection

Sometimes, you stop and wonder how long it takes to collectively release significant game franchises with multiple releases? This is the question with the LEGO Harry Potter Collection, a rerelease of the two games that found appeal for players who enjoyed the movies and the cutesy, adventurous mechanics of the Lego franchise.

The LEGO Harry Potter Collection features two games, Years 1-4 and 5-7, with remastered graphics and additional content. Is it worth repurchasing the game for those who already own the titles? Should those who have never indulged in the games pick them up? There's a surprising lot to ask for the release of this collection, and we're going to review it in its current state.

Potter's Back on the Block

LEGO Harry Potter Collection encapsulates the entire Harry Potter saga engagingly, faithfully recreating the iconic moments from the books and films in a whimsical LEGO format. Players will immediately recognize critical locations, such as Diagon Alley, the Forbidden Forest, and, of course, Hogwarts itself, which is sprawling and full of hidden secrets.

The gameplay in the LEGO Harry Potter Collection follows the familiar LEGO formula. Players explore different levels, collect studs, solve environmental puzzles, and unlock new characters with various abilities. Magic plays a central role, with each character having access to spells used to manipulate the environment, defeat enemies, or solve puzzles.

One of the game's most enjoyable aspects is its couch co-op mode, which allows two players to journey through Hogwarts together. Co-op is seamless, letting players drop in and out without disrupting the game's flow. This mode adds a layer of fun, as solving puzzles together or exploring different parts of the castle with a friend enhances the game's charm. However, like many LEGO games, the camera can occasionally become an issue during co-op, leading to frustration, particularly when navigating tight spaces or crowded areas.

Though the LEGO Harry Potter Collection succeeds in its nostalgic appeal and LEGO charm, it does have some repetitive gameplay. While spellcasting and puzzle-solving are entertaining, the game tends to rely heavily on the same mechanics and visuals throughout all seven years. This repetition can make later sections less engaging, especially for players looking for a new gameplay experience. Additionally, for those familiar with the LEGO game formula, the game offers few surprises or innovations beyond the typical collecting, building, and solving structure.

Same Old Hogwarts

Ultimately, the LEGO Harry Potter Collection is a delightful retelling of the Harry Potter series, offering something for longtime fans and younger players. While it might not push the boundaries of the LEGO game formula, its engaging storylines, magical setting, and enjoyable co-op mode make it a fun adventure. The remastered graphics and smoother gameplay enhance the experience without straying far from what made the originals famous.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Faithful and charming retelling of the Harry Potter series with LEGO humor
• Fun and accessible gameplay, especially in co-op mode
• Remastered graphics and smoother performance compared to original releases

Cons:

• Gameplay can become repetitive, particularly in the later levels
• Occasional camera issues during co-op play
• Remastered graphics don't add much to the experience