J. K. Rowling’s fantastical universe is the backdrop for LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4, an action-adventure video game inspired by LEGO Indiana Jones, LEGO Batman, and LEGO Star Wars. It was created by a collaboration between LEGO Group, Traveller’s Tales, and Warner Bros. Interactive.
In the game context, players assume the part of Harry Potter. This young wizard joins them in reliving the most exciting moments from the first four books written by J. K. Rowling and the films produced by Warner Bros. Not only do we investigate every nook and cranny of Hogwarts, but we also go into the history of Potter, a young man “who lived,” as Rowling frequently refers to him in her books. We also engage in dangerous duels with Lord Voldemort, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Voldemort is Harry’s most formidable adversary. Throughout Years 1–4, we are taught various spells of magic, interact with Hagrid, the giant, and are shocked by light humor that is full of puns. This type of humor is a signature trait of Traveller’s Tales works.
To a significant part, the game provides us with the same content that Electronic Arts provided in its “serious” games based on the Harry Potter novel series. We also have the opportunity to get acquainted with Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and several other characters in the series.
In LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4, we are also allowed to take part in magic classes, learn spells, concoct potions, soar on broomsticks (the LEGO version of quidditch is hilarious), and seek Hogwarts for an exciting new experience. The gameplay provides a sense of openness, which will undoubtedly appeal to the preferences of many players.
