The LEGO Harry Potter Collection brings together two popular games in the LEGO franchise, combining the charm of the LEGO world with the iconic wizardry of Harry Potter. With this remastered PlayStation 5 version, players are reintroduced to both Years 1-4 and Years 5-7, covering the full narrative arc of the Harry Potter saga – essentially making this a collection of collections, in a way. And while the original versions of these games were well received on the previous console generation, the remaster gives them a fresh coat of paint with enhanced graphics and performance, making them feel at home on modern consoles.
The collection thrives on fondness for the source material, offering players the chance to relive key moments from the Harry Potter books and films, but in a playful, lighthearted LEGO style. From the first time Harry steps into Hogwarts to the final showdown against Voldemort, the game does a great job of condensing and retelling these iconic events. However, as is often the case with LEGO games, the story is delivered with a humorous twist, relying on silent, slapstick-style cutscenes rather than serious dialogue. This style works well within the LEGO formula, but it also means that some of the emotional weight from the original Harry Potter narrative is lost in the process. On the plus side, this makes it easier for younger fans to enjoy the later/darker years as well.
Gameplay-wise, LEGO Harry Potter Collection offers a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, all with the typical mechanics you’d expect from a LEGO title. Players will be casting spells, brewing potions, and solving puzzles throughout the game’s many levels, sometimes requiring a bit of trial and error. The charm lies in how accessible the game is for players of all ages – whether it’s younger fans just discovering Harry Potter or seasoned gamers looking for some relatively laid-back fun. The simplicity of the gameplay might be a double-edged sword for some, though. The puzzles, while creative, are often too easy, and combat rarely poses much of a challenge, which could leave more experienced players wanting more depth.
One of the game’s standout features is its cooperative play. Just like other LEGO games, the LEGO Harry Potter Collection can be enjoyed with a friend in local co-op, which adds to the fun, especially for families. The ability to team up and work through the game’s puzzles and boss fights together makes the experience more engaging and chaotic in the best possible way. However, the lack of online co-op in this remaster feels like a missed opportunity, especially given that modern gamers are more accustomed to connecting online with friends.
Visually, the remastered edition certainly looks sharper, with improved textures and effects that help bring the environments of Hogwarts and the surrounding world to life. The environments are packed with little details that fans of the series will recognize, from the halls of Hogwarts to the streets of Diagon Alley, and everything is rendered in the classic LEGO style. The graphical enhancements do make a difference, but it’s important to note that the core art style remains simple and cartoony, which may not appeal to those expecting more from a modern remaster.
In terms of audio, the game features a familiar soundtrack, with tunes pulled straight from the films to add that authentic Harry Potter feel. The sound effects are in line with other LEGO games, using exaggerated, playful noises to match the lighthearted tone. However, one element that remains unchanged is the lack of voiced dialogue. While the pantomime-style cutscenes work for the most part, especially for LEGO fans, there are also moments where more substantial voice acting could have added to the immersion and storytelling.
In conclusion, the LEGO Harry Potter Collection on PlayStation 5 offers a delightful trip down memory lane for fans of both the LEGO games and the Harry Potter series. Its remastered visuals and smooth performance make it a solid upgrade from the original, but the gameplay remains largely unchanged, for better or worse – so if you still have access to the earlier version the need to upgrade won’t be great. While it’s a perfect choice for younger players and families, seasoned gamers might also find the experience a bit too simplistic. Regardless, the collection still delivers on the fun factor, making it a worthwhile addition to any fan’s library, even if it doesn’t push the boundaries of what a remaster could be.
Score: 7.6/10
Press Play Media 