NetEase's collectible card RPG, Harry Potter: Magic Awakened, is shutting down in the Americas, Europe, and Oceania on October 29th, 2024. While the game will continue operating in Asia and select MENA regions, this regional End of Service (EOS) announcement marks the end of an era for many players.
Initially launched in China in September 2021 to positive reception, the game's global release in June 2022 faced challenges. Despite its unique blend of Clash Royale-style gameplay and the Harry Potter universe, it failed to maintain significant player engagement.
The reasons behind the EOS are multifaceted. While initially praised for its card-battling mechanics and immersive Hogwarts atmosphere, player complaints regarding a pay-to-win system emerged. A controversial rework of the reward system, which negatively impacted free-to-play players, is cited as a major contributing factor to the game's decline. The shift towards favoring spending over skill alienated many players, leading to widespread criticism on platforms like Reddit.
The game has already been removed from the Google Play Store in the affected regions (as of August 26th). Players in regions where the game remains available can still enjoy its dorm life, classes, secrets, and wizard duels. However, the impending closure signals a disappointing end for a title that initially held considerable promise.
For those looking for a new mobile gaming experience, consider checking out the upcoming SpongeBob Season in Brawl Stars.
