Netmarble's Harry Potter Magic Awakened Shuts Down

NetEase's collectible card game, Harry Potter: Magic Awakened, is shutting down in the Americas, Europe, and Oceania on October 29th, 2024. While the game remains available in Asia and select MENA regions, its closure in these regions marks the end of a chapter for this wizarding duel-focused title.

Initially released in China in September 2021 and globally on June 27th, 2023, the game enjoyed a strong initial launch in its home market. However, global pre-registrations in February 2022 didn't translate into sustained success.

The game's Clash Royale-inspired gameplay, combined with its Harry Potter universe setting and card-battling mechanics, initially resonated with players. Nevertheless, player feedback points to a shift in game balance, favoring spending players over skilled ones, as a significant factor in the game's decline. Changes to the reward system, particularly nerfs that slowed progression for free-to-play users, are cited as major contributors.

The game's removal from app stores in affected regions began on August 26th, 2024. Players in regions where the game remains operational can still experience Hogwarts life, including dorm life, classes, secret uncovering, and student duels.