The game is set for release next year, unless it’s pushed back again
Gamers are threatening to boycott next year’s Harry Potter game over accusations of “antisemitism” themes that some also believe are present in the popular book series.
Hogwarts Legacy, developed by Avalanche Software and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, is set to release in February 2023 after being punished back numerous times. While some fans are already questioning whether to buy the game because of JK Rowling’s stance on transgender people, another reason is starting to gain traction.
The “Goblin Rebellion” plot-line allows the gamer to take control of a goblin who is part of an “oppressed race who are fighting against their own slavery.”
However some fans have argued that the portrayal of the goblin characters hinges on harmful antisemitic stereotypes. This was also argued during the Harry Potter franchise itself, most notably in the final film, where the goblins are featured more heavily.
“The goblins of the Harry Potter series have long been criticised as offensive Jewish stereotypes,” wrote critic Kevin Rhodes on Reddit. “With critics pointing out their control of the magical banking system, their greed, and their exaggerated facial features.
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“This game where the player fights against greedy, child-abducting Jewish stereotypes,” they added. “I beg you, please, don’t buy this game. Walk away from both Rowling and the Wizarding World. Don’t give Warner Brothers any more money.”
The post has since amassed over 82,000 likes, with many people seeming to agree with Rhodes.
Reacting to the post, one user wrote: “Admittedly, you can choose to be a dark wizard in the game and side with the goblins. But still. It’s not exactly lauded as the right option.”
Another said: “I know that not buying Hogwarts Legacy isn’t going to stop antisemitism and transphobia. But you won’t inconvenience yourself by not buying it.” While millions of copies will still undoubtedly be sold, the sentiment is shared across much of social media at large.
Once again for anyone who didn’t know:
Harry Potter is the rare situation where choosing not to purchase it has a direct impact on the world around you
This game failing to be a big success will in fact help trans people by demonstrating being transphobic isn’t profitable https://t.co/HO7iLGaVyp
— Florence
(@genderhitchiker) August 27, 2022
You aren't supporting a small indie company, you aren't paying the wages of starving artists, you are helping Warner Bros know that Harry Potter is still economically viable to double down on rather then expanding elsewhere
— Lily Simpson is putting the T(rans) in YouTube (@LilySimpson1312) August 27, 2022
there are many reasons not to buy hogwarts legacy but here's a new one: it would be really funny if warner brothers lost money on this one too
— Alex Geoffroy (@EsPyramid) August 26, 2022
Hogwarts Legacy releases on February 10, 2023 but how well it performs remains to be seen.
Related links:
- JK Rowling’s new book features story about a woman who is killed after being accused of transphobia
- JK Rowling told ‘you are next’ after stabbing of acclaimed author Salman Rushdie
- Maya Forstater: JK Rowling says harassed women ‘are safer’ after tax expert wins transgender tweets case
