NetEase's collectible card role-playing game, *Harry Potter: Magic Awakened*, has announced its End of Service (EOS) for certain regions. The EOS will affect players in the Americas, Europe, and Oceania, with servers in these regions scheduled to shut down on October 29th, 2024. Meanwhile, players in Asia and select Middle East and North Africa (MENA) territories can continue enjoying the game.
First announced at NetEase Games' annual event in 2020 and developed by Zen Studio, *Harry Potter: Magic Awakened* debuted in China in September 2021. The global pre-registration began in February 2022, but delays pushed the worldwide launch to June 27th, 2023, which somewhat dampened the initial excitement.
Why Did They Announce The EOS Of Harry Potter: Magic Awakened?
*Harry Potter: Magic Awakened* initially attracted players with its unique blend of Clash Royale-style gameplay and wizardry. The card-battling mechanics and the thrill of duelling as a wizard resonated well with the fanbase, evoking the magical atmosphere of Hogwarts.
However, despite its promising start, the game struggled to maintain its momentum. Less than a year and a half after its global release, the decision to shut down servers in several regions was made. Community feedback on platforms like Reddit highlighted dissatisfaction with the game's shift towards favoring paying players over those relying on skill. The rework of the rewards system was particularly contentious, as it reduced the advantages for skilled, free-to-play players, making progression slower and less rewarding.
As of August 26th, the game has been removed from the Google Play Store in the regions where the EOS is in effect. For players in other regions, the game remains available, offering the chance to experience life at Hogwarts, attend classes, uncover secrets, and engage in duels with fellow students.
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