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 will remain available 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 and globally on June 27th, 2022, the game enjoyed a strong start but ultimately failed to maintain momentum. Its Clash Royale-inspired gameplay, combined with the Harry Potter universe, initially resonated with players who appreciated the card-battling mechanics and wizard duels.
However, criticism mounted regarding the game's monetization. Players voiced concerns on platforms like Reddit about a shift towards favoring paying players over skilled players, particularly after a controversial rewards system rework. This, coupled with numerous nerfs and slower progression for free-to-play users, contributed to the game's decline.
The game has already been removed from the Google Play Store in affected regions (as of August 26th, 2024). Those in regions where the game remains active can still experience Hogwarts life, including dorm life, classes, uncovering secrets, and wizard duels.
