The Harry Potter franchise has joined the echelon of culturally significant properties inhabited by Star Wars and others, and while the fervor may have subsided slightly since the last film hit the big screen, there’s no denying the Hogwarts crew’s staying power. So, it should come as no surprise that developer Traveller’s Tales has expanded its LEGO games lineup with a second Potter title, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7--a retread of its predecessor’s approach, sure, but there’s still plenty here to attract avid fans.
Years 5-7 isn’t exactly a groundbreaking game when compared to previous LEGO mashups like those with Indiana Jones and Batman. You’re still running around a tongue-in-cheek representation of the source material, collecting little studs, and completing building puzzles. The game adapts the final three Potter books--or the last four films--without changing much in the way of gameplay since Years 1-4. An adventure through Hogwarts and related locales leads to plenty of…well, blowing stuff up into little pieces.
Need a bridge? Bash this car into tiny LEGO bits with magic and build!
Lack of originality notwithstanding, Years 5-7 is a really enjoyable LEGO title. While plenty of the aforementioned gameplay makes up the substance of the game, the addition of magic to the world is perhaps obvious, but welcome all the same. Smashing things into blocks with a Batarang in LEGO Batman is plenty of fun, but there’s something even more satisfying about slinging your wand to wreak destruction. Side quests like brewing up potions are equally great.
Despite the familiar mechanics, the silly retelling of the latter chunk of Potter’s adventures makes up the best reason to give Years 5-7 a shot. Even the books’ darker tones--ever-present during this portion of the tale--are met with a more jovial approach. There are plenty of nods for fans, and as with all LEGO games, it’s a treat just to see the campy take on an established brand.
Flying on your LEGO broom still feels great in Years 5-7.
Unfortunately, the LEGO games are starting to lose a bit of the novelty that was once so endearing. There are only so many times a franchise can repeat the same experience with a different licensed property facelift, despite obvious variations in story. Even the cute, speechless character shtick is starting to show its age. And if you played Years 1-4, you’ve pretty much played Years 5-7.
The bottom line. While LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 may not win any awards for originality, the funny adaptation and solid gameplay provide a satisfying adventure for series devotees.
Mac OS 10.6.8 or later, 1.4 GHz processor, 2GB RAM, 128MB VRAM
Plenty of great magic-based gameplay. Comical storyline and presentation.
Not much in the way of new ideas.
