Pokémon Go developer Niantic Labs has acquired Scaniverse, the company announced on Tuesday. According to creator Keith Ito, the iOS 3D scanning app will remain available on the App Store, with all the features previously part of its $17 annual subscription now included for free. What’s more, Niantic will continue to support the software with future feature updates.
Much like its other recent acquisition, it sounds like Niantic hopes Scaniverse will help in its goal to build a 3D map of the world. As part of the deal, Ito will join the company’s augmented reality engineering team. “Together, we plan on taking 3D scanning to new heights by combining Niantic’s dynamic mapping with Scaniverse’s LiDAR reconstruction,” he said.
Meanwhile, the company notes, “Scaniverse will make multi-OS scanning easier and more accessible to the Niantic Explorer community who contribute to this effort every day.” It says that will allow it to create more immersive AR experiences in Pokémon Go, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite and its upcoming games.
Now that many kids are about to go back to school, Google thinks it can offer a helping hand — including after class. It’s introducing Assistant and search features to help parents coordinate in morning and kids to learn more (or at least, stay entertained). To start, Family Bell is coming to mobile devices. Accordingly, it can soon start a checklist on a Nest Hub to remind kids to make the bed and brush their teeth before they fly out the door.
Kids will also have more ways to improve their education at home. Search now has an interactive periodic table that uses augmented reality and 3D to help children visualize atoms and learn useful tidbits about the elements. On their phones, young ones can tap a Live Translation button in search to recall a particular phrase. Assistant will also offer more diverse educational stories from The English Schoolhouse, while Harry Potter fans will have the option of listening to Fantastic Beasts stories on Android or Assistant smart displays.
And yes, there’s something for the parents who need to get moving. You’ll soon have the option of starting your morning Assistant routine the moment you dismiss your alarm, making it easier to focus on your kids or just getting dressed for the day.
The feature additions might be particularly apt in a year where back-to-school will be complicated. Many kids will finally return to in-person classes as the pandemic subsides, but some will still have to learn remotely for some or all of the school year. In theory, Google is covering both bases.
Business Wire IndiaToday, Zynga Inc. (Nasdaq: ZNGA), a global leader in interactive entertainment, announced that its magical Match-3 mobile game, Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells, has launched the first-ever Club Challenge in-game event. Available now to players worldwide, this first recurring limited-time event series dares player Clubs to enter the Forbidden Forest to navigate, explore and overcome a new interactive map brimming with hidden obstacles, special encounters and rewards.
Magical Match-3 mobile game, Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells, releases ‘Club Challenge’ event in-game. (Graphic: Business Wire)
Unlocking at player level 55, Club Challenge introduces a new, separate interactive path to the game’s solo journey, offering an exclusive and independent points, rewards and ‘lives’ system in each of its events. Spanning up to three weeks at a time, each Club Challenge event will transport players to a unique, interactive map location, marked with puzzles to tackle to continue their progress. Earning points for each puzzle they complete, players will receive three daily ‘lives’ specific to the Club Challenge feature within Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells. As Clubmates collaborate to navigate the maze-like map, they will encounter both pitfalls and rewards as they earn points and work together to contribute to their Club’s league ranking.
For the inaugural Club Challenge event, players will leave the safety of Hogwarts and enter the mysterious, and often dangerous, Forbidden Forest. As Clubmates explore the mythical forest, they’ll uncover rare but revered Artefacts from the wizarding world, like the coveted House Cup or the Sword of Gryffindor, to gain access to the final puzzle. In the final showdown, players must team up to defeat some of the most ferocious creatures found in the forest, including the Mountain Troll and Hungarian Horntail, or Ron’s most loathsome foe, Aragog.
“With elements of social collaboration, strategy, and magical gameplay complete with iconic spells and Chocolate Frogs, Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells offers a robust Match-3 experience unlike any other,” said Yaron Leyvand, Executive Vice President, Games at Zynga. “The Club Challenge event introduces a blend of excitement, mystery and friendship that is core to the Harry Potter series and allows players to connect and collaborate with Clubmates in more meaningful ways.”
In Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells, players enter a Match-3 adventure brimming with the spells, humour, colour and characters of the Harry Potter series. Featuring the soundtrack and voiceover recordings from the original Harry Potter films, fans follow an authentic, mobile retelling of Harry’s journey through the wizarding world. Earning spells and special boosts as they advance, players solve Match-3 puzzles populated with hopping Chocolate Frogs, fluttering Winged Keys, battling wizard chess pieces and other unexpected obstacles and objects. In the spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition at Hogwarts, players can join or form clubs with other fans to socialise, collaborate on puzzle strategies, share lives and vie for prizes in exclusive Club Events.
Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells is playable for iOS and Android devices worldwide, as well as on Amazon Kindle and Facebook. For more information and to connect with other fans, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit the game’s website at www.harrypotterpuzzlesandspells.com.
Zynga is a global leader in interactive entertainment with a mission to connect the world through games. With massive global reach in more than 175 countries and regions, Zynga has a diverse portfolio of popular game franchises that have been downloaded more than four billion times on mobile including CSR Racing™, Empires Puzzles™, Hair Challenge™, Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells™, High Heels!™, Merge Dragons!™, Merge Magic!™, Queen Bee™, Toon Blast™, Toy Blast™, Words With Friends™ and Zynga Poker™. With Chartboost, a leading mobile advertising and monetization platform, Zynga is an industry-leading next-generation platform with the ability to optimize programmatic advertising and yields at scale. Founded in 2007, Zynga is headquartered in California with locations in North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.zynga.com or follow Zynga on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or the Zynga blog.
About Warner Bros. Games
Warner Bros. Games, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, Inc., is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all platforms, including console, handheld, mobile and PC-based gaming for both internal and third-party game titles. Additional information about Warner Bros. Games can be found at https://www.wbgames.com/.
About Portkey Games
Portkey Games, from Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, is the games label dedicated to creating new Wizarding World mobile and videogame experiences that place the player at the center of their own adventure, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s original stories. Portkey Games offers players the opportunity to make their own narrative choices and engage with the Wizarding World setting to create new and unique experiences. The label was created to bring gamers and fans new gaming experiences that allow them to delve into the magic of the Wizarding World in immersive ways where they can define their own Wizarding World story.
This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to, among other things, the name, gameplay details, game features, and a limited-time event in Harry Potter: Puzzles Spells. Forward-looking statements often include words such as “outlook,” “projected,” “planned,” “intends,” “will,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “target,” “expect,” and statements in the future tense are generally forward-looking. The achievement or success of the matters covered by such forward-looking statements involves significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We assume no obligation to update such statements. More information about these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions is or will be described in greater detail in our public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), copies of which may be obtained by visiting our Investor Relations website at http://investor.zynga.com or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
Hogwarts Legacy is a highly anticipated game, and one fan has been paying a close eye on it. Unfortunately, there are only a few marketing materials out so far. Still, with it, fans have discovered all sorts of exciting details. For one, a fan spotted a massive spider in an art piece highlighting the grounds of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Likewise, there’s been speculation about who might be the big antagonist for this game. Now fans are rallying behind the developers in not making house Slytherin the default evil route.
There’s a ton we don’t know about when it comes to Hogwarts Legacy. As mentioned, there wasn’t a lot revealed so far, and with it, fans have discussed what they hope to see. For instance, it’s hopeful that house Slytherin will have moral depth. You don’t have to be a big Harry Potter buff to know about Slytherin. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that out of all the houses featured at Hogwarts, the most recognizable are Gryffindor and Slytherin. Houses played a big role throughout the books and movies. However, the house given the most flack is Slyhterin.
Heroes of the films and novels came from Gryffindor, while the more vile and evil wizards were from Slytherin. That’s something fans are getting a bit tired of. Now fans are pleading to the developers behind Hogwarts Legacy to ensure that all the houses feature real depth. Rather than having a strict pathway that will either put players into certain houses, it would be interesting to see some heroes with morals show up at Slytherin.
Again, details are scarce, but we do know that in Hogwarts Legacy, players will have moral choices. It’s just uncertain how this will play with the campaign quite yet. We might be waiting a good while before Hogwarts Legacy shows back up as it’s slated to launch at some point in 2022. With that said, players should be able to pick up a copy of the game on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S platforms.
Facebook Portal is letting users dress up as characters from ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’.
The video calling device is allowing up to four people on a call channel characters from the play and visit magical locations through augmented reality technology.
In a blog, Facebook said: “Anyone can initiate the experience by tapping ‘Curtain Call’ in the effects tray on Portal.
“You can then select one of three locations from the menu to visit: Hogwarts Great Hall, the Ministry of Magic or the Edge of the Forbidden Forest.
“When the lights come up, each person on the call will embody a character from the show with a unique spell, which is assigned randomly.
“Simply nod your head or tap the screen to cast it and watch as your friends marvel at the magic.”
The AR masks are powered by Facebook’s Spark AR tech and will also match the user’s skin tone.
The company added: “Callers can fully embody the characters thanks to real-time skin sampling that matches the 3D character to your unique skin tone before converting it into an AR mask for seamless integration.”
Meanwhile, people without a Portal device can still join in the fun on Facebook and Instagram “via each app’s camera”, and you can “share video and photos via Stories”.
It’s been a while since the last full Harry Potter game released for consoles, but fortunately, we’ll soon get to play Hogwarts Legacy, an action RPG set in the Wizarding World. Hogwarts Legacy is being developed by Avalanche Software (best known for the Disney Infinity series) and is being published by Warner Bros. Interactive under the Portkey Games label. It has been in the works for several years now, but despite that, details about the upcoming game are limited.
Following its official reveal during the PS5 event in September 2020, we did pick up on a few tidbits of information, though. And we’ve searched the internet far and wide to gather as much as possible about the upcoming Harry Potter RPG. Here’s everything we know about Hogwarts Legacy.
Harry Potter franchise will move to Peacock after leaving HBO Max this month
Trailer
As part of the PS5 event in September 2020, we got a first look at a slew of games, one of which was Hogwarts Legacy. Its official reveal trailer (seen above) depicts the game’s tone and visual style and gives us a look at what to expect from the Hogwarts castle itself. One thing to note is that the trailer features only cinematics — and doesn’t actually show gameplay. Though, considering the game is still far from being complete, it isn’t necessarily unusual to only get a cinematic trailer at this point.
The game’s official description per the trailer above is as follows:
“Experience a new story set at Hogwarts in the 1800s. Your character is a student who holds the key to an ancient secret that threatens to tear the wizarding world apart. Make allies, battle Dark wizards, and decide the fate of the wizarding world.”
As shown in the game’s reveal trailer, Warner Bros. originally planned for Hogwarts Legacy to launch sometime in 2021, but recently, the game was delayed to 2022. Per the game’s social media channels, it was delayed in order to give it “the time it needs.” It’s also speculated that the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the development of many games, including this one.
Warner Bros. said “creating the best possible experience for all of the Wizarding World and gaming fans is paramount to us,” putting the quality of the final product first. At this time, the only thing we know is that Hogwarts Legacy is supposed to launch sometime in 2022 at an unspecified date.
Platforms
Despite being revealed during the PS5 event, Hogwarts Legacy is a multiplatform game and will come to PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. Aside from that, no other platforms have been confirmed. It’s also unknown whether the game will feature a next-gen upgrade like many cross-generational titles have included recently.
One thing on the minds of many is how the previous-generation version will differ from the current-gen build. Considering the size and scope of this game, we’re hoping the PS4 and Xbox One editions don’t hold back the full game on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Gameplay
Hogwarts Legacy is an open-world action RPG, wherein you’ll attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. In it, you’ll be sorted into one of the four houses (Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin) and be able to attend classes to hone your magical skills. Players will be able to switch Hogwarts houses at any time, but Warner Bros. has not revealed how this will work. Players will be able to explore the castle, along with surrounding areas like the Forbidden Forest and Hogsmeade Village.
While we haven’t seen official gameplay quite yet, the trailer depicts characters casting spells and battling against terrifying beasts, so it’s likely you’ll have many opportunities to partake in magical combat — against monsters or other witches/wizards. There were also sections within the trailer that showcase various creatures that could serve as companions, like the majestic hippogriff.
Considering the game is an RPG, there will likely be some sort of leveling system to enhance your character as you rise through the ranks at the school. It’s unclear how this will work exactly, but it will likely be tied to your classes and other performance-based sections of the game.
We also know that the game will take place during the 1800s, meaning Harry Potter won’t be around since he wasn’t born until the late 1900s. This doesn’t mean we won’t get some sort of flash-forward reference to Potter himself, but don’t expect to play as him in Hogwarts Legacy.
Here’s a brief official explanation of what to expect from Hogwarts Legacy’s gameplay, per Warner Bros.:
“[Players] will grow their character’s abilities as they master powerful spells, hone combat skills, and select companions to help them face off against deadly enemies. Players will also encounter missions and scenarios that will pose difficult choices and determine what they stand for.”
Multiplayer
Based on the game’s marketing so far, Hogwarts Legacy is expected to be a single-player adventure. Warner Bros. hasn’t officially ruled out the possibility of a multiplayer component, and the trailer does depict multiple instances of what could be cooperative play — but at this point, it’s unclear.
It might seem obvious, but Hogwarts and the Wizarding World make a lot of sense in a multiplayer context. We can picture traveling through dangerous dungeons with friends, or dueling against opponents online. There’s a lot in the world of Harry Potter that would make sense when playing with others, but for now, we should just expect Hogwarts Legacy to focus on single-player.
DLC
Since we don’t know much about the base game, all we can do is speculate about possible DLC that could be added at a later time. Perhaps the game will feature seasonal events or additional cosmetic items to enjoy — or maybe even extra companions or spells to use that could be added after launch.
If the game does feature an online component — whether it’s designed for single-player or multiplayer — there could be some interesting games-as-a-service elements added, much like Destiny or Fortnite, wherein you can complete daily challenges that keep you coming back. Again, the possibilities are endless, but it’s too early to say for sure at this point.
Pre-order
Hogwarts Legacy is still far from being complete, so it’s not surprising the game isn’t available to pre-order just yet. We’ll update this article when Warner Bros. announces the pre-order times or release date. As it stands, we’ll have to wait for more info. Hermione’s Time-Turner would come in handy right about now!
J.K. Rowling’s involvement
Following Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling’s transphobic statements on social media, many longtime fans were not happy and questioned supporting the upcoming game. In response to this, Warner Bros. devoted a segment to the game’s FAQ section that reads “J.K. Rowling is not directly involved in the creation of the game; however, her extraordinary body of writing is the foundation of all projects in the Wizarding World. This is not a new story from J.K. Rowling.”
In regards to Rowling’s backlash from fans, a Warner Bros. spokesperson said to Variety, “The events in the last several weeks have firmed our resolve as a company to confront difficult societal issues. Warner Bros.’ position on inclusiveness is well established, and fostering a diverse and inclusive culture has never been more important to our company and to our audiences around the world. We deeply value the work of our storytellers who give so much of themselves in sharing their creations with us all. We recognize our responsibility to foster empathy and advocate understanding of all communities and all people, particularly those we work with and those we reach through our content.”
When questioned by Kotaku about whether Rowling would receive royalties for Hogwarts Legacy, Warner Bros. declined to comment.
Happy National Book Lovers Day to me! And to you, of course.
I am a book lover. I think I’d feel like a fake if I worked for a company called BookTrib and wasn’t someone who authentically loves to read. Seriously, would you want to read something about books written by someone who’s apathetic, or even actively disdainful, of books? I think not. I certainly wouldn’t.
So, this disclaimer is to assure you that this article has been written by (and edited by, because my coworkers all actively delight in books as well) someone who has an active library card, a reading list growing at a terrifying rate and plans her trips around visits to the best bookstores in town. You, book lover, are seen.
I grew up on books, have befriended books, battled books, belittled books and beloved books throughout my life. It’s a relationship that will never require closure. Sometimes, the world swirls like a snowglobe, and my perspective shifts with harsh alacrity, but one thing that increased maturity has taught me is that you’re never too jaded to access your imagination. Insatiable childhood curiosity? Pick up a book. Moving to a new state? Pick up a book. Starting college? You’re definitely gonna have to pick up some books. A pandemic? You know what to do.
So here are some that serve as pushpins on the poster-board-roadmap of my reading journey. Sure, maybe some other books have had more literary import, personal resonance and intellectual provocation, but these are the sticky ones that hold together my motivation to open, commit to and finish yet another novel.
Here’s to doing so again and again. Here’s to that obnoxiously long reading list. Here’s to you if you share the story.
Tom Hiddleston knows the ins and out of Asgard’s Rainbow Bridge and won’t shy away from correcting those who don’t know that the Bifrost is not, in fact, the bridge itself, but is actually the energy that runs through it. When the outlet made that very mistake, Hiddleston corrected it, but did so in a manner that Harry Potter fans everywhere would be sure to appreciate. Here’s what Hiddleston said exactly in his cute (and somewhat nerdy) little correction when his interview made a little bit of a whoops in regards to what the Bifrost is:
