NetEase's collectible card game, Harry Potter: Magic Awakened, is shutting down in the Americas, Europe, and Oceania on October 29th, 2024. While players in Asia and some MENA regions can continue playing, this regional end-of-service (EOS) announcement marks the end of an era for many.
Initially launched in China in September 2021 and globally on June 27th, 2023, the game enjoyed a promising start but ultimately failed to maintain momentum. While its Clash Royale-inspired gameplay and wizarding world setting initially captivated players, a shift in the reward system proved detrimental.
The game's decline is largely attributed to changes that favored paying players over skilled ones. Nerfs and slower progression for free-to-play users led to widespread player dissatisfaction, as evidenced by online discussions. The game has already been removed from app stores in the affected regions.
Despite its closure in these regions, the game still offers a unique Hogwarts experience, including dorm life, classes, secrets to uncover, and wizard duels. For players in unaffected regions, the opportunity to experience this magical world remains.