10 Magical Games to Try Besides 'Hogwarts Legacy'

I had to begin with a timeless favorite. Every Elder Scrolls title is fantastic for fans of immersive role-playing games, but for those who love magic, Morrowind stands out. Its spellcasting mechanics are incredibly intricate, allowing players to combine alchemy, mysticism, illusion, and other arcane arts to craft unique spells tailored to their playstyle. If you’re seeking a Hogwarts-like experience, Morrowind’s Mage’s Guild offers a haven for magic enthusiasts, providing training, supplies, and valuable insights. (Found in most major cities.) Additionally, its vast open world rivals that of The Game That Shall Not Be Named.

Platforms: Xbox, Microsoft Cloud Gaming, Microsoft Windows

If you’re seeking wizardry packed with high-octane action, look no further than Lichdom: Battlemage, a first-person spellcasting adventure that blends the intensity of Call of Duty with the fantasy elements of Dungeons and Dragons. This fast-paced game focuses entirely on magic, ditching swords for powerful spells. Forget mana limits or puzzles—here, you’ll craft devastating spells and unleash them on enemies in a frenzy of magical combat.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows

Spellcaster University flips the script by putting you in charge of a magical academy. Instead of being a student, you’re the headmaster, shaping the school into your vision of the ultimate magical institution. Will you embrace dark arts like necromancy, or will you foster a nature-centric curriculum with druids and shamans? The choice is yours in this enchanting management simulator.

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, MacOS

For those who prefer their fantasy worlds steeped in Tolkien’s lore, Middle-earth: Shadow of War offers an epic, open-world experience that outshines many magical adventures. Roam Middle-earth, clash with Nazgul, face the Balrog, and witness the rise of Minas Morgul—all far more thrilling than anything Hogwarts has to offer. Plus, the game is teeming with orcs, a stark contrast to the orc-free world of Harry Potter.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Cloud Gaming, iOS, Microsoft Windows

If you’ve ever dreamed of wielding a wand like Harry Potter and his friends, Wands lets you do just that in thrilling online duels. While the game lacks exploration or a deep narrative, it shines as a virtual reality experience where you can challenge friends or strangers to magical battles. Perfect for testing your spellcasting skills in a competitive setting.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Android, Microsoft Windows, Oculus Quest, Oculus Go

The Dragon Age series is celebrated for its inclusivity, offering players diverse characters with unique sexualities, lifestyles, and identities. Inquisition introduces Krem, a transman and skilled mercenary; Sera, a witty lesbian elf and master archer; and Dorian Pavus, a charismatic gay mage. These characters are far from token—they’re fully fleshed-out individuals with rich backstories and personalities. Together, they make an unforgettable team ready to slay dragons and save the world.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Microsoft Windows

No list of “games to play instead of…” would be complete without Elden Ring, as it’s the ultimate fantasy game that outshines nearly every other title—arguably the best ever made. For aspiring wizards, its intricate magic system allows you to harness elemental forces, delivering that authentic magical sensation. Additionally, its powerful spells can ease the difficulty of the game’s famously tough boss battles.

Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows

While many fantasy games romanticize medieval combat, Blade and Sorcery offers a brutally realistic virtual reality experience. Its magic system is equally impressive, allowing you to cast fireballs, manipulate gravity, and electrocute enemies through intuitive gestures. The ability to use telekinesis to control foes before dismembering them adds a dark, visceral edge—perfect for those seeking a more intense magical experience.

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Meta Quest

For fans of the whimsical and vibrant side of the Harry Potter universe, Breath of the Wild is a perfect match. Its expansive open world, countless quests, and unforgettable characters create an engaging experience without the heavy, overly serious tone found in many epic games.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Wii U

Dragon’s Dogma delivers everything you’d want in an open-world fantasy RPG: epic battles, magical spells, fearsome monsters, and dragons, all set in a vast, Tolkien-inspired world. While the formula may feel familiar, it’s executed exceptionally well here, offering a fresh take on the genre. Unlike some fantasy worlds tied to decades-old children’s books, Dragon’s Dogma crafts its own unique lore and narrative.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows