The Harry Potter: Wizards Unite release date has been set for later this year and it looks like things could be kicking off in the coming months.
A new announcement today provided a mass of information on what the new title from Niantic will play like on Android and iOS.
The Harry Potter Wizards Unite beta is being playtested internally right now, with fans now able to Pre-register for access to the game on the Google Play Store.
The same option hasn’t dropped yet for iOS users but hopefully won’t be far away.
There’s also the chance that Niantic will invite you to the early access program for Wizards Unite, although this isn’t guaranteed.
Niantic has also provided new details on how the game’s story will progress and what you will be doing in the Wizarding World.
“A calamity has befallen the wizarding world, causing artefacts, creatures, people, and even memories to mysteriously appear in the Muggle world,” the official game description explains.
“Witches and wizards from across the globe must come together to solve the mystery of The Calamity, overcome the confounding chaotic magic that surrounds these “Foundables,” and return them to their rightful place, keeping them safe from Muggle eyes.
“Your journey begins as a new recruit of the Statute of Secrecy Task Force, established by the Ministry of Magic and the International Confederation of Wizards for the purpose of investigating and containing The Calamity.”
From what has been revealed by Niantic today, players will get the chance to join three classes: becoming a Magizoologist, a Professor, or an Auror.
Players will be taken down magical beasts using spells, and everyone will be part of the Statue of Secrecy Task Force.
The main aim will be neutralising “foundables” that appear around the world with the spells you have at your disposal.
Spells will cost Spell Energy which will need to be replenished at Inns found around the globe, which sounds a lot like PokeStops in Pokemon Go.
The official site explains: “While exploring, you’ll also come across ingredients that can be used to brew Potions, which will aid you in different aspects of your Wizarding World journey.
“These ingredients can be found on the Map, varying by the environment, weather, and time of day, as well as in specially designated Greenhouses.”
Fortresses will be another focal point in Wizards Unite, with Niantic explaining that these locations will feature multiplayer challenges for players to enjoy.
These will support up to five players and won’t be the only cool new feature being released by Niantic.
Portkeys will be available to collect from special locations that will give players the chance to activate 360-degree AR experiences connected to the Wizarding World.
“Make sure to also keep an eye out for Portmanteaus, which can be unlocked to reveal Portkeys that whisk you away to iconic wizarding world locations. For the first time, you’ll be able to step into a full 360-degree Advanced AR immersive experience in places like Ollivander’s Wand Shop.”
More details on today’s new can be found via the Eurogamer gameplay preview and hands-on report.