EA Releases New Harry Potter Video Game

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, based upon the book and released in conjunction with the upcomng movie, will allow players to take on the role of the main characters.

Electronic Arts and Warner Brothers Interactive Entertainment yesterday announced the release of a new Harry Potter video game. Called Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, this title will be priced at $24.99 to $39.99 depending upon the platform (PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, Nintendo DS, GameBoy Advance, Windows PC, PlayStation Portable upcoming) and is rated E10+ for the console and PC versions and E for the handheld versions.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is launching in conjunction with the upcoming film of the same name and is based on J.K. Rowling’s fourth book. In the game, Harry is selected as the fourth competitor in the Triwizard Tournament and must confront a fire-breathing dragon, rescue friends from the icy depths of the Black Lake and navigate the mysteries of a vast, enchanted maze. Players will experience various moments from the movie such as the Quidditch World Cup campsite and a duel with Lord Voldemort.

EA said that the in-game characters will look like their big-screen counterparts for the first time and there are nearly a dozen cinematic locations that mirror those in the upcoming film. Actor Ralph Fiennes carries on his role of Lord Voldemort from the film by lending his voice talent and likeness to the game.

In another first for the franchise, players will be able to join with friends to combine and cast spells cooperatively creating more powerful magic. Harry, Ron, and Hermione are all playable characters.