Setting: Wizarding World (Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, Scottish Highlands), Late 1800s
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Unique Feature: Immersive Hogwarts Experience, Ancient Magic System, Extensive Spell List, Broom Flight, Magical Beast Taming & Care, Room of Requirement Customization.
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Gameplay & Mechanics
Companions/Followers
Co-op Players (Online): Up to 3 other players can join the host's game in online co-op. They control their own Aiden characters with their respective progression. Teammates can revive each other, combine combat efforts, and assist in completing quests and exploring The City. Loot is generally instanced or shared fairly.
Human (Other Players' Aidens)
Story-Specific AI Companions (Temporary): During certain main story missions or side quests, key NPC characters will temporarily accompany Aiden, providing combat support and unique dialogue. They are AI-controlled and their presence is scripted for those specific mission segments. They are not persistent, commandable companions.
Human (Key NPCs like Lawan, Hakon)
Natsai 'Natty' Onai (Temporary AI): A Gryffindor student. Accompanies the player on her specific relationship questline missions. Fights alongside the player using her own set of spells and courage. Can transform into an Animagus (gazelle).
Human (Witch)
Poppy Sweeting (Temporary AI): A Hufflepuff student. Joins the player during her relationship questline missions, which focus on magical beasts. She uses spells to help pacify or protect creatures and assists in combat against poachers.
Human (Witch)
Sebastian Sallow (Temporary AI): A Slytherin student. Accompanies the player throughout his extensive relationship questline, which delves into Dark Arts. He is a skilled duelist and uses a variety of spells, including potentially Unforgivable Curses depending on player choices and story progression.
Human (Wizard)
Professor Eleazar Fig (Temporary AI): The player's primary mentor. Accompanies the player on several key main story missions, providing combat support with his proficient spellcasting and offering guidance.
Human (Wizard)
Other Temporary Quest-Specific Allies: During various main and side quests, other characters like Lodgok (goblin), Sirona Ryan, or even specific professors might temporarily fight alongside the player or assist with specific tasks. Their abilities are scripted for those encounters.
Human (Witches/Wizards), Goblin, House-Elf
Key Collectibles
Inhibitors (GRE Crates): Found in GRE Quarantine Buildings, Military Convoys, Airdrops, and other high-risk locations. Essential for upgrading Aiden's maximum Health and Stamina, which in turn unlocks access to higher-tier Combat and Parkour skills.
Mementos (Notes, Recordings, Dog Tags, Newspapers, etc.): Lore items scattered throughout Villedor that provide backstory about the world, The Fall, key characters, and the daily struggles of survivors. Found in buildings, safe zones, and quest locations.
Graffiti Tags (Street Art): Collectible pieces of street art created by various artists in The City. Often found in hard-to-reach parkour locations, requiring skilled traversal to find and collect.
Tapes (Music & Story): Audio tapes that can be played on Aiden's cassette player. Some are music tracks, while others contain story segments, interviews, or personal logs providing more lore.
Blueprints: Recipes for crafting weapon mods, consumables (medkits, boosters), throwables, and arrows/bolts. Found in the world, as quest rewards, or purchased from Craftmasters.
Field Guide Pages: Found throughout Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and the Highlands. Revealed by casting Revelio near specific objects, landmarks, or by catching flying pages with Accio. Provide lore, XP, and contribute to leveling up the Field Guide challenge.
Demiguise Statues / Moons: Small statues of Demiguises holding moons. These can only be collected at night. Turning the moons in to Gladwin Moon (the Hogwarts caretaker) is part of a side quest to upgrade the Alohomora spell, allowing the player to unlock higher-level locks (Level I, II, III).
Merlin Trials: 95 ancient puzzles created by Merlin, scattered throughout the Highlands. Activated by Mallowsweet Leaves. Solving each puzzle (which involves using various spells like Lumos, Accio, Depulso, Confringo, Flipendo to manipulate objects) rewards XP and contributes to increasing the player's maximum gear inventory capacity.
Ancient Magic Hotspots: Locations where traces of powerful Ancient Magic linger. Interacting with them often involves a small environmental puzzle or collecting motes of magic, and permanently increases the player's Ancient Magic meter capacity.
Collection Chests: Chests containing collectible items for the Room of Requirement (Conjuration spellcrafts for decoration/utility, Trait recipes for gear enchanting) or Wand Handles (cosmetic). Found in Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, hamlets, and dungeons.
Astronomy Tables: Specific locations with stone tables where the player, at night, can use a telescope to align stars and reveal a constellation. Rewards XP and cosmetic items.
Landing Platforms: Raised platforms found throughout the Highlands. Successfully landing a broom on each one contributes to a challenge and rewards XP.
Infamous Foes: Marked on the map, these are unique, named enemies (dark wizards, powerful beasts, etc.) that are tougher than their regular counterparts. Defeating all of them is a tracked challenge and rewards XP/gear.
Balloons (Over Highlands): Sets of five balloons floating in the air in various parts of the Highlands. Popping all five in a set with broom flight rewards XP.
The primary combat tools. Weapons have rarity tiers (Common to Artifact), durability, and can be enhanced with craftable mods (e.g., adding elemental damage like fire/shock, increasing impact, critical chance, or durability). Different weapon types have varying attack speeds, damage, and special properties (e.g., blunt weapons good against armor, slashing against unarmored).
Bows & Crossbows: Ranged (Silent, Precision)
Silent ranged weapons ideal for stealth and taking out enemies from a distance. Various arrow/bolt types can be crafted (standard, fire, shock, explosive, poison, UV). The PK Crossbow is a powerful late-game reward.
Boosters provide temporary enhancements to combat, parkour, health regeneration, or resistances. Medkits are essential for healing. Craftable using herbs and other resources.
UV Flashlight: Defensive Tool
An essential tool, especially at night. Its UV light weakens and repels Volatiles and other light-sensitive infected, creating temporary safe opportunities. Can be upgraded for intensity and duration.
Firearms (Limited): Ranged (Ballistic - Rare)
While the game is primarily melee-focused due to ammo scarcity in The City, some limited firearms like makeshift pistols or shotguns (e.g., 'Boomstick') can be found or crafted, but ammo is extremely rare and they are generally less sustainable than melee or bows.
The player's primary tool for casting spells. While cosmetic aspects like wand handles can be changed, the core, wood, length, and flexibility chosen at Ollivanders (or found/awarded) are fixed but generally do not significantly impact gameplay stats beyond flavor. Spell effectiveness comes from learned spells and talents.
Spells used directly in combat. Damage spells (Confringo, Incendio, Diffindo), Control spells (Levioso, Glacius, Arresto Momentum), Force spells (Accio, Depulso, Flipendo). Can be chained into combos and upgraded via Talents.
Spells required for exploration, puzzle-solving, and interacting with the world. Includes Revelio, Lumos, Alohomora, Reparo, Wingardium Leviosa, Disillusionment Charm, and various Transfiguration spells for the Room of Requirement.
Dark Arts Spells (Unforgivable Curses - Optional): Forbidden Offensive Magic
Players can choose to learn and use the three Unforgivable Curses: Avada Kedavra (killing curse), Crucio (torture curse), and Imperio (control curse). These are very powerful but their use may have narrative or character implications (though direct game system punishment is minimal).
Ancient Magic (Throws & Finishers): Special Powerful Magic
The player's unique ability. Ancient Magic meter fills during combat, allowing for powerful environmental throws (using objects highlighted in blue) or devastating finisher moves on weakened enemies.
Brewed in the Room of Requirement or Potions class. Provide temporary buffs like increased defense (Edurus), increased spell damage (Maxima), reduced spell cooldowns (Focus), invisibility, or offensive AoE effects (Thunderbrew).
Grown in the Room of Requirement or Herbology class. Can be deployed in combat to attack, stun, or distract enemies automatically.
Armor / Gear Sets
Gear Pieces (Head, Chest, Gloves, Bracers, Pants, Shoes): Players equip six pieces of gear, each belonging to a specific class (Tank, Brawler, Medic, Ranger) that provides bonuses tailored to that playstyle (e.g., Tank gear offers more damage resistance, Brawler gear more melee damage). Gear has rarity tiers (Common to Artifact) and provides stats like armor, damage resistance, and specific perks (e.g., +% damage at night, reduced stamina cost for parkour). Gear can be found, bought, or earned as quest rewards.
Cosmetic Outfits (Transmog): A transmogrification system allows players to change the appearance of their equipped gear to look like any other gear piece they have collected, without altering its stats. Many full cosmetic outfits are also available through events, DLC, or store purchases.
Robes & Cloaks: The primary chest and outer layer clothing. Provide Offensive and Defensive stats. Various styles reflecting Hogwarts houses, wizarding fashion of the era, or specialized gear (e.g., Quidditch robes - though Quidditch isn't playable). Can have Trait slots.
Outfits (Full Sets): Some gear pieces form a named set (e.g., Dark Arts Set, Legendary Set). While there isn't a direct 'set bonus' for wearing all pieces, they often have a cohesive visual style and strong individual stats/traits.
Headwear (Hats, Helmets, Spectacles): Various types of headgear, from traditional wizarding hats and school beanies to more protective helmets or simple spectacles. Provide Offensive and Defensive stats and can have Trait slots.
Handwear (Gloves): Gloves that offer minor Offensive and Defensive stats and can have Trait slots.
Neckwear (Scarves, Necklaces): Scarves representing Hogwarts houses or other decorative neckwear. Provide Offensive and Defensive stats and can have Trait slots.
Facewear (Masks): Various masks, from simple to ornate. Provide Offensive and Defensive stats and can have Trait slots.
Traits (Gear Enchantments): Passive bonuses that can be applied to gear pieces with Trait slots at an Enchanted Loom in the Room of Requirement. Traits can increase damage of specific spell types, enhance defense against certain enemies, boost Ancient Magic generation, or provide other utility effects. Traits are learned by completing challenges or rescuing beasts.
Gear Quality (Well-Appointed, Superb, Extraordinary, Legendary): Gear items have different quality tiers, indicated by color (Green, Blue, Purple, Gold). Higher quality gear has better base stats (Offense/Defense) and more/higher-level Trait slots. Gear can be upgraded at the Enchanted Loom using materials from magical beasts.
Outfits/Customization
Gear Sets (Tank, Brawler, Medic, Ranger): Players equip six pieces of gear (Head, Torso, Gloves, Wrists, Legs, Feet). Each piece belongs to a class (Tank, Brawler, Medic, Ranger) providing specific gameplay bonuses (e.g., damage reduction, melee damage, healing effectiveness, ranged damage). Gear has visual variety based on its class, rarity, and faction origin (PK, Survivor, Renegade aesthetic). A transmog system allows players to change equipped gear's appearance to any owned style.
Cosmetic Outfits & Skins: Full cosmetic outfits that change Aiden's entire appearance without affecting stats are available through game progression, events, DLC, or store purchases (e.g., Nightrunner outfit, Peacekeeper outfit, various themed bundles).
Weapon Charms: Small cosmetic charms that can be attached to melee weapons for personalization.
School Robes (Hogwarts House Specific): Players wear Hogwarts school robes, the appearance of which is determined by the House they are sorted into (Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Slytherin). Various styles of robes can be acquired, from standard issue to more ornate versions.
Cloaks & Capes: A wide variety of cloaks and capes can be equipped over robes or other attire, offering different visual styles and contributing to Offense/Defense stats. Some are plain, others are intricately designed or faction-themed.
Outfits (Full Sets & Individual Pieces): Beyond school uniforms, players can equip various outfits suitable for different occasions or reflecting different wizarding fashions of the 1890s (e.g., formal wear, adventuring gear, Dark Arts attire). These are often found as sets (Headwear, Facewear, Handwear, Neckwear, Cloak/Robe, Outfit) but pieces can sometimes be mixed, though the game primarily uses full outfit slots for the body.
Headwear (Wizard Hats, Beanies, Helmets, Spectacles): A wide range of hats (pointed wizard hats, top hats, school beanies), helmets (for more protective looks), and spectacles. Provide Offense/Defense stats and Trait slots.
Facewear (Masks, Half-Masks): Various masks that can be equipped, from simple cloth masks to more elaborate ceremonial or protective ones. Provide Offense/Defense stats and Trait slots.
Handwear (Gloves): Different styles of gloves, from simple leather to more ornate or armored variants. Provide Offense/Defense stats and Trait slots.
Neckwear (Scarves, Amulets - cosmetic): Scarves (often house-themed) and other decorative neckwear. Provide Offense/Defense stats and Trait slots.
Transmogrification (Change Appearance): Players can change the visual appearance of any equipped gear piece to look like any other gear piece of the same type they have collected, while retaining the stats of the originally equipped item. This allows for fashion flexibility without sacrificing stats.
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Progression & Upgrades
Skills & Progression
Aiden has two main skill trees: Combat (unlocking new melee moves, weapon proficiency, and toughness) and Parkour (unlocking advanced traversal abilities like wall runs, slides, and improved jumps). Skill points are earned by performing combat actions and parkour maneuvers respectively. Inhibitors, found in GRE containers, are used to upgrade Health and Stamina, which also gate access to higher-tier skills. Crafting allows Aiden to create weapon mods, consumables (medkits, boosters), and throwable items using scavenged resources. Blueprints for crafting are found or earned.
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World & Exploration
World & Level Design
The City of Villedor is significantly larger than Harran from the first game, divided into two main districts: Old Villedor (a more classic European-style area with smaller buildings, easier for early parkour) and the Central Loop (a modern downtown area with skyscrapers, requiring advanced parkour tools like the grappling hook and paraglider). There are also surrounding areas, GRE Quarantines, and Dark Hollows. The map is dense with verticality, encouraging rooftop traversal.
Hogwarts Legacy features a large open world encompassing Hogwarts castle itself (with its many iconic locations like the Great Hall, common rooms, classrooms, secret passages), Hogsmeade village, and the expansive surrounding Scottish Highlands. Key explorable regions in the Highlands include the Forbidden Forest, various hamlets (like Upper Hogsfield, Feldcroft, Irondale), vast lochs, coastal areas, and numerous ancient ruins, caves, and Merlin Trials. While not a 1:1 scale, the world is substantial and filled with detail. Travel between distinct major areas (like Hogwarts and Hogsmeade interiors vs. the open Highlands) often involves short loading transitions. The map size is estimated to be significant, offering many hours of exploration (e.g., comparisons place it around 7-10 sq km for the main Highlands overworld, plus the dense interiors of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade).
Playable Vehicles
Paraglider: Personal Traversal Gear (Aerial)
An essential tool unlocked progression, allowing Aiden to glide from high places, cover large distances quickly, and navigate the verticality of the Central Loop. Can be upgraded for better maneuverability and features like a UV light attachment.
Grappling Hook: Personal Traversal Gear (Utility)
A versatile tool used to swing across gaps, pull Aiden towards anchor points, and aid in climbing. It functions more like a physics-based swing rather than a point-and-zip line in some games. Upgradable for range and functionality.
Traversal on Foot (Parkour): Player Locomotion
The primary mode of movement. Dying Light 2 features an advanced and fluid parkour system, allowing Aiden to run, jump, climb, slide, wall-run, and use various environmental elements to navigate The City's rooftops and streets with agility.
Broomsticks (Various Models): Primary Aerial Mount / Traversal
The player's primary means of fast aerial travel across the open world of the Highlands and around Hogwarts. Various broom models can be purchased from merchants in Hogsmeade, offering different visual styles (stats are generally uniform but can be upgraded for speed/acceleration via quests). Required for broom races and accessing some high locations.
Players can acquire and ride certain magical beasts as mounts. Hippogriffs (e.g., Highwing) and Thestrals (often from Deluxe/Pre-order editions) offer flight capabilities similar to brooms but with a different feel and appearance. The Graphorn is a powerful, armored ground mount acquired through a specific quest, capable of charging through obstacles. These mounts are summoned via the gear wheel.
A network of magical fireplaces (Floo Network) located throughout Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and the Highlands. Once a Floo Flame location is discovered and activated, the player can use it (or any other activated Floo Flame) to instantly travel to any other known Floo Flame point on the map.
Traversal on Foot (Walking, Running, Sprinting, Climbing, Swimming): Player Locomotion
Standard on-foot movement for exploring interiors, navigating tight spaces, and engaging in combat. Includes basic climbing on ledges and swimming in bodies of water.
Hostile, Howlers alert other infected to Aiden's presence.
Rats & Crows: Rodentia / Corvidae
Ambient wildlife, can sometimes indicate nearby loot or danger, generally non-hostile but can be startled.
Deer (Mentioned/Implied in hunting for resources, but not live interactive animals typically): Cervidae
Primarily a source for crafting resources (leather, bones) through looting or specific contexts rather than live hunting encounters in the city.
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Story & Characters
Main Characters
Aiden Caldwell: Protagonist (Pilgrim)
An infected survivor with exceptional parkour and combat abilities. He travels to The City searching for his sister, Mia, from whom he was separated during GRE experiments as a child. Aiden is resourceful, determined, and his choices shape the fate of Villedor.
Lawan: Ally / Potential Romantic Interest
A strong, independent, and cynical survivor in The City, driven by a desire for revenge against Colonel Waltz. She becomes a crucial ally to Aiden and is skilled in combat and parkour. Voiced and motion-captured by Rosario Dawson.
Hakon: Ally / Nightrunner
An experienced Nightrunner who helps Aiden navigate The City early in his journey. He is knowledgeable about survival and the city's factions but has his own hidden agenda and complex allegiances.
Colonel Lucas Waltz: Main Antagonist (Former GRE Scientist / Renegade Leader)
A brilliant but ruthless scientist formerly with the GRE, now the leader of the Renegades. He is obsessed with finding a cure for his own condition and is connected to Aiden and Mia's past experiments. He possesses superhuman abilities due to self-experimentation.
Frank Marwey: Supporting Character / Former Nightrunner Leader
The former leader of the Nightrunners, now a disillusioned and alcoholic owner of the Fish Eye Canteen. He possesses valuable information and contacts within The City.
Major Jack Matt: Faction Leader (Peacekeepers)
The stern and militaristic commander of the Peacekeepers in the Central Loop. He seeks to impose order and security through strict control and military might.
Sophie: Faction Figure (Survivors - Old Villedor)
A key figure among the Survivors in the Bazaar in Old Villedor, trying to protect her community. Her brother, Barney, often causes trouble.
Carl: Faction Figure (Survivors - Central Loop)
One of the leaders of the Survivors faction operating from the PK Floating Fortress in the Central Loop, advocating for a more communal and less authoritarian approach.
Various other supporting characters: Quest Givers, Faction Members, Survivors
Numerous other characters populate The City, offering quests, information, and representing the diverse struggles of those living in the post-apocalypse.
Player Character (Customizable): Protagonist / New Fifth-Year Hogwarts Student
A highly customizable character (appearance, voice, Hogwarts House - Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Slytherin). Possesses a rare connection to Ancient Magic, making them a key figure in a brewing conflict involving goblins and dark wizards.
Professor Eleazar Fig: Ally / Mentor / Hogwarts Professor (Magical Theory)
A kind, knowledgeable, and adventurous Hogwarts professor who recognizes the player's unique abilities and acts as their primary mentor in investigating Ancient Magic and the looming threats. His wife, Miriam, was also researching Ancient Magic before her death.
Ranrok: Main Antagonist / Goblin Rebellion Leader
The ruthless and powerful leader of a goblin rebellion. He harbors a deep hatred for wizards and seeks to harness the power of Ancient Magic to overthrow wizardkind and claim what he believes is rightfully goblin property.
Victor Rookwood: Main Antagonist / Dark Wizard / Ashwinder Leader
A descendant of a notorious dark wizard family and leader of the Ashwinders, a gang of dark wizards and witches. He allies with Ranrok to exploit Ancient Magic for his own nefarious purposes.
Sebastian Sallow: Companion / Slytherin Student
A charismatic and ambitious Slytherin student who befriends the player. He is desperate to find a cure for his twin sister Anne, who is afflicted by a dark curse. His quest leads him to explore forbidden magic, presenting moral dilemmas for the player. His relationship questline is extensive.
A brave and principled Gryffindor student who transferred to Hogwarts from Uagadou, the largest wizarding school in Africa. She is skilled in Transfiguration and seeks to fight injustice. Her relationship questline involves dealing with poachers and dark wizards.
Poppy Sweeting: Companion / Hufflepuff Student
A kind-hearted and empathetic Hufflepuff student with a deep love and understanding of magical beasts. She is concerned about their mistreatment by poachers. Her relationship questline focuses on rescuing and protecting various magical creatures.
Professor Matilda Weasley: Ally / Deputy Headmistress / Transfiguration Professor
A stern but fair Gryffindor and the Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts. She guides the player through their initial catch-up studies and introduces them to the Room of Requirement.
Professor Dinah Hecat: Ally / Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor
An experienced and no-nonsense DADA professor who provides the player with crucial combat spells and assignments.
Professor Abraham Ronen: Ally / Charms Professor
A jovial and enthusiastic Charms professor.
Professor Mirabel Garlick: Ally / Herbology Professor
A cheerful and passionate Herbology professor.
Professor Aesop Sharp: Ally / Potions Master
A stern and exacting former Auror who now teaches Potions.
Headmaster Phineas Nigellus Black: Neutral Figure / Headmaster of Hogwarts
The unpopular and largely disinterested Headmaster of Hogwarts, an ancestor of Sirius Black. Often more concerned with his status than the students' well-being.
Lodgok: Ally / Goblin Dissident
A goblin who once worked with Miriam Fig and disagrees with Ranrok's violent methods. He provides crucial information to the player.
Sirona Ryan: Ally / Owner of the Three Broomsticks
The welcoming transgender witch owner of the Three Broomsticks pub in Hogsmeade. A source of information and quests.
Deek: Ally / House-Elf
A helpful house-elf who assists the player in the Room of Requirement, guiding them in its use and customization, and in caring for magical beasts.
Example Missions
Main Story Quests (Aiden's Search for Mia)
A series of narrative-driven missions that follow Aiden Caldwell's journey to find his sister Mia, unravel his past with the GRE experiments, and navigate the faction conflicts within Villedor. These missions involve critical choices that shape the city and its inhabitants.
Side Quests (Citizen Requests & Stories)
Numerous optional quests given by various NPCs throughout The City. These offer diverse scenarios, from helping survivors with personal problems and investigating mysteries to undertaking dangerous tasks for factions or individuals. They provide XP, rewards, and further insight into the world.
Key missions where Aiden must secure and assign control of vital city infrastructure (Water Towers, Electrical Stations) to either the Peacekeepers or the Survivors. This choice permanently alters the zone, adding faction-specific parkour aids (e.g., PK traps, Survivor ziplines/airbags) and changing NPC presence.
GRE Anomaly Fights (Revenants)
Night-time boss encounters against powerful, unique infected called Revenants found at specific GRE Anomaly sites. Defeating them rewards Combat XP, valuable loot, and often Inhibitors.
GRE Quarantine Buildings & Dark Hollows
Daytime-infested or night-time high-risk indoor locations that contain valuable loot, crafting materials, and Inhibitors. GRE Quarantines are multi-level challenges, while Dark Hollows are smaller but often guarded by Volatiles at night.
Windmills & Metro Stations (Safe Zone Activation)
Activate windmills by completing parkour challenges to power them up, creating new Survivor safe zones. Clear out infected and restore power to Metro Stations to unlock them as fast travel points and larger safe zones.
Airdrops & Military Convoys
Locate and loot valuable supplies from GRE airdrops (often on rooftops or in dangerous areas) and abandoned military convoys. These contain high-tier gear, crafting parts, and Inhibitors.
Parkour Challenges & Combat Challenges
Timed challenges that test Aiden's parkour skills (reaching checkpoints within a time limit) or combat abilities (defeating waves of enemies). Award medals and XP based on performance.
Story DLC Missions (e.g., 'Bloody Ties')
Self-contained narrative expansions with new storylines, characters, locations, and rewards. 'Bloody Ties' focuses on a brutal arena tournament.
Main Questline (Ancient Magic & Ranrok's Rebellion)
A series of core narrative quests following the player's journey as a new fifth-year student at Hogwarts, their discovery of a unique connection to Ancient Magic, and their efforts to uncover a dangerous conspiracy involving the goblin Ranrok, dark wizard Victor Rookwood, and the hidden repositories of this powerful magic. Involves attending classes, exploring ancient trials, and major confrontations.
Relationship Questlines (Natsai Onai, Poppy Sweeting, Sebastian Sallow)
Three extensive, multi-part optional storylines focusing on the player's friendship with one of three key Hogwarts classmates. Each questline delves into the companion's personal story, motivations, and challenges, often involving unique adventures, moral choices, and special rewards related to that companion (e.g., Natsai's involves fighting poachers and injustice, Poppy's focuses on magical beasts, Sebastian's explores Dark Arts and a family curse).
Assignments (Professor's Tasks)
Short tasks given by Hogwarts professors to teach the player new spells. These typically involve completing a prerequisite activity (e.g., using a specific potion, collecting ingredients) and then attending a brief lesson to learn the spell (e.g., Incendio, Disillusionment, Diffindo, Bombarda).
Side Quests (Found in Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and Highlands)
Numerous optional quests given by various students, professors, residents of Hogsmeade, or inhabitants of the Highlands. These range from simple fetch quests and puzzle-solving to more involved local stories, investigations, or helping someone in need. Rewards typically include XP, Galleons, gear, or cosmetic items.
Merlin Trials (Mysteries)
Solve 95 environmental puzzles scattered throughout the Highlands, activated by Mallowsweet Leaves. Each trial requires using specific spells to manipulate objects (e.g., lighting braziers, moving spheres, destroying stone pillars, guiding moths). Completing sets of Merlin Trials increases the player's maximum gear inventory capacity.
Beast Rescuing & Care (Room of Requirement)
Find and rescue various magical beasts from poacher camps or the wild using the Nab-Sack. Rescued beasts can be brought to customizable Vivariums in the Room of Requirement, where they can be fed, brushed, and played with to gather valuable crafting materials (e.g., Puffskein Fur, Mooncalf Fur) for gear upgrades and traits.
Dungeon Exploration (Caves, Tombs, Ruins)
Explore optional underground areas or ancient ruins often containing enemies, puzzles, Collection Chests (with conjurations or wand handles), gear, and lore items.
A comprehensive list of in-game challenges tracked in the Field Guide. Completing these (e.g., defeat X enemies of a certain type, complete X side quests, collect X Field Guide Pages, brew X potions) rewards XP and unlocks cosmetic gear appearances.
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Multiplayer
Multiplayer Details
Features a 4-player online cooperative mode, allowing players to experience the entire main story campaign and most side activities together. Players can join a host's game, and progression is largely tied to the host, though players retain their character progression and inventory. Co-op enhances combat and exploration with team tactics.
Hogwarts Legacy is a purely single-player experience. There are no multiplayer modes.
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Editions & DLC
Available Editions
Available in Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate Editions. Deluxe Edition included digital artbook, soundtrack, exclusive weapon charms, wallpapers, comic, and the first story DLC ('Bloody Ties'). Ultimate Edition included all Deluxe content, plus the second story DLC (yet to be released as of mid-2024), 2h Night XP Boost, crafting items, and two more outfit/weapon skin packs. A Collector's Edition with physical items was also available.
Available in Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition (Dark Arts Pack with cosmetic set, Threstral mount, Dark Arts battle arena, 72 hours early access for digital), and Collector's Edition (Deluxe content + life-size floating ancient magic wand with book base, SteelBook case, Kelpie robe cosmetic).
Post-Launch Content / DLC
Techland has committed to 5+ years of post-launch support. The first story DLC, 'Bloody Ties' (arena combat themed), has been released. A second major story DLC is planned. Numerous free updates have added new content, features (like transmog, new parkour challenges, graphics options), seasonal events, and cosmetic packs (Chapter Agents, skin bundles).
No major story expansions have been released or announced as of mid-2024. Post-launch support has primarily consisted of patches, quality-of-life updates (like Arachnophobia mode), and making previously platform-exclusive content available to all players. Some cosmetic DLC items were available via pre-orders or deluxe editions.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dying Light 2 a direct sequel to the first Dying Light? A: Yes, Dying Light 2 Stay Human is set approximately 20 years after the events of the original Dying Light and its 'The Following' expansion. While it features a new protagonist (Aiden) and setting (The City of Villedor), it exists in the same universe and references past events and characters like Spike.
Q: How important are choices in Dying Light 2? A: Choices are a significant gameplay mechanic. Aiden's decisions during main quests and some side quests can have major consequences, affecting faction control over city districts (which changes the environment with faction-specific parkour tools or traps), the fate of characters, and the overall narrative outcome. The game features multiple ending variations.
Q: What is the Day/Night cycle like? A: The Day/Night cycle is a core feature. Daytime is generally safer for exploration and completing objectives, with fewer aggressive infected. Night-time is extremely dangerous, with more powerful infected like Volatiles roaming the streets. However, night offers increased XP gain and access to specific locations (like Dark Hollows and Forsaken Stores) that contain valuable loot but are heavily infested during the day.
Q: How does the infection mechanic work for Aiden? A: Aiden is infected with the Harran Virus. He wears a biomarker that tracks his immunity levels. When in darkness or away from UV light sources for too long, his immunity drops, and if it reaches zero, he will turn into a Viral. Players must manage this by using UV lamps, UV shrooms, inhibitors, or returning to safe zones before turning.
Q: Are there firearms in Dying Light 2? A: The base game is heavily focused on melee combat and bows due to a story premise that firearms and ammunition became extremely scarce after The Fall. While some makeshift firearms like the 'Boomstick' (a craftable shotgun) exist, and more traditional firearms were added in later updates (like the 'Firearms Update' in early 2024), melee remains the primary combat style.
Q: Is Hogwarts Legacy set in the same timeline as Harry Potter? A: No, Hogwarts Legacy is set in the late 1800s (specifically starting in 1890), over a century before the events of the Harry Potter books and films. While it shares the same wizarding world, it features a new story and original characters, though some familiar names (like Weasley, Black) appear as ancestors.
Q: Can I choose my Hogwarts House? A: Yes, early in the game, the player character is sorted into one of the four Hogwarts Houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin. The player can influence the Sorting Hat's decision or directly choose their preferred house. House choice affects common room access, some dialogue, and a house-specific questline.
Q: Is Quidditch playable in Hogwarts Legacy? A: No, Quidditch is not a playable mini-game in Hogwarts Legacy. Headmaster Black cancels the Quidditch season at the start of the school year in the game's narrative, though broom flight for exploration is a key feature.
Q: Can I learn and use Dark Arts / Unforgivable Curses? A: Yes, players have the option to learn and use Dark Arts, including the three Unforgivable Curses (Avada Kedavra, Crucio, Imperio), primarily through Sebastian Sallow's companion questline. Using them does not result in direct game system punishment (like a morality system), but characters may react to their use, and choosing to learn them is a player decision.
Q: What is the Room of Requirement used for? A: The Room of Requirement is a customizable personal hub space for the player within Hogwarts. Here, players can identify and upgrade gear at an Enchanted Loom, brew potions at Potion Stations, grow magical plants at Potting Tables, and set up Vivariums to care for and breed magical beasts rescued from the wild. The room's appearance can be heavily customized with various decorative and functional Conjuration spellcrafts.
Q: Are there romantic relationships in Hogwarts Legacy? A: While players can form strong friendships and complete extensive relationship questlines with companions like Natsai, Poppy, and Sebastian, there are no explicit romantic relationship mechanics or options in the game.
build
Technical Details
Graphics & Visual Fidelity
Powered by Techland's C-Engine, the game showcases a detailed and dilapidated urban environment. It features advanced lighting, dense geometry, volumetric fog, and detailed character/infected models. Ray tracing options (Global Illumination, Shadows, Reflections, Ambient Occlusion) are available on PC and current-gen consoles, significantly enhancing visual fidelity but also being very demanding.
Developed on Unreal Engine 4, Hogwarts Legacy boasts highly detailed and atmospheric environments, particularly the intricate recreation of Hogwarts castle and Hogsmeade. It features impressive lighting, particle effects for spells, detailed character models, and diverse landscapes in the Scottish Highlands. Ray tracing options (Reflections, Shadows, Ambient Occlusion) are available on PC and current-gen consoles, enhancing visual fidelity.
Audio & Soundtrack
Original score composed by Olivier Deriviere, featuring a dynamic system that adapts the music to gameplay intensity and player actions (e.g., during parkour sequences or intense combat). Sound design emphasizes visceral melee impacts, distinct infected vocalizations, and the atmospheric tension of night-time exploration. The Biomarker's ticking sound adds to the infection mechanic's urgency.
Original score composed primarily by Peter Murray, J Scott Rakozy, and Chuck E. Myers, featuring enchanting orchestral themes that evoke the magical atmosphere of the wizarding world and Hogwarts, with distinct motifs for different locations and story beats. Sound design includes intricate magical spell effects, ambient sounds of Hogwarts and its surroundings, and creature vocalizations.
User Interface (UI/UX)
First-person HUD displaying health, stamina, infection timer (biomarker), equipped weapon/tool, and objective markers. A compass aids navigation. Crafting and inventory menus are accessible. Skill trees are visually represented. The day-night cycle and infection status are prominent UI elements.
Features a clean HUD displaying health, Ancient Magic meter, equipped spells (spell diamonds), and a mini-map. Menus for gear, inventory, talents, map, quests, collections, and owl post are accessible. The Field Guide is a central codex tracking progress, collectibles, and lore. Spell casting uses a customizable diamond system for quick access.
Accessibility Options
Offers a range of accessibility options: customizable controls (key remapping on PC), subtitle customization (size, background, speaker names), colorblind modes, options to change QTEs from taps to holds, aim assist, adjustable FOV (PC), motion blur toggle, head bob toggle, and various audio/visual cues.
Offers a range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (PC), extensive subtitle and text customization, colorblind modes, options for aim assist/lock-on, options to change QTEs to holds, Arachnophobia mode (changes spider appearances), audio visualizer for important sound cues, and various gameplay settings for difficulty and visual comfort.
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for lower settings.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. Newer i5/Ryzen 5 H-series recommended.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU for lower settings.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. 4GB VRAM is absolute minimum.
RAM: Minimum RAM requirement (game is RAM intensive).
Storage: SSD is officially required; HDD only for bare minimum target.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Mobile (8GB, Max TGP) / RTX 4070 Mobile (8GB, Max TGP). **An RTX 3080 Mobile or RTX 4080 Mobile would provide a more stable high RT experience.**
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP) / RTX 4050 Mobile (6GB, High TGP). **An RTX 3070 Mobile or RTX 4060 Mobile would be significantly better for RT.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 60 GB SSD
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1080p (Full HD) - Recommended (1080p ~60 FPS, High Preset, Upscaling Quality/Balanced possibly)(High Preset (Upscaling may be needed for consistent 60 FPS))
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU for 1080p/60FPS High settings.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated mid-range to high-end laptop CPUs.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for 1080p/60FPS High.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated performance-focused laptop GPUs. 6-8GB VRAM crucial.
RAM: 16GB RAM strongly recommended.
Storage: SSD strongly recommended, NVMe preferred.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile (8GB) / RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP). **An RTX 3070 Mobile or RTX 4060 Mobile (High TGP) is a good target for 1080p High 60FPS.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 85 GB SSD
1080p (Full HD) - Recommended (1080p ~60 FPS, High Preset, No Ray Tracing)(High Preset, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU for 1080p/60FPS without RT.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated mid-range to high-end laptop CPUs.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for 1080p/60FPS High without RT.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated performance-focused laptop GPUs. 6GB+ VRAM crucial.
RAM: 16GB RAM strongly recommended.
Storage: SSD strongly recommended.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-8600K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600X
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP) / RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP) or AMD Radeon RX 6600M. **An RTX 3060 Mobile (High TGP) or RTX 4060 Mobile is a good target for 1080p High 60FPS.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 60 GB SSD
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1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (1080p ~30 FPS, Low Preset, No Ray Tracing)(Low Preset, Ray Tracing OFF)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for 1080p at lower settings without RT.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. Newer i5/Ryzen 5 H-series recommended.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU for 1080p at lower settings without RT.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. 4GB VRAM is absolute minimum.
RAM: Minimum RAM requirement.
Storage: HDD is absolute minimum, expect long load times.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i3-9100 or AMD Ryzen 3 2300X
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti (4GB) or AMD Radeon RX 560 (4GB)
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile (4GB) or AMD Radeon RX 5500M. **An RTX 3050 Mobile or RTX 4050 Mobile would be a much better entry point for stable 1080p Low/Medium.**
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 60 GB HDD
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1440p (QHD/2K) - High RT (1440p ~60 FPS, High RT Preset with DLSS/FSR Performance)(Ray Tracing High Preset, DLSS/FSR Performance)
CPU: Desktop CPU for 1440p/60FPS with RT.
CPU (Laptop): Top-tier laptop CPUs.
GPU: Desktop GPU for 1440p/60FPS with High RT.
GPU (Laptop): Flagship laptop GPUs needed. 12GB+ VRAM essential.
RAM: 32GB RAM strongly recommended.
Storage: NVMe SSD required.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i7-11700K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti (12GB) / RTX 4070 Ti (12GB)
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Mobile (12GB, Max TGP). **An RTX 4090 Mobile would be better. Even then, fine-tuning settings and upscaling will be essential.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 60 GB NVMe SSD
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1440p (QHD/2K) - Ultra (1440p ~60 FPS, Ultra Preset, No Ray Tracing, Upscaling Quality/Balanced)(Ultra Preset, Ray Tracing OFF, Upscaling Quality or Balanced)
CPU: CPU for 1440p/60FPS Ultra.
CPU (Laptop): High-end laptop CPU.
GPU: Desktop GPU for 1440p/60FPS Ultra.
GPU (Laptop): High-end laptop GPUs. 8GB+ VRAM critical, 10GB+ ideal.
RAM: 16GB RAM essential, 32GB beneficial for smoother experience.
Storage: NVMe SSD required.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Mobile (8GB, Max TGP) / RTX 4070 Mobile (8GB, Max TGP). **An RTX 3080 Mobile or RTX 4080 Mobile would provide a more consistent 1440p Ultra experience.**
CPU: Desktop CPU for 4K/60FPS with RT.
CPU (Laptop): Flagship laptop CPUs absolute necessity.
GPU: Top-tier desktop GPU for attempting 4K/60FPS with RT, heavily reliant on upscaling.
GPU (Laptop): The absolute best laptop GPU available, and will still struggle without aggressive upscaling and optimized RT settings.
RAM: 32GB RAM essential.
Storage: NVMe SSD required.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7900X
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Mobile (16GB, Max TGP). **Achieving stable 4K/60FPS with high ray tracing settings on a laptop is extremely challenging. A hypothetical next-gen flagship (e.g., RTX 5090 Mobile or AMD equivalent) would be required for a more comfortable experience at this level. (Highly Speculative)**
layersRAM: 32 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 60 GB NVMe SSD
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2160p (UHD/4K) - Ultra RT (2160p/4K ~60 FPS, Ultra Preset, RT On, Upscaling Performance/Ultra Performance + Frame Gen)(Ultra Preset, Ray Tracing ON (All options), Upscaling Performance/Ultra Performance + Frame Generation)
CPU: Flagship CPU for attempting 4K/60FPS Ultra RT.
CPU (Laptop): Absolute top-tier laptop CPUs.
GPU: Flagship desktop GPU for 4K Ultra RT, heavily reliant on DLSS/FSR with Frame Generation.
GPU (Laptop): The absolute best laptop GPU, will be pushed to its limits with 4K Ultra RT. Upscaling + Frame Gen mandatory.
RAM: 32GB RAM highly recommended for 4K Ultra RT.
Storage: NVMe SSD required.
—
memoryCPU: Intel Core i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X/7900X
laptop_macCPU (L): Intel Core i9-12900HX / AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX or better. **Modern flagship Intel/AMD HX series (e.g., 13980HX, 7945HX3D).**
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Mobile (16GB, Max TGP). **Even this will require aggressive DLSS/FSR settings including Frame Generation for playable 4K Ultra RT. A hypothetical next-gen flagship (e.g., RTX 5090 Mobile or AMD equivalent) would be targeted for a more robust experience. (Highly Speculative)**
layersRAM: 32 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 85 GB NVMe SSD
save Overall Storage
Spec: 60 GB available space (SSD Recommended). Note: An NVMe SSD is recommended for the best experience due to asset streaming and fast loading. Type: SSD
Spec: 85 GB available space (SSD Required). Note: An NVMe SSD is highly recommended for the best experience, minimizing load times and improving texture streaming in the detailed world. Type: SSD
desktop_windows Operating System
Spec: Windows 7 (No longer officially supported post-launch updates), Windows 10, Windows 11 (64-bit versions only) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11 is recommended for ongoing support and best performance.
Spec: Windows 10 64-bit (Version 21H1 or newer) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 (specified version or newer) or Windows 11 is required.
gamepad DirectX Version
Spec: DirectX 11 (DirectX 12 recommended for ray tracing and potentially better performance on compatible hardware) Explanation: DX11 is minimum, DX12 offers advanced features.
Spec: DirectX 12 Explanation: DirectX 12 API is required.
info_outline Other Game Notes
Official system requirements from Techland. Performance can vary significantly depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially dense city areas), and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs may work if their performance is comparable, but TGP (Total Graphics Power) and cooling are extremely critical. **Dying Light 2 is a demanding title, especially with ray tracing enabled. High-end laptop hardware is necessary for higher settings and resolutions.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR (1.0 and 2.0), and Intel XeSS.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing Quality (Global Illumination, Shadows, Reflections, Ambient Occlusion), Shadow Quality, Contact Shadows, Fog Quality, Particle Quality, and Texture Quality heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher settings/resolutions, especially with ray tracing.
Game Name: Dying Light 2 Stay Human
Official PC system requirements from Avalanche Software/WB Games. Performance can vary significantly depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially Hogwarts castle interiors and Hogsmeade), and background applications. An SSD is MANDATORY. Ray tracing features are very demanding.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **Hogwarts Legacy is a demanding title on PC, particularly with ray tracing enabled or at higher resolutions. High-end laptop hardware is necessary for an optimal experience.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance, especially with RT.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential to prevent thermal throttling in detailed environments.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for the detailed world, NPC simulation, and physics.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance significantly.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing Quality (Reflections, Shadows, Ambient Occlusion), View Distance Quality, Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, Effects Quality, Foliage Quality, Population Density, and Post Processing Quality heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher resolutions/settings, especially with ray tracing.
Game Name: Hogwarts Legacy
build Optimization Details
Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR (1.0 and 2.0), and Intel XeSS.
Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing Quality (Global Illumination, Shadows, Reflections, Ambient Occlusion), Shadow Quality, Contact Shadows, Fog Quality, Particle Quality, and Texture Quality heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher settings/resolutions, especially with ray tracing.
Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing Quality (Reflections, Shadows, Ambient Occlusion), View Distance Quality, Shadow Quality, Texture Quality, Effects Quality, Foliage Quality, Population Density, and Post Processing Quality heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher resolutions/settings, especially with ray tracing.
laptop Laptop Considerations
G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.
G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance, especially with RT.
Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential to prevent thermal throttling in detailed environments.
C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for the detailed world, NPC simulation, and physics.
R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance significantly.
M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended.
info_outline
Laptop recommendations are estimates based on available component benchmarks and game requirements.
Actual performance may vary depending on settings, drivers, cooling, power limits, etc.
Prices and availability subject to change. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.