In the Wizarding World The fantastic animals play a leading role, as evidenced by the many writings that see them as protagonists and their constant presence in the adventures of Harry Potter and not, Hogwarts Legacy included.
However, it is surprising to know that the video game from Warner Bros. Games and Avalanche Software has attracted the attention of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, non-profit organization in support of animal rights. There PETAas it is commonly known, offered Hogwarts Legacy players advice on how to treat virtual pets with dignity that populate the role-playing game. There are three suggestions that the organization addresses to the community:
- Don’t ride the animals: “If you choose to fly around Hogwarts Castle, always opt for the broom. Hippogriffs and Thestrals are (digital) individuals – they are not means of transport”;
- Avoid animal products in potions: “Much to our dismay, the Hogwarts Legacy healing potions use Horklump juice in addition to the plant components. […]A well-timed Protego spell demonstrates how good you are much better than gobbling juice extracted from a ‘living’ being.”;
- Choose vegan materials for clothes: “Several outfits in the Wizarding World use Fwooper feathers and Mooncalf fur. You can show compassion by avoiding outfits that use other people’s feathers and fur. Sure, Jobberknoll’s feathers might be made of pixels, but being compassionate in a game might help you avoid buying feathers in the real world.
PETA has therefore taken advantage of the great success of Hogwarts Legacy to call on people to respect animal rights. “While the magical beasts of Hogwarts Legacy are digital, so many animals in the muggle world are exploited for the same reasons as the game. Some, like horses and camels, are harnessed for entertainment or treated like living taxis. Others, like cows and ducks, are exploited for food and clothing. Please treat all sentient beings, magical or otherwise, with respect.”.
Are you following (or will you follow) PETA’s advice?
