Warner Bros. says that J.K. Rowling has not had a hand in the creation of the upcoming game Hogwarts Legacy, after fans threatened a boycott due to her frequent transphobic comments. The new open-world RPG was revealed yesterday at a PlayStation 5 showcase which also finally revealed a $499 pricetag for the new console. Hogwarts Legacy will cast players as students in the legendary wizarding school during the late 1800s, long before the events of the novels and films. It's set to come out in 2021.

The Harry Potter franchise is one of the most iconic fantasy series in modern culture. The seven novels currently stand as the highest-grossing book series of all time, and the immensely successful film adaptations have led to the creation of theme park attractions at Universal Studios parks across the US. For years, author J.K. Rowling enjoyed all the acclaim and adoration that creating such a beloved franchise comes with, but more recently, her star has faded quite dramatically. The author became the center of a whirlwind of controversy for transphobic comments she made on Twitter, and for doubling down on her intolerant viewpoint in a long essay published after the criticisms started rolling in.

Related: JK Rowling Returns Human Rights Award To Group That Condemns Her Transphobia

Understandably, there are a lot of people who are disinclined to support J.K. Rowling's projects, and even boycott her books, which is bad news for Hogwarts Legacy. In an attempt to get ahead of the controversy, Warner Bros. has added a significant note to an FAQ published after the reveal of the game. One of the questions listed on the FAQ inquires after Rowling's involvement on the new game, and Warner Bros.' answer is that "J.K. Rowling is not directly involved in the creation of the game, however, her extraordinary body of writing is the foundation of all projects in the Wizarding World. This is not a new story from J.K. Rowling." Elsewhere in the FAQ, Warner Bros. states that Hogwarts Legacy will fit in with the rest of Rowling's body of Harry Potter work, and that the controversial author is supportive of everything that developer Portkey Games produces.

Warner Bros. seems like it's trying to please both sides of the issue at once. It's distancing Rowling from the game just enough to attempt to satisfy those who are upset by her hateful comments, while acknowledging and celebrating her support of the project to keep loyal Rowling fans (like the actor who portrayed Hagrid) happy. With an issue this big, it's hard to have it both ways. Warner Bros. has been waffling since the initial controversy started, and before too long, it might just have to take a stance.

The announcement trailer for Hogwarts Legacy puts a strong emphasis on history, and the impact one's actions have on the future. With that in mind, it feels almost fitting that the new title already has such a significant legacy to grapple with. J.K. Rowling's shadow looms large over the game, both for her fantasy world that has entertained millions of people around the world, and for her hateful comments that enraged and hurt almost as many. Warner Bros.' statement can only go so far. Ultimately, fans will have to decide for themselves if they want to give Hogwarts Legacy a try in spite of its own tainted legacy.

Next: PlayStation 5 Showcase: Everything Revealed At The September PS5 Event

Source: Warner Bros.

Editor’s Note: Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling has been accused of transphobia by those in the LGBTQ+ community. Although not directly involved in the development of Hogwarts Legacy, Rowling does stand to earn royalties from the game. We would like to reiterate our support for trans rights and that trans identities are valid. Support services are listed below for trans people impacted by discussions of transphobia.

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