Pokémon GO creator Niantic is shutting down Harry Potter: Wizards Unite

It’s been two years since Niantic launched Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, an app modeled after the company’s tremendously successful game Pokémon GO. Despite the name recognition of Harry Potter, it appears the augmented-reality game never quite took off like its predecessor — so the company will be shutting it down come next year. Niantic made the announcement on the Harry Potter Wizards Unite‘s official website, revealing that players will no longer be able to use the app starting January 31, 2022.

Leading up to the game’s official closing, planned events will continue to take place and certain gameplay features will be altered. As of November 2, players can expect more rewards and fewer limits on what they can do. That gives them the opportunity to enjoy their last two months on the app.

In-game purchases will shut down on December 6, 2021, so players hoping to make the most of Wizards Unite‘s final months will want to purchase Gold before that date. They’ll also need to spend their Gold balance before the game is removed in January. Per the website, there won’t be any refunds:

"Players will not be able to receive a refund on past purchases, except where otherwise required by law. You will be able to spend your remaining Gold balance and items before the game closes on January 31, 2022. We have a variety of fun gameplay changes during the remaining few months, so you will have the full opportunity to enjoy your remaining Gold."

It’s also worth noting that the app won’t be available to download past December 6. Those who delete the app between December and January — or get a new mobile device — will lose all access to it. So if you’re committed to playing until the very end, proceed with caution.

Netflix rolls out first video game initiatives

Despite the disappointing news about Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, it’s not all bad on the gaming front. Netflix officially launched its new gaming section, and the streamer is kicking things off with titles inspired by one of its most popular original series: Stranger Things. 

Stranger Things: 1984 and Stranger Things 3: The Game are both available on Android devices through Netflix’s mobile app, as long as you’re logged in on an adult profile. According to The Hollywood Reporter, they should come to iOS devices soon.

In addition to its Stranger Things stuff, Netflix also made available three more mobile games: Shooting Hoops, Card Blast and Teeter Up. Depending on how these initial releases do, fans can probably expect more announcements from Netflix in the near future.

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