Defenders of Hogwarts FAQ

Short answers to the questions people ask most, with links to the full pages.

Frequently asked questions

Is Defenders of Hogwarts a video game or an RPG?

Neither. It is a physical deck-building board game by MinaLima. There is no game master and no character sheet. See the rules summary.

How many players does it take?

Two to five: one Dark Arts Player and up to four House Players. It is at its best with three or more; at two it becomes a duel. More in the review.

How long does a game take?

The rulebook cover says 90 minutes; BoardGameGeek lists 90–180. Each game is played in one sitting — there is no campaign to save.

Does it come in other languages?

Only English, as of 13 October 2026. The cards carry rules text, so players need to read English comfortably.

When does it ship?

Standard tiers are scheduled for October 2026; the Collector's Box for March 2027.

Where can I buy it?

As of 13 October 2026, only through the Hive late pledge. All routes are on the where to buy page.

How much does it cost?

£58, £115 or £280 depending on the edition, plus shipping. See the price comparison.

Do I need the earlier Harry Potter games first?

No. It is a standalone game and is not related to Hogwarts Battle. The comparison explains the difference.

Is there an official digital version?

MinaLima has not announced one as of 13 October 2026. The rulebook is free to download as a PDF.