Metascore
70

Mixed or average reviews - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 29
  2. Negative: 0 out of 29
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  1. The greatest test of a licensed game is to ask yourself if the game would still be compelling without the license and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban passes with flying colors.
  2. It entertains, it excites and it's easy to follow so no need for cheats, and sometimes that is all that matters.
  3. Derivative but fun and the EyeToy support is a great bonus. Won't win over Harry-haters but fans will be willy, er, wand-waving into the wee small hours.
  4. A genuinely good third-year romp for Harry. Accomplished and absorbing, it's not quite magical but it's certainly no muggle either. [GamesMaster]
  5. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    80
    Offers a deeper, more mature experience than the previous titles. [July 2004, p.94]
  6. AceGamez
    80
    Adds real depth to familiar characters and locations.
  7. It is by far the best Harry Potter game made to date.
  8. Some scenes do not look quite right — the scale of the characters against the width of the Hogwarts Express clearly do not tally. But these minor disappointments are quickly outweighed by stunning visuals in the later levels.
  9. 75
    Being able to explore Hogwarts as not one, but all three of your favorite characters is, as Ron would put it, brilliant. But older gamers will find little challenge in the game's simplistic block puzzles.
  10. Weekly Famitsu
    75
    8 / 8 / 7 / 7 - 30 silver [Vol 811; 2 July 2004]

Awards & Rankings

52
#52 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2004
User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 66 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 47 out of 66
  2. Negative: 2 out of 66
  1. Apr 6, 2023
    7
    Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is a solid entry in the Harry Potter video game series, offering a fun and engaging experience forHarry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is a solid entry in the Harry Potter video game series, offering a fun and engaging experience for fans of the books and movies. The game follows the story of the third book and movie, where Harry, Ron, and Hermione must track down Sirius Black and unravel the mystery of the titular Prisoner of Azkaban.

    The game features improved graphics and gameplay mechanics compared to its predecessors, allowing for a more immersive and fluid gameplay experience. Players can cast spells, explore Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and interact with a variety of characters from the Harry Potter universe.

    One of the game's standout features is its co-op mode, where two players can team up and play through the game's story together. This adds an extra layer of fun and replayability to the game, especially for fans of the series who want to experience Hogwarts with a friend.

    However, the game does suffer from some issues, including occasional glitches and a lack of challenge in combat. Some players may also find the game's puzzles and objectives to be repetitive and simplistic.

    Overall, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is a solid addition to the Harry Potter video game series, offering an enjoyable and immersive experience for fans of the series. While it may not be perfect, it's still worth checking out for anyone who wants to explore the world of Harry Potter on their PlayStation 2.
    Full Review »
  2. Jan 1, 2023
    7
    Played this game after HP1 and 2 on PS2, and although it's a bit improved, it feels like an addon, not a unique game. First level on the trainPlayed this game after HP1 and 2 on PS2, and although it's a bit improved, it feels like an addon, not a unique game. First level on the train actually was cool, but then we got back to collecting potion ingredients and hiding frim prefects just like in previous games. I prefer PC version. Full Review »
  3. Aug 2, 2022
    4
    A big request to the developers (if they still remain) to make a Russian translation of the game (text and voice-over)! I really like theA big request to the developers (if they still remain) to make a Russian translation of the game (text and voice-over)! I really like the game, but it's very uncomfortable to play without Russian translation. Full Review »