Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 21
  2. Negative: 1 out of 21
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  1. Definitely personifies the magnificence of the sport, but it is lacking because it's not as advanced as I had hoped it would be.
  2. The controls are easy to figure out, and the tutorials not only help you learn how to play but also unlock magic collecting cards to unlock secrets within the game. The AI is tough, even at the get go, but the game remains fun nonetheless.
  3. It really only has two problems, both of which can be overcome very easily. It's way to easy in the single player mode, and the lack of true 4 dimensional movement keep the game from being super great.
  4. The highest compliment we can give EA's portrayal of JK Rowling's magic-infused faux sport is that it's so much fun (for fans and nonfans alike) that it makes us wish Quidditch were actually real.
  5. Game Informer
    78
    What EA has so successfully done is taken a franchise that scares away most hardcore sports fans and built a game that's technically solid, entertaining, original, and unbelievablly fun. [Nov 2003, p.142]
  6. Quidditch World Cup's strengths take a little while to unlock, but if you're a fan you should get your money's worth.
  7. 72
    I am disappointed both by how easy the game can be advanced thanks to the forgiving AI (it does get harder as different difficulties are unlocked, but it takes awhile) and the development team's decision to eliminate vertical control from matches as it dilutes some of the go-anywhere-flight that is part of this sport's appeal.
  8. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    72
    The snazzy visuals will initially draw you in, but you'll stick around for the instinctive, responsive gameplay. [Dec 2003, p.201]
  9. netjak
    71
    The graphics are absolutely amazing.
  10. 70
    The reality of the younger audience aspect is that it isn’t as deep as other EA sporting games and therefore the lasting appeal will drop significantly for older gamers.
  11. Cheat Code Central
    70
    If EA had relied on their stellar background in sports to enhance QWC, this game would be infinitely better and much easier to play. That's not to say it's not enjoyable. It can be, at least before the challenge ramps up later in the game.
  12. PSM Magazine
    70
    Unlockable items and special moves help keep interest in the single player mode, but the versus mode is where this game shines. [Holiday 2003, p.46]
  13. 70
    One part hockey, one part soccer and one part pure fantasy, Quidditch World Cup may not have the draw or the depth of Madden, but it is still plenty of fun to play.
  14. A decent first effort at simulating the chosen sport of wizards, it falls short of its promise primarily because of sluggish controls and shallow gameplay.
  15. 65
    It's all a bit dull, gameplay-wise, until you can trudge through at least one season of shutouts. The good news is that presentation-wise, Quidditch World Cup sparkles.
  16. 60
    Ultimately though the shallow game play means that this is one present that, unlike the puppy, is just for Christmas.
  17. 60
    The basics are here and they work. But it's still a little bit shallow. Harry Potter fans will naturally eat this title up.
  18. It's fun for a few hours or as a nice diversion for two-player matches. Hardcore Harry fans will want it for their collections; the rest of us will marvel at the fact that it really is just like the books...and then go play something else.
  19. It surprises with its cool references and attention to detail, but loses a lot of luster in attempting to appeal to a wee audience.
  20. A confusing sport that at times is fun. Fans of the franchise who really get this game will likely be pleased while the rest of us simply scratch our heads.
  21. TotalGames.net
    42
    A tediously simple game, utilising all of two buttons and an analogue stick to do just about everything - which isn't much. This minimal depth repels any desire to want to return to this game ever again.

Awards & Rankings

90
#90 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2003
User Score
6.9

Mixed or average reviews- based on 41 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 41
  2. Negative: 8 out of 41
  1. VLG
    Aug 22, 2023
    5
    I didnt like it much when i was a teen, but my friends loved it so i had to play it lol Good old times.
  2. Apr 6, 2023
    10
    Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup is the ultimate gaming experience for any fan of the Harry Potter series. The game is a masterful blend ofHarry Potter: Quidditch World Cup is the ultimate gaming experience for any fan of the Harry Potter series. The game is a masterful blend of fast-paced sports action and magical fantasy, bringing the beloved sport of Quidditch to life in a way that is both thrilling and faithful to the source material.

    The gameplay is incredibly fun and addictive, allowing players to take control of their favorite Hogwarts teams and compete in a variety of exciting matches across the globe. The graphics are stunning, with detailed character models and lush, immersive environments that transport players straight into the wizarding world.

    But what truly sets Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup apart is the attention to detail and authenticity that the developers have put into the game. From the faithful recreation of Quidditch rules and gameplay mechanics to the inclusion of beloved characters and locations from the series, every aspect of the game feels like a loving tribute to the Harry Potter universe.

    Overall, Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup is an absolute must-play for any fan of the series, and a true masterpiece of sports gaming. With its engaging gameplay, gorgeous graphics, and deep love for the source material, this game is a perfect 10/10.
    Full Review »
  3. Jun 11, 2022
    9
    Great game starts off vary easy but when you get to the quidditch World Cup The difficulty slowly ramps up.