Harry Potter: The Guardian Officially Arrives October 2026

Despite the beloved movie series coming to an end back in 2011, the Harry Potter franchise continues to bloom in popularity thanks to a myriad of recent releases. From Hogwarts Legacy becoming the best-selling video game of 2023 to news of the upcoming television show courtesy of HBO, fans of the magical story are ever eager for more, and this upcoming release gives yet another reason to immerse yourself in the world of Hogwarts and beyond.

Created by MinaLima, Defenders of Hogwarts is an upcoming board game inspired by the magical world of Harry Potter. Beginning its life as a Kickstarter campaign, the project managed to earn £1,269,635 of its £50,000 goal, so for those who have pledged, they can expect to get their hands on the stunning boardgame when it launches this October.

"Hogwarts is under attack," the official Defenders of Hogwarts item description reads. "Will you defend the famed School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Or will you join the Dark Forces to ensure victory for Lord Voldemort? The choice is yours."

Players will be tasked with embarking on this asymmetric deckbuilding adventure, building skills as a Hogwarts House Player, whilst also fighting valiantly in order to protect the castle. Or, if you join the side of the Death Eaters, you will need to harness Dark Magic and control dangerous beasts in order to render the school susceptible to Voldemort's forces.

For ages 13+, Defenders of Hogwarts is perfect for 2-5 players, with each campaign taking up to 90 minutes to complete. As such, you will need to master 200 components of the boardgame, including over 100 illustrated cards, props, trivia, and the occasional Easter egg.

Whilst the main pledge for Defenders of Hogwarts has already been met, there are three late pledges that potential fans can get their hands on: The Defender, The Guardian, and The Collector, which cost £58, £115, and £280, respectively.

As for The Guardian Bundle, customers will receive the standard board game, alongside an exclusive Protective Card Sleeve Set, Wooden Token Upgrade Set, and Deluxe Box Sleeve, as well as a Player Pin Set. On top of that, there are option add-ons, with each costing additional prices. This includes a Commemorative Pin, Dumbledore's Army Upgrade, Luxury Token Bag, Art Print, Box Sleeve, and much more. You can check out the full list, as well as the other bundles, on the official Defenders of Hogwarts Kickstarter page.

So, if you missed out on the original pledge, but still want to get your hands on this stunning Harry Potter-inspired boardgame which has been over two decades in the making, make sure to grab your Defenders of Hogwarts bundle now, ahead of its October 2026 launch.