How to preload Hogwarts Legacy: Dates, file size, platforms, more

Nathan Warby
Hogwarts Legacy character on broom

The release of Hogwarts Legacy is right around the corner, and preloading will allow players to begin their wizarding journey as soon as possible. Here’s everything you need to know about how to preload Hogwarts Legacy, including the file size and dates.

Hogwarts Legacy has already established itself as one of the most exciting games of 2023. We’re edging ever closer to its release, and millions of aspiring witches and wizards can’t wait to start taking classes, tracking down magical beasts, and practicing new spells.

Luckily for those who purchased a digital copy of Hogwarts Legacy, most platforms come with a handy preload feature that lets you install the game ahead of time so you can get started right away.

Here’s how to preload Hogwarts Legacy, as well as the size of the game’s file.

How to preload Hogwarts Legacy on Xbox

Xbox players can preload Hogwarts Legacy right now via the Xbox store. If you’ve preordered your copy already then you’ll have the option to install the game when you view it in your library or on the store listing.

If you haven’t secured your version of Hogwarts Legacy, then doing so any time before its February 10 launch will unlock the preload option.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to preload Hogwarts Legacy on Xbox platforms:

  1. Open up the Xbox store.
  2. Search for the Hogwarts Legacy page.
  3. Make sure you’ve purchased a copy of the game.
  4. Hit ‘Preload’ to begin installing.
  5. Wait for Hogwarts Legacy to unlock at midnight on February 10.

How to preload Hogwarts Legacy on PlayStation

PlayStation will have to wait until February 7 to preload Hogwarts Legacy, as Sony only make the feature available 72 hours before it releases. The same is true for those who have three days of early access thanks to the Deluxe Editions, who will be able to install the game from February 4.

Once preloading for Hogwarts Legacy becomes available, the process is very similar to the Xbox version. Check it out below:

  1. Head into the PlayStation or your game library.
  2. Search for Hogwarts Legacy.
  3. Ensure you have pre-ordered a version of the game.
  4. Select ‘Preload’ to start the download.
  5. Wait for the application to unlock on launch day.
great hall in hogwarts legacyHogwarts Legacy is one of the biggest games of the year.

Can you preload Hogwarts Legacy on PC?

Unfortunately, it appears that PC players won’t be able to preload Hogwarts Legacy ahead of release. According to an alleged screenshot from Warner Bros. Support, shared by PCGamesN, there is “no preload option available for Steam or Epic Games.”

This may come as a disappointment to those looking to experience the story on PC platforms, as it appears they will have to install it after launch, eating into their valuable gaming time/

However, the devs are yet to make an official announcement on the matter, so there may still be hope for PC players.

Hogwarts Legacy file size

Before you begin preloading Hogwarts Legacy, it’s important to know how much hard drive space is required. As you’d expect for a AAA, open-world game designed for next-gen, it’s a fairly hefty download:

  • Xbox Series X/S: 76.67GB
  • PS5: 79.5GB
  • PC: 85GB

It’s worth keeping in mind there may also be day-one patches that need to be downloaded which could inflate the file size even more.

Now that you have all the details about how to preload Hogwarts Legacy, all that’s left to do is wait until February 10 for the adventure to begin.


For more on Hogwarts Legacy, check out our other guides:

Every classic Harry Potter character in Hogwarts Legacy | Can you play Quidditch in Hogwarts Legacy? | Does Hogwarts Legacy have multiplayer or co-op? | All Hogwarts Legacy PlayStation-exclusive content: Hogsmeade Shop Quest & cosmetics | Hogwarts Legacy Vivarium explained: How to access special location | Hogwarts Legacy PC requirements: Minimum specs & size

Image credit: Warner Bros.