The annual Holiday Sale has officially commenced on the Epic Games Store, bringing with it a wave of enticing discounts and, notably, a series of complimentary game offerings. Kicking off on December 11, this festive promotion is headlined by the highly acclaimed Harry Potter simulation game, 'Hogwarts Legacy,' which is available for free until December 18. This presents a golden opportunity for enthusiasts and newcomers alike to delve into the magical world of Hogwarts without any cost.
While 'Hogwarts Legacy' has garnered immense popularity since its debut, its association with author J.K. Rowling has sparked considerable discussion within the gaming community. Tyler Wilde of PC Gamer previously highlighted the debate surrounding the ethical implications of playing the game, given Rowling's public stance on certain social issues. Although Rowling was not directly involved in the game's development, she benefits financially from its success, with a portion of her earnings reportedly supporting organizations that hold controversial views. Despite these concerns, the game's enduring appeal is undeniable, evidenced by its continued strong player count, with over 18,000 concurrent players on Steam alone, nearly three years post-launch, maintaining its original price point of $60.
The current offering of 'Hogwarts Legacy' marks its first appearance as a free title, making it an exceptionally appealing proposition for those who have yet to experience it. This giveaway is just the beginning of Epic's extensive Holiday Sale. Beyond the free games, the sale features significant discounts across a wide array of titles, a 20% cashback program on purchases that can be applied to subsequent buys, and, for the first time in seven years, the introduction of a gifting feature, allowing users to directly send games to friends.
The pace of free game releases is set to intensify once the 'Hogwarts Legacy' giveaway concludes. Epic Games has announced plans to distribute a total of 17 free games throughout the sale period, meaning 16 additional titles will be made available. While not strictly a daily release, the frequency is such that regular check-ins are advisable for eager gamers. In addition to games, the sale will also include 'Epic Extras,' such as cosmetic bundles, in-game currencies, experience boosters, and other bonus content from various titles, designed to enhance the gaming experience.
In summary, the Epic Games Store's Holiday Sale offers a substantial lineup of free games and attractive deals, commencing with 'Hogwarts Legacy' until December 18. This festive promotion is scheduled to continue until January 8, 2026, providing a wealth of gaming opportunities and additional in-game perks for players to enjoy.
