Pottermore launches unique online experience from J.K. Rowling, enabling users to discover their Patronus
London, England, 22 September, 2016 – One of the most famous magical elements in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World becomes accessible to all for the first time today, as Pottermore launches the official Patronus experience. Those taking part in the online experience will make a series of choices, based on a set of cryptic prompts written by J.K. Rowling, and discover which animal is their Patronus – a magical protector from harm or evil.
A spell first introduced in the third Harry Potter book Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, which became intrinsic to the series, the Patronus Charm is a defensive spell which produces an ethereal guardian or protector, taking the form of an animal. Harry’s Patronus is a stag, whilst Hermione’s is an otter. A pure, protective magical concentration of happiness and hope, the Patronus is the only spell effective against Dementors, terrifying creatures which prey on human happiness. The Patronus has remained an important feature in the latest developments in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World.
Pottermore’s Patronus experience is set in a 3D animated environment that suggests danger and features originally-scored music and a responsive soundscape. By summoning a single happy memory and then responding to a series of short, time-sensitive multiple-choice options on screen, users are able to discover and ultimately be presented with their Patronus – which has been chosen for them using J.K. Rowling’s own secret algorithm. Patronuses are drawn from animals both familiar and magical, although magical beasts are amongst the rarest Patronuses. The user’s Patronus then becomes a part of his or her profile on pottermore.com.
Susan L. Jurevics, CEO of Pottermore, said:
“We are so delighted to be bringing J.K. Rowling’s most famous spell magically to life on Pottermore, for everyone to enjoy and discover their authentic Patronus, for free. It’s been fantastic working with J.K. Rowling and our creative and development teams to realise her vision, using the latest technology to create this little piece of magic for our site.”
This is the only authentic Patronus experience, devised with detailed input and direction from J.K. Rowling. Registration for the site is required to gain access to the experience. The Patronus experience is accompanied by an original piece of writing by J.K. Rowling about the Patronus Charm, which has previously featured on Pottermore.com. In the months to come, further new information and features will be revealed about the spell and its outcomes on Pottermore, the authentic source for everything from the Wizarding World.
About Pottermore
Pottermore, the digital publishing, e-commerce, entertainment and news company from J.K. Rowling, is the global digital publisher of Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World. As the digital heart of J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, pottermore.com is dedicated to unlocking the power of imagination. It offers news, features, and articles as well as new and previously unreleased writing by J.K. Rowling.
For more information and images, please contact:
United States
Howard Polskin: howard.polskin@team.pottermore.com, +1 917 751 4407
United Kingdom & International
Rebecca Salt: Rebecca@stonehillsalt.co.uk, +44 1620 829 800 or +44 7970 783 213
Mark Hutchinson: mark@markhutchinsonmanagement.co.uk, +44 7904 359 339
