The single sneak-peek screenshot of the game

While the book series is over, the success of the Harry Potter franchise means that we'll be seeing movies and video games for quite a while yet. EA have just pulled aside the spangly curtain to reveal plans for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, a game release coinciding with the new movie out later this year.

In the game, players must return to Hogwarts to help Harry survive his difficult sixth-year. Engage in wizarding duels, take to the air to lead the Gryffindor Quidditch team, and mix and brew some magical ingredients. It's possible that Ron's romantic entanglements may even sidetrack you on your journey towards a dramatic climax and the unveiling of the identity of the Half-Blood Prince.

Harvey Elliott, Head of the UK's EA Bright Light studio gushes:

"We believe that the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince video game represents a milestone in the movie tie-in genre. Building on the technological advancements of previous games in the series and with a particular focus on the unique control system of Nintendo's WiiTM, the team here is working closely with the filmmakers to create an immersive interactive experience that captures the story, the action, the excitement and, above all, the fun of the film."

Scott Johnson, Vice President, Business Development for Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment continues:

"Working with EA, we look forward to offering fans a compelling Harry Potter video game, one which captures the thrilling storyline and high visual quality of the movie. The adherence to the rich fiction is a trademark of this franchise and with Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince fans will experience the most authentic and enjoyable game in the series to date."

For those unfamiliar with the storyline, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince sees Voldemort tightening his grip on the Muggle world as well as the world of wizardry. Hogwarts has become increasingly unsafe, and Harry is beginning to suspect that the castle itself may house dangers. Dumbledore, on the other hand, is intent on preparing young Potter for the final battle which he knows is looming ever-closer. Harry and Dumbledore must work together, to find the key to Voldemort's defenses - with the help of Dumbledore's old friend and colleague, the unsuspecting (and well-connected) Professor Horace Slughorn - who may hold crucial information.

While all this is going on, the students of Hogwarts are facing a very different foe - teenage hormones! Harry finds himself drawn more and more to Ginny, but faces the rivalry of Dean Thomas. Lavender Brown has her eyes set on Ron - but what about Romilda Vane, who wants him all to herself! Hermione simmers with jealousy but is determined not to show her feelings. There is but one student who stays away from all this romance - and he is determined to make his mark... a dark one. Love is in the air, but tragedy looms - Hogwarts may never be the same again!

Developers Bright Light studio are on board again, hoping to continue the worldwide success of their previous Harry Potter titles. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is due for release at the same time as the movie later this year, for Wii, PS3, Xbox 360, PS2, PSP, DS, Windows PC and even Macs, too.