Tinderblast
Spell Information
- Incantation: Tinderblast
- Pronunciation: TIN-der-blast
- Wand Movement: (A forceful forward thrust of the wand) (video game)
- Light: (Fiery orange and red) (video game)
- Effect: (Creates a large, fiery explosion that damages and ignites all enemies in a wide radius. An upgraded version of the Incendio charm.) (video game)
- Type: Charm
History and Known Uses
The spell known as Tinderblast is not mentioned in the original seven Harry Potter novels and appears exclusively in the video game Hogwarts Legacy. It functions as a powerful enhancement of the Incendio charm, acquired by the game's protagonist in the late 19th century through the Talent system. Within the game, it is used as a potent area-of-effect combat spell, particularly effective against groups of foes such as Inferi and spiders. It is also used to destroy reinforced obstacles and solve environmental puzzles requiring a large blast of fire.
Learning and Counter-Spells
Tinderblast is not learned in a traditional class setting at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Instead, it is presented as an advanced magical skill that a witch or wizard can master by investing in their magical Talent tree, specifically as an upgrade to Incendio. (video game) While no specific counter-spell is named, standard defensive charms like the Shield Charm (Protego) would likely deflect its concussive force. The intense flames created by the spell could be extinguished by the Water-Making Spell (Aguamenti).
Etymology
The name Tinderblast is a straightforward compound of two English words that directly describe its function:
- Tinder: A dry, flammable substance, such as wood shavings or fungus, that is easy to ignite and is used for starting a fire.
- Blast: A powerful and destructive wave of energy, such as from an explosion.
Together, the name literally means “fire explosion,” accurately reflecting the spell's effect.
Behind the Scenes
Tinderblast is a spell created specifically for the video game Hogwarts Legacy. It serves a gameplay purpose by providing players with a more powerful, area-of-effect fire attack than the standard Incendio charm, offering greater combat variety and enhanced puzzle-solving capabilities. The spell does not originate from the books written by J.K. Rowling and is not considered part of the primary story canon. It is one of several spells, like Bombarda Maxima from the films, that was created for adaptations to produce a more visually spectacular effect.