Magium is a text adventure game that draws inspiration from Dungeons and Dragons and classic Choose Your Own Adventure books. In this interactive experience, players step into the shoes of an everyday character named Barry, who enters a dangerous mage tournament with the aim of winning a prize that would help him achieve his lifelong dream of becoming a mage. The gameplay emphasizes player choices, where decisions can significantly affect the narrative and, in some cases, could even lead to character death.
Unlike conventional interactive novels, Magium features a stat upgrade system that enhances gameplay depth. As players navigate the storyline, they earn points that can be allocated to various stats, which must be sufficiently high to perform specific actions. For instance, if Barry’s ancient languages skill is elevated, he may be able to communicate with animals and monsters. This system adds an additional layer of strategy, encouraging players to think critically about their choices and character development as they progress through the game.
The narrative of Magium kicks off as the tournament begins, thrusting players into a medieval fantasy world infused with elements of a technologically advanced civilization. Set on a continent marked by its vibrant history, players will uncover the stories of past utopias created by a figure known as "The Creator." These once-thriving societies, known for their magical harmony between humans and animals, now face the threat of ruin, offering players the opportunity to influence the fate of these communities through their choices. As players interact with various characters, they will form alliances and rivalries that further affect their journey.
Currently, the first book of the game is available for free, boasting approximately 178,000 words across branching narrative paths. The game's length ensures that players will have an engaging experience, with average playthroughs estimated at around 90,000 words. The second book, while complete, requires players to unlock it either by achieving a set number of accomplishments or by making a purchase. This book offers a significantly larger narrative, with 277,000 words total. Updates on the game can be followed through social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook, keeping the community informed of new developments as they unfold.