Magic Realm

The Avalon Hill Game Co, Hobby Japan · Board game · 1979
1–16 · best 3 Solo 60–240 min Weight 4.6/5
8.5 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Buy
8.5 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

If you love deep fantasy and aren't afraid of a complex, unpredictable challenge, Magic Realm might be your next obsession!

Highlights
  • Immersive fantasy experience
  • Unique adventure every time
  • Strategic and tactical depth
  • Richly detailed world
Keep in mind
  • Complex and lengthy rules
  • Player elimination possible
  • Long playtime
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Prepare to dive into Magic Realm, a 1979 classic that transports you to a dark and perilous fantasy world! Here, the ruins of a once-glorious kingdom are now home to fierce monsters, legendary treasures, and secrets of a lost magical civilization. You take on the role of one of sixteen unique adventurers – be it a skilled warrior, a powerful mage, or something entirely different – each with their own abilities and motivations. Your mission? Explore this unknown realm, face terrifying creatures, interact with mysterious tribes (friend or foe!), and, of course, amass riches and fame. The map is set up differently each game, ensuring every adventure is a new and unpredictable experience. You'll need to manage your actions carefully, deal with fatigue and wounds, and even hire natives to aid you on your journey. Combat is intense, whether on foot or horseback, with a variety of weapons and magic at play. Magic Realm is a game that aims to capture the essence of fantasy literature, with suspense and desperate struggles. It's a deep and complex experience that rewards strategic planning, but is also full of surprises around every corner. Get ready for an epic adventure that will challenge you like few other games!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

12 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–16 players
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 BEST
5 REC
6 REC
7 REC
8 REC
9 OK
10 OK
11 OK
12 OK
13 OK
14 OK
15 OK
16 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Bats Animals: Horses Animals: Octopuses Animals: Snakes Animals: Spiders Creatures: Dragons Creatures: Goblins Creatures: Monsters Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Theme: Weather Theme: Witches Theme: Wizards
Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co, Hobby Japan
Designer Richard Hamblen
Artist Chris White (I), George Goebel, Kim Gromoll, Randall C. Reed, Richard Hamblen

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
Who is Magic Realm for?
It's ideal for players who love fantasy, exploration, and aren't intimidated by complex rules and extended playtime. Perfect for those seeking a deep, unique adventure every time.
How long does a game take?
Games can vary significantly, from 60 to 240 minutes. It heavily depends on the number of players, their experience with the game, and the decisions made.
How many players can play?
The game supports 1 to 16 players! It has rules for solo play and shines with larger groups, but be prepared for a longer game with more people.
Is the game very difficult to learn?
Magic Realm is known for its complexity. The rulebook is extensive, and the mechanics require attention. An experienced player is recommended to guide newcomers, or the use of reference guides.
Does the map change each game?
Yes! The board is modular, and the location of many elements (treasures, monsters, places) is determined differently each game, ensuring high replayability.
Is there player elimination?
Yes, player elimination is a possibility in Magic Realm. If your character is defeated, you may be removed from the game.
Do I need anything besides the game?
Yes, the game may require paper and pencil for record-keeping. Additionally, many players use translated versions of cards or charts to facilitate gameplay, as the original game is entirely in English.

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