Play Magician Online

Versions

Game Info

Cover art of Magician
Platform
NES
Genres
Action · Adventure · Role-Playing
Player Perspective
Side view
Release date
December 31, 1990

Summary

Magician on the NES drops you into a side‑scrolling world where you play as Paul, a fledgling sorcerer on a quest for four elemental vials—earth, air, fire and water. The game feels like a hybrid of classic action platformers and RPGs: you wander between towns, chat with NPCs, and juggle an inventory of food, water, weapons and potions that keep your health, hunger and thirst meters from draining. Spellcasting is its standout mechanic; you literally piece together phonemes to write a magic word, then spend 50 mana to inscribe it. As you help townsfolk and solve puzzles, Paul’s mana pool and magician rank grow, unlocking tougher spells. Progress is saved on a battery‑backed chip, but you’re limited to fifteen saves across four slots. The source code was eventually released in 2012 by programmer Chris Shrigley, offering a rare glimpse into its inner workings.

Storyline

In the NES game The Magician, an evil sorcerer named Abadon uses his dark powers to summon hordes of beasts and erects a foreboding castle as his stronghold. From his base he dispatches followers to cleanse the peaceful land of Merlwood, wiping out its most powerful wizards with ruthless efficiency. Meanwhile, a young apprentice named Paul lives in the neighboring realm of Serenna, training to master the ancient secrets of magic. When news of Abadon’s purge reaches him, Paul abandons his studies and resolves to become the last surviving wizard. He sets out on a perilous quest across the kingdom, determined to confront the villain and end his reign of terror.

Edited by Maya Carter

Game Videos

Game Screenshots

  • Screenshot 1 of Magician
  • Screenshot 2 of Magician
  • Screenshot 3 of Magician
  • Screenshot 4 of Magician

Multiplayer

Game modes
Single