The ultimate Strategy/RPG/Adventure game ever made, this is something I want to see more of...
F19 Stealth Fighter
Gunship
XCOM : Enemy Unknown
Covert Action
and many other incredible games. When Master Of Magic came out, I was a little skeptical because of the fact that people claimed that it was a clone of CIVILIZATION. OKay, perhaps that's true, but when you add elements of magic, mythical creatures, and the ability to control 2 different worlds, you get something totally new.
GRAPHICS
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First off, this is a DOS game, so the graphics may not be as good as say Heroes Of Might & Magic, but that's not what makes this such a great game. Despite the 320x200 graphics, overall it's actually pretty good. The design and detail of the towns, monsters, islands, magic spells, and opponents of course. The character icon details are very nicely drawn and work well with the game. Also, the way they describe the spells is also a very good plus using old style writing, almost like old style writing. Animations during battle, travel or viewing spells, and even spell animations are very well done and pleasing to the eyes.
CONTROL
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Control can't be simpler. Everything is done using the mouse. Although there are various commands that do use certain key strokes, it's nothing that a mouse click or 2 can't sure. Control styles work well. Travelling from one place to another is very easy to use and you can do just about anything you need to during turns. Since this game is a turn based game, you will have to do some planning and thinking, but that's nothing new to strategists. Battle commands are also pretty straight forward. Click where you want to move each of your armies and select either to attack, defend, or cast spells to help defend or attack. Course, also don't forget to make items, hire heroes, design your towns, and watch your back since your opponent would stab you in the back to get control of the worlds. Course, if you want a real challenge, try going against 4-6 opponents, you will find yourself in a major battle for sure. The only downside to this game is that there is no option for internet play, although you can take tunes as players, but internet play would be so much better.
OVERALL
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Although no internet play, this game offers a major replay factor with the fact that each character has their own strengths and weaknesses. Consider carefully who you want on your side and hope for the best. If you ever want a strategy/RPG/adventure game with lots to do and plenty of challenges, this is the game to get for sure, just make sure you have DOS or it may not play well. And if this will help, it was considered the EDITOR'S CHOICE for many game magazines during the time.