Paradox Interactive has taken the wraps off the Magicka: Wizard Wars, which brings the mages of Magicka to player-versus-player (PvP) online battle arenas. It’s neither an expansion or DLC, but its own beast. Wizard Wars blends elements of the MOBA genre by pitting two teams of four mages against each other, with the dynamic spell-casting mechanics Magicka has become synonymous with.
The game is entirely team based and demands utmost coordination and cooperation from each player in the team. Another twist to the MOBA formula will be the introduction of friendly fire. Though the battles will be short, persistent character progression ensures that each one will take you one step further.
“Magicka has always allowed for some unique gameplay and, with Wizard Wars, we’ve really captured the true experience of PvP wizardry,” said executive VP John Hargelid in a prepared statement.
“When you put the team — focused, hardcore competition of online games together with characters whose attacks are fluid and dynamic — and then give teammates the ability to implode, freeze, and fling each other by accident — it’s really something special to watch, and to play, and to yell at your friends about afterwards.”
The game is being developed by the brand new studio Paradox North, which comprises of former members of Avalanche Studios and DICE . And according to the publisher, “they all look really nice in robes” and come in pretty handy when there’s staffs that need to be repaired.
Magicka: Wizard wards is currently slated to ship this winter. Have a look at the debut trailer below.