It's not often that I'm left speechless. However, MagiQuest, has done it to me. I don't know if it's because I think it's so cool, or because it's so laughably terrible, or maybe that's why it's so cool. See, I'm blabbering. What is MagiQuest? Well, it's, "a vast 20,000 sq. ft. realm powered by award-winning technology, packed with over 150 dazzling wand-activated events." In this realm, you and, presumably, your kids, work your way through the realm solving puzzles, facing off with goblins and dragons, rescuing a princess, and dueling with other wizards. To participate, you first have to buy/build a wand. The wand interacts with what I assume are large screens with computer generated characters. There are also treasure chests to open.

You begin at "The Stone Circle" where you get each of your 12 quests. From there, you can head out to each of the five worlds within the realm: Castle Tower of the Majestics, The Pixie Tree House, Crypt of the Shadows, The Woodsy Forest, and The Castle Dungeon.

Completing quests and opening chests earns you gold. Gold can be redeemed for more playing time, or for what a user of the site's message boards describes as, "sucky prizes".

Speaking of the Shoppe, it is here that you'll buy your wand and, if your kids are begging, various costumes and magical wares. I'm sure all of this costs an arm and a leg. The only mention of cost is a special that they are currently running: "Buy 2 hours of play for $13.99 and receive a free duel - a $3 value!"

Okay, so there you have it, MagiQuest explained to some extent. However, you won't get the full idea until you visit the website and look around for a while. Be sure to watch "The Quest Master Speaks" and to read through the message boards. There are people addicted to this game!

The only MagiQuest is in Myrtle Beach, SC, but there are plans to franchise it across the country.

COMMENTARY

I'm slowly leaning toward the "this is so cool" side of things. First, though, you need to get rid of the kids and make it 21 and over. Imagine the possiblities of MagiQuest branded meade, ale, potions (aka, cocktails) etc. Then, you could run through this fantasy world solving puzzles and having a generally good time.

This is a good idea.