Magic and Machines is a love letter to the 16-bit era of JRPGs, but it’s one that respects the modern player's time. Inspired by classics like Chrono Trigger and Golden Sun, it captures that nostalgic magic while stripping away the tedious grinding and overly complex systems that often bog down the genre. The turn-based combat is the star here, specifically the 'Overload' mechanic. Being able to supercharge a move after two uses adds a brilliant tactical layer—do you heal now or save your Overload for a massive offensive blast later?
The party members are distinct not just in personality but in how they interact with the world. Using elemental abilities to alter the terrain for puzzle-solving is a great touch that makes exploration feel meaningful. The story, which starts with a simple accident in a quiet town and scales to a world-ending crisis, is charming and doesn't take itself too seriously. It’s the perfect RPG for someone with a busy life; it’s easy to pick up for 10 minutes but deep enough to get lost in for hours. For just $1.99 with no ads or IAPs, it’s one of the best values on the App Store.
Available on: iPhone, iPad, iPod
Version 1.1.2Mon Jul 24 2023
Small fix for dialog bug from a player's review. Misleading dialog when entering Reaper's Castle
Journey into the world of Magic and Machines with six unique party members on a quest to uncover the mystery behind a decaying world. Discover new areas, find the legendary items, solve puzzles to unlock secret buffs, and master the turn-based battle system with its Overload mechanic. It's perfect for players who grew up with turn-based RPGs and are looking for a new adventure, and also accessible for new players as it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Inspired by games such as Chrono Trigger, Golden Sun, and Octopath Traveler, the game is a nod to those influences of the past and present. The game simplifies many RPG elements such as progression or equipment setups. There’s enough mechanics so players will strategize but not enough that they’ll need to reference a wiki to optimize. It’s also quite easy to pick up and put down and is perfect in short bursts or a longer sit down.
"I wanted to create a game that would appeal to fans of nostalgic turn-based RPGs that may have busy lives, but also could be picked up by someone who's new to the genre.”
Story
In a small quiet town a little accident leads to a dramatic chain of events. Years later, monsters run rampant, the world is slowly eroding, and the Sacred Stones are disappearing one by one. Initially, two childhood friends journey out of their small town to find a missing colony, but they uncover an even larger crisis as they cross paths with a colorful cast of characters. Form your party of three from six characters, explore and discover secrets, uncover hidden bosses and their legendary items, and use strategy to defeat your foes.
Combat
Turn-based battle system with an Overload mechanic. This mechanic lets you supercharge a move after you've used it twice. It can make attacks stronger, effects last a turn longer, and heals surpass your max health. Sometimes you may want to save it and sometimes you may want to use it right away.
Explore
Some characters can alter the terrain of the world with their elemental abilities. Use their powers to find new areas and solve puzzles. You never know what you'll find!
Party
Blaer - Fire adept that's good all around.
Zmrzlina - Ice mage with strong magic.
Alda - Water mage with the best heals.
Toka - Earth adept that bolsters defenses.
Mphepo - Air adept that's the fastest.
Dian - Plasma mage that's an offensive powerhouse.
Requires iOS 12.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.Journey into the world of Magic and Machines with six unique party members on a quest to uncover the mystery behind a decaying world. Discover new areas, find the legendary items, solve puzzles to unlock secret buffs, and master the turn-based battle system with its Overload mechanic. It's perfect for players who grew up with turn-based RPGs and are looking for a new adventure, and also accessible for new players as it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Inspired by games such as Chrono Trigger, Golden Sun, and Octopath Traveler, the game is a nod to those influences of the past and present. The game simplifies many RPG elements such as progression or equipment setups. There’s enough mechanics so players will strategize but not enough that they’ll need to reference a wiki to optimize. It’s also quite easy to pick up and put down and is perfect in short bursts or a longer sit down.
"I wanted to create a game that would appeal to fans of nostalgic turn-based RPGs that may have busy lives, but also could be picked up by someone who's new to the genre.”
Story
In a small quiet town a little accident leads to a dramatic chain of events. Years later, monsters run rampant, the world is slowly eroding, and the Sacred Stones are disappearing one by one. Initially, two childhood friends journey out of their small town to find a missing colony, but they uncover an even larger crisis as they cross paths with a colorful cast of characters. Form your party of three from six characters, explore and discover secrets, uncover hidden bosses and their legendary items, and use strategy to defeat your foes.
Combat
Turn-based battle system with an Overload mechanic. This mechanic lets you supercharge a move after you've used it twice. It can make attacks stronger, effects last a turn longer, and heals surpass your max health. Sometimes you may want to save it and sometimes you may want to use it right away.
Explore
Some characters can alter the terrain of the world with their elemental abilities. Use their powers to find new areas and solve puzzles. You never know what you'll find!
Party
Blaer - Fire adept that's good all around.
Zmrzlina - Ice mage with strong magic.
Alda - Water mage with the best heals.
Toka - Earth adept that bolsters defenses.
Mphepo - Air adept that's the fastest.
Dian - Plasma mage that's an offensive powerhouse.




















Magic and Machines is a retro-inspired turn-based RPG that simplifies classic mechanics for a modern audience. Explore a world where monsters run rampant and Sacred Stones are disappearing. Form a party from six unique characters, each with elemental abilities that can alter the terrain to solve puzzles. Featuring a strategic 'Overload' combat mechanic and a charming narrative, it's perfect for both JRPG veterans and newcomers looking for a polished adventure.
Retro 16-bit Art Style
6 Playable Characters
Overload Battle System
Elemental World Puzzles
No Ads or Microtransactions
Choose three members from the six available heroes. Balance your team with an elemental adept like Blaer for damage and Alda for essential healing.
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Use a skill twice to charge your Overload. Once active, your next move is supercharged, allowing for stronger attacks, longer buffs, or heals that surpass max health.
While it varies by playstyle, the game is designed for both short bursts and longer sessions, providing a substantial JRPG experience without unnecessary filler.