The Corruption is not merely a phenomenon, but a wound in reality left behind by the Outer God’s death. Each Corruption is formed around a fragment of the Outer God’s body or essence, buried deep within the land or drifting beneath ruined islands. Though the god was defeated, its remains still seek to fulfill their original purpose: to claim and unmake Magika.
When a Corruption awakens, a portal tears open in the world. From it emerge red-stained, warped creatures—spawn of the Outer God—driven by chaotic and destructive will. These beings do not conquer or rule; they exist only to spread corruption, twist life, and erase order.
Once a Corruption portal opens, it seals itself to the outside world. The only way to end the invasion is to enter the portal, reach the core of the corruption, and destroy the entity forming around the god-fragment within. This entity, often called a Corruption Lord or Heart-Spawn, acts as both guardian and anchor. If it falls, the portal collapses and the corruption recedes. If it remains, the land around it slowly dies.
Regions consumed by Corruption become hostile and unstable. Soil turns black and living flesh hardens like stone. Creatures born or trapped there are twisted into monstrous forms, bound to the Outer God’s lingering will. Few who enter these lands return unchanged.
Scholars and clerics believe Corruption outbreaks are not random. They are attempts by the scattered remnants of the Outer God to reconnect, grow stronger, and eventually reform. Each closed portal is a victory for Magika—but each one that remains open brings the world closer to another catastrophe.
In Magika, Corruption is proof that the war never truly ended.