In Disney Magic Kingdoms players get to run their own Disney theme park with many characters from different Disney/Pixar franchises. It is a light simulation where the park is gradually reclaimed from antagonist Maleficient by lifting the curse that shrouds most of the environment. This is done by collecting and spending the 'magic' currency. The game starts with Mickey Mouse as the main character and Merlin (from The Sword in the Stone) providing help, but gradually more characters can be invited such as Goofy, Donald Duck, Wall-E, Rapunzel (from Tangled), Woody (from Toy Story) and so on. Each character can be sent on quests that have waiting times ranging from minutes to hours to complete. These quests provide rewards and next to individual character levels there is a global player level as well that is increased by collecting stars. Completing character activities provides tokens, specific for each character, used to level them up. Tokens have five levels or rarity.

The magic currency is also used to buy and place attractions, concessions and decorations. These include houses for each character, rollercoasters, rides (RC Racers, Parachute Drop, and also real ones such as Space Mountain, California Screaming, It's a Small World etc.), restaurants and so on. They can be put anywhere and can be rotated. They attract visitors to the park. Visitors' wishes need to be granted by tapping/clicking them so they are sent to the attraction they desire. The management element is very light and almost anything can be completed or started by tapping/clicking the icons that appear, as it is more about progression than choice. Happy visitors provide 'happiness' as an additional currency to unlock awards such as parades with bonus rewards. Progress through the main story of the game is done by completing story quests. There are also quests that can be completed over and over again, just to generate more of the currency.

Gems are the premium currency mainly bought with real money as in-app purchases. They are used to acquire premium buildings and characters, and can also be used to skip the waiting times. A small amount can be found without spending money. Through a Facebook connection the parks of friends can be visited to collect gifts.

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