
Each card is also numbered (from 1 to 70), and contains a symbol indicating its rarity. These different types matter at the medium and hard levels of the game. There are seven different types of Spell Cards: (Charming, Energy, Flying, Gross, Quick, Strong, and Wishful). The spell cards are used to cast spells in order to defeat the villains. The Sorcerer is also given a pack of five Spell Cards. Each portal has a unique symbol to mark its identity.

The main play areas are Magic Portals, which Merlin opens up to allow you to interact with the characters and fight the villains. Locations included on the map consist of every land except for Tomorrowland. In addition to the Key Card, guests are given a stylized park map which points out the various portal locations for the game. So as long as the recruit has this card, he or she can pick up the game where he or she left off at the last visit to the park, even if a new park pass is used. The Sorcerer Key card activates the game screens and tracks the guests progress. The Key Card contains an embedded chip that links to the recruit's park pass. The recruit hands his park ticket to the cast member, who then issues the recruit a Sorcerer Key Card.

The adventure begins when the Sorcerer recruit enters the Firehouse (or the outpost behind the Christmas Shop). Promotional art featuring Merlin, Main Street, U.S.A., and Cinderella Castle. It was later revealed that Doctor Facilier, Lawrence, Governor Ratcliffe, Ursula, and Chernabog would all be featured villains as well.

Testing for the game began in November, with characters such as Yzma, Kronk, Scar, Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed being revealed as villains in Adventureland. Installation of show elements in Adventureland and Liberty Square took place over the course of Summer 2011 and Fall, with concept art for the game showing that Kaa, Maleficent, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil would be among the game's antagonists. Word on the game was first leaked in interviews with Jonathan Freeman for the Aladdin musical, mentioning that he was reprising Jafar for a new attraction where guests would battle the Disney villains.
