This podcast has, without question, one of the most inventive worlds and stories I’ve ever seen, horror or otherwise. Beyond having insanely creative lore, it also has an amazing cast, perfect pacing, and a surprising amount of genuine comedy. If you’re a fan of any flavor of horror, odds are it’s represented somewhere in the Archives, although I also personally believe that the series also works extremely well as an entry point for horror newcomers. Without spoiling too much, I also have to commend the series on all the ways it’s able to justify its framing devices without seeming contrived (seriously, the amount of framework that has an in-universe explanation is insane and impressive.) My only critiques are certain individual statements, but even the weakest are still incredibly solid. TLDR: This podcast is an absolute masterpiece overflowing with creativity and amazing writing. Listen to it or I’ll come into your home and make you feel unsafe.

I love the desolation Fire Fire Hehehehehehehehehehe

I’m only 3 episodes in, but I’m impressed with how fleshed out the different people’s speech patterns are. There are, however, a lot of ads (at least for this starting bit, but I’m assuming the amount of ads is consistent). Anyway, if you like this, check out Welcome To Night Vale and Within The Wires (if you haven’t already). Particularly the latter, which has a more similar structure.

I’m gonna start this off by saying I’ve never been one for podcasts. I heard my mom listening to episode 131: Flesh. I only heard two minutes of it, but I knew then that I needed to listen to this story. Jon and Alex’ voices drew me in really fast and I started listening to it every day for hours at a time. Even at work. I got so into it that I was talking to the characters during the episodes lol. I have never seen, read, or heard a better story in my life. This will forever be my favorite. I can’t imagine what it was like for the people listening while they were still making each episode. I think I would’ve gone crazy lol. Even if you’re not one for podcasts, if you like horror/supernatural, this is PERFECT for you. It has such an in depth story; so detailed you can feel it spread and branch off the more information you get. I wish I could live in this story. I’m also so excited for the rest of the Magnus Protocol!

Magnus Archives is BY FAR the BEST horror podcast to exist. The story and characters are so well-developed that it leaves nothing wanting. I’ve been listening to it since the quarantine days of 2020 and consistently listen to a few episodes each week just because of the storytelling and outstanding voice acting. I’ll never put it down and will always come back to it. Absolute perfection!

Well done , often relaxing even though not advertised as a sleep helper. Only complaint is Ads are very loud and startling.

The magnus archives is a amazing listening experience these people (dont) know what they're doing (sometimes) and it is always brilliant

five stars isn’t enough for this

The Magnus Archives was the first ever audiodrama I listened to and boy did it ruin all others that came after for me. Phenomenal writing, masterful storytelling and an impeccably crafted plot all executed with a singular vision in mind. You won’t regret the time you invest into it.

Hello John. Apologies for the deception, but I needed to make sure you started reading. Don't try to stop, you'll just hurt yourself. Now, let's turn the page and try again.

Some of the best writing ive ever encountered.

I shouldn’t have my radio on 12, and for this podcast need volume 28 to hear the guy speaking. It’s so frustrating.

I started this last week, and am currently listening to the last episode of season one. I’ve been recommended this podcast by so many people, and I can see why. The episodes are so well done, and it’s so fun seeing the dots connecting. Martin is very very pookie coded and all the characters are just amazing

I really like this show but literally 40-50% of each episode made up of commercials. I recognize commercials are necessary, but if the actual content is only 16 minutes long with 9 minutes of commercials bookending the content that’s insane.

i love this podcast :3

Best fiction podcast. If you find it difficult to stick with the short story format for the first few dozen episodes, stick with it. Take your time.

I won’t mince words it takes a while to gather steam but once it all starts connecting I couldn’t put it down. The cast is marvelous. Johnathan Sims does a fantastic job as your main navigator through all of the archives mess. The twists are sharp. Highly recommend if you are into body horror psychological horror and some great dark horror The great thing is that the crew took time to apply appropriate warnings in the show notes on each episode So visit the magnus archives. Give your statement

This was my fist horror podcast and now I am ruined for all other horror pods. The soundscaping, the plot, the multiple stories within stories, I have been spoiled. Spoiled rotten. Thank you so much for making this.

absolutely LOVE this show. it is incredible and awesome and super interesting.

I was searching for something spooky to listen to after finishing ‘Are You Scared?’ (by Watcher Entertainment) and while listening to ‘Watcher Pod’ I heard their advertisement for ‘The Magnus Archives.’ I’m so happy I did! I’m addicted.

This is great pod with consistently well written and well acted episodes. I’m like 80 episodes in and it has yet to repeat itself or falter in any way. Highly recommend.

MA is fun supernatural romp thru every kind of fear. If it hasn’t hit your trigger, keep listening. When it hits your trigger, KEEP LISTENING. MA is as cathartic as Mr King’s “It” - for me anyway 💀

The Magnus Archives is an unparalleled journey into the eerie and unsettling, blending rich storytelling with a hauntingly immersive atmosphere. From its very first episode, the podcast pulls you into a world where the line between the ordinary and the supernatural is terrifyingly thin. The show’s format—initially presented as the archiving of strange, disturbing statements by Jonathan Sims, the titular Archivist—starts deceptively simple. But it soon becomes clear that each seemingly standalone story is part of a much larger, intricate web of cosmic horror. The gradual unfolding of the overarching plot is nothing short of masterful, with every statement leaving you simultaneously disturbed and desperate for more. One of The Magnus Archives’ greatest strengths lies in its world-building. The lore is meticulously crafted, with each episode adding layers of depth to a mythos that grows more intricate and terrifying as the series progresses. The themes of fear, trauma, and existential dread are explored with a rare kind of psychological insight that leaves a lasting impression on the listener. What makes this podcast stand out is the complexity of its characters, particularly Jonathan Sims. His journey from a skeptical archivist to a central figure in an otherworldly conflict is one of the most compelling character arcs in modern horror fiction. The supporting cast, too, is filled with rich personalities that challenge and enhance the narrative, each one bringing their own shade of gray to the story. Moreover, the sound design is exceptional. Every creak, whisper, and silence works in harmony to heighten the tension, pulling you deeper into the atmosphere of dread that the show excels at creating. The voice acting is also superb, especially Jonathan Sims’ delivery, which conveys a perfect balance of curiosity, fear, and dread. The Magnus Archives is not just a horror podcast; it’s a deep dive into the nature of fear itself, with storytelling that leaves you questioning the very essence of reality. It’s a slow burn that pays off in ways you’d never expect, and it’s one of the few audio dramas that demands your full attention to appreciate the meticulous care put into its plot and production. If you’re a fan of horror, mysteries, or complex narratives with an overarching sense of doom, The Magnus Archives is a must-listen. It’s a show that doesn’t just tell stories of fear—it makes you feel it in every crevice of your being. Definitely on my Top 5 stories of all time.

There’s probably nothing I could possibly say that hasn’t been said by someone already, but all the same-this is beyond wonderful. I’m at episode 79, and holy mother of Christ, I nearly passed out. Huge accolades to the creators.

I might be ignorant because I’m only on season 2 episode 108, but the writing in this thing is so good! This is the second horror fiction podcast I’ve ever listened to. My friend told me about both of them. I know several people who have listened to the Magnus archives and absolutely loved it! This might be dumb, but I need to see if other people agree. My favorite character of all is that guy who’s given the coffin the Moans in the rain and scratches when things are placed on it. It also has the words DO NOT OPEN carved into it and it’s covered in chains. After all the warning signs telling him not to do it he DOESN’T OPEN THE COFFEN!!! He is the smartest character in the whole entire show and no one can convince me otherwise. Anyway. This show is AWSOME, I’m going to make everyone I know listen to it. (I’m working on my dad at the moment) and I think it’s hilarious that So many characters are voiced by John Sims family.

i love this show so much. it's perfect. it's well written, the voice actors just melt into their characters, and the stories and statements are so satisfying to puzzle out. i recommend it to everyone. please play them in advancing numerical order (1-420)

The greatest podcast ever I am being Daisy for Halloween

I discovered this podcast a few months back after seeing multiple people mention it in the wtnv (welcome to night vale) community and decided to check it out it was nothing like I expected but now I can’t imagine it any other way I immediately fell in love with Jon Martin Tim and Sasha and eventually bashera (sry if I misspelled that) daisy Melanie Georgie and even Peter Lukes this show has so many twists and turns that you never see comeing but going through and re listening to it I can connect all the dots and notice things that would have never stood out too me before I now and completely caught up on the Magnus protocol and love Sam Alice Celia gwin and even Colin and have so many headcanons and theories thank you for this incredible show that’s helped me through a lot and I hope that the ceaseless watcher finds some good cows for those lonely eyes lots of love to Jonny sims and Alex j nual -GoblinOfPeace

I love this show, the lore, the story telling, everything! It’s a true masterpiece, and everything makes me smile, or get thrilled or anything! Thank you Johnny sims! And Alexander janual, (sorry if I’ve missed spelled that) :3

52 Statements into the Magnus Archives, and I’m invested. There’s a lot of characters though, and this podcast is heavily story-driven. Can’t wait to get to the Magnus Protocol, though!

Started this podcast a week ago listening to the Magnus protocol and got hooked instantly. Once I ran through everything currently out for that I went back to start the Archives and am starting season two. Wonderful storytelling, actors, and love the formatting - excited to binge the rest!

I have listened to TMA 4 times and still learn something new each time. So far I am loving TMP. I am sure I will listen to this series again and again. And do you know why?? I always loved Horror. In the break in between Archives and Protocol I tried listening to a ton of other podcasts. You guys have made all the other ones seem hokey and not at all something to be feared! I have nothing but your podcasts now. Let me say I will be the first backer for the third series (hint hint) 👏. This podcast gives me chills down my spine and I love it! Thank you Jonny, Alex and company for the fears! 🙀🙀

my soul has been ripped from my body, thrown on the ground and pummeled into an unrecognizable heap on the ground 10/10 would listen to again

Listening to this pod is like being repeatedly stabbed with a knife but the knife is your best friend and loves you so much.

TMA changed my view on the world. the writing is amazing and the storytelling is absolutely incredible. i've been listening since like.. last year and i've listened to this podcast like six times, and im NEVER gonna get tired, that's for sure. i listen to this podcast on my way to school, on my way back, secretly during class, when i sleep, during homework, ect and that's NOT even an exaggeration. Jonny Sims, you have saved my life. The voice acting is amazing, the cast is so funny, the effects are GRAND. jonny, you didn't eat. you absolutely DEVOURED, you gobbled, you ingested, you inhaled. you CONSUMED. and i appreciate that. I LOVE YOU TMA!!!! i even bought the perfume. i am a true fan.

I’m sorry but my enjoyment of this show is being hampered by the extremely excessive ads. Doesn’t the show get crowdfunding money? Why do we need FOURTEEN minutes of ads?!? That’s insulting!

Instantly Hooked.

i don't even know what i could say. this podcast changed my life. from the individual episodes to the full-series metaplot, it is one of the most stunning works of fiction i've ever had the pleasure of listening to

This podcast has become nearly the sole focus of my entire life for the past four months. I have listened to it in its entirety including all hiatus and break content twice back to back in a row. Every Thursday I have no peace of mind, awaiting word of my special boys. Jmart, wherever you are, please return. I would like to thank Alex and Jonny for both ruining and completing my life. Go listen. It’s not that scary even. It’s a work place comedy really. Go listen, and remember, there was never a door there.

So good

AUAGAGAH AUAGAGAHAHAHAGAFFAYAGGGAYAAGAGAGAYAGGHH AUGAGAHAGAGAG (10/10 experience)

Unique and Interesting Stories with Lovable Characters ^^

I’ve never found a podcast like this and I am so glad I found it. It’s worth it.

They even made Alice, my previous least favorite character, start getting more involved in the plot and now she’s starting to grow on me.

I've listened to this seven times. It never loses its charm. I love it so much

Figured I might as well write a review for this pretty flipping incredible podcast . ( Don’t really have anything better to do with my time , so I might as well do my best to drag more people into this ) Started the day after Valentine’s Day and finished 1.30 AM April 3 . Pretty sure I finished Season 4 and 5 in about 4-5 days for each . After hearing/seeing some dialogue from MAG159 ( animatic for it did not contain Jon + Martin ) I just decided I needed to hear it , originally thinking it was a TV show or something . Turns out it’s a podcast ! And so I start listening and don’t stop , leaning more into the characters that I’ve come to know and love and learning more about the world itself ! Upon finishing , Jon + Martin ( and a whole bunch of other characters ) have since taken up residence in my Sketchbook ( both digital and on paper ) and I cannot stop drawing them . This podcast has provided me with a creative outlet I needed and can easily use , which is only one of the things I love about this podcast . ALSO : Huge thank you to the creator , Jonny Sims , for giving the world the one thing we want : a canonical asexual character who is in a romantic relationship . Or maybe it is just something I’ve been trying to find , but anyway that is incredible and I cannot be any happier with that aspect of the Archivist’s character . This podcast has me so that I cannot look at other podcasts , or movies , or horror books , or really anything without assigning an entity . It’s a fun game to play , which entity does this belong to ? And since listening to TMA , I have gotten 2 people in my Robotics class to listen to it , ( no one has finished yet ) and I shall bring more into this incredible story . ( It’s actually really interesting to see what they think about /certain/ characters ) Anyways I have been rambling for a while and ought to wrap this up . So this podcast contains incredible world building, character development and creation , and a fantastic plot line to follow ! I can honestly not recommend it enough :)

I’m not as far into the podcast as some of the other people writing reviews (I’m only a few episodes in) but I love this already. Truthfully, I think that the statements would great to just put multiple in a book, sorta like Scary stories to tell in the dark. That’s all I really have to say so far, since the lore hasn’t quite picked up for me just yet. All in all, great podcast. 💚

I’m not a big podcast person. I mean I’m not even big on horror (I like it but I don’t really seek it out in media) but this has been my obsession for a week now. I’m only on episode 57 (about halfway through season 2) but I’m in love. I’ve had a lot of free time lately so I’ve been able to listen to 15 episodes a day. Is it a problem? Maybe, but it’s fun :)

I’m only on the beginning of season 2, and I know spoilers from my friends, but it’s honestly so great. The only episode I didn’t like that much was The Piper and Crusader. Crusader was simply for the voice actor (I didn’t like him) and the Piper was just boring. But other than that it’s amazing. Love all the characters, and Tim is just hilarious (statement of Joe Spooky regarding sinister happens in the downtown— TIM) anyways it’s very funny. And I enjoy the voices too Edit: I’m almost done now and I adore it so much. It’s taken over my life. Also just realized my name for the review is “John 💜” which I created like 2 yrs ago that was accident lol

At first it just seems like some spooky stories, but the plot picks up around episode twenty, and you get flashbanged by how good it is. The stories are interesting, the characters feel real, with real flaws and real feelings. I grieve for these characters, though they aren’t real, and I cheer for their victories. Every single episode is interesting, the plot is well paced, and the representation for queer characters is amazing. I love almost all the characters, and the ones I hate are still well-written. You can’t help but love The Magnus Archives, and the only thing I regret is accidentally spoiling the ending for myself. Give it a listen, I’m obsessed, and will be personally offended if you don’t.