From the back of the rulebook:
In the world of Archmage, the world is blasted by total war between countless countries and jealous kings! You play characters venturing on their own through lands of the Five Philosophies, gathering riches from monsters and barbarians, plundering ruins or dungeons, rooting out dragons and demons; but when the King calls you into service he must be obeyed, at least until powerful archmages and heroes feel they can challenge his rule!
Become an Archmage, a master of incredible sorcery summoning monstrous armies and seeking arcane lore, or adventure as a Hero, a champion of arms and battle leading armies for conquest and plunder!
Play the role-playing adventure game set in the same magical universe as the popular on-line game before the world gets destroyed by Armageddon!