Manga Pros far outweigh the Cons
Let me start off with the series greatest strength, its characters. These are some memorable, interesting characters, with clearly defined personalities and abilities. Of the three signature characters, all three are well defined, and engaging. The secondary characters are also pretty good, though they sometimes are clumsily inserted. The fight scenes are also cool, with some really interesting powers and abilities. No one Djin equip is the same, and its really cool seeing all these different designs and powers.
The setting is also really interesting. While its the relatively standard Fantasy Counterpart Culture, its done in a distinct enough way that it makes it interesting. Though sometimes I wish they did more to explore this world, but Adventures of Sinbad does that quite well, so I can't complain.
What are the weaknesses? I can tell you that (for me at least) its that the series lacks focus. Plot points can be introduced in one chapter, and removed rather promptly, if not sometimes forgotten. The series also seems to want have a single overarching conflict at times, but go to an arc based conflict in others. There is also a tendency for scenes to seriously drag on, with something always coming up to make it go on longer, when it could've concluded much earlier. The story has also gotten very complicated, with ideas of alternate dimensions populated by strange creatures, which is left rather vague.
Also, at times it can get rather talky, with extremely detailed political and economic talk popping up more than a few times, as well as the extended philosophy discussions that sometimes consume almost an entire chapter or more. I can completely understand if someone doesn't like that, and I'll admit, it can get a little annoying sometimes. An economic or political savvy individual may take more out of this, but most of it might go over one's head.
That all said, this is till a good series, I can't say otherwise. Some features might turn some off, like a complicated setting, and an occasionally clumsy story, but the great characters and fight scenes are definitely worth it.
Manga Very promising, but still awful
In regards to the anime
I'm not exaggerating when I say this: Magi Labyrinth of Magic is my absolute least favorite thing I've watched. Which is a shame, because Magi has so much going for it. I was drawn in by the incredible visuals and action, and I thought it was going to be a good time. I was wrong.
I'll start with the pros. As previously stated, the animation is outstanding. Some of the best I've seen in a TV anime. It also has a decent english dub. The actors for the three main protagonists all sound great. None of them ever give a poorly delivered line.
With all these good things to say, one may wonder why I have such disdain for this anime. Allow me to run you through its seven deadly drawbacks.
To be un-entertaining due to dullness or irritation is the worst possible offense for any piece of entertainment. I declare Magi: Labarynth of Magic, guilty on all charges.