I was on the Magic a few weeks ago, out of Norfolk. Yes, it was crowded, there were long lines (OMG the pizza place at ALL times of the day), and it was hard to get a chair on the pool deck. With that said, I have to be honest, it didn't seem any different than any other Carnival cruise (Or RC for that matter) I've been on, even pre-pandemic.
Also with that said, I did not love the ship, it just wasn't my favorite. It could use a little work on maintenance but I wouldn't call it rundown or anything, but I just didn't love the layout either. I much preferred the Glory, a much older ship, or the Horizon, a much newer ship. Just didn't think that middle ship had anything special for me.
To note, this was right about the edge of summer break - SO MANY KIDS. (I'll say it, I don't love kids.)
For what it's worth, I think the crew did an amazing job in all aspects. Just don't think I'd sail the ship again, other than I'm really close to Norfolk. And even then, it would have to be a really great deal. And even then, I'd have to really consider it.