If you’ve seen collectors sharing photos of their prized Magic cards in those rigid, tamper-evident plastic cases with a fancy numerical rating at the top, you’ve already been introduced to graded cards. These cases are sometimes called “slabs,” and they serve two main functions: preserving the condition of the card and authenticating it as genuine. … Read more
I have a confession: the first time I saw a Magic card with “fear” on it, I actually assumed the creature was scared of everything else. The idea that a creature “gained fear” just seemed funny to me. “Shouldn’t that make it run away?” I thought. Over the years, I’ve realized it’s not about the … Read more
Magic: the Gathering has been captivating gamers for decades, and there’s nothing quite like sitting across the table from a friend—or rival—and battling with your favorite deck. But what if you don’t have anyone in your area to play with, or your local store closed down last year? Sometimes it’s tough to know where to … Read more
Can you activate a single ability more than once in one turn? In Magic: The Gathering, the short answer is usually yes, but it depends on a few details that players sometimes overlook. I’ve seen new players get confused when they think a card’s effect only happens once, even though it can be used repeatedly … Read more
Orim’s Chant might look like a simple one-mana trick, but it can wreak havoc on your opponent’s plans in ways that sometimes feel a little unfair. You pay one white mana. Then you say, “Nope, you’re not casting any spells this turn.” And if you throw in another white mana for the kicker, you get … Read more
Giggling Skitterspike is a goofy looking card. At first glance, I shrugged—just another odd 1/1 artifact creature. But then I read its ability and thought, “Wait, this could get ridiculous fast.” Indestructible, plus a trigger that hurts everyone whenever it’s targeted or enters combat, sounded like a recipe for some memorable moments. And when you … Read more