The Arena Historic format is a constructed format in Magic: The Gathering that is exclusive to the digital platform, Magic: The Gathering Arena. It was introduced to provide a space for players to play with cards from older sets that are not part of the Standard format, which primarily consists of the most recent sets.

The card pool in Arena Historic includes sets that have rotated out of Standard, as well as select digital-only releases. Initially, it included cards from the Ixalan expansion onward, but as time has passed, Wizards of the Coast, the company behind Magic: The Gathering, has periodically added additional sets to the format, expanding the available card pool.

One of the main appeals of Arena Historic is the ability to play with cards and decks that may have been popular or influential in the past. It allows players to revisit powerful strategies and archetypes from earlier formats, creating a nostalgic experience for longtime players. It also provides an opportunity for players who are new to the game to explore a wider variety of cards and playstyles.

Wizards of the Coast supports the Arena Historic format with regular updates and balancing adjustments to maintain a healthy metagame. They also organize tournaments and events specifically for Arena Historic, giving players a competitive outlet for the format.

Compared to other formats, Arena Historic has some unique characteristics. Since it is a digital-only format, it doesn’t have the same constraints as paper formats, such as card availability or printing logistics. This allows for more experimentation and flexibility in terms of card bans, restrictions, and format changes. It also means that the metagame can evolve at a faster pace, as new cards are regularly introduced.

In summary, the Arena Historic format in Magic: The Gathering Arena provides a way for players to enjoy older cards and decks that are not part of the Standard format. It offers a nostalgic experience, diverse deck options, and a competitive environment for players to engage with. Whether you’re a seasoned Magic player or new to the game, Arena Historic can be an exciting format to explore.

Lastly, here is sample gameplay of the format with us piloting the Izzet Phoenix deck and with one match against Jund Midrange. Check it out below.