We would initially think that a new player in a certain trading card game would be overwhelmed with information on the game rules and the like. That would not be the case in Magic: the Gathering TCG as there are steps of topics to read and learn.
A beginner’s guide for new players looking to get into Magic: the Gathering would cover the following topics:
The basics of gameplay: Magic: the Gathering is a collectible card game where players use a deck of cards representing magical spells, artifacts, and creatures to defeat their opponents. Players take turns casting spells, summoning creatures, and using artifacts to try to reduce their opponent’s life total to zero.
Learn the basic rules: It’s important to understand the basic rules of the game such as how to draw cards, how to play land cards, and how to attack and block with creatures.
How to build a deck: Building a deck in Magic: the Gathering involves selecting a combination of spells, artifacts, and creatures that work well together to achieve a specific strategy. New players should start with pre-made decks or intro decks, which are specially designed for new players.
Magic: the Gathering has many different types of cards including creatures, sorceries, instant, artifacts, enchantments, and lands. Each card type has its unique abilities and uses in the game.
Understand the different card types: Each card type has its own unique abilities and uses. For example, creatures can be used to attack and block, while sorceries and instants can be used to deal damage or remove opposing creatures.
Learn the different card abilities: Magic: the Gathering has a wide range of abilities that can be found on cards, such as flying, first strike, or deathtouch. Understanding these abilities and how they work will give you a better understanding of the game.
The color wheel: Magic: the Gathering has five distinct colors of magic, each with its strengths and weaknesses. These five colors are white, blue, black, red, and green. Each color represents a different philosophy or playstyle.
The different formats: Magic: the Gathering has several different formats, including Standard, Modern, Legacy, and Commander. Each format has its own rules and banned/restricted list and how it affects the gameplay in terms of balance.
Get to know the card pool: Magic: the Gathering is a complex game, and the card pool changes with each new set release. Understanding the cards that are currently legal in a format will help you to build better decks and make more informed decisions during gameplay.
Learn to evaluate cards: Not all cards are created equal, and it’s important to learn how to evaluate cards in terms of their potential power level and utility.
Learn the importance of mana base: One of the most important parts of building a successful deck is having a good mana base. This means having the right balance of lands and color-producing cards to ensure that you can cast your spells on time.
Practice and play: The best way to learn and improve at Magic: the Gathering is by playing the game. Try different decks, play against different opponents, and take note of what works and what doesn’t.
Be open to new ideas and strategies: Magic: the Gathering is a complex game that is constantly evolving, so be open to new ideas and strategies, and always be willing to try new things.
Learn from the experts: Many professional players and content creators share their knowledge and experience through videos, streams, and articles online. Follow them and learn from their experience and playstyle.
