Magic: The Gathering (MTG) is a captivating and strategic trading card game that has been enchanting players around the globe for decades. If you’re new to the world of MTG, getting started might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but fear not! This guide will walk you through the essential steps to begin your magical journey and offer suggestions on what to buy first to kickstart your collection.
Step 1: Learn the Basics
Before delving into deck-building and card collections, it’s crucial to understand the basics of Magic: The Gathering. Familiarize yourself with the game’s fundamental rules, card types, and the structure of a typical game. Wizards of the Coast, the company behind MTG, provides a comprehensive set of rules and a helpful online tutorial to get you started.
Moreover, prior to committing to physical cards and to acquaint yourself with the rules and your preferred playstyle, you have the option to engage in the free online versions of the card game on Magic: The Gathering Arena, accessible on both mobile and PC platforms.
Step 2: Choose Your Format
Magic: The Gathering offers various formats to cater to different playstyles. Jumpstart, Standard, Commander, and Limited are some of the most popular formats. For beginners, it’s recommended to start with Jumpstart or Standard formats. These formats use a smaller pool of cards, making it easier to grasp the game’s mechanics without being overwhelmed by a vast card pool.
Step 3: Get a Starter Kit or Jumpstart Boosters
To ease into the MTG universe, begin with pre-constructed starter decks and kits. Specifically crafted for beginners, these decks and kits offer a well-balanced selection of cards that highlight the game’s mechanics and include all the essentials to kickstart your journey. For those just starting to learn the ropes, the ideal product is the Jumpstart Boosters or the Starter Kit.
Jumpstart Boosters
Jumpstart is a unique Magic: The Gathering (MTG) product that was introduced to provide players with a quick and exciting way to dive into the game. Jumpstart boosters contain 20 cards each, and they are designed for a specific purpose: to enable players to open a pack, shuffle two of them together, and create a ready-to-play deck.
Magic the Gathering Jumpstart Boosters
- 20 Magic cards per booster
- 1-2 Rare or higher cards in every booster
- Packs include all the lands you need to play
- Each pack contains cards of a certain theme—mix and match for wild mashups
- Grab 2 Jumpstart packs, shuffle, and you’re ready to rumble
Starter Kit
The Magic: The Gathering (MTG) Starter Kit is a product designed to introduce new players to the game and provide them with a straightforward and enjoyable learning experience. The Starter Kit typically includes everything a beginner needs to start playing Magic: The Gathering, making it an excellent entry point for those who are new to the game.
Magic the Gathering Starter Kit
- Ideal for any pair of new Magic players
- Everything your players need to play their first game of Magic: The Gathering
- Included Play Guide booklet
- Two pre-built 60-card decks
Step 4: Expand Your Collection
Once you’ve become familiar with the game, it’s time to expand your card collection. Booster packs are a great way to acquire new cards, and you can choose booster boxes or individual packs based on your budget. Keep an eye out for set releases, as these introduce fresh cards and mechanics to the game.
Step 5: Build Your Own Deck
The true essence of Magic: The Gathering lies in deck-building. As you accumulate more cards, experiment with creating your own custom deck. Consider themes, color combinations, and synergy between cards to make a cohesive and effective deck. Online deck-building tools and resources like Archidekt, Deckstats or TappedOut can help you refine your deck-building skills.
Step 6: Participate in Local Events
To enhance your MTG experience, join local events at your nearest game store or community centre. Participating in Friday Night Magic (FNM) or draft tournaments will not only provide you with opportunities to test your skills but also allow you to meet and learn from experienced players. Facebook Groups is also a great place to locate communities in your local area to play.
Embarking on your journey into the realm of Magic: The Gathering is an exciting adventure. By starting with the basics, choosing the right products, and gradually expanding your collection, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of strategy, camaraderie, and endless possibilities. Enjoy the magical ride!
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