The MTG panel at GenCon 2023 sent shockwaves through the Magic: The Gathering community with exciting announcements and unexpected collaborations. Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) showcased their ambitious plans for the next few years, promising a fresh and revitalized experience for fans.
Fantasy Worlds Collide: Final Fantasy Enters the Multiverse
In a groundbreaking move, WOTC revealed that Final Fantasy, the beloved video game franchise, will be featured in its own fully-fledged Universes Beyond set. Following the success of the Lord of the Rings set, Final Fantasy is set to debut in 2025, bringing iconic characters and spells to the world of c.
Crossovers Galore: Fallout, Assassin’s Creed, and More
The gaming crossovers don’t end with Final Fantasy. Commander format will see the arrival of Fallout, following the footsteps of Warhammer and Doctor Who. Additionally, Assassin’s Creed will be explored through a unique “Beyond Booster,” containing all 11 main story games of the franchise within its cards.
Alternate Realities: Jurassic Park Invades The Lost Caverns of Ixalan
Following the success of Godzilla cards in Ikoria, Magic enthusiasts can expect Jurassic Park-themed alternative card art in The Lost Caverns of Ixalan. These themed cards will function identically to their in-world counterparts, with the name of the original card printed underneath.
Modern Horizons 3 and More: A Glance into the Future
Modern players have something to look forward to with the arrival of Modern Horizons 3 in 2024. The set promises to shake up the Modern format with reprints and new cards designed to challenge players’ strategies.
Uncharted Territories: Outlaws of Thunder Junction, Bloomburrow, and Duskmourn
WOTC unveiled three unique and exciting ideas for 2024 sets. Outlaws of Thunder Junction will bring the Wild West to Magic, featuring some of the most notorious villains and reimagining the Western genre. Bloomburrow, a brand-new plane devoid of humans, offers a fresh and mysterious experience. Lastly, Duskmourn: House of Horror takes Magic into the realm of 1980s horror, promising a darker and thrilling gameplay.
Space Adventures and More: Upcoming Concept Sets
The concept art for potential 2025/2026 sets was showcased, revealing surprising themes. “Tennis” will explore the concept of Vehicles, taking Magic players on a car combat journey. “Volleyball” is set to be a space opera, marking a serious venture into the cosmos.
A Harmonious Blend: Wrestling, Yachting, and Ziplining
Wrapping up the panel with a dose of nostalgia, WOTC revealed the much-anticipated “Wrestling” set, inviting players to return to the cherished plane of Lorwyn. This marks the first time Lorwyn takes center stage since the 2007 sets, allowing fans to revisit fond memories. In addition, “Yachting” welcomes players back to the post-March of the Machine Strixhaven plane, Arcavious, providing a continuation of the storyline. Lastly, “Ziplining” concludes a gripping story arc that will unfold in the upcoming sets, offering an enthralling narrative experience.
As the curtain falls on GenCon 2023, the excitement and anticipation for the future of Magic: The Gathering are palpable. With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, WOTC is set to redefine the multiverse, taking players on an unforgettable journey through worlds both familiar and uncharted. Magic enthusiasts can look forward to a reimagined gameplay experience that stays true to the essence of the game they know and love.
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