MTG Foundations: You Should Know

As 2024 draws to a close, Magic: The Gathering (MTG) fans are eagerly awaiting the release of MTG Foundations, a set designed to welcome new players while still offering depth for veterans. Foundations is not just another set—it marks a return to simplicity, offering a blend of new cards and reprints that will shape the Standard format for years to come. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, this set has something for everyone. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about MTG Foundations.

Release and Pricing

When does MTG Foundations come out?

The official release date for MTG Foundations is November 15, 2024. Players can get their hands on the cards early through Prerelease events from November 8-10, 2024. The set will also be available digitally on MTG Arena and Magic Online starting November 12, 2024.

What will it cost?

MTG Foundations offers a variety of products tailored for different levels of players:

Beginner Box: Priced at $29.99, this box is designed for new players and includes 200 cards in pre-constructed packs.
Starter Collection: Available for $59.99, this collection provides 350 cards for players ready to expand their decks and knowledge.
Booster Packs: Play Boosters, Collector Boosters, and Jumpstart Boosters will be sold at standard prices, offering more variety for collectors and competitive players.

Set Structure and Content

What is the card composition of MTG Foundations?

MTG Foundations features a 50/50 split between new cards and reprints, with a total of approximately 271 cards. This mix of old and new makes the set approachable for beginners while providing essential staples for veterans. Notably, key Planeswalkers like Ajani, Liliana, Chandra, Vivien, and Kaito will represent each color, giving players familiar and beloved characters.

How long will MTG Foundations cards remain legal in Standard?

Unlike typical sets, which remain legal for around three years, all cards from MTG Foundations will be Standard legal until at least 2029. This extended lifespan makes the set ideal for new players who want to invest in cards that will remain relevant for a longer period.

Gameplay and Learning Experience

What is the purpose of the Beginner Box?

The Beginner Box is crafted for those completely new to Magic. It includes 10 Jumpstart Boosters, pre-arranged packs designed to be mixed and matched for quick deck-building. It also features tutorials to guide players through their first games. The goal is to ease new players into the game, offering a step-by-step gameplay experience that explains both how and why to make certain plays.

How does the Starter Collection differ from the Beginner Box?

The Starter Collection is aimed at players who have mastered the basics and are ready to dive deeper into deck-building. It includes 350 cards, including foil rares, full-art lands, and several Play Boosters. This product is perfect for players looking to build stronger decks or experiment with new strategies, while still offering a manageable collection size.

Community Reactions and Expectations

What is the community's sentiment about this set?

MTG Foundations has been well-received as a refreshing, beginner-friendly set. The community appreciates its simplified gameplay and its role in onboarding new players. At the same time, veteran players see it as a valuable addition to Standard, especially with reprints like Llanowar Elves and Day of Judgment, which will impact competitive play.

The set’s focus on core gameplay and evergreen mechanics ensures that it appeals to a wide audience, striking a balance between new player accessibility and veteran engagement.

Will this set impact existing formats?

Yes, MTG Foundations is expected to have a significant impact on the Standard format due to its extended legality and inclusion of key reprints. Cards like Llanowar Elves, which accelerate mana, and Day of Judgment, a four-mana board wipe, will likely become staples in ramp and control decks. Additionally, the long lifespan of the set ensures greater stability in Standard, giving players more time to refine their decks.

Special Features and Products

What are some of the new mechanics or card treatments?

While no brand-new mechanics have been introduced, MTG Foundations includes a variety of evergreen mechanics—those that have been foundational to Magic for years. Additionally, Borderless treatments return for rare and mythic rare cards, including reprints like Omniscience. These visually stunning cards will appeal to collectors and players alike.

What products are available for MTG Foundations?

MTG Foundations offers a full range of products tailored to different types of players:

Play Boosters: Standard boosters for drafting or collecting.
Collector Boosters: Premium packs with foil and extended-art cards.
Jumpstart Boosters: Quick-play packs that allow players to shuffle two packs together and start playing.
Beginner Box: Aimed at beginners, it includes Jumpstart packs and all the tools needed to start playing.
Starter Collection: For more advanced players, it offers a wide variety of cards for deck-building.

Conclusion

MTG Foundations is shaping up to be one of the most important sets for both new and experienced Magic players. With its long Standard legality, powerful reprints, and simplified products for learning the game, it’s the perfect gateway into Magic. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or a veteran seeking staple cards, Foundations offers something for everyone.

Be sure to check out Amazing Discoveries' online store to pre-order your MTG Foundations products, or visit our events page to find out more about upcoming MTG Foundations Prerelease events. Get ready to dive into this exciting new chapter of Magic: The Gathering!