The Command Zone

Jimmy sits down with The Professor from Tolarian Community College to discuss a variety of issues, topics and questions like: What's the deal with Prof's new podcast? How does he approach grading new products? What's it like working with Wizards of the Coast in different capacities as a content creator? And much more!

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There are a handful of brand new cards from Jumpstart that aren't legendary creatures. Which ones are the most worthy of a spot in your 99? Let's find out!

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We have special guests Ladee Danger and Craig "Mr. Infect" Blanchette in the studio to answer the most asked questions and discuss the most commented-on moments from YOU, the audience, in regards to the M21 episode of Game Knights. What rules and gameplay mistakes did we make? What went on behind the scenes? Did Craig actually cheat? (hint: yes, he did)

Tune in and find out the answers to all of your questions!

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We're going through the new Commanders from Jumpstart and discussing all of the coolest synergies, combos and interactions for each and every one of them.

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The second half of our M21 set review. We're covering all of the new blue, black, red, multicolored, artifact and land cards from Core 2021 that we think will make the biggest splash in Commander.

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The first in a two part series discussing all of the new cards from M21 that can go in your 99. Find out which new effects we think will have the biggest impact on the format!

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M21 is here! And it brings a bunch of brand new Commanders for us to play with it. Which ones do we think will make for the coolest and most powerful decks? Let's find out!

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The new rule change to fix commander death triggers has had an interesting ripple effect on the power of one specific legendary creature: Roon of the Hidden Realm. In this quick bonus episode, we discuss what happened, just how much stronger the flickering rhino now is, and what you need to watch out for when playing against him.

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A very special episode in the tradition of our classic STATS shows. We've compiled and analyzed data from a bunch of Commander gameplay videos in order to answer some interesting questions like: How long is the average game? How many times, on average, do players cast their Commanders per game? How often do players get into combat? and more.

This is an episode that will challenge your preconceptions and (hopefully) help you look at the format with new eyes.

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On this episode, we breakdown the new rules change recently announced by The Rules Committee in regards to commander dies triggers. What cards will be the most impacted? Do we agree/disagree with the change? Tune in and find out!

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On this episode we're unveiling our exclusive M21 preview card. It's a splashy seven mana mythic-rare artifact called Chromatic Orrery. Wanna know what it does? Tune in and find out!

Plus, we have a quick discussion regarding the companion rule changes and what they mean for the mechanic and it's playability in Commander.

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On this episode, we're answering a bunch of listener submitted questions like: What to do if your playgroup stops politicking, how to handle playing Commander if you're a younger player, and should WotC print cards that they know will be problematic in certain formats but good in others?

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On this episode, Jimmy walks us through his BUDGET build for the partner pairing of Pako, Arcane Retriever and Haldan, Avid Arcanist. If you like playing with your opponent's cards, then this is the deck for you!

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Jimmy's Full Pako + Haldan Deck List:

http://tappedout.net/mtg-decks/jimmys-budget-pako-haldan-command-zone-331/

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On this episode, JLK breaks down his build for Obosh, the Preypiercer (as Commander). The goal of this deck is very simple: create fast games. And hopefully to also win some of those games. If you're looking to speed up the pace of your playgroup, this deck is for you!

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JLK's Full Obosh Deck List:

https://tappedout.net/mtg-decks/jlks-obosh-command-zone-330/update/

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We're answering the most discussed comments, tweets and messages from YOU, the audience, in regards to the Commander 2020 episode of Game Knights. What rules and gameplay mistakes did we make? What went on behind the scenes? 

Tune in and find out the answers to all of your questions!

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On this episode we go over all of the new non-legendary cards from Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths and discuss which ones we think will make the biggest splash in Commander.

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Protect your privacy and identity online with ExpressVPN. Go to http://www.expressvpn.com/command and get up to 3 months free with a 12 months subscription!

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Check out Jimmy's Feast of Fiction Kitchen cook book!

https://www.feastoffiction.com/  

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Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths is here! Jimmy and Josh examine and evaluate all of the new legendary creatures from the set and give you the lowdown on the best combos, synergies and interactions for each of them.

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The latest batch of mechanics from Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths are possibly the most complicated we have ever seen. On this episode, we'll walk through the new rules, the crazy interactions, and corner cases surrounding them to make sure the next time you sit down for a game, you're prepared for anything.

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We've talked about the precons. We've talked about the reprints. We've talked about each of the Commanders. But now it's time to do a deep dive and discuss all of the new non-legendary cards from C20. This is a bunch of stuff that was designed deliberately for our format. Which ones are awesome? Which are duds? Let's find out!

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The Commander Rules Committee has announced another ban. Flash (the card, not the mechanic) is no longer legal in EDH. Is the RC now trying to balance the format for cEDH and tournaments? How will this affect future decisions by the governing body?

Find out JLK's perspective from inside the discussions and get Jimmy's thoughts on if he agrees with the ruling. 

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Rules Committee Official Statement on the Flash Banning (and other changes):

https://mtgcommander.net/index.php/2020/04/20/april-2020-rules-update/

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C20 has been fully spoiled! This set has 20 new legendary creatures designed specifically for Commander and it's time for us take an in-depth look at each and every one of them. Which ones have the coolest combos, the smoothest synergies and the most interesting interactions?

Tune in and find out!

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Our fifth and final budget upgrade guide for C20 is here! On this episode, we look at the ABZAN ABILITY COUNTERS "Symbiotic Swarm" precon. What do the stats look like? How about the reprint value? If we plug in the right 10 cards and remove 10 others, will that ADD up to victory? Watch and find out!

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For the first time ever, Wizards was able to design a Commander precon around a new mechanic from a standard-legal set. On this episode, we're breaking down the SULTAI MUTATE "Enhanced Evolution" deck for our budget upgrade series. We go through the stats, the reprint value, and tell you what cards you should add and what you should take out in order to get this deck closer to it's final form.

Plus, we do a quick course on the rules surrounding Mutate, which are suprisingly intricate and complex. Don't miss it!

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It's time for the budget upgrade guide for the Jeskai Cycling "Timeless Wisdom" C20 precon. We're taking a look at the full list, analyzing all the stats and discussing the reprint value. Then we give you 10 cards to add and 10 cards to remove in order to get this deck quickly tuned-up and primed for combat with "real" Commander decks.

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Find Craig online:

Twitter: @CraigBlanchette

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We're continuing our budget upgrade series with the Mardu Humans "Ruthless Regiment" precon deck from C20. We break down the stats of the deck, the reprint value and give you 10 cards to add and 10 to remove to get it ready-to-rumble with "real" opponent's asap.

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We begin coverage of the 2020 Commander product with our traditional precon budget upgrade meta-series. We take a $25 budget and suggest 10 cards to add and 10 cards to remove in order to get this a deck up-to-speed and ready-to-battle against "real" EDH decks as quickly and easily as possible.

On this episode, we're analyzing the Temur "Arcane Maelstrom" Instants Matter preconstructed deck lead by Kalamax, the Stormsire.

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We’re unveiling the full deck list for the “Timeless Wisdom” Commander 2020 JESKAI CYCLING precon. You may have seen a lot of the new cards as they were previewed but, now you get to find out what awesome reprints are also included in the box!

Does this deck have what it takes to out value your opponents?? Let’s find out!

Check out the full deck list here:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/timeless-wisdom-2020-04-06

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It's time to unveil our exclusive preview cards from this year's Commander product. Yes, you read that correctly - we have TWO! It's a partner pairing with a ton of power, a lot of flavor and some crazy interactions. Let us introduce you to Brallin and Shabraz.

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It's time for our exclusive Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths preview card! Meet the Valiant Rescuer.

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For the first time ever, the Commander Rules Committee has banned a card BEFORE its release. Lutri, the Spellchaser was been deemed unfit for EDH. We get JLK's insight from inside the Commander Advisory Group as the decision was being debated and Jimmy weighs in with his own opinions. Do they agree with the RC? What are the possible ramifications of this historic ruling? Tune in and find out.

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Find the Commander Rules Committee Official Statement:

https://mtgcommander.net/

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We're answering the most discussed comments, tweets and messages from YOU, the audience, in regards to the "Attack of the Fans" episode of Game Knights. What rules and gameplay mistakes did we make? What went on behind the scenes? 

Tune in and find out the answers to all of your questions!

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Order G-Fuel using the promo code: commandzone and get 30% off!

Visit: https://gfuel.ly/CommandZone (offer valid from March 31 to April 6)

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WotC Article regarding release date changes to Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths and Ikoria: Commander:

https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/changes-release-ikoria-lair-behemoths-2020-03-26

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Not all decks are a slog to play against. Far from it. Sometimes, your opponent flips over their Commander and it makes you smile. Regardless of who wins or loses, you know you're about to have a great time. These are THE MOST FUN COMMANDERS TO PLAY AGAINST.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Kid Pod Theater:

https://kidpodtheater.com/

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You know them, those legendary creatures that immediately elicit a groan from the rest of the table as soon as they're revealed. When you see them, you know the game you're about to play is going to SUCK. Today, we're running down the list of THE WORST COMMANDERS TO PLAY AGAINST.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Mulan - World Premiere:

https://movies.disney.com/mulan-2020

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120762/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mulan_(2020_film)

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On this episode, we’re answering a ton of interesting listener-submitted questions including “What’s a good Commander for a new or younger player to build around?”, “What do we think about a Pioneer Commander/Brawl format?”, “What cards do we most want WotC to reprint soon?”, “What do you do when someone breaks an in-game deal?” and more!

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Hunters (Amazon):

https://www.amazon.com/Hunters-Season-1/dp/B07ZPF4DVK

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The world of Commander has experienced a growing fissure between “casual” and “competitive” players. On this episode, we’re joined by acclaimed science communicator and avid EDH-aficionado Kyle Hill to discuss and debate the virtues of both playstyles.

Can these two very different philosophies ever learn to live together in harmony? Or is the format destined to fracture? Let’s debate!

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Kyle’s New YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/kylehillscience

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Where to find Kyle online:

Twitter: @Sci_Phile

Instagram: @Sci_Phile

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In this brand-new video series, we answer the most discussed comments, tweets and messages from YOU, the audience, in regards to the latest episode of Game Knights. What rules mistakes did we make? What went on behind the scenes? Who won the arm wrestling match at the end?!?!

Tune in and find out the answers to all of your questions!

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On this episode, we look at some of the most interesting decision points from episodes of Game Knights and analyze the gameplay mistakes or errors that might have been made. Then we discuss what can be learned from those moments in order to make better choices in future games.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

McMillion$ (on HBO):

https://www.hbo.com/mcmillions

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Where to find our guest online:

Craig Blanchette:

Twitter: @CraigBlanchette

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Everyone has them. Those cards that just speak to your soul. On this very special episode, we get to hear from each individual member of The Command Zone team as they sing the praises of their favorite cards and why they love them.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Renaissance Fairs:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Renaissance_fairs

https://renfair.com/socal/tickets-and-coupons/prices-ordering/

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Find our team members online:

Craig Blanchette:

Twitter: @CraigBlanchette

Ashlen Rose:

Twitter: @AshlenRose

Instagram: @rawritsashlen

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/ashlen_rose

Website: http://ashlenrose.com/

Josh Murphy:

Twitter: @alsonamedjosh

Jake Boss:

Twitter: @JakeBossMTG

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/MTGTonight

Ladee Danger

Twitter: @brttnymchlle

Instagram: @theladeedanger

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/ladeedanger

Website: http://ladeedanger.com/

Manson Leung:

Twitter: @Bufeeg

Instagram: the_manson

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Our show has a long tradition of examining real-world concepts and teachings and applying those lessons to Commander game theory. We’ve tackled Sun Tzu’s Art of War, Machiavelli’s The Prince and even the beginning stages of World War 1.

On this week’s episode, we take a look at one of Jimmy’s favorite philosophies, Taoism and “The Way”, and analyze it through the lens of EDH gameplay.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

The Man in the High Castle (Amazon Prime):

https://www.amazon.com/Man-High-Castle-Season/dp/B07T8K8V2D

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On this very special episode, MTG personalities and cosplayers Ashlen Rose, Sydney "TappyToeClaws" Staffel and Olivia Gobert-Hicks (also a member of the Commander Advisory Group) take over hosting duties to discuss strategies and best practices when you're venturing outside your playgroup.

Whether you're joining an existing group of friends, have someone new coming to your place for Commander night, or slinging spells with complete strangers at a live event; these gals have the advice and experience to help you communicate and connect with the other players so everyone can have a great time.

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Where to find our guest online:

Olivia Gobert-Hicks:

Twitter: @goberthicks

Instagram: @goberthicks

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/affinityartifacts

Sydney Staffel (aka Tappy Toe Claws):

Twitter: @TappyToeClaws

Instagram: @tappytoeclaws

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/tappytoeclaws

Ashlen Rose:

Twitter: @AshlenRose

Instagram: @RawrItsAshlen

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/ashlen_rose

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Food Science:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_science

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On this episode we’re breaking down the Uro, Titan of Nature’s Wrath deck that Josh played on the latest episode of Game Knights. The escape mechanic makes for some really creative and interesting deck building choices. If you like value (and who doesn't?) you’re gonna love this deck!

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JLK’s Uro Deck List:

http://tappedout.net/mtg-decks/jlks-uro-l-game-knights-33/

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Parasite (movie):

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6751668/

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On this episode we’re breaking down the Dalakos, Crafter of Wonders deck that Jimmy built and piloted on the most recent episode of Game Knights. This Izzet demigod combines an artifact theme with Voltron equipment strategies for some really spicy synergies.

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Jimmy’s Dalakos deck list:

http://tappedout.net/mtg-decks/jimmys-dalakos-l-game-knights-33/

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Help those affected by the fires in Australia:

http://www.givit.org.au/disasters

https://www.wires.org.au/

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Jimmy and Josh take a look at all of the new non-legendary cards from Theros: Beyond Death and discuss the ones they think will have the biggest impact on the Commander format. Are there any great new effects that will take your EDH decks to the next level? Watch/listen and find out!

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Don’t F*ck With Cats (on Netflix):

https://www.netflix.com/title/81031373

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Theros: Beyond Death has been fully revealed! We’re taking an in-depth look at all of the new legendary creatures and discussing the cool combos, synergies and interactions that we see for each card.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

The Witcher (Netflix):

https://www.netflix.com/title/80189685

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Theros: Beyond Death looks absolutely bonkers so far. Please allow us to add to that with our extremely powerful, exclusive preview card: Nyxbloom Ancient. You like mana? Then you're gonna love this card.

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Craig “Mr. Infect” Blanchette joins the show to break down everything you need to know about one of the key pillars of the Commander format: Mana Ramp.

Sure, you probably have a decent idea of what ramp is. But are you familiar with all of its nuances? What about cards like Sword of Feast and Famine or Ashnod’s Altar or Seedborn Muse? Do you count those as mana ramp in your deck? Interesting questions and discussions such as these abound in this episode, so make sure to tune in!

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2527338/

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Find Craig Online:

Twitter: @CraigBlanchette

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As the year comes to a close, we analyze what went right and wrong for Magic and the Commander format in 2019 and then we look ahead to 2020, to see what the future might hold.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Marvel Series on Netflix:

Daredevil:

https://www.netflix.com/title/80018294

Jessica Jones:

https://www.netflix.com/title/80002311

Luke Cage:

https://www.netflix.com/title/80002537

The Defenders:

https://www.netflix.com/title/80002566

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We get a ton of messages and questions from people who are either 1) interested in becoming content creators or 2) already creating content but haven’t achieved the kind of success that they’re looking for.

Whether you’re interested in YouTube, streaming, podcasting, whatever – we’ve got a bunch of great advice to help you prosper in the world of content creation.

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Can you believe that it’s been over 5 years and 300 episodes since we started the show!? On this episode we look back and reflect on our body of work. The highlights and the lowlights. The good times and the best times.

Plus, we do a TON OF GIVEAWAYS and pull back the curtain for some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories. 

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

For Sale:

https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/172/sale

Coup:

https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/131357/coup

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Everyone has been in this situation before: You play a tutor. You look through your deck. But what do you get? Is it an answer? Is it a threat? Or is it the best card in your deck? What even IS the best card in your deck? On this episode we discuss some metrics to gauge the power level of individual cards in your 99.

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What we talked about on THE END STEP:

Half-Arsed History (by Riley Knight)

https://halfarsedhistory.net/

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