In reality this is Wizard’s attempt at a digital-first format. It offers another option for players who want a new metagame, new strategies to conquer, a faster rate of evolution and change in that metagame, and a format that can work like a digital game. In their words:Īlchemy is simply a new way to play. Wizards dropped an announcement of their new digital-only format “Alchemy” out of nowhere in early December 2021. What Exactly Is Alchemy?įaerie Formation | Illustration by Ryan Yee The only years that came close to this are 1999 thanks to the Urza block and 2005 with artifact lands and stuff from Mirrodin with 8 cards banned each.

But towards the end of the year with the release of Core Set 2020 and Throne of Eldraine, we saw several bannings including Oko and other oppressive green cards.Ģ020 set the record for the most bans in Standard at 10 cards. Emrakul, the Promised End and Felidar Guardian are notable inclusions, the latter being part of an in-block infinite combo.Ģ019 started strong with only Nexus of Fate being banned in BO1 matches. Heck, before 2018 we hadn’t even seen a card banned in Standard since 2011’s Jace, the Mind Sculptor and Stoneforge Mystic.Ģ018 saw the beginnings of an unbalanced format with several overly powerful cards and oppressive decks having key pieces banned to keep the format healthy. Standard has seen more bannings than ever in the last few years. It’s no secret that the last few sets have been wildly powerful, and not just cards like Oko, Thief of Crowns or Uro, Titan of Nature’s Wrath. Restore Balance | Illustration by Mark Poole

Mtg goldfish standard metagame