We had the opportunity to see in detail the new upcoming Magic expansion, Bandits of Thundering Crossroads: here are all the details.
That Magic is exploring new ideas and proposals is undoubtedly visible, especially considering the sets of Elsewhere Worlds, but we certainly didn't expect to end up in a western as strange and intriguing as that of Bandits of Thundering Crossroads. Thanks therefore to the multiverse, and to what happened after the March of the Machines, here we are arriving at Bandits of Thundering Crossroads, the new expansion of Magic The Gathering.
The new mechanics
Bandits of Thundering Crossroads introduces a series of new mechanics and keywords that enrich the game and reflect the criminal theme of the expansion. Let's see them together:
- Outlaw: the keyword “Outlaws” groups together different types of creatures, including Assassins, Mercenaries, Pirates, Rogues and Warlocks. This means that when a card says “if you control an outlaw…”, it is referring to a creature belonging to one of these categories.
- To commit a crime: The “Crime” mechanic is activated when criminal actions are performed during the game. These actions include damaging opposing permanents or interacting with their cards in the graveyard through spells or abilities. Cards with the “Crime” mechanic offer secondary abilities or additional rewards when a crime occurs.
- Frenzy: “Frenzy” is a mechanic that expands card options that allow you to choose between effects. Cards with “Frenzy” offer several options with a + symbol next to them, each with a different mana cost. During their use, players can choose one or more available options, allowing them to adapt their strategy according to the needs of the game situation.
- To plot: The “Plotting” mechanic allows players to play cards from exile in a later turn without paying the cost. During their turn, a player can pay the “Plot” cost of a card from their hand and put it into exile. Later, on a future turn, the player can cast that card as if it were a sorcery, without having to pay its mana cost again.
- Mount: “Mount” creatures are a new creature type introduced in Bandits of Thundercrossroads. These creatures can be sellate, that is, you tap to activate a unique ability of the card. To saddle a mount, you must tap another creature with strength equal to or greater than a certain value specified on the card. Saddling a mount activates the special ability associated with that card, providing the player with an advantage or strategic opportunity during the game.
The bounty dynamics finally introduces an intriguing minigame in the context of Commander, where players strive to capture interesting characters to claim rewards. With names like Lyssa, Sterling collector, Miron Tillas Jr. e The Strangerbounty cards add a element of challenge and fun at the game. Each player shares a bounty deck made up of a selection of cards, and bounties begin to be offered from the starting player's third turn. The conditions for capturing a bounty and claiming the reward are specified on each card, with four reward levels ranging from the base level up to the maximum reward at level 4.
The aesthetics of cards
Let's now look at the cards together, including the alternate ones and the new ones.
Basic Lands
Double Lands
Legendary Characters
Wanted Poster
Breaking News
The expansion Bandits of Thundering Crossroads will arrive on April 12th for prerelease events, while it will go on sale on April 19th (but will be playable on MTG Arena from April 16th). On sale we will find the Game Packs, Collector Boosters, Commander Decks and the Bundle with 9 game packs, 30 lands and accessories.
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