MTG Core 2019

Core 2019 has arrived on store shelves!

Core sets have been absent from the Magic release lineup since 2015. They were replaced with a "two block" release schedule, consisting of one large set and a smaller one to follow each year. However, GamePedia notes that this method of releasing cards had issues in that it forced each set to make a choice between continuing the storyline from the previous set and allowing for reprints for new gamers.

Thus, this summer marks the return of core sets on a "three-and-one" schedule, in which three sets can establish/continue a storyline for the year, while a core set each summer allows for incoming gamers to get all the cards they need to establish their decks.

Core Set 2019 contains 280 cards (20 basic land, 111 common, 80 uncommon, 53 rare, and 16 mythic rare) and includes randomly inserted premium versions of all cards. 25 additional cards are found in the set's planeswalker decks. These are numbered #281/280 to #305/280. A unique Buy-A-Box promotional card numbered #306/280 is also considered to be part of the set. In addition, 8 common and uncommon cards from the Ixalan, Rivals of Ixalan, and Dominaria sets (numbered #307/280 to #314/280) have been printed in the Welcome Decks with the Core Set 2019 expansion symbol. The common taplands sometimes replace a basic land in the land slot of booster packs. 181 cards are new, the rest is reprinted.

Core Set 2019 features a story arc by Kate Elliott, focusing on the origins of the main antagonist of the current storyline, Nico Bolas, and his conflict with Ugin, his twin. The cards also show bits and pieces of unrelated stories on several other planes. The set is filling in story and not part of the current storyline. To avoid confusing less enfranchised players there are no Story Spotlights.

Come pick up Core 2019 boxes and packs today, and visit us for TCG tuesdays, when Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh, or Pokemon cards are on sale from 4-9!