There he goes. One of God’s own prototypes. Some kind of high-powered mutant never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live, and too rare to die. This is Ask Ken. I’m Ken Krouner. It is my pleasure to answer your questions.
Today’s letter comes to us from Jonathan Rickard. Jonathan writes:
Hey Ken,
First off I should say that I really enjoy your writing, and that I think you’ve been doing a great thing for the people with the”Ask Ken” series.
On to the question: I’ve been playing Magic for quite a while, with constant fluctuations in time spent playing and in the level of competition. I always try to keep at least vaguely up to date with archetypes in Constructed and Limited, even when I don’t have the time to play much. Lately, I’ve discovered Apprentice and NetDraft, which basically ensured that I wouldn’t get out to the local store to play much anymore. Although there are downsides to this software, its just so damn _free_. I’m so cheap.
Anyway… I’ve now realized that I’d actually like to get back into the physical playing of cards (for the social aspect which is much missed, mostly. Oooh, alliteration) and I don’t really have any cards for the current environments. So, do you have any advice on what would be the best way to get back into the game?
(Oh, and MTGO is off limits for me. I don’t have access to a credit card. Frown town.)
Anyway, thanks for your time, and for listening to me ramble on.
Any advice will be appreciated.
-Jonathan Rickard
Well Jon, I am afraid there is no inexpensive answer to this question. What I have found it the best way to keep up with new cards is to write several articles for a website and have them pay you in product.
Another alternative is to do drafts as often as possible. Many stores price down packs if you buy them as draft sets. You can also try to find an internet writer in your area willing to sell them below market value. Drafting will keep your Limited skills up while also expanding your Constructed collection.
If neither of these options appeals to you, the next cheapest way to do it is to playtest with proxies, then buy your deck before the tournament.
The source on coming back on a budget,
KK
Well folks, I’ll be honest with you I haven’t wrangled up a guest writer yet, but I’ll keep my eyes peeled. G’night everybody!