Discover the Magic of Final Fantasy with the Latest Magic: The Gathering Set
The newest Magic: The Gathering set, inspired by the iconic Final Fantasy universe, is finally here—and it’s a collector’s dream come true. This set features cards from every mainline Final Fantasy game, including the beloved MMOs, making it a perfect pick for fans across generations. While Magic has dabbled in video game crossovers before—think Assassin’s Creed and Fallout—this set stands out as a developer favorite, blending captivating art and innovative mechanics that celebrate both franchises. Whether you’re a seasoned Magic player or a Final Fantasy devotee curious to explore this crossover, there’s never been a better time to dive in.
Getting Started with the Physical Edition
For newcomers, Magic can seem intimidating, especially with its vast array of formats and rules. Luckily, Wizards of the Coast offers Starter Kits designed to ease new players into the game. Each kit includes two 60-card decks tailored for beginners, along with an instruction booklet explaining the basics of gameplay. A great way to learn is to split the decks with a friend and play together—making it both fun and educational.
The Final Fantasy-themed Starter Kit features two decks centered on one of the series’ most iconic rivalries: Sephiroth versus Cloud. Cloud’s deck focuses on equipment cards like the Buster Sword and Ultima Weapon, boosting your creatures’ damage, while Sephiroth’s deck revolves around killing creatures—yours and your opponent’s—to grow his power. I’ve played both decks against the set’s designers and managed to win—an achievement for any Magic player!
However, these starter kits are currently sold out on major online retailers, so your best bet is to visit your local game store. Many stores stock these kits, and their staff can help you find one. Additionally, Wizards’ website features a handy store locator to find your nearest local game shop.
Beyond the starter decks, there are four Commander decks themed around different Final Fantasy titles. Commander is a popular format that supports multiplayer matches with unique rules and strategies. These decks are beginner-friendly but tend to be on the pricier side, ranging from $80 to $130.
Playing Online with Magic: The Gathering Arena
If you don’t have a local game store nearby or prefer digital play, Magic: The Gathering Arena is your best option. Arena offers a seamless way to experience the Final Fantasy set without worrying about product availability or costs associated with physical cards.
After creating your account and downloading the game, I recommend starting with the tutorial. It not only teaches you the basics but also introduces you to Magic’s five core colors—each with its own playstyle—through fun challenges. For instance, blue and white focus on flying creatures and control, while mono-green emphasizes big, stompy monsters that crush defenses. The Final Fantasy set makes it easy to find a color or combination that suits your style.
Once you’re comfortable, you can jump into various game modes. If you’re new to Magic, avoid jumping straight into constructed matches—they require a well-built deck and resources that can be expensive. Instead, try Jumpstart mode, which is perfect for beginners. It offers pre-constructed archetypes like Chocobos, Equipment, and Mages—just pick two, and the game automatically creates a deck for you. You can play these decks against other Jumpstart decks, gaining experience and collecting cards along the way.
Jumpstart is affordable and user-friendly. As a new player, you get enough in-game currency to try it three times, and the cards you earn are yours to keep. Over time, you can build your own decks or explore quick-start options. If you’re a Final Fantasy fan, playing with Chocobos—creatures that grow stronger with land cards—is especially fun. Plus, who doesn’t love Chocobos?
Embrace Your Inner Magic and Final Fantasy Fan
The Final Fantasy Magic set offers a fantastic entry point into Magic: The Gathering, especially for fans eager to combine their love of both worlds. Don’t let the game’s complexity scare you off—there are plenty of beginner-friendly options, and the community is always welcoming to newcomers. During my first in-person game, I even taught a first-timer how to play, and by the end, he had beaten me—proof that anyone can jump in and have a blast.
So, whether you prefer physical cards or digital play, now is the perfect time to experience the magic of Final Fantasy in the world of Magic: The Gathering. Get ready to summon legendary creatures, cast powerful spells, and embark on a new adventure—your journey begins now!
