PODCAST · leisure
Eternal Durdles
by EternalDurdles
Become a Paid Subscriber: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eternaldurdles/subscribeEternal Durdles is a weekly Magic: the Gathering podcast focusing on the Legacy format. Hosted by long-time MTG veterans Zac Clark and Phil Blechman.
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907
How Much Has Changed Since Jerry Left?
Former Leaving a Legacy host Jerry Mee joins the show to talk about the explosive growth of Premodern, the current state of Legacy, and why so many longtime Magic players are rediscovering their love for the game through older formats.We dive into:• Why Premodern feels different from modern Magic• The problems with Legacy and constant power creep• Universes Beyond and the “Fortnite-ification” of MTG• Why players are rejecting rotating non-rotating formats• LobsterCon, community growth, and the future of Premodern• Gold border cards, proxies, and accessibility• Brewing new decks in an “unsolved” format• Whether Wizards will eventually monetize PremodernWe also get into some spicy deckbuilding discussion, including New England Threshnought, Mono Blue Dreadnought, tempo strategies in Premodern, and why Nimble Mongoose might secretly be cracked again.If you miss old-school Magic—or want to understand why Premodern is suddenly everywhere—this is the episode for you.
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906
The Deck I Brought to LobsterCon (And What I’d Change)
Back from LobsterCon 2026—and honestly, this event wasn’t about the record. It was about the people, the games, and why Premodern is one of the best formats in Magic right now.In this video, I break down my full tournament run with Uzi Control, including every matchup, key decisions, and the mistakes that cost me wins. I also go over what I’d change moving forward and what the event tells us about the current meta.We cover:• My full LobsterCon match-by-match breakdown• Why Psychatog overperformed all weekend• The biggest misplay that cost me a match• How Uzi Control lines up vs the field• The evolving Premodern metagame• Why events like this are what Magic is all aboutDespite finishing 4–5, this was one of the best tournament experiences I’ve had—great games, great people, and a format that continues to prove how deep it is.If you enjoy Premodern, tournament reports, or just want a real look at what events like this are like, this one’s for you.👉 Support the charity from the event: (link below)👉 Support the channel: Patreon.com/EternalDurdles
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905
Inside STASIS Strategy at LobsterCon
Jacob Lee joins us after piloting Stasis to a 25th place finish at LobsterCon — proving once again that one of Magic’s most infamous prison decks is still VERY real in Premodern. We break down:• Why Stasis is underplayed• The secret tech behind the list• Upheaval lines and Brain Freeze kills• Matchups against Goblins, Enchantress, Tog, and more• Why free countermagic matters• How to actually WIN with Stasis• Sideboard tech for the current metagameIf you’ve ever wanted to make your opponents skip their untap step forever… this episode is for you.👇 Full deck tech + sideboard guide inside.
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904
My LobsterCon recap for 2026
Back from LobsterCon 2026—and honestly, this event wasn’t about the record. It was about the people, the games, and why Premodern is one of the best formats in Magic right now. In this video, I break down my full tournament run with Uzi Control, including every matchup, key decisions, and the mistakes that cost me wins. I also go over what I’d change moving forward and what the event tells us about the current meta.We cover:• My full LobsterCon match-by-match breakdown• Why Psychatog overperformed all weekend• The biggest misplay that cost me a match• How Uzi Control lines up vs the field• The evolving Premodern metagame• Why events like this are what Magic is all aboutDespite finishing 4–5, this was one of the best tournament experiences I’ve had—great games, great people, and a format that continues to prove how deep it is.If you enjoy Premodern, tournament reports, or just want a real look at what events like this are like, this one’s for you.👉 Support the charity from the event: (link below)👉 Support the channel: Patreon.com/EternalDurdles
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903
Inside STASIS Strategy at LobsterCon
Jacob Lee joins us after piloting Stasis to a 25th place finish at LobsterCon — proving once again that one of Magic’s most infamous prison decks is still VERY real in Premodern. We break down:• Why Stasis is underplayed• The secret tech behind the list• Upheaval lines and Brain Freeze kills• Matchups against Goblins, Enchantress, Tog, and more• Why free countermagic matters• How to actually WIN with Stasis• Sideboard tech for the current metagameIf you’ve ever wanted to make your opponents skip their untap step forever… this episode is for you.👇 Full deck tech + sideboard guide inside.
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902
TRADEMAGIC Just Made Trading Cards So Much Easier
Remember PucaTrade?The creator of the original platform, Eric Freytag, joins us to talk about his new project: TradeMagic.gg — a modern take on asynchronous Magic card trading. We break down:• Why PucaTrade failed• What was learned from the experience• How TradeMagicGG works• Turning bulk into real value• Why trading beats buylisting• The economics behind MTG trading platforms• How players can build decks without spending hundredsIf you’ve ever wanted a better way to trade Magic cards online, this episode is for you.👉 Get a FREE month of Elite Membership:TradeMagic.gg/EternalDurdles
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901
TRADEMAGIC Just Made Trading Cards So Much Easier
Remember PucaTrade?The creator of the original platform, Eric Freytag, joins us to talk about his new project: TradeMagic.gg — a modern take on asynchronous Magic card trading. We break down:• Why PucaTrade failed• What was learned from the experience• How TradeMagicGG works• Turning bulk into real value• Why trading beats buylisting• The economics behind MTG trading platforms• How players can build decks without spending hundredsIf you’ve ever wanted a better way to trade Magic cards online, this episode is for you.👉 Get a FREE month of Elite Membership:TradeMagic.gg/EternalDurdles
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900
Premodern Is HEALTHIER Than JUST MTGO
LobsterCon just gave us one of the clearest pictures of the Premodern meta we’ve seen in a long time—and it challenges a lot of what we thought we knew.In this episode, we break down the results, including why StifleNought underperformed, what actually rose to the top, and what it says about the health of the format. We dig into:• Why everyone came prepared for Dreadnought—and why that mattered• The rise of graveyard combo decks (Replenish, FEB, Hermit)• How disruption (Wasteland, Port, graveyard hate) shaped the event• What successful decks had in common• Why Premodern in paper feels VERY different from MTGO• How to adapt your deck going forwardThe takeaway?Premodern might be more open—and more skill-testing—than people give it credit for.If you're prepping for your next event (or just grinding MTGO), this is essential viewing.👉 Support the channel: Patreon.com/EternalDurdles👉 Submit articles: eternaldurdles.com
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899
Premodern Is HEALTHIER Than JUST MTGO
LobsterCon just gave us one of the clearest pictures of the Premodern meta we’ve seen in a long time—and it challenges a lot of what we thought we knew.In this episode, we break down the results, including why StifleNought underperformed, what actually rose to the top, and what it says about the health of the format. We dig into:• Why everyone came prepared for Dreadnought—and why that mattered• The rise of graveyard combo decks (Replenish, FEB, Hermit)• How disruption (Wasteland, Port, graveyard hate) shaped the event• What successful decks had in common• Why Premodern in paper feels VERY different from MTGO• How to adapt your deck going forwardThe takeaway?Premodern might be more open—and more skill-testing—than people give it credit for.If you're prepping for your next event (or just grinding MTGO), this is essential viewing.👉 Support the channel: Patreon.com/EternalDurdles👉 Submit articles: eternaldurdles.com
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898
The Premodern Meta Before LobsterCon
LobsterCon is next weekend, and the Premodern meta continues to evolve.In this episode, we help isolate what you need to prepare for going into one of the biggest Premodern events of the year!We cover:• The most played decks (Goblins, StifleNought, Landstill, etc.)• Why “meta buckets” matter more than specific matchups• The rise of Moneyball Black and how it’s evolving• Why Replenish might actually be the biggest sleeper deck• Building a smarter, more flexible sideboard• Identifying what your deck loses to• Why proactive strategies are favored in large events• Tournament endurance, pacing, and avoiding draws• Matchup defining cards (Withered Wretch, Engineered Plague, etc.)• How small deckbuilding tweaks change matchups• Deck performance of paper vs online• LobsterCon Top 8 predictionsHuge thanks to Cyrus for insights and data work(Check his links below)
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897
The Premodern Meta Before LobsterCon
LobsterCon is next weekend, and the Premodern meta continues to evolve.In this episode, we help isolate what you need to prepare for going into one of the biggest Premodern events of the year!We cover:• The most played decks (Goblins, StifleNought, Landstill, etc.)• Why “meta buckets” matter more than specific matchups• The rise of Moneyball Black and how it’s evolving• Why Replenish might actually be the biggest sleeper deck• Building a smarter, more flexible sideboard• Identifying what your deck loses to• Why proactive strategies are favored in large events• Tournament endurance, pacing, and avoiding draws• Matchup defining cards (Withered Wretch, Engineered Plague, etc.)• How small deckbuilding tweaks change matchups• Deck performance of paper vs online• LobsterCon Top 8 predictionsHuge thanks to Cyrus for insights and data work(Check his links below)
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896
Legacy Threat Levels: What’s REALLY Going On
Is Legacy getting healthier?In this episode, we assess current Threat Level data, a metric that tracks how dominant cards are based on play rate and deck saturation, as well as:• The rise of Flow State• Why Orcish Bowmasters is finally trending down• Urza’s Saga’s massive surge• The impact of new design vs. bans on format health• How to interpret impact of threat level vs gameplay (and why cards like Thassa’s Oracle should be viewed differently• The cyclical nature of format-defining cards• What trends suggest for the futureFull spreadsheet + data references discussed in the episode:
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895
Legacy Threat Levels: What’s REALLY Going On
Is Legacy getting healthier?In this episode, we assess current Threat Level data, a metric that tracks how dominant cards are based on play rate and deck saturation, as well as:• The rise of Flow State• Why Orcish Bowmasters is finally trending down• Urza’s Saga’s massive surge• The impact of new design vs. bans on format health• How to interpret impact of threat level vs gameplay (and why cards like Thassa’s Oracle should be viewed differently• The cyclical nature of format-defining cards• What trends suggest for the futureFull spreadsheet + data references discussed in the episode:
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894
Premodern Cube Might Be the Best Way to Play Magic
What if Magic felt like 1999 again?In this episode, we dive into a fully old-border Premodern Cube built for nostalgia and a weekend with the homies.https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/ac499a4f-4922-41f0-8749-0183e9bcaef4https://moxfield.com/decks/7Jq0coVJS0K5Kv2hW7Ev3A We chat:• The philosophy behind building a Premodern cube• Supported archetypes (Goblins, Zombies, Elves, Merfolk, etc)• Why this cube leans aggressive• How gold cards and creature types overlap• Mana fixing• Why the draft is more fun than the gamesWe also:• Pack 1 Pick 1 scenarios• Unintended archetypes• Derail into nonsense
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893
Premodern Cube Might Be the Best Way to Play Magic
What if Magic felt like 1999 again?In this episode, we dive into a fully old-border Premodern Cube built for nostalgia and a weekend with the homies.https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/ac499a4f-4922-41f0-8749-0183e9bcaef4https://moxfield.com/decks/7Jq0coVJS0K5Kv2hW7Ev3A We chat:• The philosophy behind building a Premodern cube• Supported archetypes (Goblins, Zombies, Elves, Merfolk, etc)• Why this cube leans aggressive• How gold cards and creature types overlap• Mana fixing• Why the draft is more fun than the gamesWe also:• Pack 1 Pick 1 scenarios• Unintended archetypes• Derail into nonsense
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892
Wizards Can’t Touch Pre-Modern (And Here’s Why)
“Pre-Modern Horizons”…It sounds like a joke—but it reveals a deeper misunderstanding about what Pre-Modern actually is.In this episode, we break down:• Why adding new cards to Pre-Modern fundamentally doesn’t work• How the format survives because it’s closed• Why Wizards of the Coast has zero incentive to support it the “right” way• The real (and dangerous) ways WotC could try to monetize Pre-Modern• Why proxies, community formats, and grassroots growth are the REAL futureWe also get into:• The proxy debate (and why it matters more than ever)• Whether “Pre-Modern Masters” could actually happen• The booming growth of the format (30+ player locals 👀)• LobsterCon prep, deck choices, and what we’d bringPre-Modern isn’t broken.It’s one of the only formats that works.And that’s exactly why this conversation matters.
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891
Wizards Can’t Touch PreModern (And Here’s Why)
“Pre-Modern Horizons”… It sounds like a joke—but it reveals a deeper misunderstanding about what PreModern actually is.In this episode, we break down:• Why adding new cards to PreModern fundamentally doesn’t work• How the format survives because it’s closed• Why Wizards of the Coast has zero incentive to support it the “right” way• The real (and dangerous) ways WotC could try to monetize PreModern• Why proxies, community formats, and grassroots growth are the REAL futureWe also get into:• The proxy debate (and why it matters more than ever)• Whether “PreModern Masters” could actually happen• The booming growth of the format (30+ player locals 👀)• LobsterCon prep, deck choices, and what we’d bringPreModern isn’t broken. It’s one of the only formats that works.
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890
The REAL Winners from Strixhaven (Legacy Review)
Strixhaven is here… but what actually matters for Legacy?In this episode, we break down the real winners and traps from the new set—cutting through hype to focus on what could actually impact the format.We’re not just talking about the obvious cards—we’re digging into:• Hidden role-players that could shape decks• Why “prepared” might be sneakily powerful• The cards that look busted… but won’t show up• New tools for Storm, Control, and Midrange• Whether Legacy actually changes (or stays the same)We also cover:🔥 Flow State – the headline card everyone’s watching🔥 Erode – the removal spell Legacy has needed for years🔥 Petrified Hamlet – a HUGE shift for land-based decks🔥 And a bunch of deep cuts you’re not hearing about elsewhereIf you're playing Legacy—or trying to stay ahead of the meta—this is the breakdown you need.👉 Read our full article on Erode: eternaldurdles.com👉 Want to write for us or sponsor the show? Hit the site
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889
The REAL Winners from Strixhaven (Legacy Review)
Strixhaven is here… but what actually matters for Legacy?In this episode, we break down the real winners and traps from the new set—cutting through hype to focus on what could actually impact the format.We’re not just talking about the obvious cards—we’re digging into:• Hidden role-players that could shape decks• Why “prepared” might be sneakily powerful• The cards that look busted… but won’t show up• New tools for Storm, Control, and Midrange• Whether Legacy actually changes (or stays the same)We also cover:🔥 Flow State – the headline card everyone’s watching🔥 Erode – the removal spell Legacy has needed for years🔥 Petrified Hamlet – a HUGE shift for land-based decks🔥 And a bunch of deep cuts you’re not hearing about elsewhereIf you're playing Legacy—or trying to stay ahead of the meta—this is the breakdown you need.👉 Read our full article on Erode: eternaldurdles.com👉 Want to write for us or sponsor the show? Hit the site
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888
Bl(U)e (Z)ombie (I)nfestation: The Most Underrated Premodern Deck Right Now
Zac finally Top 8’d…with SQUEE.In this episode, we break down a Premodern Zombie Infestation and why it might be one of the most underrated strategies right now.We cover the full Top 8, why the Squee + Zombie Infestation engine lines up so well, and key mistakes to avoid. Additionally, we touch briefly on sideboarding and changes for LobsterCon!https://moxfield.com/decks/RvFTkpXNNUCzyTNkAUn7vw
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887
Bl(U)e (Z)ombie (I)nfestation: The Most Underrated Premodern Deck Right Now
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnZac finally Top 8’d…with SQUEE.In this episode, we break down a Premodern Zombie Infestation and why it might be one of the most underrated strategies right now.We cover the full Top 8, why the Squee + Zombie Infestation engine lines up so well, and key mistakes to avoid. Additionally, we touch briefly on sideboarding and changes for LobsterCon!JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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886
Miracles Gets NEW Tools… But Is It Enough?
Is Legacy control finally getting real support again?With Strixhaven, two new cards — Flow State and A Road — might completely reshape how Miracles (and control decks) function in Legacy.In this episode we break down:• Why Miracles has struggled in modern Legacy• How Flow State compares to Expressive Iteration• Why Orcish Bowmasters warps card draw decisions• The real problem with Prismatic Ending• Why Wasteland is now mandatory again• Whether Flow State should be preemptively bannedThis isn’t just a deck tech — it’s a deep dive into how Legacy design has changed and what control decks actually need to survive.
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885
Miracles Gets NEW Tools… But Is It Enough?
Miracles Gets NEW Tools… But Is It Enough?
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884
Sled Sled: A New Way to Play Magic (Shared Deck Format)
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnDandân is blowing up, or rather shared deck 1v1 is booming!So we built Sled Sled! A brand new shared-deck MTG mini-format built around Goblin Rock Sled and design chaos.https://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwIn this episode we break down:• What Sled Sled is plus it’s core tension mechanics (mountains, shared deck, graveyard)• Why certain cards were included and what was cut• The philosophy behind building a great Dandân variant• How you can build your own Dandân variationDecklist + article coming soon on EternalDurdles.comhttps://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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883
Sled Sled: A New Way to Play Magic (Shared Deck Format)
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnDandân is blowing up, or rather shared deck 1v1 is booming!So we built Sled Sled! A brand new shared-deck MTG mini-format built around Goblin Rock Sled and design chaos.https://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwIn this episode we break down:• What Sled Sled is plus it’s core tension mechanics (mountains, shared deck, graveyard)• Why certain cards were included and what was cut• The philosophy behind building a great Dandân variant• How you can build your own Dandân variationDecklist + article coming soon on EternalDurdles.comhttps://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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882
10 Weeks After the Ban… Did It Fix Premodern?
10 weeks after the Parallax Tide ban… what does the Premodern meta actually look like?We brought in Cyrus to break down real tournament data and answer the big question:👉 Is Premodern still healthy?In this episode, we cover:• The rise (and dominance) of StifleNought• Meta share vs Top 8 vs win rate (and why it matters)• Decks that are overperforming vs underperforming• Why some decks spike… then disappear• The “Goldilocks zone” of a healthy format• Whether action needs to be taken (and what that could be)The data paints a very clear picture… and it might not be what you expect.📊 Full dataset discussed in the episode:
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881
10 Weeks After the Ban… Did It Fix Premodern?
10 weeks after the Parallax Tide ban… what does the Premodern meta actually look like?We brought in Cyrus to break down real tournament data and answer the big question:👉 Is Premodern still healthy?In this episode, we cover:• The rise (and dominance) of StifleNought• Meta share vs Top 8 vs win rate (and why it matters)• Decks that are overperforming vs underperforming• Why some decks spike… then disappear• The “Goldilocks zone” of a healthy format• Whether action needs to be taken (and what that could be)The data paints a very clear picture… and it might not be what you expect.📊 Full dataset discussed in the episode:
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880
Why This B&R Announcement Failed the Community
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnThe March 23, 2026, Banned & Restricted announcement had three paragraphs for Legacy that didn’t really tell us anything meaningful.In this episode, we break down exactly why that lack of clarity and transparency is a problem, including• Why not addressing something can lead to presuming it’s an intentional omission.• Why undefined language (e.g., “fair,” “healthy”) is insufficient from a governing body.• The disconnect between player experience and WotC messaging.• How and why better communication could fix this.Banned and Restricted announcements aren’t solely about bans, but also about communicating intent for Legacy and respecting players by demonstrating an understanding of the current play experience.📖 Read Phil’s full article here:JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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879
Why This B&R Announcement Failed the Community
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnThe March 23, 2026, Banned & Restricted announcement had three paragraphs for Legacy that didn’t really tell us anything meaningful.In this episode, we break down exactly why that lack of clarity and transparency is a problem, including• Why not addressing something can lead to presuming it’s an intentional omission.• Why undefined language (e.g., “fair,” “healthy”) is insufficient from a governing body.• The disconnect between player experience and WotC messaging.• How and why better communication could fix this.Banned and Restricted announcements aren’t solely about bans, but also about communicating intent for Legacy and respecting players by demonstrating an understanding of the current play experience.📖 Read Phil’s full article here:JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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878
EXTRA DURDLES: Channel UPDATE/Our AI stance
AI is everywhere and we’ve been accused of using it. In this episode, we talk through why we don’t use AI for creative content and explain our views on when AI as a tool is valuable.We also chat channel updates, including content schedule, personal health goals, and the new artists creating our assets.
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877
EXTRA DURDLES: Channel UPDATE/Our AI stance
AI is everywhere and we’ve been accused of using it. In this episode, we talk through why we don’t use AI for creative content and explain our views on when AI as a tool is valuable.We also chat channel updates, including content schedule, personal health goals, and the new artists creating our assets.
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876
Pauper Is Doing What Legacy Can’t
We built a metric to measure the threat diversity of a format called Threat Level. When applied to Legacy and Premodern, the results were informative. In this episode, we talk through what “Threat Level” means, the most played threats in Premodern and how those numbers compare to Legacy, and what we consider healthy levels. Threat level helps us understand why Legacy feels intense yet Premodern feels balanced.
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875
Pauper Is Doing What Legacy Can’t
We built a metric to measure the threat diversity of a format called Threat Level. When applied to Legacy and Premodern, the results were informative. In this episode, we talk through what “Threat Level” means, the most played threats in Premodern and how those numbers compare to Legacy, and what we consider healthy levels. Threat level helps us understand why Legacy feels intense yet Premodern feels balanced.
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874
This Proves Premodern Is Healthier Than Legacy
Premodern threat level data breakdown compared to Legacy. Is anything broken?We talk about Dreadnought though its threat level is lower than Mogg Fanatic. Swords to Plowshares and Counterspell dominate in threat level but does that count?Premodern feels better than other format and threat level is a way to articulate why this episode explains it.
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873
This Proves Premodern Is Healthier Than Legacy
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnIn this episode, we break down Premodern threat level data and compare it directly to Legacy to answer one big question:👉 Is anything actually broken in Premodern?We cover:• What “threat level” means and how we calculate it• The most played threats in Premodern (Mogg Fanatic, Dreadnought, etc.)• Why answers like Swords to Plowshares and Counterspell dominate• The HUGE difference between Premodern and Legacy metagames• What Parallax Tide taught us about bans• When a card vs a deck becomes a problemIf you’ve ever wondered why Premodern feels so much better than other formats… this episode explains it.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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872
SECRET LAIRS ... Have lost the plot!
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnWhat if every Magic format idea… went too far?In this episode, we spiral into absolute chaos trying to invent new Dan Dan-style formats, including:❄️ Stasis Stasis — a nightmare of islands, Gush, and decking👹 “Goon Goon” — yeah… we went there🧠 Doubling every card name into absurd formats💀 The most cursed gameplay ideas imaginableSomewhere between brilliant and completely unhinged, we explore what happens when you take a fun format idea… and push it way past the limit.Also:• Why Dan Dan variants are actually great for the game• How you can build your own versions• Why community-created formats might be the best future for MagicJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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871
Breakout Premodern Decks
Premodern is evolving — and some decks are starting to break away from the pack.In this episode, we go through Phil Nguyen’s latest MTG Banded article covering the 10 breakout Premodern decks of 2025.We break down:• Why Aluren is surging again• The power (and price…) of Cephalid Breakfast• Classic strategies like Terravore / Armageddon• The rise of Moneyball Black• And a few under-the-radar decks that could define the futurePlus…🔥 Zac reveals his pick for a 2026 breakout deck — a wild Dimir Infestation control build that blends:• Zombie Infestation• Squee, Goblin Nabob• Forbid lock• Wonder tempo finishesIf you’re preparing for LobsterCon or just want to stay ahead of the Premodern meta, this is your snapshot of where things are heading.
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870
10 Breakout Premodern Decks
Premodern is evolving — and some decks are starting to break away from the pack.In this episode, we go through Phil Nguyen’s latest MTG Banded article covering the 10 breakout Premodern decks of 2025.We break down:• Why Aluren is surging again• The power (and price…) of Cephalid Breakfast• Classic strategies like Terravore / Armageddon• The rise of Moneyball Black• And a few under-the-radar decks that could define the futurePlus…🔥 Zac reveals his pick for a 2026 breakout deck — a wild Dimir Infestation control build that blends:• Zombie Infestation• Squee, Goblin Nabob• Forbid lock• Wonder tempo finishesIf you’re preparing for LobsterCon or just want to stay ahead of the Premodern meta, this is your snapshot of where things are heading.
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869
SECRET LAIRS ... Have lost the plot!
What if every Magic format idea… went too far?In this episode, we spiral into absolute chaos trying to invent new Dan Dan-style formats, including:❄️ Stasis Stasis — a nightmare of islands, Gush, and decking👹 “Goon Goon” — yeah… we went there🧠 Doubling every card name into absurd formats💀 The most cursed gameplay ideas imaginableSomewhere between brilliant and completely unhinged, we explore what happens when you take a fun format idea… and push it way past the limit.Also:• Why Dan Dan variants are actually great for the game• How you can build your own versions• Why community-created formats might be the best future for Magic
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868
Legacy Threat Level Update: The Numbers Are WILD
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnWe’re back with updated Legacy Threat Level data — and the numbers tell a very clear story.https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1D7HvuGRUI0qvT5xA--zb68g2cu9wS0JZ24ddbadZSz0/edit?usp=sharingUsing two months of MTGTop8 data, we break down:• The most played creatures in Legacy• How “Threat Level” is calculated• Which cards gained the most ground• Why Orcish Bowmasters jumped dramatically• Tamiyo’s still-dangerous presence• What declining Wasteland numbers actually mean• How Modern Horizons and Commander cards dominate the formatIs Legacy truly diverse… or are the decks just playing the same cards?We also discuss:– The rise of Stompy & Painter– Why fair decks are shrinking– How combo pivots into tempo– Why play patterns feel increasingly redundantThreat Level isn’t a banlist demand — it’s a tool to measure format pressure. And right now? The data is loud.Spreadsheet + previous episode linked below.If you care about Legacy health, this matters.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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867
Legacy Threat Level Update: The Numbers Are WILD
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnWe’re back with updated Legacy Threat Level data — and the numbers tell a very clear story.https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1D7HvuGRUI0qvT5xA--zb68g2cu9wS0JZ24ddbadZSz0/edit?usp=sharingUsing two months of MTGTop8 data, we break down:• The most played creatures in Legacy• How “Threat Level” is calculated• Which cards gained the most ground• Why Orcish Bowmasters jumped dramatically• Tamiyo’s still-dangerous presence• What declining Wasteland numbers actually mean• How Modern Horizons and Commander cards dominate the formatIs Legacy truly diverse… or are the decks just playing the same cards?We also discuss:– The rise of Stompy & Painter– Why fair decks are shrinking– How combo pivots into tempo– Why play patterns feel increasingly redundantThreat Level isn’t a banlist demand — it’s a tool to measure format pressure. And right now? The data is loud.Spreadsheet + previous episode linked below.If you care about Legacy health, this matters.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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866
The Biggest Mistake Wizards Made was killing Grand Prix
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnGrand Prix used to define competitive Magic: The Gathering.Grinding points, earning byes, traveling to massive events, and playing multiple formats at your LGS — that ecosystem kept Standard, Modern, Limited, and competitive paper Magic alive.In this episode we talk about:• Why Grand Prix events were so important• How byes and the points system drove local play• Why MagicCon and Spotlight Series aren't replacements• How the loss of large paper tournaments changed Magic• What Wizards of the Coast could do to fix competitive playIf you miss Grand Prix, Pro Tour qualifiers, and the competitive Magic grind, this conversation is for you.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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865
The Biggest Mistake Wizards Made was killing Grand Prix
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnGrand Prix used to define competitive Magic: The Gathering.Grinding points, earning byes, traveling to massive events, and playing multiple formats at your LGS — that ecosystem kept Standard, Modern, Limited, and competitive paper Magic alive.In this episode we talk about:• Why Grand Prix events were so important• How byes and the points system drove local play• Why MagicCon and Spotlight Series aren't replacements• How the loss of large paper tournaments changed Magic• What Wizards of the Coast could do to fix competitive playIf you miss Grand Prix, Pro Tour qualifiers, and the competitive Magic grind, this conversation is for you.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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864
PreModern Shows the Reserve List Is Pointless
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnA tweet from Brian Coval (BoshNRoll) sparked a conversation we’ve surprisingly never had on the show:What is the Reserve List actually doing for Magic?Using Meddling Mage in Pre-Modern as the example, we break down how collectability and playability can coexist. One version of the card costs $14… while perfectly playable versions cost under a dollar.So what does that mean for the future of Magic finance?In this episode we discuss:• Why Pre-Modern highlights a healthier model for card prices• The concept of Veblen goods in Magic collectibles• Why reprints don’t always crash card prices• Commander’s surprising impact on Reserve List cards• Whether Wizards could ever realistically remove the Reserve List• And how Eternal formats could change if they didAlong the way we talk about Time Twister, Mox Diamond, Tarmogoyf, Rhystic Study, and the strange economics that shape Magic’s secondary market.If you care about Legacy, Vintage, Pre-Modern, or the future of Eternal formats, this is a conversation worth having.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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863
PreModern Shows the Reserve List Is Pointless
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnA tweet from Brian Coval (BoshNRoll) sparked a conversation we’ve surprisingly never had on the show:What is the Reserve List actually doing for Magic?Using Meddling Mage in Pre-Modern as the example, we break down how collectability and playability can coexist. One version of the card costs $14… while perfectly playable versions cost under a dollar.So what does that mean for the future of Magic finance?In this episode we discuss:• Why Pre-Modern highlights a healthier model for card prices• The concept of Veblen goods in Magic collectibles• Why reprints don’t always crash card prices• Commander’s surprising impact on Reserve List cards• Whether Wizards could ever realistically remove the Reserve List• And how Eternal formats could change if they didAlong the way we talk about Time Twister, Mox Diamond, Tarmogoyf, Rhystic Study, and the strange economics that shape Magic’s secondary market.If you care about Legacy, Vintage, Pre-Modern, or the future of Eternal formats, this is a conversation worth having.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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862
Magic’s Cheating Problem
https://www.hipstersofthecoast.com/2015/02/developments-in-durdling-the-names-and-faces/Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnCheating scandals are back in the Magic discourse.Again.In this episode we talk about the recent cheating controversy and ask a bigger question:What should actually happen when someone cheats in Magic?Most people immediately jump to lifetime bans. But is that enough? And is there ever a path back for someone who cheats repeatedly?Zac brings a unique perspective to this discussion — having been banned himself early in his Magic career and learning firsthand how reputation, accountability, and community trust actually work in the long run.We discuss:• Why cheating in Magic can become a compulsion• Whether lifetime bans are enough of a deterrent• The difference between mistakes vs habitual cheating• Whether cheaters should have to make financial reparations• If there is any path back into the community• And why reputation might be the real punishmentUltimately this episode isn’t about one specific scandal.It’s about how communities handle trust, accountability, and consequences.And why cheating in Magic almost always costs more than people think.🎙️ Eternal Durdles covers Legacy, Vintage, Premodern, and Eternal Magic culture.Subscribe for weekly discussions about Eternal Magic, tournament play, and the broader Magic community.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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861
Magic's Cheating Problem
Cheating scandals are back in the Magic discourse.Again.In this episode we talk about the recent cheating controversy and ask a bigger question:What should actually happen when someone cheats in Magic?Most people immediately jump to lifetime bans. But is that enough? And is there ever a path back for someone who cheats repeatedly?Zac brings a unique perspective to this discussion — having been banned himself early in his Magic career and learning firsthand how reputation, accountability, and community trust actually work in the long run.We discuss:• Why cheating in Magic can become a compulsion• Whether lifetime bans are enough of a deterrent• The difference between mistakes vs habitual cheating• Whether cheaters should have to make financial reparations• If there is any path back into the community• And why reputation might be the real punishmentUltimately this episode isn’t about one specific scandal.It’s about how communities handle trust, accountability, and consequences.And why cheating in Magic almost always costs more than people think.🎙️ Eternal Durdles covers Legacy, Vintage, Premodern, and Eternal Magic culture.Subscribe for weekly discussions about Eternal Magic, tournament play, and the broader Magic community.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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860
Can MTG thrive without Hasbro's Corporate Greed?
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesDistraction Makers Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQZ0FXo75BsTrinket Mage Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyik3A3PEQU&t=2sThere’s a growing sentiment among long-time Magic players:We’re tired of the slop.In this episode, we react to:The Distraction Makers’ discussion on Magic’s independent ecosystemThe Trinket Mage video on the “slopification” of the gameThe shift toward Commander-first designThe pre-conification of StandardWhy 1v1 competitive formats feel increasingly neglectedWe dive into:• Why Standard feels parasitic and pre-built• Whether competitive Magic is being slowly phased out• Why Eternal formats like Legacy, Pauper, and Pre-Modern feel healthier• The frog-boiling effect of corporate design• Whether Wizards is maintaining a “competitive facade”If you’ve been playing for 10+ years, this conversation will probably hit home.We’re not quitting Magic.But we are asking questions.Check out the videos we reference below.Let us know in the comments:Are Eternal formats the future?Or is this just nostalgia talking?TCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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859
Can MTG thrive without Hasbro's Corporate Greed?
Distraction Makers Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQZ0FXo75BsTrinket Mage Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyik3A3PEQU&t=2sThere’s a growing sentiment among long-time Magic players:We’re tired of the slop.In this episode, we react to:The Distraction Makers’ discussion on Magic’s independent ecosystemThe Trinket Mage video on the “slopification” of the gameThe shift toward Commander-first designThe pre-conification of StandardWhy 1v1 competitive formats feel increasingly neglectedWe dive into:• Why Standard feels parasitic and pre-built• Whether competitive Magic is being slowly phased out• Why Eternal formats like Legacy, Pauper, and Pre-Modern feel healthier• The frog-boiling effect of corporate design• Whether Wizards is maintaining a “competitive facade”If you’ve been playing for 10+ years, this conversation will probably hit home.We’re not quitting Magic.But we are asking questions.Check out the videos we reference below.Let us know in the comments:Are Eternal formats the future?Or is this just nostalgia talking?TCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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858
Premodern's Strongest Decks By the NUMBERS!
Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bSupport us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnMeta share is the number everyone looks at.But it might be the wrong number.This week, Cyrus Bales @crucible_of_words joins us to break down four-week rolling Premodern data — including:Meta share vs Top 8 shareEvent win percentageOver-representation (over-rep)Which decks are quietly overperformingWhy Sly is strugglingWhy Elves and The Rock are spikingWhether StifleNought is becoming a problemThe financial ripple effects of breakout decksThe headline?Mono-Blue StifleNought sits at roughly 12% meta share… but nearly 20% of Top 8s and ~40% of event wins.That’s not just popular. That’s overperforming.We also talk about:Green/White MadnessReplenishIggy PopPsychatogSurvival GoblinsThe future of the Reserved List (yes, we went there)If you care about competitive Premodern, this is the kind of data you should be watching.Support Cyrus’ work here: https://www.patreon.com/CrucibleOfWordsFollow him on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/crucibleofwords.bsky.socialJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Become a Paid Subscriber: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eternaldurdles/subscribeEternal Durdles is a weekly Magic: the Gathering podcast focusing on the Legacy format. Hosted by long-time MTG veterans Zac Clark and Phil Blechman.
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EternalDurdles
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