War of the Spark
May 3, 2019Signature Spellbook Gideon
June 28, 2019Magic: The
Gathering Set Spotlight: Modern Horizons
Release Date: June 14, 2019
Introduction to Modern Horizons
‘Modern Horizons’ is a unique expansion set within the world of
Magic: The Gathering. Released on June 14, 2019, it introduced cards
directly into the Modern format, bypassing the traditional Standard set
rotation. The set is designed to enrich the Modern format with new and
exciting cards, many of which are not legal in Standard.
A New Horizon for Modern
Modern is a popular constructed format that includes a wide range of
cards from Magic’s history. ‘Modern Horizons’ was created to bring fresh
and innovative cards to the format, offering players new deck-building
options and strategies.
Notable Mechanics and Themes
‘Modern Horizons’ introduced several mechanics and themes to the
Modern format:
-
Horizon Lands: A cycle of lands that tap for
colored mana or can be sacrificed to draw a card, providing versatility
to mana bases. -
Snow Permanents: The set expanded on the snow
permanent mechanic, introducing new cards that benefit from having snow
permanents in play. -
Suspend: A returning mechanic from the Time
Spiral block, allowing players to exile a card and cast it for a reduced
cost after a certain number of turns.
Notable Cards from Modern Horizons
The set features a variety of impactful cards that have left their
mark on the Modern format. Some of the most notable include:
-
Force of Negation: A powerful blue instant that
can counter spells for free if cast on an opponent’s turn. -
Wrenn and Six: A planeswalker that provides
recurring card advantage and land recursion. -
Urza, Lord High Artificer: A legendary creature
that has become the centerpiece of multiple competitive Modern
decks.
The Modern Horizons Expansion Symbol
The expansion symbol for ‘Modern Horizons’ features a stylized,
futuristic ‘MH1,’ emphasizing its unique status as a Modern-focused
set.
Historical Significance
‘Modern Horizons’ is historically significant for its impact on the
Modern format. It provided the format with new archetypes, revitalized
existing strategies, and opened up creative possibilities for
players.
Collectible Value
Cards from ‘Modern Horizons’ are highly sought after by Modern
players and collectors alike. The set includes a range of powerful and
valuable cards that can significantly impact the format and find homes
in various decks.
Ongoing Influence
‘Modern Horizons’ continues to influence the Modern format, and its
impact can be seen in the deck choices and metagame of competitive Magic
events. It has solidified its place as a crucial release for the Modern
format.