Ultimate Masters
December 7, 2018War of the Spark
May 3, 2019Magic: The
Gathering Set Spotlight: Ravnica Allegiance
Release Date: January 25, 2019
Introduction to Ravnica Allegiance
‘Ravnica Allegiance’ is an enthralling expansion set within the world
of Magic: The Gathering. Released in January 25 2019, it marked the
eightieth expansion set and continued the storyline set in the sprawling
city-plane of Ravnica, where ten powerful guilds vie for control.
Conflict in the Tenth District
Ravnica Allegiance picks up where Guilds of Ravnica left off,
continuing the story of the epic struggle for dominance between
Ravnica’s ten guilds. The set delves deeper into the alliances and
rivalries among the guilds, adding new layers of intrigue to the
city-plane.
Notable Mechanics and Themes
Ravnica Allegiance introduced several mechanics and themes that set
it apart:
- Guilds: The set continued to focus on Ravnica’s
ten guilds, each with its own unique abilities and identity. - Spectacle: Ravnica Allegiance introduced the
‘spectacle’ mechanic, which allows players to cast spells for a reduced
cost if an opponent has lost life during the turn. - Addendum: The set introduced the ‘addendum’
mechanic, which offers enhanced effects if the spell is cast during your
main phase.
Notable Cards from Ravnica Allegiance
Ravnica Allegiance features several cards with distinctive abilities
and connections to the theme of guilds and the power struggle on
Ravnica. Some of the most notable include:
- Kaya, Orzhov Usurper: A planeswalker card
featuring Kaya, known for her role in the Orzhov guild and her skill in
dealing with ghosts. - Hydroid Krasis: A versatile creature card that
represents the mysterious creatures lurking in Ravnica’s
waters. - Emergency Powers: A powerful sorcery card known
for its game-altering ability to shuffle hands and graveyards into
libraries.
The Ravnica Allegiance Expansion Symbol
The expansion symbol for Ravnica Allegiance features a depiction of
the Azorius symbol, representing one of Ravnica’s powerful guilds.
Limited Print Run and Collectible Value
Ravnica Allegiance had a limited print run, contributing to the
collectible value of its cards. The cards from this set are recognized
by their distinctive black border, setting them apart from other Magic
sets.
Historical Significance
Ravnica Allegiance is historically significant for its continuation
of the Ravnica storyline, the focus on the ten guilds, and the
introduction of the ‘spectacle’ and ‘addendum’ mechanics. It’s
celebrated for its deepening of the conflicts between Ravnica’s guilds
and the intrigue that ensues.
As with all Magic cards, the value of cards from Ravnica Allegiance
can fluctuate over time due to collector demand and format legality. To
stay updated on Ravnica Allegiance and its cards, we recommend checking
Magic: The Gathering websites, consulting with local card shops, and
connecting with fellow collectors.