A Realm Reborn: First Look at 5 New ‘Town’ Cards from Magic: The Gathering’s Final Fantasy Set
A Realm Reborn: First Look at 5 New ‘Town’ Cards from Magic: The Gathering’s Final Fantasy Set
The worlds of Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy are colliding, and the anticipation is reaching fever pitch! For months, fans have speculated about the upcoming set, a groundbreaking collaboration between Wizards of the Coast and Square Enix. The biggest question on everyone’s mind? What will the common tapped lands look like? Well, the wait is finally over! We’re thrilled to present an exclusive first look at five new cards from the highly anticipated Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy set, all featuring the brand-new land subtype: Town.
This set marks a significant moment for both franchises. It’s not just a crossover; it’s a full-fledged integration of the rich lore and iconic locations of Final Fantasy into the strategic depth of Magic: The Gathering. This collaboration signals a bold new direction for Magic, pushing the boundaries of Universes Beyond even further than the popular Lord of the Rings set from a couple of years ago. Prepare to delve into familiar landscapes and iconic cities, reimagined through the lens of Magic.
The Town Lands: A Journey Through Final Fantasy
These new ‘Town’ lands are more than just mana sources; they’re portals to beloved locations from across the Final Fantasy universe. Each card evokes the unique atmosphere and history of its respective town, bringing a flavor that will resonate with longtime fans. Let’s take a closer look at the unveiled cards:
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Sharlayan (Final Fantasy XIV): For those who’ve journeyed through Eorzea, Sharlayan needs no introduction. This center of knowledge and learning, with its distinctive architecture and scholarly inhabitants, is instantly recognizable. The card’s artwork beautifully captures the city’s serene yet sophisticated ambiance. As a personal favorite from FFXIV, this card is particularly exciting. The design even subtly echoes Meletis from Magic’s Theros sets, a clever nod to established Magic lore.
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Vector (Final Fantasy VI): From the technologically advanced world of Final Fantasy VI comes Vector, the capital of the Gestahlian Empire. This industrial powerhouse, with its factories and airships, stands in stark contrast to the more fantastical settings of other Final Fantasy games. The card’s art likely reflects the city’s gritty and imposing nature, hinting at the conflict and intrigue that permeate FFVI’s narrative.
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Treno (Final Fantasy IX): The City of Eternal Night from Final Fantasy IX, Treno, is a haven for artists, scholars, and those who prefer the shadows. Its perpetually dark skies and gothic architecture create an atmosphere of mystery and allure. Expect the card to showcase the city’s distinctive aesthetic, perhaps highlighting its famed auction house or the imposing silhouette of its clock tower.
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Windurst (Final Fantasy XI): From the online world of Final Fantasy XI comes Windurst, a city steeped in mystical traditions and home to the Tarutaru, a race of diminutive mages. The card will likely depict the city’s lush greenery and whimsical architecture, reflecting its connection to nature and its inhabitants’ magical prowess. This card is a great callback to the MMO that holds a special place in the hearts of many.
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Insomnia (Final Fantasy XV): The crown jewel of the Kingdom of Lucis in Final Fantasy XV, Insomnia, is a modern metropolis protected by a magical barrier. Its towering skyscrapers and advanced technology represent a fusion of fantasy and science fiction. The card will likely showcase the city’s sleek design and its iconic citadel, hinting at the tragic events that befall it in the game.
More Than Just Lands: What to Expect from the Set
While these ‘Town’ lands offer a tantalizing glimpse into the Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy set, they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Expect to see iconic characters like Cloud Strife, Tidus, Lightning, and many more represented as powerful creatures and planeswalkers. Signature spells like Ultima, Firaga, and Holy will undoubtedly make an appearance, adding devastating firepower to your decks. The set is poised to deliver a truly immersive Final Fantasy experience within the framework of Magic: The Gathering.
The integration of Final Fantasy’s lore extends beyond just character and spell names. Look for mechanics that reflect the games’ unique systems, such as job classes, summons, and limit breaks. The set promises to be a faithful adaptation of the Final Fantasy universe, offering both nostalgia for longtime fans and a fresh, exciting experience for Magic players.
Pre-Orders and Release Date
The Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy set is slated for release on June 13th. Products from both the standard set and commander sets are available for pre-order now. However, due to the immense popularity of this collaboration, pre-order supplies are selling out quickly. Don’t miss your chance to secure your piece of this epic crossover!
Final Thoughts: A Fusion of Titans
The Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy set is shaping up to be a monumental event in the history of both franchises. The unveiled ‘Town’ lands offer a captivating first look at the set’s thematic depth and artistic quality. This collaboration represents a bold step forward for Magic: The Gathering, embracing new worlds and expanding its creative horizons. Whether you’re a seasoned Magic player, a die-hard Final Fantasy fan, or simply curious about this unprecedented crossover, the Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy set promises an unforgettable journey through the realms. Get ready to build your decks, summon your heroes, and experience the magic of Final Fantasy like never before!
Source: CNET