How do I know if my card is modern legal?

How Do I Know If My Card is Modern Legal?

As a Magic: The Gathering player, it’s essential to know which cards are legal in the Modern format. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to determine if your card is Modern legal.

Original Printing and Reprints

One of the easiest ways to determine if a card is Modern legal is to check its original printing. Cards printed before Eighth Edition are generally considered legal in Modern, unless they were specifically banned or restricted. If a card was reprinted in or after Eighth Edition, it is likely legal in Modern. However, there are some exceptions, such as timeshifted cards from the Time Spiral block, which may have different legality status.

Timeshifted Cards

Timeshifted cards, like those from the Time Spiral block, were originally printed in a different time period and were reprinted in a newer set with a different card frame. These cards are considered Modern legal, even if they were not reprinted in the Modern frame.

Planewalker Decks and Buy-a-Box Promos

Cards from Planewalker decks and Buy-a-Box promos are also considered Modern legal. These cards are part of the official Magic: The Gathering product and are intended for play in Modern.

What Sets are Legal in Modern?

Here is a list of sets that are legal in Modern:

• Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty
• Innistrad: Crimson Vow
• Innistrad: Midnight Hunt
• Dungeons & Dragons: Adventures in the Forgotten Realms
• Modern Horizons 2
• Strixhaven: School of Mages

Forbidden Cards

Cards that are Forbidden cannot be used in your Main Deck, Extra Deck, or Side Deck. You can only have 1 copy maximum of a Limited card in your Main Deck, Extra Deck, and Side Deck combined.

Banned Cards

Cards that are Banned are not allowed in any deck or side deck.

Restricted Cards

Cards that are Restricted can only be played in the number specified by the ban list.

The List

The List is a collection of cards that are restricted or banned in various formats, including Modern. While being on "The List" does not automatically make a card Modern-legal, it does indicate that the card is not legal in other formats.

Fakes and Counterfeits

When buying or trading cards, be cautious of fakes and counterfeits. Counterfeit cards may be difficult to distinguish from authentic cards, but there are some signs to look out for. Check the card’s packaging, weight, and printing quality. A genuine Magic: The Gathering card will have a certain weight and feel to it. Be wary of cards that are too light or too heavy.

Card Authenticity

To verify the authenticity of a card, check the card’s packaging and the Magic: The Gathering website. The official website has a section dedicated to card authenticity and can help you determine if a card is genuine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, determining if a card is Modern legal involves checking its original printing, reprint information, and ban status. Remember to be cautious when buying or trading cards, and always verify the authenticity of the card before making a purchase. With this guide, you’ll be able to confidently identify which cards are Modern legal and which are not. Happy deck-building!