Is Zendikar Rising legal in standard?
Zendikar Rising, the latest set released by Magic: The Gathering, has been a topic of discussion among players and enthusiasts alike. With its unique mechanics and exciting new cards, many are wondering if this set is still legal in standard. In this article, we’ll delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
Standard Rotation
Before we dive into the specifics of Zendikar Rising, it’s essential to understand the concept of standard rotation. Standard rotation is a process by which Wizards of the Coast, the creators of Magic: The Gathering, retire older sets from competitive play. This ensures that the game remains fresh and exciting, with new sets and cards being introduced regularly.
In 2022, the standard rotation triggered with the release of Dominaria United, which means that cards from Zendikar Rising, Kaldheim, Strixhaven: School of Mages, and Adventures in the Forgotten Realms are no longer legal in standard.
Cards from Zendikar Rising
So, what about the cards from Zendikar Rising specifically? Are they still legal in standard? The answer is no. As mentioned earlier, the standard rotation has retired all cards from Zendikar Rising, making them ineligible for competitive play.
Phyrexian and Eldrazi
If you’re wondering about the Phyrexians and Eldrazi, you’ll be pleased to know that they are still part of the standard format. The Phyrexians, in particular, have been a staple of the game for quite some time, and their cards are still widely played.
Why is Zendikar Rising not legal in standard?
So, why has Zendikar Rising been retired from standard? The answer lies in the game’s design philosophy. Wizards of the Coast aims to create a game that is both fun and competitive, with a focus on new and exciting cards being introduced regularly.
By retiring older sets, they can ensure that players are always playing with the latest and greatest cards, rather than relying on outdated ones. This also helps to keep the game fresh and exciting, with new strategies and deck builds emerging all the time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Zendikar Rising is no longer legal in standard due to the standard rotation triggered by Dominaria United. While this may be disappointing for some players, it’s essential to remember that the game is always evolving, and new sets and cards are being introduced regularly.
If you’re looking to play with Zendikar Rising cards, you may want to consider constructing a casual or non-competitive deck, or trading them with friends and fellow players. Who knows, you may even discover new and exciting strategies to play with these cards!
Additional Tips
- If you’re new to Magic: The Gathering, it’s a good idea to focus on building a deck with the latest and greatest cards.
- If you’re looking to trade cards, be sure to check with your local game store or online marketplaces for availability.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different deck builds and strategies – it’s all part of the fun of playing Magic!
Table: Standard Rotation Schedule
| Set | Release Date | Retirement Date |
|---|---|---|
| Zendikar Rising | September 2021 | September 2022 |
| Kaldheim | February 2021 | February 2022 |
| Strixhaven: School of Mages | April 2021 | April 2022 |
| Adventures in the Forgotten Realms | July 2021 | July 2022 |
| Dominaria United | September 2022 | N/A |
I hope this article has been helpful in answering your question about Zendikar Rising’s legality in standard. Happy gaming!