Strixhaven's "Prepared" Mechanic Brings Ancestral Recall to Standard
Key Insights
The leaked card, Emeritus of Ideation, is a creature that, when "prepared," allows you to cast Ancestral Recall.
The "Prepared" mechanic is new to Strixhaven and involves creatures having a split text box, with the right side containing an instant or sorcery spell.
Wizards has found ways to reference or repurpose Reserved List cards without directly reprinting them.
This card is likely a Limited bomb and could be viable in Standard decks, depending on how easily the "Prepared" state can be achieved and maintained.
In-Depth Analysis
The "Prepared" mechanic adds a new layer of complexity to Magic gameplay. Emeritus of Ideation, a 5/5 flyer with Ward 2, enters the battlefield "prepared," allowing you to immediately cast Ancestral Recall for one blue mana, drawing three cards. The creature can be "reloaded" by exiling eight cards from your graveyard when it attacks. Other cards in the set, such as Biblioplex Tomekeeper, can also "prepare" creatures. This suggests that building a deck around the "Prepared" mechanic could lead to powerful card advantage. While not a true reprint, this mechanic offers a fresh way to experience the power of Ancestral Recall in a new context. The design cleverly bypasses the Reserved List while still paying homage to one of Magic's most iconic spells. Do you think this card will be busted or unplayable? Cast your vote in the Wargamer Discord [https://discord.com/invite/wargamer?ref=yanuki.com].
FAQs
Q: How does the "Prepared" mechanic work?
Creatures with the "Prepared" mechanic have two halves to their text box. You can cast the creature from your hand. If the creature becomes "prepared," you can cast the instant or sorcery on the right side of the card by paying its mana cost.
Q: Is this a violation of the Reserved List?
No, Wizards can't reprint actual cards on the Reserved List, but they've found ways to dodge that restriction, such as repurposing the card's abilities or name on a different card.
Key Takeaways
The "Prepared" mechanic is a novel way to introduce powerful spells without breaking the Reserved List.
Secrets of Strixhaven appears to be celebrating iconic spells from Magic's history.
Keep an eye out for other cards that interact with the "Prepared" mechanic, as they could lead to powerful new strategies.
Discussion
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