Eternal Durdles

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Eternal Durdles is a weekly Magic: the Gathering podcast, focusing on the Legacy format, hosted by long-time MTG veterans Zac Clark, Nathan Golia, and Phil Blechman.

EternalDurdles


    • Jun 12, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 46m AVG DURATION
    • 932 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Eternal Durdles

    NYSE Champion Tony Scapone Breaks Down Jewel Shops

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 36:01


    Tony Scapone didn't just win NYSE.He predicted he would.Fresh off taking home the Black Lotus at NYSE, Tony joins the show to break down his Jewel Shops list, the evolution of the archetype, key card choices, and how he navigated one of the most competitive Vintage tournaments of the year. In this episode we discuss:• How Jewel Shops actually works• Why Tony believes this build is better than stock Jewel lists• The role of Paradox Engine, Transmute Artifact, and Metamorph• Matchups against Doomsday, Initiative, BUG, and Shops• His Top 8 path through NYSE• Why open decklists improve competitive Magic• What it's like competing for a Black Lotus Tony also shares stories from the event, explains several key plays from the tournament, and discusses what's next after one of the biggest wins of his Magic career. Have you played against Jewel Shops? Do you think it's the best deck in Vintage right now?#MTGVintage #VintageMTG #MagicTheGathering #NYSE #BlackLotus

    How I Turned Bulk Into Premodern Staples

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 27:01


    How do you build a Magic collection without constantly buying cards?In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at how I've been using TradeMagic to turn unused cards into Premodern staples, sideboard cards, and future deck projects—all without spending additional money. We discuss:• How the TradeMagic system works• Turning bulk and unused cards into playable staples• Building Premodern decks one card at a time• Why trading can be more efficient than selling to a store• Managing wants, haves, and long-term collection goals• The return of the classic "Pack to Power" mindset• Why getting cards back into players' hands matters for the community Whether you're trying to finish a deck, upgrade your collection, or simply find a better home for cards collecting dust, TradeMagic offers a unique way to keep cards moving through the community. How do you usually acquire cards: buying singles, trading, opening packs, or something else?#MagicTheGathering #PremodernMTG #TradeMagic #MTGFinance #MTG

    How I Turned Bulk Into Premodern Staples

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 27:01


    How do you build a Magic collection without constantly buying cards?In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at how I've been using TradeMagic to turn unused cards into Premodern staples, sideboard cards, and future deck projects—all without spending additional money. We discuss:• How the TradeMagic system works• Turning bulk and unused cards into playable staples• Building Premodern decks one card at a time• Why trading can be more efficient than selling to a store• Managing wants, haves, and long-term collection goals• The return of the classic "Pack to Power" mindset• Why getting cards back into players' hands matters for the community Whether you're trying to finish a deck, upgrade your collection, or simply find a better home for cards collecting dust, TradeMagic offers a unique way to keep cards moving through the community. How do you usually acquire cards: buying singles, trading, opening packs, or something else?#MagicTheGathering #PremodernMTG #TradeMagic #MTGFinance #MTG

    Budget Premodern Starter Guide

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 29:56


    Featured decks include:• Psychatog https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETPTOG• Mono Blue Control https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETUCONTROL• Black-White Control https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETUCONTROL• Goblins https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETGOBLINS• Moneyball Black https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETMONEYBALL• LANDSTILL https://tinyurl.com/BudgetUWLANDSTILL• Bonus: Budget Stasis discussion! https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETSTASISJoin Us in Support of Alkem Gear's Kickstarter ending June 19th!https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alkemgear/alkem-gear-purpose-built-tabletop-gear?ref=249zfwChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesWant to get into Premodern without spending a fortune?In this episode, we break down five budget-friendly Premodern decks that offer real tournament playability while staying around the $200–$300 range. Whether you're looking to build your first deck, create a battle box, or simply explore the format, these archetypes offer powerful gameplay without requiring a massive investment.We also discuss:• Why Premodern remains fresh despite no rotation• Reprints and budget alternatives• Upgrade paths for each deck• Which staples are worth buying first• How to get the most value from your collectionIf you've been curious about Premodern, this might be the perfect place to start.Which budget deck would you build first?#PremodernMTG #MagicTheGathering #MTG #Premodern #BudgetMTGTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

    NYSE Champion Tony Scapone Breaks Down Jewel Shops

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 36:01


    Tony Scapone didn't just win NYSE.He predicted he would.Fresh off taking home the Black Lotus at NYSE, Tony joins the show to break down his Jewel Shops list, the evolution of the archetype, key card choices, and how he navigated one of the most competitive Vintage tournaments of the year. In this episode we discuss:• How Jewel Shops actually works• Why Tony believes this build is better than stock Jewel lists• The role of Paradox Engine, Transmute Artifact, and Metamorph• Matchups against Doomsday, Initiative, BUG, and Shops• His Top 8 path through NYSE• Why open decklists improve competitive Magic• What it's like competing for a Black Lotus Tony also shares stories from the event, explains several key plays from the tournament, and discusses what's next after one of the biggest wins of his Magic career. Have you played against Jewel Shops? Do you think it's the best deck in Vintage right now?#MTGVintage #VintageMTG #MagicTheGathering #NYSE #BlackLotus

    Budget Premodern Starter Guide

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 29:56


    Featured decks include:• Psychatog https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETPTOG• Mono Blue Control https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETUCONTROL• Black-White Control https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETUCONTROL• Goblins https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETGOBLINS• Moneyball Black https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETMONEYBALL• LANDSTILL https://tinyurl.com/BudgetUWLANDSTILL• Bonus: Budget Stasis discussion! https://tinyurl.com/BUDGETSTASISJoin Us in Support of Alkem Gear's Kickstarter ending June 19th!https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alkemgear/alkem-gear-purpose-built-tabletop-gear?ref=249zfwChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesWant to get into Premodern without spending a fortune?In this episode, we break down five budget-friendly Premodern decks that offer real tournament playability while staying around the $200–$300 range. Whether you're looking to build your first deck, create a battle box, or simply explore the format, these archetypes offer powerful gameplay without requiring a massive investment.We also discuss:• Why Premodern remains fresh despite no rotation• Reprints and budget alternatives• Upgrade paths for each deck• Which staples are worth buying first• How to get the most value from your collectionIf you've been curious about Premodern, this might be the perfect place to start.Which budget deck would you build first?#PremodernMTG #MagicTheGathering #MTG #Premodern #BudgetMTG

    Andy V's Complete Landstill Masterclass

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 33:08


    Many Premodern players wrote off Landstill years ago.Then Andy V kept putting up results.In this episode, Andy V joins Eternal Durdles to break down one of Premodern's most iconic control decks. We discuss how Landstill wins games, why Standstill remains one of the strongest card advantage engines in the format, key deckbuilding decisions, matchup theory, and the sideboard plans Andy has refined through years of tournament play. We cover:Why Landstill is still competitiveThe role of Standstill and Mishra's FactoryCounterspell selection and deck constructionSideboard technology including Thawing GlaciersMatchup strategies against Enchantress, Replenish, Stiflenought, and moreAndy's tournament experience and approach to mastering a control deckWe also take a look at Andy's strategy game, Sigil, and discuss how its design intersects with competitive gaming and decision making. If you love Premodern, control decks, and deep strategic discussion, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

    Andy V's Complete Landstill Masterclass

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 33:08


    Many Premodern players wrote off Landstill years ago.Then Andy V kept putting up results.In this episode, Andy V joins Eternal Durdles to break down one of Premodern's most iconic control decks. We discuss how Landstill wins games, why Standstill remains one of the strongest card advantage engines in the format, key deckbuilding decisions, matchup theory, and the sideboard plans Andy has refined through years of tournament play. We cover:Why Landstill is still competitiveThe role of Standstill and Mishra's FactoryCounterspell selection and deck constructionSideboard technology including Thawing GlaciersMatchup strategies against Enchantress, Replenish, Stiflenought, and moreAndy's tournament experience and approach to mastering a control deckWe also take a look at Andy's strategy game, Sigil, and discuss how its design intersects with competitive gaming and decision making. If you love Premodern, control decks, and deep strategic discussion, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

    The MOST Underrated Premodern Sideboard Cards

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 43:54


    What are the MOST underrated sideboard cards in Premodern right now? In this episode, Zac and Phil break down 20 forgotten, overlooked, and criminally underplayed sideboard cards that deserve way more respect in the current metagame.We cover:• Why Gilded Drake is secretly busted• The return of prison cards like Peacekeeper and Ensnaring Bridge• Free enchantment hate with Reverent Silence• Why Misdirection should see more play• The power of weird hate cards like Spiritual Focus and Compost• Old-school all-stars like Winter Orb, Back to Basics, and Wasteland• Why some of these cards could completely swing popular matchups todayThis episode is full of deep-cut Premodern tech, old-school Magic stories, and the kind of spicy sideboard ideas that can steal matches at your next event.What are YOUR favorite underrated sideboard cards in Premodern right now? Let us know in the comments.

    The MOST Underrated Premodern Sideboard Cards

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2026 43:54


    What are the MOST underrated sideboard cards in Premodern right now? In this episode, Zac and Phil break down 20 forgotten, overlooked, and criminally underplayed sideboard cards that deserve way more respect in the current metagame.We cover:• Why Gilded Drake is secretly busted• The return of prison cards like Peacekeeper and Ensnaring Bridge• Free enchantment hate with Reverent Silence• Why Misdirection should see more play• The power of weird hate cards like Spiritual Focus and Compost• Old-school all-stars like Winter Orb, Back to Basics, and Wasteland• Why some of these cards could completely swing popular matchups todayThis episode is full of deep-cut Premodern tech, old-school Magic stories, and the kind of spicy sideboard ideas that can steal matches at your next event.What are YOUR favorite underrated sideboard cards in Premodern right now? Let us know in the comments.

    Legacy Miracles Might Be Real Again

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 36:43


    Is Legacy Miracles finally back?After Top 4'ing a local event with a brand-new UW Miracles shell, Phil breaks down why the deck may actually be positioned well again in modern Legacy — and why cards like Erod fundamentally changed the archetype. We cover:• Why Erod solves Miracles' biggest problems• Flow State vs Predict in control shells• Counterbalance in current Legacy• Why Force of Will may be weaker than people think• Mystic Sanctuary interactions• Sideboard theory and matchup planning• Snapcaster Mage vs Vendilion Clique packages• How Miracles wins in today's Legacy metagameIf you're a Legacy control player, a longtime Miracles fan, or just trying to understand where UW Control fits in 2026 Legacy, this episode goes deep into the theory behind the archetype.

    Is Miracles BACK in Legacy?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 36:43


    Is Legacy Miracles finally back?After Top 4'ing a local event with a brand-new UW Miracles shell, Phil breaks down why the deck may actually be positioned well again in modern Legacy — and why cards like Erod fundamentally changed the archetype. We cover:• Why Erod solves Miracles' biggest problems• Flow State vs Predict in control shells• Counterbalance in current Legacy• Why Force of Will may be weaker than people think• Mystic Sanctuary interactions• Sideboard theory and matchup planning• Snapcaster Mage vs Vendilion Clique packages• How Miracles wins in today's Legacy metagameIf you're a Legacy control player, a longtime Miracles fan, or just trying to understand where UW Control fits in 2026 Legacy, this episode goes deep into the theory behind the archetype.

    Magic Could NEVER Print These as Lands

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 22:32


    What happens when longtime Magic players look at Sorcery: Contested Realm sites through the lens of competitive MTG?Chaos ensues.In this bonus episode, we break down the Sorcery sites that would almost certainly be banned, restricted, or format-defining if they existed in Magic: The Gathering Arena or paper Magic. We cover:• Vaults of Zul as an “Ancestral Recall land”• Roots of Yggdrasil and free Armageddons• Forgotten Tomb as free Entomb• Merlin's Tower as Dark Ritual on a land• Why Fields of Camlann is terrifying• The hidden power of Sorcery's Atlas system• How positioning changes card balance entirelyIf you're a Magic player curious about Sorcery, this episode is a perfect look at how fundamentally different — and sometimes absurd — the game can be.

    Legacy's REAL Problem Isn't Oops All Spells

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 32:52


    The Legacy B&R announcement finally hit Oops All Spells… but did Wizards actually solve the problem? In this episode, we go deeper on the May 2026 ban announcement and discuss why the bigger issue may actually be Colorless Tron, The One Ring, and the growing dominance of fast mana strategies in Legacy.We cover:• Why banning Undercity Informer may not be enough• The difference between old Goblin Charbelcher decks and modern Oops All Spells• Why Magic Online incentives distort Legacy• Whether players should blame the deck or Wizards• Why Planar Nexus is terrifying• The role of Kozilek's Command in Tron's rise• Why Karn, the Great Creator may deserve more scrutiny• Whether Legacy's fast mana problem is finally catching up to the formatWe also talk about how Wizards communicated this B&R update — and why actually explaining their reasoning is a major step forward, even if we disagree with the conclusions.

    Legacy's REAL Problem Isn't Oops All Spells

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 32:52


    The Legacy B&R announcement finally hit Oops All Spells… but did Wizards actually solve the problem? In this episode, we go deeper on the May 2026 ban announcement and discuss why the bigger issue may actually be Colorless Tron, The One Ring, and the growing dominance of fast mana strategies in Legacy.We cover:• Why banning Undercity Informer may not be enough• The difference between old Goblin Charbelcher decks and modern Oops All Spells• Why Magic Online incentives distort Legacy• Whether players should blame the deck or Wizards• Why Planar Nexus is terrifying• The role of Kozilek's Command in Tron's rise• Why Karn, the Great Creator may deserve more scrutiny• Whether Legacy's fast mana problem is finally catching up to the formatWe also talk about how Wizards communicated this B&R update — and why actually explaining their reasoning is a major step forward, even if we disagree with the conclusions.

    Legacy FINALLY Gets a Ban | May 2026 B&R Reaction

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 11:59


    Wizards of the Coast finally made a Legacy ban announcement — and for once, they actually addressed the format directly. In this episode, we break down the May 2026 B&R update, the banning of Undercity Informer in Oops All Spells, and what it means for the future of Legacy. We discuss:• Why Oops All Spells needed to be hit• The Magic Online “fast deck” incentive problem• Why Legacy still has deeper issues• The rise of Colorless Tron• Whether Kozilek's Command or Planar Nexus could be next• Updated Legacy threat assessment numbers• Why cards like Tamiyo, Inquisitive Student and Orcish Bowmasters still matter• Whether Wizards is finally taking Legacy seriously againWe also go over the latest metagame numbers and talk about why the format may finally be moving in a healthier direction — even if there's still a lot of work left to do.

    Legacy FINALLY Gets a Ban | May 2026 B&R Reaction

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 11:59


    Wizards of the Coast finally made a Legacy ban announcement — and for once, they actually addressed the format directly. In this episode, we break down the May 2026 B&R update, the banning of Undercity Informer in Oops All Spells, and what it means for the future of Legacy. We discuss:• Why Oops All Spells needed to be hit• The Magic Online “fast deck” incentive problem• Why Legacy still has deeper issues• The rise of Colorless Tron• Whether Kozilek's Command or Planar Nexus could be next• Updated Legacy threat assessment numbers• Why cards like Tamiyo, Inquisitive Student and Orcish Bowmasters still matter• Whether Wizards is finally taking Legacy seriously againWe also go over the latest metagame numbers and talk about why the format may finally be moving in a healthier direction — even if there's still a lot of work left to do.

    How Much Has Changed Since Jerry Left?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 55:43


    Former Leaving a Legacy host Jerry Mee joins the show to talk about the explosive growth of Premodern, the current state of Legacy, and why so many longtime Magic players are rediscovering their love for the game through older formats.We dive into:• Why Premodern feels different from modern Magic• The problems with Legacy and constant power creep• Universes Beyond and the “Fortnite-ification” of MTG• Why players are rejecting rotating non-rotating formats• LobsterCon, community growth, and the future of Premodern• Gold border cards, proxies, and accessibility• Brewing new decks in an “unsolved” format• Whether Wizards will eventually monetize PremodernWe also get into some spicy deckbuilding discussion, including New England Threshnought, Mono Blue Dreadnought, tempo strategies in Premodern, and why Nimble Mongoose might secretly be cracked again.If you miss old-school Magic—or want to understand why Premodern is suddenly everywhere—this is the episode for you.

    How Much Has Changed Since Jerry Left?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 55:43


    Former Leaving a Legacy host Jerry Mee joins the show to talk about the explosive growth of Premodern, the current state of Legacy, and why so many longtime Magic players are rediscovering their love for the game through older formats.We dive into:• Why Premodern feels different from modern Magic• The problems with Legacy and constant power creep• Universes Beyond and the “Fortnite-ification” of MTG• Why players are rejecting rotating non-rotating formats• LobsterCon, community growth, and the future of Premodern• Gold border cards, proxies, and accessibility• Brewing new decks in an “unsolved” format• Whether Wizards will eventually monetize PremodernWe also get into some spicy deckbuilding discussion, including New England Threshnought, Mono Blue Dreadnought, tempo strategies in Premodern, and why Nimble Mongoose might secretly be cracked again.If you miss old-school Magic—or want to understand why Premodern is suddenly everywhere—this is the episode for you.

    The Deck I Brought to LobsterCon (And What I'd Change)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 34:01


    Back from LobsterCon 2026—and honestly, this event wasn't about the record. It was about the people, the games, and why Premodern is one of the best formats in Magic right now.In this video, I break down my full tournament run with Uzi Control, including every matchup, key decisions, and the mistakes that cost me wins. I also go over what I'd change moving forward and what the event tells us about the current meta.We cover:• My full LobsterCon match-by-match breakdown• Why Psychatog overperformed all weekend• The biggest misplay that cost me a match• How Uzi Control lines up vs the field• The evolving Premodern metagame• Why events like this are what Magic is all aboutDespite finishing 4–5, this was one of the best tournament experiences I've had—great games, great people, and a format that continues to prove how deep it is.If you enjoy Premodern, tournament reports, or just want a real look at what events like this are like, this one's for you.

    Inside STASIS Strategy at LobsterCon

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 25:37


    Jacob Lee joins us after piloting Stasis to a 25th place finish at LobsterCon — proving once again that one of Magic's most infamous prison decks is still VERY real in Premodern. We break down:• Why Stasis is underplayed• The secret tech behind the list• Upheaval lines and Brain Freeze kills• Matchups against Goblins, Enchantress, Tog, and more• Why free countermagic matters• How to actually WIN with Stasis• Sideboard tech for the current metagameIf you've ever wanted to make your opponents skip their untap step forever… this episode is for you.

    My LobsterCon recap for 2026

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 32:06


    Back from LobsterCon 2026—and honestly, this event wasn't about the record. It was about the people, the games, and why Premodern is one of the best formats in Magic right now. In this video, I break down my full tournament run with Uzi Control, including every matchup, key decisions, and the mistakes that cost me wins. I also go over what I'd change moving forward and what the event tells us about the current meta.We cover:• My full LobsterCon match-by-match breakdown• Why Psychatog overperformed all weekend• The biggest misplay that cost me a match• How Uzi Control lines up vs the field• The evolving Premodern metagame• Why events like this are what Magic is all aboutDespite finishing 4–5, this was one of the best tournament experiences I've had—great games, great people, and a format that continues to prove how deep it is.If you enjoy Premodern, tournament reports, or just want a real look at what events like this are like, this one's for you.

    Inside STASIS Strategy at LobsterCon

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 25:37


    Jacob Lee joins us after piloting Stasis to a 25th place finish at LobsterCon — proving once again that one of Magic's most infamous prison decks is still VERY real in Premodern. We break down:• Why Stasis is underplayed• The secret tech behind the list• Upheaval lines and Brain Freeze kills• Matchups against Goblins, Enchantress, Tog, and more• Why free countermagic matters• How to actually WIN with Stasis• Sideboard tech for the current metagameIf you've ever wanted to make your opponents skip their untap step forever… this episode is for you.

    TRADEMAGIC Just Made Trading Cards So Much Easier

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 36:37


    Remember PucaTrade?The creator of the original platform, Eric Freytag, joins us to talk about his new project: TradeMagic.gg — a modern take on asynchronous Magic card trading. We break down:• Why PucaTrade failed• What was learned from the experience• How TradeMagicGG works• Turning bulk into real value• Why trading beats buylisting• The economics behind MTG trading platforms• How players can build decks without spending hundredsIf you've ever wanted a better way to trade Magic cards online, this episode is for you.

    TRADEMAGIC Just Made Trading Cards So Much Easier

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 36:38


    Remember PucaTrade?The creator of the original platform, Eric Freytag, joins us to talk about his new project: TradeMagic.gg — a modern take on asynchronous Magic card trading. We break down:• Why PucaTrade failed• What was learned from the experience• How TradeMagicGG works• Turning bulk into real value• Why trading beats buylisting• The economics behind MTG trading platforms• How players can build decks without spending hundredsIf you've ever wanted a better way to trade Magic cards online, this episode is for you.

    Premodern Is HEALTHIER Than JUST MTGO

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 37:54


    LobsterCon just gave us one of the clearest pictures of the Premodern meta we've seen in a long time—and it challenges a lot of what we thought we knew.In this episode, we break down the results, including why StifleNought underperformed, what actually rose to the top, and what it says about the health of the format. We dig into:• Why everyone came prepared for Dreadnought—and why that mattered• The rise of graveyard combo decks (Replenish, FEB, Hermit)• How disruption (Wasteland, Port, graveyard hate) shaped the event• What successful decks had in common• Why Premodern in paper feels VERY different from MTGO• How to adapt your deck going forwardThe takeaway?Premodern might be more open—and more skill-testing—than people give it credit for.If you're prepping for your next event (or just grinding MTGO), this is essential viewing.

    Premodern Is HEALTHIER Than JUST MTGO

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 37:54


    LobsterCon just gave us one of the clearest pictures of the Premodern meta we've seen in a long time—and it challenges a lot of what we thought we knew.In this episode, we break down the results, including why StifleNought underperformed, what actually rose to the top, and what it says about the health of the format. We dig into:• Why everyone came prepared for Dreadnought—and why that mattered• The rise of graveyard combo decks (Replenish, FEB, Hermit)• How disruption (Wasteland, Port, graveyard hate) shaped the event• What successful decks had in common• Why Premodern in paper feels VERY different from MTGO• How to adapt your deck going forwardThe takeaway?Premodern might be more open—and more skill-testing—than people give it credit for.If you're prepping for your next event (or just grinding MTGO), this is essential viewing.

    
The Premodern Meta Before LobsterCon

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 36:19


    LobsterCon is next weekend, and the Premodern meta continues to evolve.In this episode, we help isolate what you need to prepare for going into one of the biggest Premodern events of the year!We cover:• The most played decks (Goblins, StifleNought, Landstill, etc.)• Why “meta buckets” matter more than specific matchups• The rise of Moneyball Black and how it's evolving• Why Replenish might actually be the biggest sleeper deck• Building a smarter, more flexible sideboard• Identifying what your deck loses to• Why proactive strategies are favored in large events• Tournament endurance, pacing, and avoiding draws• Matchup defining cards (Withered Wretch, Engineered Plague, etc.)• How small deckbuilding tweaks change matchups• Deck performance of paper vs online• LobsterCon Top 8 predictionsHuge thanks to Cyrus for insights and data work(Check his links below)

    
The Premodern Meta Before LobsterCon

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2026 36:19


    LobsterCon is next weekend, and the Premodern meta continues to evolve.In this episode, we help isolate what you need to prepare for going into one of the biggest Premodern events of the year!We cover:• The most played decks (Goblins, StifleNought, Landstill, etc.)• Why “meta buckets” matter more than specific matchups• The rise of Moneyball Black and how it's evolving• Why Replenish might actually be the biggest sleeper deck• Building a smarter, more flexible sideboard• Identifying what your deck loses to• Why proactive strategies are favored in large events• Tournament endurance, pacing, and avoiding draws• Matchup defining cards (Withered Wretch, Engineered Plague, etc.)• How small deckbuilding tweaks change matchups• Deck performance of paper vs online• LobsterCon Top 8 predictionsHuge thanks to Cyrus for insights and data work(Check his links below)

    Legacy Threat Levels: What's REALLY Going On

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 38:57


    Is Legacy getting healthier?In this episode, we assess current Threat Level data, a metric that tracks how dominant cards are based on play rate and deck saturation, as well as:• The rise of Flow State• Why Orcish Bowmasters is finally trending down• Urza's Saga's massive surge• The impact of new design vs. bans on format health• How to interpret impact of threat level vs gameplay (and why cards like Thassa's Oracle should be viewed differently• The cyclical nature of format-defining cards• What trends suggest for the futureFull spreadsheet + data references discussed in the episode:

    Legacy Threat Levels: What's REALLY Going On

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 38:57


    Is Legacy getting healthier?In this episode, we assess current Threat Level data, a metric that tracks how dominant cards are based on play rate and deck saturation, as well as:• The rise of Flow State• Why Orcish Bowmasters is finally trending down• Urza's Saga's massive surge• The impact of new design vs. bans on format health• How to interpret impact of threat level vs gameplay (and why cards like Thassa's Oracle should be viewed differently• The cyclical nature of format-defining cards• What trends suggest for the futureFull spreadsheet + data references discussed in the episode:

    Premodern Cube Might Be the Best Way to Play Magic

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 46:47


    What if Magic felt like 1999 again?In this episode, we dive into a fully old-border Premodern Cube built for nostalgia and a weekend with the homies.https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/ac499a4f-4922-41f0-8749-0183e9bcaef4https://moxfield.com/decks/7Jq0coVJS0K5Kv2hW7Ev3A We chat:• The philosophy behind building a Premodern cube• Supported archetypes (Goblins, Zombies, Elves, Merfolk, etc)• Why this cube leans aggressive• How gold cards and creature types overlap• Mana fixing• Why the draft is more fun than the gamesWe also:• Pack 1 Pick 1 scenarios• Unintended archetypes• Derail into nonsense

    Premodern Cube Might Be the Best Way to Play Magic

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 46:47


    What if Magic felt like 1999 again?In this episode, we dive into a fully old-border Premodern Cube built for nostalgia and a weekend with the homies.https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/ac499a4f-4922-41f0-8749-0183e9bcaef4https://moxfield.com/decks/7Jq0coVJS0K5Kv2hW7Ev3A We chat:• The philosophy behind building a Premodern cube• Supported archetypes (Goblins, Zombies, Elves, Merfolk, etc)• Why this cube leans aggressive• How gold cards and creature types overlap• Mana fixing• Why the draft is more fun than the gamesWe also:• Pack 1 Pick 1 scenarios• Unintended archetypes• Derail into nonsense

    Wizards Can't Touch Pre-Modern (And Here's Why)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 20:01


    “Pre-Modern Horizons”…It sounds like a joke—but it reveals a deeper misunderstanding about what Pre-Modern actually is.In this episode, we break down:• Why adding new cards to Pre-Modern fundamentally doesn't work• How the format survives because it's closed• Why Wizards of the Coast has zero incentive to support it the “right” way• The real (and dangerous) ways WotC could try to monetize Pre-Modern• Why proxies, community formats, and grassroots growth are the REAL futureWe also get into:• The proxy debate (and why it matters more than ever)• Whether “Pre-Modern Masters” could actually happen• The booming growth of the format (30+ player locals

    Wizards Can't Touch PreModern (And Here's Why)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 21:16


    “Pre-Modern Horizons”… It sounds like a joke—but it reveals a deeper misunderstanding about what PreModern actually is.In this episode, we break down:• Why adding new cards to PreModern fundamentally doesn't work• How the format survives because it's closed• Why Wizards of the Coast has zero incentive to support it the “right” way• The real (and dangerous) ways WotC could try to monetize PreModern• Why proxies, community formats, and grassroots growth are the REAL futureWe also get into:• The proxy debate (and why it matters more than ever)• Whether “PreModern Masters” could actually happen• The booming growth of the format (30+ player locals

    The REAL Winners from Strixhaven (Legacy Review)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 54:57


    Strixhaven is here… but what actually matters for Legacy?In this episode, we break down the real winners and traps from the new set—cutting through hype to focus on what could actually impact the format.We're not just talking about the obvious cards—we're digging into:• Hidden role-players that could shape decks• Why “prepared” might be sneakily powerful• The cards that look busted… but won't show up• New tools for Storm, Control, and Midrange• Whether Legacy actually changes (or stays the same)We also cover:

    The REAL Winners from Strixhaven (Legacy Review)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 54:57


    Strixhaven is here… but what actually matters for Legacy?In this episode, we break down the real winners and traps from the new set—cutting through hype to focus on what could actually impact the format.We're not just talking about the obvious cards—we're digging into:• Hidden role-players that could shape decks• Why “prepared” might be sneakily powerful• The cards that look busted… but won't show up• New tools for Storm, Control, and Midrange• Whether Legacy actually changes (or stays the same)We also cover:

    Bl(U)e (Z)ombie (I)nfestation: The Most Underrated Premodern Deck Right Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 38:19


    Zac finally Top 8'd…with SQUEE.In this episode, we break down a Premodern Zombie Infestation and why it might be one of the most underrated strategies right now.We cover the full Top 8, why the Squee + Zombie Infestation engine lines up so well, and key mistakes to avoid. Additionally, we touch briefly on sideboarding and changes for LobsterCon!https://moxfield.com/decks/RvFTkpXNNUCzyTNkAUn7vw

    Bl(U)e (Z)ombie (I)nfestation: The Most Underrated Premodern Deck Right Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 38:19


    Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnZac finally Top 8'd…with SQUEE.In this episode, we break down a Premodern Zombie Infestation and why it might be one of the most underrated strategies right now.We cover the full Top 8, why the Squee + Zombie Infestation engine lines up so well, and key mistakes to avoid. Additionally, we touch briefly on sideboarding and changes for LobsterCon!JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

    Miracles Gets NEW Tools… But Is It Enough?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 41:55


    Is Legacy control finally getting real support again?With Strixhaven, two new cards — Flow State and A Road — might completely reshape how Miracles (and control decks) function in Legacy.In this episode we break down:• Why Miracles has struggled in modern Legacy• How Flow State compares to Expressive Iteration• Why Orcish Bowmasters warps card draw decisions• The real problem with Prismatic Ending• Why Wasteland is now mandatory again• Whether Flow State should be preemptively bannedThis isn't just a deck tech — it's a deep dive into how Legacy design has changed and what control decks actually need to survive.

    Miracles Gets NEW Tools… But Is It Enough?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 41:55


    Miracles Gets NEW Tools… But Is It Enough?

    Sled Sled: A New Way to Play Magic (Shared Deck Format)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 35:36


    Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnDandân is blowing up, or rather shared deck 1v1 is booming!So we built Sled Sled! A brand new shared-deck MTG mini-format built around Goblin Rock Sled and design chaos.https://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwIn this episode we break down:• What Sled Sled is plus it's core tension mechanics (mountains, shared deck, graveyard)• Why certain cards were included and what was cut• The philosophy behind building a great Dandân variant• How you can build your own Dandân variationDecklist + article coming soon on EternalDurdles.comhttps://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

    Sled Sled: A New Way to Play Magic (Shared Deck Format)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 35:36


    Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnDandân is blowing up, or rather shared deck 1v1 is booming!So we built Sled Sled! A brand new shared-deck MTG mini-format built around Goblin Rock Sled and design chaos.https://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwIn this episode we break down:• What Sled Sled is plus it's core tension mechanics (mountains, shared deck, graveyard)• Why certain cards were included and what was cut• The philosophy behind building a great Dandân variant• How you can build your own Dandân variationDecklist + article coming soon on EternalDurdles.comhttps://moxfield.com/decks/wEkAgnVZmUefHFwcnlfEfwJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comRiverside Partner Link: https://riverside.sjv.io/KB0E07MOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

    10 Weeks After the Ban… Did It Fix Premodern?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 34:14


    10 weeks after the Parallax Tide ban… what does the Premodern meta actually look like?We brought in Cyrus to break down real tournament data and answer the big question:

    10 Weeks After the Ban… Did It Fix Premodern?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 34:14


    10 weeks after the Parallax Tide ban… what does the Premodern meta actually look like?We brought in Cyrus to break down real tournament data and answer the big question:

    Why This B&R Announcement Failed the Community

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 40:14


    Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnThe March 23, 2026, Banned & Restricted announcement had three paragraphs for Legacy that didn't really tell us anything meaningful.In this episode, we break down exactly why that lack of clarity and transparency is a problem, including• Why not addressing something can lead to presuming it's an intentional omission.• Why undefined language (e.g., “fair,” “healthy”) is insufficient from a governing body.• The disconnect between player experience and WotC messaging.• How and why better communication could fix this.Banned and Restricted announcements aren't solely about bans, but also about communicating intent for Legacy and respecting players by demonstrating an understanding of the current play experience.

    Why This B&R Announcement Failed the Community

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 40:14


    Join our Email List: https://eternaldurdles.kit.com/b3d4a4dc9bChannel Art Assets by: https://www.instagram.com/jonthetallone/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnThe March 23, 2026, Banned & Restricted announcement had three paragraphs for Legacy that didn't really tell us anything meaningful.In this episode, we break down exactly why that lack of clarity and transparency is a problem, including• Why not addressing something can lead to presuming it's an intentional omission.• Why undefined language (e.g., “fair,” “healthy”) is insufficient from a governing body.• The disconnect between player experience and WotC messaging.• How and why better communication could fix this.Banned and Restricted announcements aren't solely about bans, but also about communicating intent for Legacy and respecting players by demonstrating an understanding of the current play experience.

    EXTRA DURDLES: Channel UPDATE/Our AI stance

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 29:32


    AI is everywhere and we've been accused of using it. In this episode, we talk through why we don't use AI for creative content and explain our views on when AI as a tool is valuable.We also chat channel updates, including content schedule, personal health goals, and the new artists creating our assets. 

    EXTRA DURDLES: Channel UPDATE/Our AI stance

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 29:32


    AI is everywhere and we've been accused of using it. In this episode, we talk through why we don't use AI for creative content and explain our views on when AI as a tool is valuable.We also chat channel updates, including content schedule, personal health goals, and the new artists creating our assets. 

    Pauper Is Doing What Legacy Can't

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 37:06


    We built a metric to measure the threat diversity of a format called  Threat Level. When applied to Legacy and Premodern, the results were informative. In this episode, we talk through what “Threat Level” means, the most played threats in Premodern and how those numbers compare to Legacy, and what we consider healthy levels. Threat level helps us understand why Legacy feels intense yet Premodern feels balanced.

    Pauper Is Doing What Legacy Can't

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 37:06


    We built a metric to measure the threat diversity of a format called  Threat Level. When applied to Legacy and Premodern, the results were informative. In this episode, we talk through what “Threat Level” means, the most played threats in Premodern and how those numbers compare to Legacy, and what we consider healthy levels. Threat level helps us understand why Legacy feels intense yet Premodern feels balanced.

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