Podcasts about premodern

How did Moneyball Black go from an experimental mono-black brew to one of Premodern's defining archetypes?In this Masterclass, David Gleicher, the creator of Moneyball Black, sits down with Zac to explain the philosophy behind the deck, its evolution over time, why every card earned its place, and how to approach both deckbuilding and sideboarding. Whether you're sleeving up the deck for your next tournament or simply want to understand why it's become a format staple, this is the definitive guide. We cover:The origin of Moneyball BlackWhy mono-black works in PremodernThe "Moneyball" philosophyRavenous Rats vs. Black KnightUrza's Bauble technologyWhy Dark Ritual is still essentialCursed Scroll's role in the deckGraveborn Muse vs. Phyrexian ArenaMishra's Factory and Spawning PoolPlague Bearer and other key card choicesSideboarding philosophyMatchup guides against the format's top decks Whether you're new to the archetype or have been playing it for years, there's something here for every Moneyball Black pilot.#Premodern #MagicTheGathering #MoneyballBlack #MTG #Masterclass00:00 Introducing Moneyball Black00:22 Why David Built the Deck01:58 Early Suicide Black Lists04:40 The Birth of Moneyball Black07:15 Why Play Moneyball Black?07:53 The "Moneyball" Philosophy09:32 Ravenous Rats Explained12:55 The Evolution of the Deck14:14 Black Knight vs. Ravenous Rats16:47 Urza's Bauble Technology19:07 Why Cursed Scroll Matters23:22 Dark Ritual's Role28:06 Mishra's Factory & Spawning Pool30:05 Plague Bearer Tech31:35 Graveborn Muse vs. Phyrexian Arena34:25 Sideboarding PhilosophyTimestamps

How did Moneyball Black go from an experimental mono-black brew to one of Premodern's defining archetypes?In this Masterclass, David Gleicher, the creator of Moneyball Black, sits down with Zac to explain the philosophy behind the deck, its evolution over time, why every card earned its place, and how to approach both deckbuilding and sideboarding. Whether you're sleeving up the deck for your next tournament or simply want to understand why it's become a format staple, this is the definitive guide. We cover:The origin of Moneyball BlackWhy mono-black works in PremodernThe "Moneyball" philosophyRavenous Rats vs. Black KnightUrza's Bauble technologyWhy Dark Ritual is still essentialCursed Scroll's role in the deckGraveborn Muse vs. Phyrexian ArenaMishra's Factory and Spawning PoolPlague Bearer and other key card choicesSideboarding philosophyMatchup guides against the format's top decks Whether you're new to the archetype or have been playing it for years, there's something here for every Moneyball Black pilot.#Premodern #MagicTheGathering #MoneyballBlack #MTG #Masterclass00:00 Introducing Moneyball Black00:22 Why David Built the Deck01:58 Early Suicide Black Lists04:40 The Birth of Moneyball Black07:15 Why Play Moneyball Black?07:53 The "Moneyball" Philosophy09:32 Ravenous Rats Explained12:55 The Evolution of the Deck14:14 Black Knight vs. Ravenous Rats16:47 Urza's Bauble Technology19:07 Why Cursed Scroll Matters23:22 Dark Ritual's Role28:06 Mishra's Factory & Spawning Pool30:05 Plague Bearer Tech31:35 Graveborn Muse vs. Phyrexian Arena34:25 Sideboarding PhilosophyTimestamps

Think Hermit Full English Breakfast is just another Survival of the Fittest deck?Think again.This week we're joined by Galen LeMay, one of the premier Hermit F.E.B. pilots in Premodern, fresh off a Top 8 finish at the North American Championships. Together we break down one of the most complicated—and rewarding—combo decks in the format.In this episode we cover:Why Hermit F.E.B. is so difficult to masterThe Survival of the Fittest engineVolrath's Shapeshifter combo linesHermit Druid explainedPhyrexian Devourer + Triskelion killsPsychatog and Akroma combat killsKarmic Guide tricksAnimate Dead interactionsBattlefield Scrounger technologyWhy Palinchron is more important than it looksSideboarding philosophyHow to approach learning the deckWhy this archetype rewards hundreds of games of practiceIf you've ever wanted to understand one of Premodern's deepest combo decks, this is the episode.00:00 Introduction00:50 Why Hermit F.E.B. Is So Difficult03:03 Why Play This Deck?07:37 What Does Hermit F.E.B. Actually Do?11:20 Phyrexian Devourer Explained14:30 Triskelion Combo Kill20:10 Hermit Druid Combo25:20 Psychatog & Akroma Kill28:45 Mana Creatures Matter More Than You Think30:35 Karmic Guide Combo Lines37:50 Animate Dead Technology45:15 Battlefield Scrounger Innovation49:20 Palinchron Explained53:30 Hidden Combo Lines55:40 Patreon Matchup Guide Preview58:40 Sideboarding Philosophy1:12:45 Replenish Matchup & Sideboarding1:18:58 Goblins Matchup & Sideboarding1:27:24 Elves Matchup & Sideboarding1:34:40 Stiflenought Matchup & Sideboarding1:41:07 Mono Black Control Matchup & Sideboarding1:48:31 Burn Matchup & Sideboarding1:58:18 Landstill Matchup & Sideboarding2:06:34 The Rock Matchup & Sideboarding2:12:55 Enchantress Matchup & Sideboarding2:18:42 Survival Matchup & Sideboarding2:26:01 Closing Thoughts & Final Sideboarding Philosophy

Think Hermit Full English Breakfast is just another Survival of the Fittest deck?Think again.This week we're joined by Galen LeMay, one of the premier Hermit F.E.B. pilots in Premodern, fresh off a Top 8 finish at the North American Championships. Together we break down one of the most complicated—and rewarding—combo decks in the format.In this episode we cover:Why Hermit F.E.B. is so difficult to masterThe Survival of the Fittest engineVolrath's Shapeshifter combo linesHermit Druid explainedPhyrexian Devourer + Triskelion killsPsychatog and Akroma combat killsKarmic Guide tricksAnimate Dead interactionsBattlefield Scrounger technologyWhy Palinchron is more important than it looksSideboarding philosophyHow to approach learning the deckWhy this archetype rewards hundreds of games of practiceIf you've ever wanted to understand one of Premodern's deepest combo decks, this is the episode.00:00 Introduction00:50 Why Hermit F.E.B. Is So Difficult03:03 Why Play This Deck?07:37 What Does Hermit F.E.B. Actually Do?11:20 Phyrexian Devourer Explained14:30 Triskelion Combo Kill20:10 Hermit Druid Combo25:20 Psychatog & Akroma Kill28:45 Mana Creatures Matter More Than You Think30:35 Karmic Guide Combo Lines37:50 Animate Dead Technology45:15 Battlefield Scrounger Innovation49:20 Palinchron Explained53:30 Hidden Combo Lines55:40 Patreon Matchup Guide Preview58:40 Sideboarding Philosophy1:12:45 Replenish Matchup & Sideboarding1:18:58 Goblins Matchup & Sideboarding1:27:24 Elves Matchup & Sideboarding1:34:40 Stiflenought Matchup & Sideboarding1:41:07 Mono Black Control Matchup & Sideboarding1:48:31 Burn Matchup & Sideboarding1:58:18 Landstill Matchup & Sideboarding2:06:34 The Rock Matchup & Sideboarding2:12:55 Enchantress Matchup & Sideboarding2:18:42 Survival Matchup & Sideboarding2:26:01 Closing Thoughts & Final Sideboarding Philosophy

What if you could go back to Legacy's golden age?This week, Phil is joined by Drake Honus to explore Classic Legacy, a community-driven Eternal format spanning Alpha through Rise of the Eldrazi. By freezing the card pool before years of supplemental products and power creep, Classic Legacy captures an era many players still consider the pinnacle of competitive Magic. In this episode we discuss:What Classic Legacy isWhy so many players are embracing community formatsThe philosophy behind Classic LegacyThe resurgence of nostalgia in gamingClassic Legacy's history and growing communityTempo, aggro, midrange, combo, prison, and control archetypesWhy Tarmogoyf, CounterTop, Deathrite Shaman, and Stoneforge Mystic still matterProxy-friendly events and Battle BoxesWhy interactive gameplay keeps players coming backHow Classic Legacy compares to Premodern, Current Legacy, and 2015 Modern If you've been looking for a way to experience Legacy before years of power creep reshaped the format, Classic Legacy might be exactly what you're looking for.Would you sleeve up Classic Legacy?#MTGLegacy #ClassicLegacy #MagicTheGathering #Premodern #EternalMagic00:00 Introducing Classic Legacy00:44 Why Players Are Leaving Modern Legacy02:00 Magic's Golden Age03:43 Nostalgia in Gaming & RuneScape Comparison06:11 Why Classic Legacy Exists08:34 More Than Just Nostalgia11:01 History of Classic Legacy12:04 2015 Modern & Community Formats15:17 Why Community Formats Matter18:02 Community First Philosophy20:56 Classic Legacy Archetypes21:37 Canadian Threshold Explained24:42 Team America & New Horizons26:42 Goblins, Merfolk & Elves30:20 Bant Midrange & Tarmogoyf36:17 Midrange in Classic Legacy42:18 Combo Decks of the Era47:02 Prison Strategies & Stax48:23 Unlimited Proxies & Battle Boxes53:19 Landstill, CounterTop & Control59:10 Why Classic Legacy Keeps Growing1:02:34 Final Thoughts Timestamps

What if you could go back to Legacy's golden age?This week, Phil is joined by Drake Honus to explore Classic Legacy, a community-driven Eternal format spanning Alpha through Rise of the Eldrazi. By freezing the card pool before years of supplemental products and power creep, Classic Legacy captures an era many players still consider the pinnacle of competitive Magic. In this episode we discuss:What Classic Legacy isWhy so many players are embracing community formatsThe philosophy behind Classic LegacyThe resurgence of nostalgia in gamingClassic Legacy's history and growing communityTempo, aggro, midrange, combo, prison, and control archetypesWhy Tarmogoyf, CounterTop, Deathrite Shaman, and Stoneforge Mystic still matterProxy-friendly events and Battle BoxesWhy interactive gameplay keeps players coming backHow Classic Legacy compares to Premodern, Current Legacy, and 2015 Modern If you've been looking for a way to experience Legacy before years of power creep reshaped the format, Classic Legacy might be exactly what you're looking for.Would you sleeve up Classic Legacy?#MTGLegacy #ClassicLegacy #MagicTheGathering #Premodern #EternalMagic00:00 Introducing Classic Legacy00:44 Why Players Are Leaving Modern Legacy02:00 Magic's Golden Age03:43 Nostalgia in Gaming & RuneScape Comparison06:11 Why Classic Legacy Exists08:34 More Than Just Nostalgia11:01 History of Classic Legacy12:04 2015 Modern & Community Formats15:17 Why Community Formats Matter18:02 Community First Philosophy20:56 Classic Legacy Archetypes21:37 Canadian Threshold Explained24:42 Team America & New Horizons26:42 Goblins, Merfolk & Elves30:20 Bant Midrange & Tarmogoyf36:17 Midrange in Classic Legacy42:18 Combo Decks of the Era47:02 Prison Strategies & Stax48:23 Unlimited Proxies & Battle Boxes53:19 Landstill, CounterTop & Control59:10 Why Classic Legacy Keeps Growing1:02:34 Final Thoughts Timestamps

What if you could play Vintage... for just $30?In this episode, Zac is joined by Dan Cohen to explore Value Vintage, a community-driven Magic format that combines Vintage's enormous card pool with a simple deckbuilding restriction: your entire 75-card deck must cost $30 or less. The result is one of the most creative and affordable Eternal formats you'll find.We discuss:What Value Vintage is and how deck construction worksWhy the $30 budget creates incredible deckbuilding challengesNadu Breakfast and other top combo decksMerfolk, Fluctuator, Cloudpost, and Hogaak PoxHow card prices naturally shape the metagameWhy MTG finance matters in this formatThe community behind Value VintageWhy Legacy and Premodern players should give it a tryLooking ahead to Eternal Weekend and the future of the formatIf you've ever wanted to experience Eternal Magic without spending thousands of dollars, Value Vintage might be exactly what you've been looking for.Would you build a $30 Vintage deck?#MagicTheGathering #Vintage #LegacyMTG #ValueVintage #BudgetMagic00:00 What Is Value Vintage?01:00 How the $30 Deckbuilding Rule Works03:18 The Biggest Challenges of the Format03:57 Nadu Breakfast Explained05:27 How the Breakfast Combo Wins08:01 MTG Finance & Deck Prices10:11 Why Card Prices Shape the Meta13:21 Four Decks to Know14:30 Merfolk Deck Tech17:45 Why Merfolk Is a Top Tempo Deck22:53 Fluctuator Combo Deck26:37 Cloudpost Big Mana32:37 Hogaak Pox Aggro35:06 Final Thoughts & Eternal WeekendA full Vintage deck for just $30... would you try it?

What if you could play Vintage... for just $30?In this episode, Zac is joined by Dan Cohen to explore Value Vintage, a community-driven Magic format that combines Vintage's enormous card pool with a simple deckbuilding restriction: your entire 75-card deck must cost $30 or less. The result is one of the most creative and affordable Eternal formats you'll find.We discuss:What Value Vintage is and how deck construction worksWhy the $30 budget creates incredible deckbuilding challengesNadu Breakfast and other top combo decksMerfolk, Fluctuator, Cloudpost, and Hogaak PoxHow card prices naturally shape the metagameWhy MTG finance matters in this formatThe community behind Value VintageWhy Legacy and Premodern players should give it a tryLooking ahead to Eternal Weekend and the future of the formatIf you've ever wanted to experience Eternal Magic without spending thousands of dollars, Value Vintage might be exactly what you've been looking for.Would you build a $30 Vintage deck?#MagicTheGathering #Vintage #LegacyMTG #ValueVintage #BudgetMagic00:00 What Is Value Vintage?01:00 How the $30 Deckbuilding Rule Works03:18 The Biggest Challenges of the Format03:57 Nadu Breakfast Explained05:27 How the Breakfast Combo Wins08:01 MTG Finance & Deck Prices10:11 Why Card Prices Shape the Meta13:21 Four Decks to Know14:30 Merfolk Deck Tech17:45 Why Merfolk Is a Top Tempo Deck22:53 Fluctuator Combo Deck26:37 Cloudpost Big Mana32:37 Hogaak Pox Aggro35:06 Final Thoughts & Eternal WeekendA full Vintage deck for just $30... would you try it?

Surrender to God Across Languages: Multilingual Intellectual History of Premodern India (Oxford UP, 2026) explores the role of languages in the intellectual landscape of second-millennium India by way of six theological treatises composed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries, each written by a key intellectual figure: Vātsya Varadaguru, Periyavāccān Pillai, Meghanādari Sūri, Pillai Lokācārya, and Vedāntadeśika. Drawing on theories of language politics and translation, Manasicha Akepiyapornchai proposes a new theoretical framework of "language sphere" to better capture the linguistic and intellectual interaction from a micro perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Surrender to God Across Languages: Multilingual Intellectual History of Premodern India (Oxford UP, 2026) explores the role of languages in the intellectual landscape of second-millennium India by way of six theological treatises composed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries, each written by a key intellectual figure: Vātsya Varadaguru, Periyavāccān Pillai, Meghanādari Sūri, Pillai Lokācārya, and Vedāntadeśika. Drawing on theories of language politics and translation, Manasicha Akepiyapornchai proposes a new theoretical framework of "language sphere" to better capture the linguistic and intellectual interaction from a micro perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Surrender to God Across Languages: Multilingual Intellectual History of Premodern India (Oxford UP, 2026) explores the role of languages in the intellectual landscape of second-millennium India by way of six theological treatises composed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries, each written by a key intellectual figure: Vātsya Varadaguru, Periyavāccān Pillai, Meghanādari Sūri, Pillai Lokācārya, and Vedāntadeśika. Drawing on theories of language politics and translation, Manasicha Akepiyapornchai proposes a new theoretical framework of "language sphere" to better capture the linguistic and intellectual interaction from a micro perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/south-asian-studies

Surrender to God Across Languages: Multilingual Intellectual History of Premodern India (Oxford UP, 2026) explores the role of languages in the intellectual landscape of second-millennium India by way of six theological treatises composed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries, each written by a key intellectual figure: Vātsya Varadaguru, Periyavāccān Pillai, Meghanādari Sūri, Pillai Lokācārya, and Vedāntadeśika. Drawing on theories of language politics and translation, Manasicha Akepiyapornchai proposes a new theoretical framework of "language sphere" to better capture the linguistic and intellectual interaction from a micro perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/language

Surrender to God Across Languages: Multilingual Intellectual History of Premodern India (Oxford UP, 2026) explores the role of languages in the intellectual landscape of second-millennium India by way of six theological treatises composed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries, each written by a key intellectual figure: Vātsya Varadaguru, Periyavāccān Pillai, Meghanādari Sūri, Pillai Lokācārya, and Vedāntadeśika. Drawing on theories of language politics and translation, Manasicha Akepiyapornchai proposes a new theoretical framework of "language sphere" to better capture the linguistic and intellectual interaction from a micro perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/indian-religions

Surrender to God Across Languages: Multilingual Intellectual History of Premodern India (Oxford UP, 2026) explores the role of languages in the intellectual landscape of second-millennium India by way of six theological treatises composed between the twelfth and fourteenth centuries, each written by a key intellectual figure: Vātsya Varadaguru, Periyavāccān Pillai, Meghanādari Sūri, Pillai Lokācārya, and Vedāntadeśika. Drawing on theories of language politics and translation, Manasicha Akepiyapornchai proposes a new theoretical framework of "language sphere" to better capture the linguistic and intellectual interaction from a micro perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

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

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 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

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

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.

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.

Seb and Anton hang out with David Raczka and chat about Battle boxes in Premodern.

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.

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.

Meanings of Antiquity: Myth Interpretation in Premodern Japan (Harvard UP, 2023) is the first dedicated study of how the oldest Japanese myths, recorded in the eighth-century texts Kojiki and Nihon shoki, changed in meaning and significance between 800 and 1800 CE. Generations of Japanese scholars and students have turned to these two texts and their creation myths to understand what it means to be Japanese and where Japan fits into the world order. As the shape and scale of the world explained by these myths changed, these myths evolved in turn. Over the course of the millennium covered in this study, Japan transforms from the center of a proud empire to a millet seed at the edge of the Buddhist world, from the last vestige of China's glorious Zhou Dynasty to an archipelago on a spherical globe. Analyzing historical records, poetry, fiction, religious writings, military epics, political treatises, and textual commentary, Matthieu Felt identifies the geographical, cosmological, epistemological, and semiotic changes that led to new adaptations of Japanese myths. Felt demonstrates that the meanings of Japanese antiquity and of Japan's most ancient texts were—and are—a work in progress, a collective effort of writers and thinkers over the past 1,300 years. Jingyi Li is a PhD Candidate in Japanese History at the University of Arizona. She researches about early modern Japan, literati, and commercial publishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Meanings of Antiquity: Myth Interpretation in Premodern Japan (Harvard UP, 2023) is the first dedicated study of how the oldest Japanese myths, recorded in the eighth-century texts Kojiki and Nihon shoki, changed in meaning and significance between 800 and 1800 CE. Generations of Japanese scholars and students have turned to these two texts and their creation myths to understand what it means to be Japanese and where Japan fits into the world order. As the shape and scale of the world explained by these myths changed, these myths evolved in turn. Over the course of the millennium covered in this study, Japan transforms from the center of a proud empire to a millet seed at the edge of the Buddhist world, from the last vestige of China's glorious Zhou Dynasty to an archipelago on a spherical globe. Analyzing historical records, poetry, fiction, religious writings, military epics, political treatises, and textual commentary, Matthieu Felt identifies the geographical, cosmological, epistemological, and semiotic changes that led to new adaptations of Japanese myths. Felt demonstrates that the meanings of Japanese antiquity and of Japan's most ancient texts were—and are—a work in progress, a collective effort of writers and thinkers over the past 1,300 years. Jingyi Li is a PhD Candidate in Japanese History at the University of Arizona. She researches about early modern Japan, literati, and commercial publishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/east-asian-studies

Meanings of Antiquity: Myth Interpretation in Premodern Japan (Harvard UP, 2023) is the first dedicated study of how the oldest Japanese myths, recorded in the eighth-century texts Kojiki and Nihon shoki, changed in meaning and significance between 800 and 1800 CE. Generations of Japanese scholars and students have turned to these two texts and their creation myths to understand what it means to be Japanese and where Japan fits into the world order. As the shape and scale of the world explained by these myths changed, these myths evolved in turn. Over the course of the millennium covered in this study, Japan transforms from the center of a proud empire to a millet seed at the edge of the Buddhist world, from the last vestige of China's glorious Zhou Dynasty to an archipelago on a spherical globe. Analyzing historical records, poetry, fiction, religious writings, military epics, political treatises, and textual commentary, Matthieu Felt identifies the geographical, cosmological, epistemological, and semiotic changes that led to new adaptations of Japanese myths. Felt demonstrates that the meanings of Japanese antiquity and of Japan's most ancient texts were—and are—a work in progress, a collective effort of writers and thinkers over the past 1,300 years. Jingyi Li is a PhD Candidate in Japanese History at the University of Arizona. She researches about early modern Japan, literati, and commercial publishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/folkore

Meanings of Antiquity: Myth Interpretation in Premodern Japan (Harvard UP, 2023) is the first dedicated study of how the oldest Japanese myths, recorded in the eighth-century texts Kojiki and Nihon shoki, changed in meaning and significance between 800 and 1800 CE. Generations of Japanese scholars and students have turned to these two texts and their creation myths to understand what it means to be Japanese and where Japan fits into the world order. As the shape and scale of the world explained by these myths changed, these myths evolved in turn. Over the course of the millennium covered in this study, Japan transforms from the center of a proud empire to a millet seed at the edge of the Buddhist world, from the last vestige of China's glorious Zhou Dynasty to an archipelago on a spherical globe. Analyzing historical records, poetry, fiction, religious writings, military epics, political treatises, and textual commentary, Matthieu Felt identifies the geographical, cosmological, epistemological, and semiotic changes that led to new adaptations of Japanese myths. Felt demonstrates that the meanings of Japanese antiquity and of Japan's most ancient texts were—and are—a work in progress, a collective effort of writers and thinkers over the past 1,300 years. Jingyi Li is a PhD Candidate in Japanese History at the University of Arizona. She researches about early modern Japan, literati, and commercial publishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Meanings of Antiquity: Myth Interpretation in Premodern Japan (Harvard UP, 2023) is the first dedicated study of how the oldest Japanese myths, recorded in the eighth-century texts Kojiki and Nihon shoki, changed in meaning and significance between 800 and 1800 CE. Generations of Japanese scholars and students have turned to these two texts and their creation myths to understand what it means to be Japanese and where Japan fits into the world order. As the shape and scale of the world explained by these myths changed, these myths evolved in turn. Over the course of the millennium covered in this study, Japan transforms from the center of a proud empire to a millet seed at the edge of the Buddhist world, from the last vestige of China's glorious Zhou Dynasty to an archipelago on a spherical globe. Analyzing historical records, poetry, fiction, religious writings, military epics, political treatises, and textual commentary, Matthieu Felt identifies the geographical, cosmological, epistemological, and semiotic changes that led to new adaptations of Japanese myths. Felt demonstrates that the meanings of Japanese antiquity and of Japan's most ancient texts were—and are—a work in progress, a collective effort of writers and thinkers over the past 1,300 years. Jingyi Li is a PhD Candidate in Japanese History at the University of Arizona. She researches about early modern Japan, literati, and commercial publishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meanings of Antiquity: Myth Interpretation in Premodern Japan (Harvard UP, 2023) is the first dedicated study of how the oldest Japanese myths, recorded in the eighth-century texts Kojiki and Nihon shoki, changed in meaning and significance between 800 and 1800 CE. Generations of Japanese scholars and students have turned to these two texts and their creation myths to understand what it means to be Japanese and where Japan fits into the world order. As the shape and scale of the world explained by these myths changed, these myths evolved in turn. Over the course of the millennium covered in this study, Japan transforms from the center of a proud empire to a millet seed at the edge of the Buddhist world, from the last vestige of China's glorious Zhou Dynasty to an archipelago on a spherical globe. Analyzing historical records, poetry, fiction, religious writings, military epics, political treatises, and textual commentary, Matthieu Felt identifies the geographical, cosmological, epistemological, and semiotic changes that led to new adaptations of Japanese myths. Felt demonstrates that the meanings of Japanese antiquity and of Japan's most ancient texts were—and are—a work in progress, a collective effort of writers and thinkers over the past 1,300 years. Jingyi Li is a PhD Candidate in Japanese History at the University of Arizona. She researches about early modern Japan, literati, and commercial publishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Martin Berlin joins the cast to share all about building Mongrel Terrageddon for the inaugural UK nationals!Check out the latest on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lannynynySupport Spike Colony on Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/spikecolony (donations grant access to the follower discord!)Check out the Premodern Tier List and other articles: https://spikecolony.com/

The Rhino boys are back. Exciting news in the weird world of Magic: the Gathering was all it took for Dave and Stan to reunite with D00mwake to chat about Modern bans and unbans. We pour one out for Phlage, daydream about Crashing Footfalls, scrach our head over Umezawa's Jitte, and act like we know how to talk about Lotus Field. Is Modern back, baby? Become a citizen of The Dive Down Nation!: http://www.patreon.com/thedivedown Show the world that you're a proud citizen of The Dive Down Nation with some merch from the store: https://www.thedivedown.com/store Upgrade your gameplay and your gameday with Heavy Play accessories. Use code THEDIVEDOWN for 10% off your first order at https://www.heavyplay.com Get 25% Cashback after 3 months of service with ManaTraders! https://www.manatraders.com/?medium=thedivedown and use coupon code THEDIVEDOWN And now receive 8% off your order of paper cards from Nerd Rage Gaming with code DIVE8 at https://www.nerdragegaming.com/ Timestamps: 0:01 - It's 1979 and d00mwake is back 5:15 - d00m ate Skyline and didn't tell Shane 9:17 - Modern is changed, again 16:08 - Phlage is banned 23:59 - Lotus Field is banned 30:47 - Violent Outburst is unbanned 50:46 - Umezawa's Jitte is unbanned 57:52 - Premodern fun 1:01:38 - Public comments - our favorite pieces of physical media 1:11:53 - Wrapping up Links from this week's episode: twitch.tv/d00mwake https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/banned-and-restricted-may-18-2026 Our opening music is Nowhere - You Never Knew, and our closing music is Space Blood - Goro? Is That Your Christian Name? email us: thedivedown@gmail.com

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What makes a system feel trustworthy—results, lineage, or the way it brings you into the resonance of what's happening?Philip Suger didn't start with Saam acupuncture. He was in Beijing in 2010, following a thread that led him to Wang Ju-Yi and channel palpation—hands on the body, feeling where things change and where they resolve. Later, back in the States, he found himself working with patients who improved but those changes were not lasting. That got him began circling back to a method he'd once dismissed: four needles, arranged through a set of relationships rather than point functions. It didn't make a lot of sense. But people were reporting results.After some study with Toby Daly he got more curious, and that sent him searching for information in Chinese.Michael Brown, has a keen interest in tracking down old texts and translating them for the world English speaking acupuncturists. Together, they have spent the past few years working on a translation of a book that traces the history of Saam, some of the luminary practitioners along the way, and the way these pre-modern doctors used the Four-Needles.There's been more than a little development of the Saam method since that legendary monk had his cultivated insights into medicine. One thing for sure, four needles with the right diagnosis, it can make a big difference for our patients.

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)

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)

Mike and Lanny do their best to fairly rank every deck in Premodern besides their pet decks!Support Spike Colony on Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/spikecolony (donations grant access to the follower discord!)Check out the Premodern Tier List and other articles: https://spikecolony.com/

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

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

“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

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

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

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 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: