![Bookmark and Share](http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/v2/lg-share-en.gif)
Over the last month, several members of Clan Magic Eternal and I have been trying to organize the ultimate Player Run Event (PRE) for Classic. It was clear to each of us that something needed to be done to appeal to the majority of Classic players, and that involved creating an event that had enough EV to attract all of the Classic player base.
In trying to figure out the best way to go about this endeavor, we looked at what had been successful in the past. Most recently, the Winter Celebration brought many new faces to the Classic scene due to its high EV. The Classic League offered a structured PRE with a flexible schedule which allowed even the busiest of players the time to participate. The Classic Quarter Player of the Year race was a strong driver for many people to keep participating in Classic events. We also wanted to capture some of the magic that StarCityGames is able to provide by having a season of events which would feed into an Invitational Tournament that offered incredible prize support. Taking all of this into consideration, we had an epiphany: What if we could take elements of all of these things and combine them into one ultimate PRE for Classic?
Without further ado, I present to you The 2012-2013 Classic Quarter League featuring The Classic Invitational.
![Classic Invitational](http://www.mtgoacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Classic-Invitational.jpg)
I’m sure you are all eager to learn about the details of the event, so I’ll jump right in.
There will be 4 Qualifier Tournaments (QT), each lasting ~2 months. Each QT will start 2 weeks after the release of the new sets (1 Core Set and the 3 Block Sets; Return to Ravnica Block in the case of the upcoming season). The format of the QT will mimic the Classic League in that there will be 5 rounds of Swiss with a cut to the Top 8. Players will have one week to play a match. Any matches that do not finish in time will be considered a draw. Decklists will need to be registered in advance and be publicly announced once pairings for Round 1 go up and cannot be changed during the QT.
Results should be sent to classicquarterleague@gmail.com by the winner of each round (include a screen shot of the final result). I suggest adding classicquarterleague@gmail.com to your contacts list to ensure that you receive all communication from the Organizers.
Each player who finishes in the Top 8 of a QT will earn an invite to the Classic Invitational. To encourage players to continue to participate once they have earned an invite, players can earn up to 1 bye when they Top 8 another QT.
The Classic Invitational will be a single-day event that will consist of 6 rounds of Swiss (regardless of the number of participants) followed by a cut to the Top 8. In order to allow everyone the ability to plan ahead, the 2013 Classic Invitational will be held on July 20th, 2013.
The first QT will commence on Monday, August 13th. Decklists as well as donations are due by Midnight Eastern Time on Saturday, August 11th, no exceptions!
Prizes
Players that wish to participate in a QT are encouraged to donate 10 tickets or roughly the equivalent in Classic playable cards. A donation is not required to participate, but the more donations that are submitted, the better the prizes. For each donation, ~40% will go directly to the prize support for the QT while ~60% will go directly to the “pot” for the Classic Invitational. Prizes will be fully accounted for and completely transparent. Prior to the start of each QT, the prizes that were donated will be announced and fully transparent. Naturally, the prize support of each QT will depend on how many people enter the event and donate, but nonetheless will be distributed accordingly from 1st Place through 8th.
If anyone out there would like to sponsor either the QT(s) or the Classic Invitational, I encourage you to send a message to classicquarterleague@gmail.com. Anyone who donates, be it a bot chain, or a Magic website, etc., will have their information posted as a sponsor of the event. Additionally, the sponsors will enjoy up to a full years worth of publicity as the hype for the Classic Invitational builds throughout the season and more and more prizes are thrown into the pool.
[Side note: ClassicQuarter.com will be hosting the 2012-2013 Classic Quarter League featuring The Classic Invitational. Details and discussion about this event should be directed to the forums on CQ. There will be a banner on the CQ home page with all the latest announcements regarding the 2012-2013 Classic Quarter League featuring The Classic Invitational.]
[Side note #2: In the event that Wizards blesses us with Full Vintage during the course of the Season, the current/active QT will play out as normal and the remaining QT(s) and/or Classic Invitational would switch to the Vintage format.]
Now that the gauntlet has been laid out, I think it might be worthwhile to review the Classic metagame and provide some examples of the top decks for anyone who might be interested in playing in the event.
Let’s start with the aggro decks
Affinity is perhaps the fastest aggro deck in the format. It can attack for lethal damage within just a couple of turns and is adept at providing just enough disruption to keep opposing decks on the back foot. Here is a typical Affinity list, pre-Avacyn Restored:
Creatures (29) Other Spells (14) | Lands (17) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Arcbound Ravager&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Frogmite&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lodestone Golem&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Memnite&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Phyrexian Metamorph&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Phyrexian Revoker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Signal Pest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Steel Overseer&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Genesis Chamber&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Memory Jar&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mox Opal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Skullclamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Tomb&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Gaea%27s Cradle&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Inkmoth Nexus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mishra%27s Workshop&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tolarian Academy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Phyrexian Metamorph&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thorn of Amethyst&options=)
Merfolk are a staple in Legacy and have had success in Classic. With the recent printing of Master of the Pearl Trident, Merfolk get yet another lord to add to their deck. Dropping 4 spells in favor of the new Lord doesn’t seem like a good idea, so swapping out the slowest Lord, Coralhelm Commander might be the best bet. Cavern of Souls might be an option to replace the Aether Vials, but I’m not sure that is the direction this deck wants to go. Vial helps Merfolk play their counters while they build a board state whereas Cavern prevents them from playing anything other than the free counters. Here is my take on an updated Classic Merfolk list:
Creatures (20) Other Spells (19) Lands (21) | Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cursecatcher&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lord of Atlantis&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Master of the Pearl Trident&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Phantasmal Image&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Silvergill Adept&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Waterfront Bouncer&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=AEther Vial&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Daze&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mutavault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Energy Flux&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Merrow Reejerey&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Seal of Removal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Waterfront Bouncer&options=)
Aggro-Control
BUG Delver is perhaps the best deck at the moment. With the ability to control the match and beat down at the same time, it is quite difficult for many decks to deal with. There are many ways to build a Delver deck, with different options based on user reference. Here is GainsBanding’s list from a Daily Event earlier this year which splashes for red in order to add Ancient Grudge and Lightning Bolt:
Creatures (14) Other Spells (26) | Lands (20) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Confidant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Delver of Secrets&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Snapcaster Mage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sower of Temptation&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Trygon Predator&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Grudge&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Daze&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Diabolic Edict&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lightning Bolt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Senseis Divining Top&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Umezawas Jitte&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Scalding Tarn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Volcanic Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Energy Flux&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Seasinger&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Trygon Predator&options=)
Bant Fish is an “oldie, but a goodie.” It can be argued that Delver decks have been based on the principals that Bant established well before Delver was printed. The idea is still the same, control the game and beat down with efficient, yet powerful creatures.
Creatures (20) Other Spells (19) Lands (21) | Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Birds of Paradise&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cold-Eyed Selkie&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Noble Hierarch&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Qasali Pridemage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tarmogoyf&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Trygon Predator&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Annul&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Stifle&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swords to Plowshares&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Forest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Savannah&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Taiga&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tundra&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Volcanic Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Windswept Heath&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Grudge&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grim Lavamancer&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
Combo-Control
Here is a deck I spotlighted in my last article. The deck is surprisingly powerful in its ability to control the game while it sets up its game-winning combo of Dark Depths and Vampire Hexmage:
Creatures (12) Other Spells (27) | Lands (21) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bloodghast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Confidant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampire Hexmage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cabal Therapy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Ritual&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Consultation&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Duress&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Imperial Seal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Liliana of the Veil&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thoughtseize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Yawgmoth%27s Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bayou&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Depths&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Marsh Flats&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Urborg, Tomb of Yawgmoth&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Perish&options=)
This list below eschews Liliana in favor of the Helm of Obedience and Leyline of the Void combo:
Creatures (8) Other Spells (31) | Lands (21) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Confidant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampire Hexmage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Ritual&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Consultation&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Duress&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Helm of Obedience&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Imperial Seal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Liliana of the Veil&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thoughtseize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Yawgmoth%27s Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bayou&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Depths&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Marsh Flats&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Urborg, Tomb of Yawgmoth&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Perish&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Oxidize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Umezawas Jitte&options=)
While Oath decks appear to be control decks, for this exercise, I’m classifying them as Combo-Control seeing that Oath of Druids is a 1-card combo. The list below is adept at fighting off all the creature decks that have been running around the format:
Creatures (2) Other Spells (39) | Lands (19) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Blightsteel Colossus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Elesh Norn, Grand Cenobite&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Balance&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Beast Within&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Imperial Seal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mystical Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Oath of Druids&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ponder&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Senseis Divining Top&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tinker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Forbidden Orchard&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tundra&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Life from the Loam&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Liliana of the Veil&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Snare&options=)
This Oath deck, ShOath, is a Spike’s dream. There aren’t many things more satisfying than Channel-bamming an Emrakul in Classic. Additionally, ShOath is probably the best home for Temporal Mastery, perhaps a just a one-of:
Creatures (4) Other Spells (38) | Lands (18) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Emrakul, the Aeons Torn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Channel&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mystical Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Oath of Druids&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Show and Tell&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Temporal Mastery&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thoughtseize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Forbidden Orchard&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Scalding Tarn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
The final Oath that list I’m highlighting is a more traditional Oath list that aims to win as soon as Oath is triggered with use of Dragon Breath:
Creatures (2) Other Spells (36) | Lands (22) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Blightsteel Colossus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Emrakul, the Aeons Torn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dragon Breath&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Imperial Seal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Oath of Druids&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thoughtseize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tinker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Forbidden Orchard&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Library of Alexandria&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Volcanic Island&options=)
Control
Pure control decks have had a tough time of late in Classic. The creatures, and more specifically, the aggro-control decks, have had the upper hand. The deck below aims to swing the creature match-ups back in favor of the control deck:
Creatures (6) Other Spells (36) | Lands (18) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Snapcaster Mage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vendilion Clique&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Drain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mystical Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pernicious Deed&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ponder&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Snare&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Forest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Library of Alexandria&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pernicious Deed&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Surgical Extraction&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Trygon Predator&options=)
Jace has fallen out of favor recently, as have control decks in general. Here is a deck that at one point in time was considered the best deck in the format, but I believe it can be a contender today with some metagame tweaks:
Creatures (1) Other Spells (42) | Lands (17) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Blightsteel Colossus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Grudge&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Firespout&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Drain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Snare&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tezzeret the Seeker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tinker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Yawgmoth%27s Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Library of Alexandria&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Scalding Tarn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Volcanic Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mindbreak Trap&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pithing Needle&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Steel Sabotage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Trygon Predator&options=)
Perhaps the best pure control decks of late have been Standstill variants. Here is a Deedstill list that has the tools to make a comeback if it falls behind early against faster decks:
Spells (36) Lands (24) | Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dismember&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Innocent Blood&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Life from the Loam&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Drain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pernicious Deed&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Snare&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Standstill&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mishra%27s Factory&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Beast Within&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Surgical Extraction&options=)
This Blue-Red Standstill list offers a better manabase and more versatile targeted removal in the form of Lightning Bolt which can act as a win condition. It also includes Red Elemental Blast/Pyroblast which can hit many spells and permanents in Classic:
Spells (36) Lands (24) | Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Crucible of Worlds&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lightning Bolt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Drain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mindbreak Trap&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misdirection&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nevinyrrals Disk&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Red Elemental Blast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Standstill&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Faerie Conclave&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Library of Alexandria&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mishra%27s Factory&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Scalding Tarn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Snow-Covered Mountain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Volcanic Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pyroclasm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ingot Chewer&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
Similar to the Blue-Red list above, this Blue-White list utilizes Swords to Plowshares for its targeted creature removal and adds Balance to catch up on board state:
Spells (37) | Lands (23) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Balance&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Crucible of Worlds&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Drain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mindbreak Trap&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misdirection&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mox Diamond&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nevinyrrals Disk&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Spell Pierce&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Standstill&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swords to Plowshares&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Library of Alexandria&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mishra%27s Factory&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Plains&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tundra&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flusterstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Serenity&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sower of Temptation&options=)
Combo
The fastest and most powerful combo deck in Classic remains LED Storm. Nothing has changed with the release of M13 and Avacyn Restored:
Creatures (5) Other Spells (40) | Lands (15) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Blightsteel Colossus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Confidant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Ritual&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Duress&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Imperial Seal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Infernal Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lion%27s Eye Diamond&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Minds Desire&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Necropotence&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tendrils of Agony&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thoughtseize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tinker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Yawgmoth%27s Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bloodstained Mire&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=City of Traitors&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Chain of Vapor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Echoing Truth&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Hurkyl%27s Recall&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
Another powerful Tendrils Storm deck, Gushbond takes a slightly more controlling road to victory by utilizing countermagic and Jace:
Creatures (5) Other Spells (38) | Lands (17) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Blightsteel Colossus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Confidant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Ritual&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Fastbond&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Force of Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Gush&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Jace, the Mind Sculptor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Minds Desire&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mystical Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Necropotence&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Senseis Divining Top&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tendrils of Agony&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tezzeret the Seeker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tinker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Yawgmoth%27s Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flooded Strand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Library of Alexandria&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Scalding Tarn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tolarian Academy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tropical Island&options=)
In an unprepared metagame (one that is not likely suitable to a QT where decklists are made public), Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a resilient combo deck. It can attack from different angles depending on the match-up:
Creatures (4) Other Spells (43) | Lands (13) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Blightsteel Colossus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Painters Servant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Brainstorm&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Ritual&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Demonic Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grindstone&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Helm of Obedience&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Infernal Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lion%27s Eye Diamond&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Necropotence&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tendrils of Agony&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thoughtseize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Time Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tinker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tolarian Academy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampiric Tutor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Voltaic Key&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Yawgmoth%27s Will&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bayou&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bloodstained Mire&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Island&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Misty Rainforest&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Polluted Delta&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swamp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Underground Sea&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dragon Breath&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Elesh Norn, Grand Cenobite&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Emrakul, the Aeons Torn&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Forbidden Orchard&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Oath of Druids&options=)
While the high creature count my scream aggro, Goblins is in fact a combo deck. Recently, Goblins won a Daily Event, proving that it can be a viable player in the Classic Metagame. Perhaps the best place for Cavern of Souls is in the Goblin list below:
Creatures (38) Other Spells (5) | Lands (17) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Gempalm Incinerator&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Lackey&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Matron&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Piledriver&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Ringleader&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Sharpshooter&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Warchief&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Goblin Welder&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Kiki-Jiki, Mirror Breaker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lightning Crafter&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mogg Fanatic&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Simian Spirit Guide&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Skirk Prospector&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Stingscourger&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Warren Instigator&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Null Rod&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cavern of Souls&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mountain&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Crush&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ghost Quarter&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pulverize&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pyroblast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pyrokinesis&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Red Elemental Blast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Relic of Progenitus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Shattering Spree&options=)
Prison/Workshop
Here is the most recent example of a successful Workshop deck. With the rise in Affinity, Workshop had become just a slower version of Affinity, losing the match-up head to head. Workshop is a great option if the metagame moves away from Affinity. FishyFellow went with the aggro approach utilizing Slash Panther that had been all but forgotten. In a land of 3/2 Flying Insects, I’m not sure how well the Panther is set up for the metagame, but it was enough to earn FishyFellow a 3-1 record in the most recent Daily Event back in May:
Creatures (20) Other Spells (18) | Lands (22) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Duplicant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lodestone Golem&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Phyrexian Metamorph&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Phyrexian Revoker&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Precursor Golem&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Slash Panther&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Chalice of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Crucible of Worlds&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Crypt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mana Vault&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sol Ring&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sphere of Resistance&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Thorn of Amethyst&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Trinisphere&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Tomb&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=City of Traitors&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ghost Quarter&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mishra%27s Factory&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mishra%27s Workshop&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Strip Mine&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Tolarian Academy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Wasteland&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Duplicant&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Helm of Obedience&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of Sanctity&options=)
Dredge
Finally, we come up to Dredge, the Classic Boogeyman. This list was created to fight off Grafdiggers Cage, though the Cage has not been as prevalent as early prognostications had assumed. It’s still a viable Dredge deck even without the Cage being played in abundance:
Creatures (24) Other Spells (23) | Lands (13) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bloodghast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Fatestitcher&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Flame-Kin Zealot&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Golgari Grave-Troll&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Golgari Thug&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ichorid&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Narcomoeba&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Stinkweed Imp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Sun Titan&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bridge from Below&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cabal Therapy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Chain of Vapor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Darkblast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dread Return&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lotus Petal&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Serum Powder&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bazaar of Baghdad&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=City of Brass&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dakmor Salvage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Undiscovered Paradise&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=City of Brass&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Chain of Vapor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Darkblast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Elesh Norn, Grand Cenobite&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ichorid&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ingot Chewer&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Mental Misstep&options=)
At the Bazaar of Moxen Tournament a couples months back, a Dread Return-less Dredge deck performed quite well. It’s possible that it could be viable in Classic as well:
Creatures (25) Other Spells (19) | Lands (16) Sideboard (15) |
| |
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bloodghast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Golgari Grave-Troll&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Golgari Thug&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ichorid&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ingot Chewer&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Narcomoeba&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Stinkweed Imp&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Grudge&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bridge from Below&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Darkblast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cabal Therapy&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Serum Powder&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Bazaar of Baghdad&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=City of Brass&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Petrified Field&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Undiscovered Paradise&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Chain of Vapor&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Nature%27s Claim&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Unmask&options=)
I hope this list goes to show just how diverse the Classic Format is. There are literally dozens of viable decks, and there is enough customization available to make it unlikely that you will see the exact same 75 from one deck to another.
I know I missed some decks, but I did list 21 decks in total. Also, nearly all of these decks are lacking upgrades with the new cards available in Avacyn Restored and M13. For the most part, only cards like Cavern of Souls, Terminus, Master of the Pearl Trident, and perhaps Griselbrand and Omniscience are viable in Classic decks. Experiment with Temporal Mastery all you want, it’s just not worth it to me in any deck that does not already include 3-4 Mystical Tutor.
I, as well as everyone at Clan Magic Eternal and DangerLinto, hope you find the new Tournament worth your while. I look forward to seeing how this plays out and whole much prize support we can accumulate in advance of the Classic Invitational next July.
enderfall
Clan Magic Eternal
Follow me on Twitter @enderfall
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Master of the Pearl Trident&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Coralhelm Commander&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cavern of Souls&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Aether Vial&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Ancient Grudge&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lightning Bolt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dark Depths&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Vampire Hexmage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Helm of Obedience&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Leyline of the Void&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Oath of Druids&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Channel&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Temporal Mastery&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dragon Breath&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Standstill&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Standstill&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Lightning Bolt&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Red Elemental Blast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Pyroblast&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Swords to Plowshares&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Balance&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cavern of Souls&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Slash Panther&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Grafdiggers Cage&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Dread Return&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Cavern of Souls&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Terminus&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Master of the Pearl Trident&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Griselbrand&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Omniscience&options=)
![](http://gatherer.wizards.com/Handlers/Image.ashx?size=small&type=card&name=Temporal Mastery&options=)
tldr
This looks pretty sweet, I shall start trying to work on a deck list for it.
I know for a fact I’ll be playing in this.
The voluntary “donation” as an entry fee seems like you could be setting yourself up for drama. Who’s to say that some ultra-spike doesn’t enter with some fully kitted out, all-foil, deck that’s probably worth 1000+ tix but doesn’t pay the entry fee becuase to their perspective it’s just reducing their EV. What happens when that player wins? That’s the sort of thing that destroys any good will that would come out of the event, and would fracture the community. If you’re going to have an event with money on the line, you need to protect yourself from people gaming the system because you can’t rely on people being warm and fuzzy when there’s prizes involved.
At least make people who don’t put in an up front donation ineligible for prizes or something (their prizes just get passed down the line)? That means that people who want to play in it “just for fun” aren’t excluded, but the people who are interested in the prizes can’t game the system.
@PB, Unfortunately, WotC’s obscure, unwritten, policies prevent anyone running a PRE from having a mandatory entry fee. I would even go so far as to say that preventing someone from winning a prize if they do not donate anything would be against some WotC policy as well.
I’d be surprised if there weren’t several people in the Top 8 of the Classic League seasons that did not donate anything, and no one seemed to notice. The one thing that the Classic Community has been great with is providing donations for these types of events, and I fully expect that this will be no different.
ah, I didn’t realise that that was the case re WoTC. If the community has experience with this in the past that’s obviously cool, I just know that when I’ve run events (in different TCGs), the whole spirit of the thing can change once valuable prizes are involved but it doesn’t sound like that’ll be the case here then :).
I’m just excited to be able to throw money in a pot to allow myself to play a bad Classic deck with Volraths Shapeshifters against serious opponents.
Classic and Legacy are not good formats for Modo. You are missing some cards, 90% of decks need 4 FOW’s, which aren’t cheap, and they don’t have enough people playing. I would love for them to take Classic off the competitive list because in paper it’s basically a watered down version of Vintage.
I would rather play Modern which is a much more wide open format. There is no reason for a person to pay 500-1K tickets for a deck that has no community support except for the other 20 or so Legacy/Classic players out there.
With fetch lands and shock lands being affordable and modern being a much more wide open and fun format with a lack of turn 1 kills (Google Classic: Metalworker, Bazaar of Baghdad, Doomsday, etc..), people should use the money they would spend on 1 Force of Will and buy a playset of every fetch land with money left over to buy some Restoration Angels.
Leave the Legacy/Classic to IRL where you can actually receive prize support and play in PTQ’s, SCG opens, etc..
Are there actually any legacy cards missing online anymore? I was under the impression there wasn’t.
There are a few cards not available in Legacy, notably Nature’s Ruin and Virtue’s Ruin…but that’s about it.
Great article Scott!! I really can’t wait to get this going.
Hey Scott, what does midnight on August 11th mean? Does that mean 12:00am on August US East, August 11th, or does it mean 11:59pm on August 11th?
I was asked the same question in the thread on CQ: http://www.classicquarter.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=4668
I clarified that it is 11:59:59PM EDT on Saturday Aug 11th.
Great article as always Scott this should give anyone interested plenty of ideas for the event.