A Resurrection of a Canceled Card
Magic: The Gathering fans have something to celebrate as a previously canceled card has found new life in the recent Welcome Decks. Originally intended for a crossover with Monster Hunter, the card Drakuseth, Maw of Flames, has transitioned from controversy to a welcoming gesture for new players.
The Magic community has seen its fair share of ups and downs with the Secret Lair series. While the limited-time events often bring exciting crossover opportunities, they've also sparked debates around quality and value. The Monster Hunter collaboration, in particular, faced criticism for its misprints and lackluster card selection.
Drakuseth was meant to represent Rathalos, a beloved creature from the Monster Hunter franchise. However, issues like typos and inconsistent pricing prompted Wizards of the Coast to rethink the entire project. In November, the company announced it would go 'back to the drawing board' on the Monster Hunter set—leaving many to wonder what the future holds.
Fast forward to now, and Drakuseth is being included in a 40-card Welcome Deck, which players can obtain for free at participating stores. This offering not only gives new players a taste of the game but also emphasizes how a card once deemed unworthy of a Secret Lair drop has transformed into a welcome addition to player collections.
The Welcome Decks boast a variety of notable cards, such as Lyra Dawnbringer and Sphinx of the Final Word, making them a solid starter choice. For those looking to build a strong deck without spending much, the free Welcome Decks provide an excellent opportunity. The red variant features useful staples like Carnelian Orb of Dragonkind and Kargan Dragonrider.
While the original concept of the Monster Hunter crossover may have faltered, the transition of Drakuseth into the Welcome Decks serves as a reminder that even canceled projects can find new life in unexpected ways. As players eagerly await the future of the Monster Hunter set, the availability of these decks offers hope for a more polished and enjoyable experience.
