How to Master Underrated Cards of the Week in Magic: The Gathering

Joshua Wong

Joshua Wong

## How to Identify Underrated Cards of the Week in Magic: The Gathering

## How to Identify Underrated Cards of the Week in Magic: The Gathering

Magic: The Gathering is a game filled with hidden gems just waiting to shine in your deck. Whether you’re building a competitive list or just looking to spice things up for your casual games, finding underrated cards can give you an edge. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you uncover those often-overlooked cards and make the most of them.

### Step 1: Define "Underrated"

Before you start searching, let’s clarify what “underrated” means. It refers to cards that aren’t receiving the recognition they deserve, either in competitive play or casual formats. These cards might have unique abilities, synergistic potential, or just be overlooked because they don’t fit the current meta.

### Step 2: Do Your Homework

1. **Research Current Trends**: Look at the latest tournament results and popular deck lists. Websites like MTGGoldfish or ChannelFireball are great resources. Identify which cards are dominating and which ones are missing from the spotlight.

2. **Explore Different Sets**: Sometimes, the newest set gets all the love, which means older cards might be overlooked. Dig into past sets. For example, cards like *Baleful Strix* from *Return to Ravnica* may not see play in every format, but they can fit perfectly in specific strategies.

### Step 3: Utilize Card Databases

1. **Use Filters**: Websites like Scryfall or Gatherer let you filter cards by color, mana cost, and abilities. Start by setting criteria that align with your deck’s needs. For instance, if you’re running a blue deck, filter by blue cards that offer card draw.

2. **Sort by Popularity**: Once you have a list of potential cards, sort them by playability or popularity. Cards with low play rates but powerful effects are usually your best bets. Think of cards like *Flickerwisp* — not always a staple, but it can create devastating board states in the right deck.

### Step 4: Analyze Card Interactions

1. **Synergize**: Look for cards that work well together. For example, if you find a card like *Aetherling*, consider what other cards can protect it or take advantage of its unique ability to blink.

2. **Think Outside the Box**: Some cards might have niche uses you didn’t consider