Eternal Durdles

Zac and Phil go deep on Magic: The Gathering’s growing obsession with outside IPs, asking the big question — when did “nods” become “crossovers”?In this episode, they explore how Magic evolved from subtle flavor callbacks (like Theros’s Greek myth inspiration or Arabian Nights’ literary roots) to full-on Universes Beyond product lines. The conversation spans design philosophy, flavor theory, and even a little literary criticism — all centered on why Magic feels different now.From Avatar: The Last Airbender to Spider-Man and beyond, the guys debate what makes some collaborations work and others feel… off. Is it art style? Setting? Narrative tone? Or is it that Magic used to suggest connections rather than define them?🔥 In This Episode:00:00 – Zac’s rant: when Magic used to “nod” instead of “name-drop”02:00 – Top-down vs bottom-up design: why flavor-first cards feel better04:30 – Avatar’s art style, references, and the “member berries” problem07:30 – Why Spider-Man failed as a crossover (and what Avatar gets right)10:30 – The anime art debate and whether style fits Magic’s tone14:00 – Science fiction vs science fantasy — where MTG actually belongs17:00 – Why “Rent Is Due” broke immersion for everyone19:00 – Why Magic’s early lore worked (Legends, Arabian Nights)23:00 – Asimov, Heinlein, and why fantasy fits Magic better than sci-fi26:00 – When Spider-Man meets Cephalid Breakfast: the tone problem29:00 – The Aang card problem — when “does everything” means “means nothing”31:00 – Closing thoughts: can Universes Beyond ever feel magical?🧠 Key Takeaways:Magic once thrived on subtle allusions; now it relies on direct references.Top-down, flavor-driven design connects emotionally — bottom-up “color pie” design rarely does.Universes Beyond works best when we go to their worlds, not when they invade ours.Science fiction IPs struggle to blend with Magic’s mythic-fantasy tone.“Doing everything” (like Avatar Aang’s design) isn’t the same as meaning something.💬 Join the Conversation:Do you love or hate Magic’s Universes Beyond direction?Are sets like Avatar: The Last Airbender a step forward — or a step too far?Drop your thoughts below 👇🎧 Listen Ad-Free & Support the Show:👉 Patreon.com/EternalDurdles#MTG #MagicTheGathering #EternalDurdles #UniversesBeyond #AvatarTheLastAirbender #SpiderMan #MTGDesign #MTGLore #TCG #Fantasy #ScienceFiction #MTGPodcast

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnIn this Premodern Sideboard Guide, Zac and Phil break down how to pilot Landstill through the toughest matchups in the format — from fast combo decks to grindy midrange battles. 🧠💥If you’ve ever wondered what to board in, what to cut, and why when playing Premodern Landstill, this episode has you covered. Phil walks through his full sideboard philosophy, matchup-specific plans, and the adjustments that separate good control pilots from great ones.🧩 Key Takeaways:Landstill rewards patient, informed play — sideboarding is where most games are won.Many matchups hinge on understanding what cards don’t matter post-board.Proper sequencing of Standstill, Mishra’s Factory, and removal is key to maintaining control.Adjusting your plan for open-field events like LobsterCon or local Premodern nights can swing win rates dramatically.🎴 Decklist & Resources:👉 Full 75 and sideboard notes available on EternalDurdles.com👉 Join the Premodern community at PremodernMagic.com💬 Join the Conversation:What’s your go-to sideboard tech in Premodern right now? Share your Landstill secrets (or complaints about Decree of Justice) below 👇#Premodern #Landstill #MagicTheGathering #EternalDurdles #MTGPremodern #ControlDecks #MTGSideboardGuide #PremodernMagic #PhilNguyen #MTGStrategyWould you like me to add timestamps customized to your actual segment breaks (e.g., per matchup) once you finalize the video edit? That can boost engagement and retention.JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnIn this week’s episode of Eternal Durdles, Zac and Phil dive deep into the upcoming Legacy Banned & Restricted announcement — and ask the real question: What if Wizards of the Coast actually did something? 👀With Eternal Weekend Europe right around the corner, the guys break down the most likely (and most needed) bans, including The One Ring, Tamiyo, Inquisitive Student, Nadu, Winged Wisdom, and Planar Nexus — plus Zac’s spicy take that Entomb or Reanimate could be the real problem.Phil takes it further, arguing that the format’s issue isn’t just power level — it’s experience. If every deck removes decision points and ends in an “I win” button, Legacy stops being the interactive format players love. Together they propose a new ban philosophy: annual, Modern Horizons–style shakeups that accept WotC’s design volume and embrace data-driven humility.🔥 In This Episode:00:00 – Why Zac skipped the “Community B&R” episode04:15 – Realistic ban predictions for Legacy11:40 – How Tamiyo, Nadu, and The One Ring warp gameplay18:25 – Phil’s thesis: Fix the experience, not the numbers26:10 – The “I win” button meta and its consequences32:45 – What an annual 8–10 card ban cycle could look like🧠 Key Takeaways:Legacy needs bans that make the format feel better, not just look balanced.The One Ring, Nadu, and Tamiyo eliminate interactivity and tension.Wizards needs to admit the current design cadence guarantees mistakes.Annual ban waves could keep Eternal formats fresh and engaging.🎧 Listen on the go:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music💬 Join the conversation:What card would YOU ban from Legacy right now? Drop your thoughts below 👇#MTGLegacy #BannedAndRestricted #EternalDurdles #MagicTheGathering #TheOneRing #Nadu #Tamiyo #LegacyFormat #EternalWeekend #MTGPodcastJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnIn this conversation, Zac Clark and ForceofPhil discuss their excitement for LobsterCon, a gaming event they look forward to each year. They share their experiences of pre-modern gaming, the vibrant community atmosphere, and the fun of playing games late into the night. The conversation also touches on personal celebrations, such as birthdays, and how these events intertwine with their gaming experiences.TakeawaysLobsterCon is a highly anticipated event for Zac.The experience of playing pre-modern games is akin to a vibrant community gathering.The atmosphere at gaming events is filled with excitement and camaraderie.Celebrating personal milestones like birthdays at gaming events adds to the joy.Late-night gaming sessions create memorable experiences.Food plays a significant role in the enjoyment of gaming events.The connection between friends is strengthened through shared gaming experiences.Events like LobsterCon foster a sense of belonging in the gaming community.The joy of gaming can sometimes lead to humorous situations.Balancing personal relationships with gaming passions can be challenging.TitlesThe Excitement of LobsterConGaming Vibes and CommunityChapters00:00 LobsterCon Registration Announcement00:07 LobsterCon Experience and Community01:00 Exploring Deck StrategiesJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnZac Clark and ForceofPhil discuss various unforced errors in the corporate decision making of Hasbro in regard to Magic: The Gathering, particularly focusing on the implications of the game's curation, the subjective nature of art direction, and the challenges of balancing competitive and casual play. They explore how player experience is affected by these design choices and the need for better format curation over power level curation. The discussion also touches on the impact of new players on the community and the potential for redefining product design to better suit different formats.TakeawaysThe reserve list may unintentionally limit the value of older cards.Unforced errors in game design can lead to player frustration.Art direction in Magic: The Gathering is highly subjective.Power creep is a significant issue that needs addressing.Player experience should be prioritized over merely increasing the player base.Many players are exploring other games due to dissatisfaction with Magic.There is a need for clearer delineation between products for different formats.The game has not adequately adapted to the rise of Commander as a format.Product creep is overwhelming for players and can lead to disengagement.Curating the player experience can revitalize interest in the game.Chapters00:00 Unpacking the Unforced Errors of Magic: The Gathering01:10 Unforced Errors in Game Design02:51 Format Curation vs. Power Level03:57 Art Direction and Player Experience05:01 Respecting Franchise Players06:52 Exploring Other Games09:15 Commander vs. 1v1 Design Challenges14:56 Product Creep and Player FrustrationJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/EternalDurdlesTCGPLAYER AFFILIATE LINK:https://partner.tcgplayer.com/OexAAnZac Clark and ForceofPhil discuss various unforced errors in the corporate decision making of Hasbro in regard to Magic: The Gathering, particularly focusing on the implications of the game's curation, the subjective nature of art direction, and the challenges of balancing competitive and casual play. They explore how player experience is affected by these design choices and the need for better format curation over power level curation. The discussion also touches on the impact of new players on the community and the potential for redefining product design to better suit different formats.TakeawaysThe reserve list may unintentionally limit the value of older cards.Unforced errors in game design can lead to player frustration.Art direction in Magic: The Gathering is highly subjective.Power creep is a significant issue that needs addressing.Player experience should be prioritized over merely increasing the player base.Many players are exploring other games due to dissatisfaction with Magic.There is a need for clearer delineation between products for different formats.The game has not adequately adapted to the rise of Commander as a format.Product creep is overwhelming for players and can lead to disengagement.Curating the player experience can revitalize interest in the game.Chapters00:00 Unpacking the Unforced Errors of Magic: The Gathering01:10 Unforced Errors in Game Design02:51 Format Curation vs. Power Level03:57 Art Direction and Player Experience05:01 Respecting Franchise Players06:52 Exploring Other Games09:15 Commander vs. 1v1 Design Challenges14:56 Product Creep and Player FrustrationJOIN US ON DISCORD: https://discord.gg/hrC7PxQZTEProudly supported by Three For One Trading: shop.threeforonetrading.comCardmillhttps://cardmill.com/EternalDurdlesMOXFIELDEternal Durdles Moxfield: https://www.moxfield.com/users/EternalDurdleshttps://www.moxfield.com/users/Durdlemagushttps://www.moxfield.com/users/ForceofPhil

Zac Clark and ForceofPhil dive into the exciting world of Value Vintage, discussing deck building strategies, innovative card choices, and the evolving landscape of the Vintage format. They explore various deck synergies, share insights on community engagement, and reflect on the thrill of discovering budget-friendly cards. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity in deck construction and the joy of participating in the Magic: The Gathering community.TakeawaysValue Vintage allows for creative deck building on a budget.Decks can be built for under $30, making it accessible.Screenshots are needed to prove deck prices for events.Infinite life strategies can be effective in gameplay.Community engagement enhances the experience of playing Vintage.Exploring the bulk bin can yield valuable cards.Innovative card choices can lead to unique strategies.The format encourages experimentation and creativity.Legacy decks can find new life in Value Vintage.The excitement of upcoming events drives community participation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Value Vintage02:53 Deck Building Strategies05:34 Exploring Deck Synergies08:38 Innovative Card Choices11:25 The Future of Value Vintage16:28 Deck Building Dilemmas19:00 Exploring Vintage Value20:53 Nostalgia and Card Discovery24:43 Strategizing for Value Vintage26:32 Creative Brewing Ideas

Zac Clark and ForceofPhil dive into the exciting world of Value Vintage, discussing deck building strategies, innovative card choices, and the evolving landscape of the Vintage format. They explore various deck synergies, share insights on community engagement, and reflect on the thrill of discovering budget-friendly cards. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity in deck construction and the joy of participating in the Magic: The Gathering community.TakeawaysValue Vintage allows for creative deck building on a budget.Decks can be built for under $30, making it accessible.Screenshots are needed to prove deck prices for events.Infinite life strategies can be effective in gameplay.Community engagement enhances the experience of playing Vintage.Exploring the bulk bin can yield valuable cards.Innovative card choices can lead to unique strategies.The format encourages experimentation and creativity.Legacy decks can find new life in Value Vintage.The excitement of upcoming events drives community participation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Value Vintage02:53 Deck Building Strategies05:34 Exploring Deck Synergies08:38 Innovative Card Choices11:25 The Future of Value Vintage16:28 Deck Building Dilemmas19:00 Exploring Vintage Value20:53 Nostalgia and Card Discovery24:43 Strategizing for Value Vintage26:32 Creative Brewing Ideas

Zac Clark and ForceofPhil delve into the intricacies of deck archetypes in Premodern, focusing on the dichotomy between synergy-based and combo-based strategies. They explore various decks, analyzing their win conditions and the importance of specific cards versus overall synergy. The discussion also touches on notable decks like Psychotog, Stasis, and Chance Control, debating their effectiveness and strategies. The conversation concludes with a call to action for community engagement through Patreon support.TakeawaysThere are two macro archetypes: deck synergy and card combo.Survival of the Fittest straddles the line between synergy and one-card strategy.Control decks aim to outlast opponents rather than rely on a single card.Psychotog can be seen as a control strategy rather than a one-card deck.Stasis has issues with finding the card consistently in gameplay.Black Vice may not be effective in many matchups.Chance Control combines elements of combo and control strategies.Decks like Goblins rely on synergy rather than a single win condition.Community engagement is vital for content creators.Players should consider their deck preferences and strategies.Chapters00:00 Macro Archetypes in Deck Building01:59 Analyzing Deck Strategies04:36 Control Decks and Their Goals09:23 Straddling the Line: Psychotog12:34 The Role of Parallax Tide16:53 Stasis and Its Challenges21:52 Exploring Green Stompy22:22 Chance Control: A Combo Control Deck

Zac Clark and ForceofPhil delve into the intricacies of deck archetypes in Premodern, focusing on the dichotomy between synergy-based and combo-based strategies. They explore various decks, analyzing their win conditions and the importance of specific cards versus overall synergy. The discussion also touches on notable decks like Psychotog, Stasis, and Chance Control, debating their effectiveness and strategies. The conversation concludes with a call to action for community engagement through Patreon support.TakeawaysThere are two macro archetypes: deck synergy and card combo.Survival of the Fittest straddles the line between synergy and one-card strategy.Control decks aim to outlast opponents rather than rely on a single card.Psychotog can be seen as a control strategy rather than a one-card deck.Stasis has issues with finding the card consistently in gameplay.Black Vice may not be effective in many matchups.Chance Control combines elements of combo and control strategies.Decks like Goblins rely on synergy rather than a single win condition.Community engagement is vital for content creators.Players should consider their deck preferences and strategies.Chapters00:00 Macro Archetypes in Deck Building01:59 Analyzing Deck Strategies04:36 Control Decks and Their Goals09:23 Straddling the Line: Psychotog12:34 The Role of Parallax Tide16:53 Stasis and Its Challenges21:52 Exploring Green Stompy22:22 Chance Control: A Combo Control Deck