GerryT Podcast With Dave Shiels

In an Arena Decklists first, Gerry and Bryan turn their attention to Magic's greatest format--Limited! They're here to get you prepared for this weekend's Kaldheim Sealed Arena Open. If you're looking to take home that sweet $2,000 dollar prize, you can't afford to sit this episode out! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Arena Open Entry & Payout Options - 1:51 Play vs Draw - 8:00 Sideboarding - 19:55 Risk vs Reward in Deckbuilding - 36:58 Kaldheim Sealed - 51:11 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Sweeping change has come to almost every Magic format, and Uro (and some of its most notorious pals) have been left out in the cold. Where do we go from here? Let Gerry and Bryan tell you in this special bonus episode! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Why did it take so long? - 1:46 Historic - 6:51 Pioneer - 12:44 Modern - 17:52 Legacy - 36:22 Vintage - 52:36 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: Sultai just might be the best deck in Standard. However, Gerry and Bryan are more optimistic about their chances of fighting back this time, and they’re here to highlight a bevy of decks that might have what it takes to compete. Plus, breaking news and Bryan browbeats Gerry into teaching everyone Sealed for the upcoming Arena Open! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: How broken was Modern? - 7:15 Uro Ban announcement - 9:57 Possible sealed episode? - 18:32 Standard - 32:59 Sultai Ultimatum - 35:20 Temur Adventures - 51:28 Mono-Blue - 55:07 Mono-Red - 1:02:54 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

The first decks of Kaldheim Standard have arrived and you know Gerry and Bryan can’t wait to dive in. Come explore the innovations (and conspicuous absences) from the first Magic Online league! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Boros Showdown - 6:14 Rogues - 8:18 Mono-Green - 11:47 Gruul - 16:47 Rakdos Sacrifice - 21:07 Mardu Pyromancer - 24:36 Mono-White - 30:16 Naya Showdown - 37:01 Dimir Control - 46:15 Boros Showdown - 51:06 Temur Ramp - 59:14 Mono-Red - 1:02:38 Cycling - 1:07:25 Mono-White - 1:09:23 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

No sleep. No food. No Genshin Impact or Teamfight Tactics. The boys lived on Magic Arena for the first day of Kaldheim’s release, and they’re already seeing the trends emerge. What has impressed and what has come up short? What important principles must deckbuilders keep in mind? Why is Haste the keyword you need to focus on right now? The answers are all here! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for: Gerry and Bryan’s Top 10 list of the best cards in Kaldheim is here! Plus a bonus look at their Top 5 commons and uncommons in the set. Not to go full clickbait, but their number one card might shock you! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Commons & uncommons - 4:05 Honorable mentions - 4:26 #5 - 6:46 #4 - 7:42 #3 - 9:43 #2 - 10:56 #1 - 13:59 Rare honorable mentions - 18:01 #10 - 30:43 #9 - 37:25 #8 - 46:17 #7 - 48:40 #6 - 50:55 #5 - 54:15 #4 - 56:02 #3 - 58:34 #2 - 1:02:34 #1 - 1:09:55 Gerry's Aeon Chronicler story - 1:24:21 2007 Nationals Decklists: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/event-coverage/decklists-top-8-decks-2007-07-28 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

After a less than stellar start to the preview season, the last few days have brought some exciting new cards to Kaldheim. As always, the boys are following their own path, and there are a lot of hyped cards that they’re ready to completely pass on. At the same time, they’re starting to identify a couple cards giving off “broken” vibes. Listen and find out where your favorites fall! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Reidane, God of Justice - 0:30 Starnheim Unleashed - 10:25 Usher of the Fallen - 14:30 Ascendant Spirit - 16:51 Cosmos Charger - 20:55 Duskwielder - 24:03 Burning-Rune Demon - 26:25 Egon, God of Death - 29:03 Eradicator Valkyrie - 33:56 Skemfar Avenger - 36:06 Blood on the Snow - 37:11 Quakebringer - 41:52 Goldspan Dragon - 44:58 Jorn, God of Winter - 49:07 Esika, God of the Tree - 54:41 Esika's Chariot - 59:35 In Search of Greatness - 1:02:08 Battle of Frost and Fire - 1:08:09 Firja's Punishment - 1:09:25 Kardur's Vicious Return - 1:12:55 Waking the Trolls - 1:15:55 Harald, King of Skemfar - 1:17:24 Harald Unites the Elves - 1:18:36 Karfell Port - 1:24:57 Surtland Frozenflame - 1:27:38 The World Tree - 1:28:42 Faceless Haven - 1:33:42 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Magic’s newest set continues its preview season, and we’re starting to get to the good stuff. Some of these cards are being dramatically misevaluated right now, and Gerry and Bryan are here to set the record straight. Get your head start in new Standard! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Snow lands - 3:38 Frost Bite - 7:26 Niko Aris - 8:47 Valki, God of Lies - 15:41 Invasion of the Giants - 23:20 Glimpse the Cosmos - 27:06 Binding the Old Gods - 31:06 Behold the Multiverse - 33:44 Sigrid, God-Favored - 37:57 Masked Vandal - 40:16 Elvish Warmaster - 41:54 Alrund, God of the Cosmos - 44:22 Alrund's Epiphany - 48:10 Old-Growth Troll - 50:55 Vorinclex, Monstrous Raider - 54:16 Koll, the Forgemaster - 56:58 Reflections of Littjara - 58:12 Question of the week - 1:12:30 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

The New Year is upon us, and that means it’s time to bid a not so fond farewell to 2020. What better way to do so than spending a couple hours with the guys as they go over their favorites (and least favorites) from the past year. Magic, movies, music, and more... it’s all in this mammoth episode! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Top 5 MTG players - 7:08 What will MTG look like in the future - 11:30 Top 5 card of 2020 - 20:03 Top 5 formats - 34:33 Top 5 video games - 44:19 Top 5 anime - 59:58 Top 5 tv shows - 1:05:05 Top 5 albums - 1:16:26 Top 5 movies - 1:23:02 Top 5 books - 1:24:45 Top 5 least favorite cards - 1:40:18 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

It’s the most magical time of the year... preview season!! A whole host of exciting new Magic cards have the guys feeling festive. Hear their takes on what cards are destined to shake up your favorite formats. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Historic - 1:25 Halvar, God of Battle - 5:13 Pathways - 13:10 Kaya the Inexorable - 18:30 Magda, Brazan Outlaw - 25:12 Toski, Bearer of Secrets - 32:14 Sarulf, Realm Eater - 36:56 Showdown of Skalds - 45:33 Realmwalker - 47:11 Pyre of Heroes - 52:04 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Hope you’re ready for an episode that’s been years in the making! Before she leaves for Wizards of the Coast, Emma Handy makes her long overdue Arena Decklists debut to talk about Magic content as both a creator and consumer. Whether you’re looking to get in the content creation game yourself, or just increase the benefit derived from the media you follow, there’s something in this episode for everyone. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With two big Historic events on tap this weekend, Gerry and Bryan are diving into the results of the Zendikar Rising Championships to figure out what to play. The usual suspects are all discussed, but there’s also a new deck that’s starting to catch the team’s attention. On top of that, the guys weigh in on aliens, quicksand, and how Gerry can stop setting himself on fire. This episode might have gone a little off the rails... Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Lack of patience with Uro - 1:51 Gerry's laptop problem - 6:12 Sultai vs 4 Color - 18:52 Sacrifice decks - 33:53 Goblins - 42:22 Azorius Auras - 45:54 Azorius Control - 48:56 Colorless Ramp - 52:25 Question of the week - 1:00:45 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

High-level Magic is back on the menu this week, and Gerry and Bryan are perusing the decklists from both formats of the Zendikar Rising Championship. What decks do they love, like, and loathe? Listen and find out! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Zendikar Rising Championship - 0:40 Standard Overview - 6:08 Yorion decks - 21:05 Historic - 35:59 Are players copying Gerry less? - 38:58 Fringe decks - 54:46 Secret Lairs and YouTube - 1:10:26 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

When Gerry and Bryan are in perfect agreement on a deck, it’s usually time to take notice! Both of the boys have fallen in love with Gerry’s unique take on Rakdos Sacrifice, and they’re here to break down exactly what makes the deck tick. Pick up the best deck in Historic before the word gets out! 3 Woe Strider 2 Castle Locthwain 4 Cauldron Familiar 4 Witch's Oven 4 Fabled Passage 4 Claim the Firstborn 4 Mayhem Devil 4 Priest of Forgotten Gods 3 Midnight Reaper 4 Scrapheap Scrounger 4 Bomat Courier 3 Dragonskull Summit 2 Thoughtseize 4 Blood Crypt 3 Mountain 7 Swamp 1 Phyrexian Tower Sideboard 2 Soul-Guide Lantern 3 Witch's Vengeance 3 Noxious Grasp 1 Bedevil 2 Abrade 2 Chandra, Torch of Defiance 2 Thoughtseize Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Decklist - 4:08 Trimming 3 drops - 15:50 Core interactions - 26:12 Sideboarding - 33:42 Why Collected Company doesn't belong - 53:07 Giving Thanks - 1:01:43 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

This week the focus remains on Historic, as Gerry and Bryan try to unpack all the effects of Kaladesh Remastered. The early days of the format have been packed with surprises, as some hyped cards fizzled out and some underrated gems have established themselves as format staples. If you’re participating in this weekend’s SCG Tour Online, this is a can’t miss episode! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Questions of the week - 3:02 Sultai Midrange - 17:20 WOTC curating Historic - 24:06 Aetherworks Marvel - 31:55 Mono-red - 48:37 Gruul - 52:35 Auras - 55:21 Colorless Ramp - 56:39 Jund Sacrifice - 1:00:21 Rakdos Pyromancer - 1:05:10 Vehicles - 1:07:15 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With Kaladesh Remastered hitting MTG Arena this week, Bryan and Gerry comb through the set and point out all of the potential haymakers that may impact the Historic format. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Aetherworks Marvel - 3:37 Fatal Push - 17:25 Winding Constrictor - 18:37 Bomat Courier - 20:43 Scrapheap Scrounger - 23:23 Sram, Senior Edificer - 25:20 Fast Lands - 26:33 Blossoming Defense - 28:47 Metallic Rebuke - 30:18 Heart of Kiran - 33:38 Baral, Chief of Compliance - 35:58 Toolcraft Exemplar - 37:46 Refurbish - 40:35 Torrential Gearhulk - 41:29 Minister of Inquiries - 44:03 Whir of Invention - 45:33 Chandra, Torch of Defiance - 48:27 Aethersphere Harvester - 51:33 Hope of Ghirapur - 52:41 Ceremonious Rejection - 54:20 Skysovereign - 59:56 Question of the week - 1:03:10 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan are back to review the decklists from another Magic Online league, and this time their focus is on Modern! The format is in one of the healthiest states it’s seen in a long time, and a lack of competitive focus on the format seems to be inspiring some wild deck choices. Follow along at https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/mtgo-standings/modern-league-2020-11-03 Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Rakdos Shadow - 2:54 Valakut - 3:40 Eldrazi - 6:10 Zombies - 9:18 Rakdos Midrange - 10:54 Yorion Scapeshift - 12:34 Ghosts of Standard's Past - 15:22 Heliod - 18:22 Field of the Dead - 20:34 Sultai Control - 23:02 Azorius Yorion - 25:01 Humans - 27:55 Izzet Phoenix - 29:13 Amulet - 30:20 Mono-Red Eldrazi - 32:03 Polymorph - 33:37 Storm - 35:35 Jeskai - 38:30 Bant Company - 41:14 Life gain - 42:42 Temur - 46:06 Abzan Company - 49:13 Goblins - 51:20 Gyruda - 52:33 Golgari Midrange - 54:50 Neoform - 56:08 All Spells - 58:03 80 Azorius Yorion - 59:29 Vampires - 1:03:23 Living End - 1:04:10 Sultai Vengvine - 1:05:37 Tribal Zoo - 1:07:55 Battle of Wits - 1:11:32 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Standard has been through some tough times over the past year, but this current incarnation is proving to be a return to form. As Gerry and Bryan get ready to make their return to the caster's booth for the Red Bull Untapped Finals, they're unpacking the results of last weekend's league play. What do they have to say for Yorion? Did Bryan trick everyone into playing a bad deck Week 1 AGAIN? What's the plan for the upcoming Arena Open? All this and more on this week's episode! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Red Bull Untapped - 1:04 MPL Rivals results - 8:10 Temur - 24:41 Gruul Adventures - 35:55 Arena Open - 46:14 Question of the week - 56:29 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

This is a big weekend for tournament Magic and Yorion is the headliner. What caused its meteoric rise and can anything stop it? Gerry and Bryan share their experiences with the different Yorion variants, their mirror match strategies, and the other decks in the format that have their attention. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: MPL & Rivals - 0:50 Standard Yorin - 11:28 Lukka setups - 27:58 Rogues - 36:27 Adventures - 46:00 Ramp - 51:11 Fake Blue Tron - 59:57 Rakdos & Mono Green Food - 1:04:35 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Magic is back baby! Sweeping bans have finally made the format feel fresh again, and Gerry and Bryan have been hard at work figuring out the rules of engagement for new Standard. They present their pillars, and explain how the presence of five format defining cards should be shaping your deck building in the coming weeks. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: B&R - 3:41 What Standard looks like now - 15:35 The Great Henge - 20:36 Heartless Act - 30:34 Ruin Crab - 34:39 Food decks - 39:37 Embercleave - 42:39 Shark Typhoon - 47:49 Skyclave Appartition - 51:30 Izzet Spells - 57:39 Setessan Champion - 1:02:21 Question of the week - 1:14:22 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Two formats and a small field of some of the best players in the world have left Gerry and Bryan with plenty of food for thought headed into the biggest Magic tournament of the year: the Grand Finals! The guys talk about why the Omnath problem has proven so difficult to solve in Standard, and whether the competitors here have found any glimmers of hope. When it comes to Historic, Omnath is only beginning to assert its dominance. Did anyone in this field find the answer? Also, what video game came out of nowhere this week to consume the lives of our hosts? Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Grand Finals small metagame - 8:43 Standard decks - 22:08 Rakdos - 30:11 Historic - 51:12 Question of the week - 1:07:40 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Look, the bans didn’t go exactly how Gerry and Bryan had hoped. Omnath remains a huge fixture of Standard, and engines are still the order of the day. However, there’s still work to be done and moves to make. The guys are hard at work, both figuring out the best version of Omnath and the best way to fight it. Hear what’s been working for them, and learn about Standard’s surprisingly deep second tier. Do any dark horse archetypes have what it takes to unseat the four-armed menace? Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Uro Ban & Playing Omnath - 2:44 Mono-Red - 25:53 Mono-Green - 35:38 Gruul Adventures - 40:23 4 Color Adventures - 47:22 Mill - 54:17 Dimir Control - 1:05:03 Rogues - 1:12:18 Question of the week - 1:21:38 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Wow. Prior to the actual release of Zendikar Rising, bans are already on the horizon. Why does this keep happening, and what do Gerry and Bryan think needs to change to prevent bans in the future? What cards do they expect to get the axe? Is this the straw that breaks the camel’s back when it comes to player morale? It’s not all bad news this week though. With Standard temporarily on ice, the guys check in on a Modern league, and find a format picking up some exciting new tools from Zendikar Rising. Is Modern the best format in Magic again? Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Incoming B&R announcement? - 0:55 Modern - 29:37 Neoform - 40:44 Mono-White Taxes - 42:08 Scourge of the Skyclaves - 46:01 Grixis Shadow - 48:42 Belcher - 52:33 Niv-Mizzet vs Omnath - 55:21 Uro Ramp - 57:50 Naya Landfall Scapeshift - 1:01:59 Kiki Chord - 1:05:07 8 Crab - 1:08:56 Azorius Control - 1:11:00 Jeskai Control - 1:14:08 Eldrazi Tron - 1:16:54 Better Scourge Decks - 1:18:58 Question of the week - 1:27:51 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With a couple days of new Standard under their belt, Gerry and Bryan are ready to share their first impressions. And those impressions are generally summed up by a simple mantra: "Play Omnath and Lotus Cobra." Drawing your deck on Turn 4, turns producing dozens of mana, passively gaining tons of life, ample card advantage... It's all possible for Four-Color Genesis Ultimatum. Is there any hope, or are we doomed to another two years of Standard defined by ramp? 4 Omnath, Locus of Creation (ZNR) 232 1 Mountain (UND) 94 2 Island (UND) 90 1 Plains (UND) 88 4 Lotus Cobra (ZNR) 193 4 Uro, Titan of Nature's Wrath (THB) 229 4 Genesis Ultimatum (IKO) 189 3 Radha, Heart of Keld (M21) 224 4 Dryad of the Ilysian Grove (THB) 169 2 Forest (UND) 96 4 Fabled Passage (ELD) 244 2 Riverglide Pathway (ZNR) 264 3 Cragcrown Pathway (ZNR) 261 4 Tangled Florahedron (ZNR) 211 1 Bala Ged Recovery (ZNR) 180 4 Turntimber Symbiosis (ZNR) 215 4 Escape to the Wilds (ELD) 189 1 Thassa's Oracle (THB) 73 2 Spikefield Hazard (ZNR) 166 4 Shatterskull Smashing (ZNR) 161 2 Glasspool Mimic (ZNR) 60 Sideboard 2 Spikefield Hazard (ZNR) 166 3 Valakut Exploration (ZNR) 175 4 Mystical Dispute (ELD) 58 3 Elder Gargaroth (M21) 179 3 Redcap Melee (ELD) 135 Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Gerry and Bryan's Omnath lists - 4:43 How to combat Omnath - 12:54 Reevaluating DFCs - 32:13 Janelle was right - 49:55 Question of the week - 59:49 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan have been hard at work building decks for new Standard, and their work has unveiled a bevy of new information about the format. Cards have been rapidly moving up and down their personal rankings, and they discuss each and every card they considered for inclusion in their Top 10s. If you're looking for a head start on deckbuilding come release week, you CANNOT miss this episode. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Pathways - 7:49 Omnath - 16:14 Bloodchief's Thirst - 21:37 Nullpriest of Oblivion - 24:29 Orah, Skyclave Hierophant - 28:06 Acquisitions Expert - 30:56 Zareth San, the Trickster - 36:22 Skyclave Apparition - 47:16 Akoum Hellhound - 50:30 Jace, Mirror Mage - 56:53 Magmatic Channeler - 1:00:20 Ancient Greenwarden - 1:05:07 Bala Ged Recovery & Shatterskull Smashing - 1:15:59 Ranking DFC mythic spell lands - 1:27:13 Gerry's Top 10 - 1:38:23 Bryan's Top 10 - 1:39:48 Question of the week - 1:47:56 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

A whole bunch of new Zendikar Rising cards have been previewed and Gerry and Bryan have opinions in this monster episode. What mechanic has the guys feeling some real trepidation at first glance? What creature have they already picked out as one of the best cards in the set? Why can’t Gerry convert in Fall Guys? All this and some bonus talk about the best deck in Historic! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Pathways - 2:33 Archon of Emeria - 12:18 Archpriest of Iona - 15:56 Emeria's Call - 19:08 Skyclave Apparation - 29:05 Confounding Conundrum - 35:15 Merfolk Windrobber - 43:54 Sea Gate Stormcaller - 44:51 Acquisitions Expert - 51:40 Bloodchief's Thirst - 54:16 Coveted Prize - 56:41 Demon's Disciple - 1:00:10 Feed the Swarm - 1:01:12 Mind Carver - 1:04:20 Nighthawk Scavenger - 1:07:40 Soul Shatter - 1:13:04 Thwart the Grave - 1:14:08 Akoum Hellhound - 1:15:54 Ardent Electromancer - 1:17:40 Cleansing Wildfire - 1:19:17 Roiling Vortex - 1:22:00 Skyclave Geopede - 1:26:46 Valakut Awakening - 1:31:08 Bala Ged Recovery - 1:36:09 Lotus Cobra - 1:44:27 Roiling Regrowth - 1:47:34 Tajuru Paragon - 1:48:14 Linvala, Shield of Sea Gate - 1:50:07 Zareth San, the Trickster - 1:51:19 Zagras, Thief of Heartbeats - 1:53:27 Cleric of Life's Bond - 1:57:53 Orah, Skyclave Hierophant - 1:59:31 Kaza, Roil Chaser - 2:00:52 Nissa of Shadowed Boughs - 2:01:52 Omnath, Locus of Creation - 2:08:32 Crawling Barrens - 2:08:09 Question of the week - 2:19:56 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Our first look at Zendikar Rising is here and Gerry and Bryan are already over the moon about one of the new cards! Find out what they think of new versions of Jace and Nahiri, and get their breakdown of the Historic format in a post-Field of the Dead world. Also, does Magic have too many formats right now? Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Jace, Mirror Mage - 0:50 Nahiri, Heir of the Ancients - 12:08 Field of the Dead banned....again - 24:56 Historic going forward - 42:18 Question of the week - 1:26:39 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With substantial changes in both Arena constructed formats, Gerry and Bryan are finally enjoying themselves again! Standard has a bit of a Sultai problem, but this past week showed there is still a lot of room for innovation. Similarly, Sultai Field occupies the top tier of historic, but there are a bunch of options that are starting to figure out the best way to fight the zombie hordes. Listen and learn how to climb the ladder! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Standard - 1:46 Historic - 22:59 Secret Lairs, comics, and baseball cards - 29:02 What is the relationship of Pioneer and Historic? - 59:48 Question of the week - 1:09:02 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Post-ban Standard has quickly become centered around yet another Simic-based archetype, but Gerry and Bryan aren’t ready to give up hope! The guys are convinced that there are multiple archetypes capable of challenging for the throne, they just need to adjust for the Sultai menace. Hear how Gerry’s finding success with rebuilt classics and how Bryan is changing Sultai to get the largest edge in the mirror. A can’t miss episode for anyone who wants to win in Standard! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Why Gerry hates Sultai control - 0:59 Sultai's weaknesses - 7:31 Rakdos Knights - 17:37 Winota - 18:53 Temur Elementals - 25:16 Temur Adventures - 38:55 Bryan's problems with Sultai - 42:03 Question of the week - 59:34 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

After months of player unrest, Wizards stepped in and gave the players the sweeping changes they've been clamoring for! Bans have dramatically transformed Standard and Pioneer overnight. Gerry and Bryan got right to work, and they’re bringing you their analysis and early picks for both formats! Are you ready? Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: B&R surprise announcement - 2:45 New Standard - 24:23 Pioneer - 38:36 Historic - 49:57 Question of the week - 1:03:38 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With the Arena Open coming up this weekend, Arena Decklists finally gives the people what they’ve been clamoring for—an entire episode focused on Historic! Gerry and Bryan even brought along a special guest in the form of Historic devotee Nick Prince. The trio teams up to let you know exactly what this young format is all about and what they see as the best choice for this coming weekend. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Gathering info on Historic - 1:37 Temur Reclamation - 7:05 Goblins - 16:19 Midrange decks - 22:15 Azorius Spirits - 35:14 Rakdos Sac - 39:37 Kethis & Underworld Breach - 42:45 Mono-Red - 49:07 Humans & Lifegain - 52:03 Orzhov Vampires - 1:02:55 Tempered Steel - 1:03:48 Tiny Bones - 1:05:20 Question of the week - 1:10:36 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

After last week’s bans, Modern and Pioneer events revealed some subtle changes starting to take root. Gerry and Bryan are looking to get one step ahead of the shifts. They got together to identify new trends and potential responses in both formats. If you’ve been dying for a return to classic Arena Decklists metagame analysis, this is the episode for you! Follow along for the Modern PTQ at: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/mtgo-standings/modern-champ-qual-2020-07-20 Follow along for the Pioneer League at: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/mtgo-standings/pioneer-league-2020-07-23 Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Modern - 1:11 Wilderness Reclamation - 30:51 Mystic Sanctuary - 38:57 Pioneer - 49:01 Question of the week - 1:19:01 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Once again, the Banned and Restricted list has shaken up almost every format. Gerry and Bryan are weighing in on what the changes mean, and what new decks are ready to step into the top tiers of their respective formats. Plus, a bold new proposal for how the banned list should operate going forward and thoughts on the ever changing shape of organized play. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: B&R announcement for Historic - 1:51 Pioneer - 19:52 Modern - 36:42 Question of the week - 55:11 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With the rug pulled out from under them by upcoming bans, Gerry and Bryan decide to give a little back to their Patrons and spend THREE HOURS answering every single question they were asked. Get to know more about the guys as people and expect plenty of great Magic insight sprinkled in along the way. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan are bringing you an Arena Decklists classic this week—the deck dump! Follow along as they review the best (and worst) of the new Standard decklists, and even talk through a few bonus decks. Follow along at: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/mtgo-standings/standard-league-2020-07-02 Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Mono-Red - 3:53 Jund Food - 6:08 Rakdos Sacrifice - 7:58 Izzet Spells - 12:48 Paw Blade - 17:06 Sultai Ramp - 19:43 Mono-Green - 24:35 Gruul - 28:37 Mono-Black & Vampires - 43:14 Question of the week - 48:08 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Long time friend of the podcast Yoman_5 stops by to discuss his experiences in the Core Set 2021 Streamer Showcase. What cards underwhelmed and impressed? What dormant archetype has been brought back from the dead with the printing of a powerful new rare? What cards are still flying under the radar and just waiting to be unlocked? Listen and find out! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan are back to bring you their look at the best cards in Core Set 2021. In an effort to get you better prepared for your Week 1 tournament, the boys changed the formula a bit and added the reprints to the mix. Plus, Gerry learns what Jumpstart is! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Reprints Honorable Mentions - 4:00 #5 Reprint - 8:31 #4 - 10:26 #3 - 13:14 #2 - 15:42 #1 - 18:49 New Cards Honorable Mentions - 25:09 #5 - 28:06 #4 - 31:15 #3 - 34:20 #2 - 37:47 #1 - 41:51 Question of the week - 55:27 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan are back, and reviewing what we’ve seen so far from Core Set 2021! The last Core Set was deceptively powerful. Do the guys think this new set can live up to its predecessor? What card do they feel is the surefire focal point for our next Standard format? Listen and find out! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: B&R Announcement - 3:18 Baneslayer Angel - 6:31 Basri Ket - 7:30 Basri's Lieutenant - 10:13 Seasoned Hollowblade - 13:19 Selfless Savior 13:56 Teferi, Master of Time - 16:47 Archfiend's Vessel - 22:57 Eliminate - 25:22 Liliana, Waker of the Dead - 28:08 Village Rites - 31:18 Chandra, Heart of Fire - 33:17 Chandra's Pyreling - 35:58 Conspicuous Snoop - 36:44 Garruk - 40:07 Llanowar Visionary - 42:31 Solemn Simulacrum - 43:20 Mazemind Tome - 44:33 Sparkhunter Masticore - 47:43 Ugin, the Spirit Dragon - 50:16 Question of the Week - 1:02:36 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

On May 25, 2020, George Floyd was murdered by an act of police brutality. The eight minutes and forty-six seconds of silence contained in this podcast represent the amount of time the murderer spent with his knee on Mr. Floyd’s neck as he struggled to breathe. The Arena Decklists Podcast stands with protesters. We stand with the Black Community. We call for an end to an oppressive system of “justice” that was designed from the ground up to perpetuate white supremacy. For thoughts on race in Magic, we recommend The Cedric A Phillips Podcast: shorturl.at/eQU28 #blacklivesmatter

Between upcoming bans, various PTQs, and all the other events, there’s a lot to talk about! Gerry and Bryan give their cliff notes on each format, from what’s happening to which deck to play. Eighth Edition Article: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/selecting-eighth-edition-wrapup-2002-11-25 Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: WOTC tweet addressing Companion - 0:47 Historic - 16:31 Pioneer - 22:02 Modern - 30:03 Pauper - 39:55 Legacy - 43: 26 Question of the week - 56:40 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan have thoughts on recently announced changes to upcoming Pro Tours and as you might expect, they’re fired up! Listen while they bring you up to speed on the curious case of the disappearing two million dollars, and why it’s completely disingenuous to write off the retroactive changes as a necessary reaction to Covid-19. In the midst of all of this, the guys are still bringing you their picks for the best decks in BO1 and BO3 for upcoming events. Plus, Gerry takes a victory lap and a display of the power of positivity! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: OP Discussion - 0:37 Arena Open - 24:12 Hearthstone Announcement - 35:03 B&R Announcement - 44:09 Redbull Untapped - 47:02 Positive moments - 57:32 Question of the week - 1:06:36 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

With two massive Standard tournaments on the docket this weekend, Gerry and Bryan got together to break down all the best decks. What successful archetype is Gerry finally ready to turn his back on? Does Bryan think Temur Adventures is here to stay? What off the radar aggro deck looks like it’s poised for a breakthrough? All this and more on this week’s episode! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Jeskai Lukka - 10:58 Boros Cycling - 18:05 Temur Elementals - 22:15 Temur Adventures - 23:53 Temur Reclamation - 26:13 Mono-Red Obosh - 35:01 Bant Yorion - 40:42 Winota - 41:29 Jeskai Fires - 44:01 Azorius Control - 48:41 Knights - 54:36 Question of the week - 56:34 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

A meme deck quickly rose to the top of Standard, which left Gerry and Bryan reeling. How did this abomination, which completely ignores everything we've learned about Magic deck-building, get to be the best deck in Standard? It might be time we have to unlearn everything we thought was true. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Why Jeskai Lukka is bad - 3:00 Misconceptions - 14:50 Matchups - 30:15 Growth Spiral vs Birth of Meletis - 33:19 Other decks to consider - 47:36 Question of the week - 1:00:30 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan are back with an Arena Decklists’ classic: the Modern Deck Dump! Everyone knows Lurrus is public enemy #1 in Modern right now, but what else has Ikoria done to shake up the format? Listen and find out! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Shadow - 11:12 RG Atarka - 13:11 Goblins - 16:35 Mono-Blue Tron - 18:45 UR Lutri - 19:54 GW Heliod - 22:10 GB Lurrus - 24:25 Abzan Lurrus - 26:36 Yorion - 28:35 Bant Stoneblade - 35:22 Mono-White Lurrus - 36:57 GW Hardened Scales - 39:35 Yorion Humans - 42:19 Rakdos Lurrus - 46:03 Jund Lurrus - 49:43 Bant Yorion - 54:21 4-color Shadow - 55:25 Burn - 57:00 As Foretold - 57:46 Lurrus Infect - 1:00:01 Living End - 1:03:19 Simic Nexus - 1:06:13 RG Land Destruction - 1:09:54 GrisShoalBrand - 1:15:57 Heartless Summoning Gyruda - 1:20:58 Obosh Gruul - 1:27:47 Dimir Lurrus - 1:33:56 Grixis Lurrus - 1:38:38 Yorion Niv Mizzet - 1:43:47 Question of the Week - 1:48:46 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Have we ever seen such an enormous shake-up in every format due to a single set (or mechanic)? Gerry and Bryan break down each major constructed format but mostly discuss how Standard’s companion hype won’t last forever. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Standard - 3:54 Fires - 17:24 Gyruda - 18:17 Yorion - 22:02 Winota - 28:15 Flash - 30:43 Thoughts on Standard Gameplay - 33:52 Pioneer - 44:19 Modern - 44:56 Legacy - 55:10 Question of the week - 1:05:09 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

After building a ton of new decks, Bryan and Gerry come together to form their Top 10 list for Ikoria, Lair of Behemoths. What card shot up their rankings in record time? What hyped cards didn’t even make the cut? Listen and find out! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Gerry's #10 - 7:16 Bryan's #10 - 13:01 Gerry's #9 - 19:23 Bryan's #9 - 21:40 Gerry's #8 - 26:55 Bryan's #8 - 32:40 Bryan's #7 - 38:55 Gerry's #7 - 46:31 Gerry's #6 - 50:58 #5 - 58:15 #4 - 1:02:01 #3 - 1:05:41 #2 - 1:16:55 #1 - 1:20:40 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

In this MONSTER episode, Gerry and Bryan cover the first wave of Ikoria previews. In a vacuum, the set has a ton to offer but will it be enough to compete with Standard’s top tier? Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt - 10:09 Narset of the Ancient Way - 16:10 General Kudro of Drannith - 19:42 Offspring's Revenge - 24:03 Song of Creation - 27:22 Sprite Dragon - 33:04 Emergent Ultimatum - 34:15 Jegantha, the Wellspring - 40:34 Gyruda, Doom of Deaths - 49:44 Obosh, the Preypiercer - 51:56 Keruga, the Macrosage - 53:25 Lurrus of the Dream-Den - 55:39 Kaheera, the Orphanguard - 58:55 Fiend Artisan - 1:05:08 Mythos of Snapdax - 1:08:21 Sea-Dasher Octopus - 1:11:41 Question of the Week - 1:28:41 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

As a founding member of the podcast, Gerry and Bryan welcome back Michael Majors with open arms. He recently left his position at Wizards of the Coast and shares why, what he learned, and what his future in content creation will entail. As a master of deckbuilding and theory, Michael's return is the most exciting news for the Magic community in quite some time. Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Following a massive expansion of digital organized play, Gerry and Bryan find themselves drawn back into Standard. They’re breaking down the results from the first wave of Arena qualifiers. Do you have to play Uro to have a chance in this format? What former top-tier deck put up an absolutely miserable conversion rate? Plus, a bonus look at Pioneer and Modern events from Magic Online! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi Timestamps: Standard - 6:16 Temur Reclamation - 17:52 Simic Flash - 22:16 Jeskai Fire - 24:53 Simic Ramp - 28:18 Sultai Midrange - 33:20 Temur Adventures - 35:40 Mono-red - 39:24 Azorius Blink - 44:36 Modern - 58:56 Question of the week - 1:09:39 arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango

Gerry and Bryan planned to return to regularly scheduled programming this week, but the news just wouldn’t cooperate. After a rash of cancellations due to COVID-19, the future of Magic changed in an instant. While everyone’s primary focus should be on health and safety, the guys are optimistic that Magic can still play a role in our lives. They offer advice for improving your play in the absence of a competitive scene, and talk about how they intend to pass the time until we are all brought back together for the Gathering again! Music: Mega Man 2 "Ending theme" Remix by zookun | Music composed by Manami Matsumae & Takashi Tateishi arenadecklists.gg patreon.com/arenadecklists youtube.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/arenadecklists twitter.com/g3rryt twitter.com/bryango