Exciting news is on the horizon for fans of Magic: The Gathering: the much-discussed Universes Within printings, which seemed as though they had been forgotten, are poised for a resurgence—albeit primarily in digital format. Initially conceptualized as a method to introduce in-universe representations of Universes Beyond cards uncoupled from external intellectual properties, Universes Within had seemingly lost momentum. However, with the evolving game landscape and a greater focus on Universes Beyond encompassing entire sets, it’s now clear that Universes Within cards are set to experience a significant revival in a unique manner.
This recent shift became apparent with the quiet reintroduction of Universes Within cards in a Secret Lair drop, suggesting future reprints in a similar fashion. Yet, it appears that major set-wide reprints of Universes Beyond in physical formats might not be on the table. As the digital arena undergoes transformation, players can look forward to the debut of new Universes Within cards tailored specifically for digital play.
Digital Release for MTG’s Spider-Man Set
Marvel Sets Will Not Be Available on MTG’s Online Platforms
In line with the anticipated arrival of the Spider-Man-themed set in Magic: The Gathering, it has been confirmed that no Marvel-themed sets will be accessible in digital form. Nevertheless, with Universes Beyond cards now being considered Standard legal—which typically extends to most gameplay formats—Wizards of the Coast cannot overlook them in their digital offerings. Such an omission could create disparities between physical and digital gameplay, potentially disrupting the competitive scene. To this end, a novel solution has emerged: digital-exclusive Universes Within renditions of sets like Spider-Man.
The term “on paper”is often employed to denote theoretical situations; however, in the context of MTG, it refers specifically to physical cards.
While Wizards of the Coast has retained the Universes Within label for these new offerings, they are officially termed Through the Omenpaths—drawing inspiration from portals within the MTG universe that facilitate travel between various planes of existence. This thematic alignment provides Wizards the creative freedom to showcase card designs from across the Multiverse, allowing adaptations that resonate well with original aesthetics without conforming to a singular storyline. Still, it remains to be seen how smoothly the integration of different card versions will unfold from a player’s viewpoint.
Navigating Card Name Confusion with Universes Within
Introduction of Multiple Names for Identical Cards Across Sets
The Through the Omenpaths iteration of the Spider-Man set is likely to introduce a new layer of complexity for players who engage in both MTG Arena and traditional physical formats. Each new set infuses the game with an array of new cards players must familiarize themselves with to remain competitive. Given that there will now exist two distinct versions of these cards, many potentially bearing different names, it will certainly complicate the memorization process for players.
Recognizing card names or artworks significantly expedites the gameplay experience in MTG. Familiarity with high-usage cards such as Lightning Bolt, Sol Ring, and Wrath of God, allows players to strategize seamlessly. Upon drawing a card, my immediate understanding of its functionality enables swift decision-making, eliminating the need for thorough reading when an opponent plays it.
Introducing a second variant of Universes Beyond cards will necessitate players to learn twice as many names and familiarize themselves with additional artwork, further complicating the learning curve. The increasing volume of new artistic interpretations in each set has already challenged players’ ability to recognize cards by image alone, and Through the Omenpaths will only exacerbate this issue. Although not every card will require a name adjustment, cards with strong ties to the Marvel identity, like The Sensational Spider-Man, will certainly need both a new title and artwork, potentially leading to confusion.
Frustration Over Universes Within Being Limited to Digital Formats
Preference for Physical Versions of Universes Within Over Universes Beyond Versions
Another undeniable drawback to Through the Omenpaths is its current limitation to digital-only offerings. While this approach simplifies deck-building by preventing confusion regarding card availability based on naming conventions, it introduces frustration for enthusiasts who cherish Magic’s distinct characters and worlds. There is potential for some Spider-Man cards to receive thematic reskins as beloved Magic characters, such as Nissa or Ajani, yet these variants won’t be available in traditional formats.
While I hold a considerable appreciation for Spider-Man, given the choice, I would prefer to interact with Magic: The Gathering’s own characters over those from Marvel. This sentiment doesn’t always apply to Universes Beyond collaborations, especially with settings like Lord of the Rings or Final Fantasy, which integrate well into the MTG universe. However, Spider-Man swinging through the streets of New York feels less representative of the Magic experience, and it is somewhat disappointing to have alternative versions that can’t be played in physical formats.
Digital Release of Universes Within May Address MTGO Challenges
Possibility of Retroactive Inclusion for Previous Universes Beyond Sets on MTGO
Despite my reservations regarding Through the Omenpaths, there is one notable advantage to the new approach to Universes Beyond cards. Historically, several Universes Beyond sets were excluded from Magic: The Gathering Online, resulting in players missing out on products like the Doctor Who Commander Decks. It is my hope that the Through the Omenpaths will not only cater to fresh products but will also facilitate the inclusion of digital versions of earlier sets that previously skipped MTGO.
While I suspect that Through the Omenpaths will create some challenges, I am open to this trade-off if it ultimately ensures that every card can find its way into Magic: The Gathering Online. Although Magic Arena primarily focuses on Standard-released sets, and the absence of certain Universes Beyond offerings was less impactful for me, MTGO functions differently. I remain optimistic that this platform will eventually accommodate any Magic: The Gathering cards produced, regardless of the associated challenges.