So ... Delver is officially dead? No representation in the top16 (amongst 200+ players). AFAIK they've maintained a pretty strong presence online despite the Cloud of Faeries ban. Given that paupergeddon uses the online banlist, that's an odd swing.
I think that a reason why Delver would be so absent could simply be the difference between playing magic for a tournament or grinding out on MTGO. When preparing for a tournament, you need to consider the expected metagame, which can be a very localized matter. This was a large tournament, but I think the argument still stands. We see this behavior in Standard tournaments all the time.
Also, people go to tournaments for different reasons than they grind online leagues. You don't really know what to expect online, and yet you want a deck that's fast enough to get you to your next game/entry. Delver is a consistent deck that still sports a fast clock and is generally well-rounded. When preparing for a tournament, the mentality changes to something a lot more like preparing for an intense sport. It's a one-shot deal, so you want to be ready with something you're comfortable with and that you're confident will attack the metagame in the right way.
EDIT: I think the article also makes a good case:
The result structure of the Magic Online leagues where only the undefeated lists are posted trends toward decks that can run hot... As Paupergeddon is a longer event and a single loss does not ruin a chance of having a deck posted it makes sense for there to be fewer all-in decks (Hexproof, Izzet Blitz) and more decks that want to play a consistent game.
Link via Hec278 in the Turbofog thread.
http://www.gatheringmagic.com/alexullman-02212017-understanding-paupergeddon/
Last year they posted a meta breakdown of all decks. If anyone finds a link, please share!
2) Use the right number of each card.
3) Know your probabilities.
4) Print your deck lists; make yourself and your judges happier.
I think that a reason why Delver would be so absent could simply be the difference between playing magic for a tournament or grinding out on MTGO. When preparing for a tournament, you need to consider the expected metagame, which can be a very localized matter. This was a large tournament, but I think the argument still stands. We see this behavior in Standard tournaments all the time.
Also, people go to tournaments for different reasons than they grind online leagues. You don't really know what to expect online, and yet you want a deck that's fast enough to get you to your next game/entry. Delver is a consistent deck that still sports a fast clock and is generally well-rounded. When preparing for a tournament, the mentality changes to something a lot more like preparing for an intense sport. It's a one-shot deal, so you want to be ready with something you're comfortable with and that you're confident will attack the metagame in the right way.
EDIT: I think the article also makes a good case:
UGTurboFogGU
BRSacrificial AggroBR
16The Paper Pauper Battle Bag16
EDH
BRRakdos, Lord of PingersBR
GTitania, Protector of ArgothG
UB Ramses OverdarkUB
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