I'm a huge fan of New Phyrexia. It would have been really lame if the Phyrexians came back for one block but got stomped before they could spread the infection beyond the borders of the plane, as hinted at in the flavor text of Phyrexian Rager. ALL WILL BE ONE!
As for the Clan Contest, this kind of design contest is fun but ultimately less testing of one's design skills and more of one's ability to be splashy and cool-looking. I really wish we could have gotten more support for the world-building contest I proposed, but I guess people just don't want to put forth the effort to create a worthwhile product.
Whenever you draw a card, Niv-Mizzet Ascendant deals 1 damage to target creature or player.
[+1]: Draw a card.
[-5]: Draw a card for each card in your hand.
{4}
Jhoira Ascendant1UR
Planeswalker - Jhoira [M]
At the beginning of your upkeep, proliferate.
[0]: Gain control of target noncreature, nonland permanent until end of turn. Untap that permanent. It gains haste until end of turn.
[-4]: Reveal the top card of your library. You may play that card without paying its mana cost. If you don't, exile it.
{3}
Silly EDIT:
Oona Ascendant1UUR
Planeswalker - Oona [M]
When Oona Ascendant enters the battlefield, gain control of target creature for as long as Oona Ascendant remains on the battlefield.
[+1]: Target creature you control deals damage equal to its power to target creature or player.
[-2]: Exile Oona Ascendant, then return it to the battlefield under its owner's control.
{2}
Tibor and Lumia, AscendantsRRUU
Planeswalker - Tibor and Lumia
If a creature dealt damage by Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents is put into a graveyard on the same turn, add a loyalty counter to Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents.
[+1] Do 2 damage to target creature.
[-10] You get an emblem with "Whenever you or a source you control deals non-combat damage, draw a card."
{3}
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I'm not a fan of only 2 abilities for planeswalkers. It feels too much of a gimmick. I'd stick with 3, as that has been what works best. There is still tons of unexplored design for planeswalkers in the 3 ability mold.
Jhoira's 0 ability doesn't make sense to me. It fits in the U/R color pie, but not with Jhoira's characterization. And a U/R Oona Ascendant planeswalker? What the hell man? Only the Izzet.
I'm not a fan of only 2 abilities for planeswalkers. It feels too much of a gimmick. I'd stick with 3, as that has been what works best. There is still tons of unexplored design for planeswalkers in the 3 ability mold.
For some reason I feel like a creative non-loyalty ability is going to be seen as the icing that makes the cake. I seem to recall past winners of planeswalker card contests in the CCC subforum being likewise gimmicky, but still cool. I have no illusions regarding this Clan Contest: It's not about making the best card or even a well-designed card necessarily; it's about wowing the pants off people, which generally means doing something stupid and/or broken.
And a U/R Oona Ascendant planeswalker? What the hell man? Only the Izzet.
That was a joke; the card is obviously broken. I chose Oona simply because she's the most prominent legendary Faerie (take that, Mistform Ultimus) and the ability is from Sower of Temptation.
Niv-Mizzet, The RisenUURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Return target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard to your hand.
[-4]: Copy target spell from your graveyard without paying its mana cost.
[-8]: Draw a number of cards equal to your life total. For each card drawn this way, you may do one damage to target creature or player.
{2}
Very rough sketch. Some version of Invoke the Firemind would make a serious ultimate.
Also, as a a "spell manipulator" and combo player, this seems fun. I originally had, "You lose life equal to its CMC." tacked to the second ability, but dropped it. No other planeswalkers printed as of yet harm their controller, so I figured it was over the top.
Tibor and Lumia, AscendantsRRUU
Planeswalker - Tibor and Lumia
If a creature dealt damage by Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents is put into a graveyard on the same turn, add a loyalty counter to Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents.
[+1] Do 2 damage to target creature.
[-10] You get an emblem with "Whenever you or a source you control deals non-combat damage, draw a card."
{3}
True, it would kill everything, huh? I like it!
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Tibor and Lumia, AscendantsRRUU
Planeswalker - Tibor and Lumia
If a creature dealt damage by Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents is put into a graveyard on the same turn, add a loyalty counter to Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents.
[+1] Do 2 damage to target creature.
[-10] You get an emblem with "Whenever you or a source you control deals non-combat damage, draw a card."
{3}
The non-loyalty ability is really clunky (the [+1] could be a [+2] instead and the card would play virtually the same) and the emblem ability doesn't read well, even though it's actually very powerful with certain cards (as noted). It's a false negative in that it looks terrible but is actually decent (though likely overcosted). I'm not sold on this idea, and I think I'd prefer a Niv design because of the stronger flavor connection both to the Clan and to the Magic storyline.
Niv-Mizzet, The RisenUURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Return target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard to your hand.
[-4]: Copy target spell from your graveyard without paying its mana cost.
[-8]: Draw a number of cards equal to your life total. For each card drawn this way, you may do one damage to target creature or player.
{2}
The biggest issue with this card is that its [+2] is hugely swingy. Sometimes you can't even activate it at all (and that is very bad for gameplay), but other times it's a blowout as you return Lightning Bolt or Counterspell every turn. The [-4] is fine, though a little obvious; the numbers on this may need to be tweaked considering how hard it is to cast Sins of the Past (there are also templating issues). The ultimate seems strange as no other Izzet card cares about life total. Maybe set it to number of instant or sorcery cards in your graveyard...maybe scrap it altogether because it's kind of obvious again. I like the theme, but not so much the "Duh" feeling I get from the card.
Apologies in advance: I'm a harsh critic.
Quick ideas before I leave for my exam: UURR
[+1]: ~ deals 1 damage to target creature or player. Draw a card.
[-?]: Silence until your next turn. (Mean, but sweet-looking.)
[-??]: Eternal Dominion (-Epic).
{?}
About Timbor and Lumina Ascendants, I like the idea but the emblem wording is way too easy to misuse.
Niz Mizzet Risen: The loyalty swing has already been mentioned, but also the copying of card without paying mana ? Then why copy in my opinion, that would take out the fun specter.
About contest: I would love to see another trophy under SC , while at the same time evening odds with that certain member of Pack also but civilized and served cold!
Niv-Mizzet, The RisenUURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Return target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard to your hand.
[-4]: Copy target spell from your graveyard without paying its mana cost.
[-8]: Draw a number of cards equal to your life total. For each card drawn this way, you may do one damage to target creature or player.
{2}
Very rough sketch. Some version of Invoke the Firemind would make a serious ultimate.
Also, as a a "spell manipulator" and combo player, this seems fun. I originally had, "You lose life equal to its CMC." tacked to the second ability, but dropped it. No other planeswalkers printed as of yet harm their controller, so I figured it was over the top.
True, it would kill everything, huh? I like it!
My apprentice intrigues me with this rough draft I like it but to be honest the casting cost is to cheap to back the functional abilities. I would also like to see him at three loyalty. We are looking for a planeswalker to represent us. Aside from nicol bolas, niv has always screamed the most powerful dragon. Why should he be an aggro style lay out within the two colors that should control a board without worry. Just my two cents.
Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal deals 2 damage divided as you choose among one or two target creatures and/or players.
[-X]: Cast target instant or sorcery card with converted mana cost X from your graveyard without paying its mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
[-7]: You get an emblem with "Instant and sorcery cards you cast have storm."
{4}
I really like the idea of drawing cards equal to your lifetotal, or some other potentially massive number, and dealing damage accordingly. It fits Niv perfectly.
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Former ">IzzetAcolyte of Chronomancy. Proud Creator of MassacreMorph, a.k.a., LOLAPHANT
Quick ideas before I leave for my exam: UURR
[+1]: ~ deals 1 damage to target creature or player. Draw a card.
[-?]: Silence until your next turn. (Mean, but sweet-looking.)
[-??]: Eternal Dominion (-Epic).
{?}
To quote Jack Burton, "Gimme yer best shot... I can take it." Brutally-honest-yet-constructive makes me happy.
The natural loyalty of {2} and the +2 to go along were meant to reflect Niv's one small flaw (blasphemy!) in that he's not a 5/5 or 6/6 dragon. Maybe the "plus" ability should be something that reflects flying while accomplishing something else?
[+2] Until your next upkeep, creatures without flying (cannot attack/cannot attack you/cannot attack you or permanents you control) <--one of these.
The most successful walkers have always been the ones that can defend themselves. The flavor of this ability being sort of like Treasure Mage's art is the idea, with a little Form of the Dragon thrown in for good measure.
And personally, I find Silence a miserable, skill testing card that people eventually reject. Also, like my reference to life total, it is in a different slice of the color pie. Maybe we could combine ideas and go with Orim's Chant somehow?
Also maybe we should explore a CMC of 4UR to template along the route of Nicol Bolas's sparked up maelstrom-powered version, seen here: Nicol Bolas, Planeswalker.
My Clan Is Dead.... Long Live The Izzet! Johnny, born and raised. Always lookin' for the Next Level Combo. Thanks to Bornover of FHLS for the banner! Mafia Results, Links, and Stats
Niv-Mizzet, The RisenUURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Return target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard to your hand.
[-4]: Copy target spell from your graveyard without paying its mana cost.
[-8]: Draw a number of cards equal to your life total. For each card drawn this way, you may do one damage to target creature or player.
{2}!
The +2 is utterly broken, returning Time Warp every turn means an infinite turn combo that's fairly easy to set up.
Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal deals 2 damage divided as you choose among one or two target creatures and/or players.
[-X]: Cast target instant or sorcery card with converted mana cost X from your graveyard without paying its mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
[-7]: You get an emblem with "Instant and sorcery cards you cast have storm."
{4}
I really like this design, seems very Izzet like. His +2 seems powerful, but his -X seems a tad bit underwhelming, I like the ultimate quite a bit though, since makings copies of spells is what the Izzet do best. Maybe if we change the -X to:
[-2]: Cast target instant or sorcery from your graveyard without paying it's mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
The +2 is utterly broken, returning Time Warp every turn means an infinite turn combo that's fairly easy to set up.
Pretty much read my mind. That was the type of spell I meant him to interact with, but still have targets on turn 4 that would be relevant. Can't seem to get out of my head the idea of a planeswalker combo piece, Pyromancer Ascension-style.
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I really like the idea of drawing cards equal to your lifetotal, or some other potentially massive number, and dealing damage accordingly. It fits Niv perfectly.
The natural loyalty of {2} and the +2 to go along were meant to reflect Niv's one small flaw (blasphemy!) in that he's not a 5/5 or 6/6 dragon. Maybe the "plus" ability should be something that reflects flying while accomplishing something else?
[+2] Until your next upkeep, creatures without flying (cannot attack/cannot attack you/cannot attack you or permanents you control) <--one of these.
The most successful walkers have always been the ones that can defend themselves. The flavor of this ability being sort of like Treasure Mage's art is the idea, with a little Form of the Dragon thrown in for good measure.
Too strong. I though of something similar myself, but some decks (mostly aggro) immediately lose to that kind of ability. And restricting it to just being unable to attack the PW is just as bad, because that removes the tension and built-in vulnerability that PWs have: Namely that they can be attacked and defeated. Look at Gideon Jura for the opposite extreme, and a design that works well.
And personally, I find Silence a miserable, skill testing card that people eventually reject. Also, like my reference to life total, it is in a different slice of the color pie. Maybe we could combine ideas and go with Orim's Chant somehow?
Also maybe we should explore a CMC of 4UR to template along the route of Nicol Bolas's sparked up maelstrom-powered version, seen here: Nicol Bolas, Planeswalker.
I really like this design, seems very Izzet like. His +2 seems powerful, but his -X seems a tad bit underwhelming, I like the ultimate quite a bit though, since makings copies of spells is what the Izzet do best. Maybe if we change the -X to:
[-2]: Cast target instant or sorcery from your graveyard without paying it's mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
I considered allowing the controller to target instant and sorcery cards from any graveyard, but that is a blue/black ability, not a blue/red one. I also considered allowing the controller to cast cards from hand, but there's no clean template for that.
Your suggestion is way too powerful considering Sins of the Past costs the same amount of mana (though is much easier to cast. It might be acceptable at [-3], but we'd have to test it on MWS.
Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal deals 2 damage divided as you choose among one or two target creatures and/or players.
[-3]: Cast target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard without paying its mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
[-7]: You get an emblem with "Instant and sorcery cards you cast have storm."
{4}
Too strong. I though of something similar myself, but some decks (mostly aggro) immediately lose to that kind of ability. And restricting it to just being unable to attack the PW is just as bad, because that removes the tension and built-in vulnerability that PWs have: Namely that they can be attacked and defeated. Look at Gideon Jura for the opposite extreme, and a design that works well.
I guess I'm off to find the rules for this contest, because I was shooting for something original, strong but answerable, and flavorfully Izzet. As to being an unanswerable lock, I'm thinking Phyrexian Revoker in an agro deck, Oblivion Ring in a WW... its very strong, but not impossible. Also, cards aren't designed in a vacuum usually, so can't we additionally let the design be a little tilted presuming an answer would be printed along with? (See: Ratchet Bomb in current standard given Elspeth Tirel and White Sun's Zenith)
P.S. Sorry, did I say CMC? I meant exact mana cost as 4UR rather than 2UURR.
Welcome to the Sign up thread for the first Clan Contest of 2011!
Etc., etc., etc.....
The Rules:
Etc., Etc., Etc....
The Categories to Vote on:
1.) Power level: No Jace the Mind Sculptor's here. You want to keep a balance between Playability, and fun.
2.) Creative factor: This is a combo between the creative writing piece and the design of the Planeswalker. The back story is always important for any hero/villain. But creating a boring Planeswalker is also not good. Be Innovative, try out new things, and maybe we'll create something awesome.
3.) Legendary Choice: I gave a big list of cards in the hopes that we could get some real diversity between Planeswalkers, and not have the same Legendaries be chosen.
Cheers and Good luck!
~W
Ah, I see. Hmm. Frustrating but acceptable. Never been one on designing "second best" but if them's the rules, then them's the rules. Also I hope our natural choice of Legendary to focus on won't be presumed to be too obvious. Rule 3 seems to want to make sure there aren't repeats or lame choices, but it could be held against us.
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Alright, guys, I know this has nothing to do with what we're currently talking about...
...But I've decided to go with my gut instincts, and trade away my Sword of Light and Shadow as well as my Sword of Fire and Ice for a playset of Stoneforge Mystics...
I really feel like they'll be reprinted in the upcoming Commander decks, along with other wildly popular equipment choices like Loxodon Warhammer and such...
I hope I made a good call here >_<
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Wow... I missed a lot.
As for the paragraph writing, I say we nominate one person in the group to be the "editor" and continually post the most up to date version of the back story. Everyone can then freely contribute and the editor can decide what they do/do not want to include.
I like using Niv, makes sense for us, but let's not forget about some other people we could move U/R. What about a U/R Venser? Moving a blue mage to red is easy, red is passion and emotion and all it takes for that is some kind of trauma that throws someone into a firey red mage mood.
How about:
Arcanis Unleashed UUR
Planeswalker - Arcanis [M]
-1: Draw 3 Cards
-3: Reveal any numbers of instants or sorceries from your hand. You may put a copy of each of those spells on the stack.
0: Return ~ to your hand.
4
and I can take a crack at the niv mizzet stuff too:
Niv-Mizzet, Thoughts Aflame 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
-1: Draw a card, you may use one of Niv-Mizzet's other abilities this turn.
+1: Deal damage to target creature or player equal to the number of cards you've drawn this turn.
-7: Each opponent shuffles his hand into his library and draws that many cards, then you may draw cards up to the number of cards drawn this way.
4
Your suggestion is way too powerful considering Sins of the Past costs the same amount of mana (though is much easier to cast. It might be acceptable at [-3], but we'd have to test it on MWS.
The ability is certainly powerful, but I doubt it's broken, I agree with the -3 part though, it definitely needed to be toned down a bit.
As to being an unanswerable lock, I'm thinking Phyrexian Revoker in an agro deck, Oblivion Ring in a WW... its very strong, but not impossible.
Even if they have the Revoker or O-ring, the loss in tempo is still backbreaking for most decks. We're not looking for a card that says "Answer me now, or you lose" those cards are generally broken and unfun.
Alright, guys, I know this has nothing to do with what we're currently talking about...
...But I've decided to go with my gut instincts, and trade away my Sword of Light and Shadow as well as my Sword of Fire and Ice for a playset of Stoneforge Mystics...
I really feel like they'll be reprinted in the upcoming Commander decks, along with other wildly popular equipment choices like Loxodon Warhammer and such...
I hope I made a good call here >_<
It doesn't seem like a terrible trade, but I doubt they'll reprint the swords in the commander precons.
Arcanis Unleashed UUR
Planeswalker - Arcanis [M]
-1: Draw 3 Cards
-3: Reveal any numbers of instants or sorceries from your hand. You may put a copy of each of those spells on the stack.
0: Return ~ to your hand.
4
I really hope this card is an april fools joke, I don't even think I need to explain just how utterly broken this card is.
I really hope this card is an april fools joke, I don't even think I need to explain just how utterly broken this card is.
This was litterally, a thirty second stab at it. The implication to take away here is a planeswalker with no plus abilities but a 0 ability that lets you return him to your hand. Perhaps a clause that says it can't be used the turn he comes into play to avoid any potential shenanigans.
This was litterally, a thirty second stab at it. The implication to take away here is a planeswalker with no plus abilities but a 0 ability that lets you return him to your hand. Perhaps a clause that says it can't be used the turn he comes into play to avoid any potential shenanigans.
I like the idea of a planeswalker that can reset itself as opposed to +X-ing itself, but it's first two abilities are way too good. The -1 is ancestral recall(Obviously overpowered), and the -3 is just so utterly broken when you can reveal Time Warp, take an extra turn, bounce Arcanis, replay him and reveal Time Warp again.
Oh yeah, he also costs 3 mana to play, which is ridiculous when you compare him to Jace Beleren.
Infinite turn combos with planeswalkers are broken, if you're gonna copy an instant or sorcery(Or replay it), make sure it has limitations.
That being said, I like where you were going with this guy, just try to tone him down a bit.
I like the idea of a planeswalker that can reset itself as opposed to +X-ing itself, but it's first two abilities are way too good. The -1 is ancestral recall(Obviously overpowered), and the -3 is just so utterly broken when you can reveal Time Warp, take an extra turn, bounce Arcanis, replay him and reveal Time Warp again.
Oh yeah, he also costs 3 mana to play, which is ridiculous when you compare him to Jace Beleren.
Infinite turn combos with planeswalkers are broken, if you're gonna copy an instant or sorcery(Or replay it), make sure it has limitations.
That being said, I like where you were going with this guy, just try to tone him down a bit.
Valid... let's try:
Arcanis Unleashed 1UUR
Planeswalker - Arcanis [M]
-1: Each player draws 3 cards. (I like this change because I think it embodies red a little more. It just says "TAKE CARDS, SEE IF I CARE!")
-3: Reveal an instants or sorcery. Play 2 copies of that spell without paying it's mana cost, then exile it.
0: Return ~ to your hand.
4
I love this discussion we're having, brothers. It brings a warmth and joy to my very soul. Keep up the good work.
Oh, before I forget, I renamed the Clan in honor of the magnificent Neil Patrick Harris, also known by the holy initials "NPH." Let His Word guide your thoughts and His Love heat your loins. This is what life is all about, and we're going to glorify Him in all that we do. Give a smoke offering for NPH!
Neil Patrick Harris Unleashed 1UUR
Planeswalker - NPH [M]
-1: Each player draws 3 cards. (I like this change because I think it embodies red a little more. It just says "TAKE CARDS, SEE IF I CARE, I'M NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, I DO WHAT I WANT!")
-3: Reveal an instant or sorcery. Play 2 copies of that spell without paying it's mana cost, then exile it.
0: Return ~ to your hand.
4
What about that one?
Today, my brother, you have taken another step towards the glory that is Neil Patrick Harris, take a moment to bask in his glory, then continue your way on the path to enlightenment.
I love this discussion we're having, brothers. It brings a warmth and joy to my very soul. Keep up the good work.
Oh, before I forget, I renamed the Clan in honor of the magnificent Neil Patrick Harris, also known by the holy initials "NPH." Let His Word guide your thoughts and His Love heat your loins. This is what life is all about, and we're going to glorify Him in all that we do. Give a smoke offering for NPH!
I'm a huge fan of New Phyrexia. It would have been really lame if the Phyrexians came back for one block but got stomped before they could spread the infection beyond the borders of the plane, as hinted at in the flavor text of Phyrexian Rager. ALL WILL BE ONE!
As for the Clan Contest, this kind of design contest is fun but ultimately less testing of one's design skills and more of one's ability to be splashy and cool-looking. I really wish we could have gotten more support for the world-building contest I proposed, but I guess people just don't want to put forth the effort to create a worthwhile product.
First ideas that came to mind:
Niv-Mizzet Ascendant UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
Whenever you draw a card, Niv-Mizzet Ascendant deals 1 damage to target creature or player.
[+1]: Draw a card.
[-5]: Draw a card for each card in your hand.
{4}
Jhoira Ascendant 1UR
Planeswalker - Jhoira [M]
At the beginning of your upkeep, proliferate.
[0]: Gain control of target noncreature, nonland permanent until end of turn. Untap that permanent. It gains haste until end of turn.
[-4]: Reveal the top card of your library. You may play that card without paying its mana cost. If you don't, exile it.
{3}
Silly EDIT:
Oona Ascendant 1UUR
Planeswalker - Oona [M]
When Oona Ascendant enters the battlefield, gain control of target creature for as long as Oona Ascendant remains on the battlefield.
[+1]: Target creature you control deals damage equal to its power to target creature or player.
[-2]: Exile Oona Ascendant, then return it to the battlefield under its owner's control.
{2}
Planeswalker - Tibor and Lumia
If a creature dealt damage by Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents is put into a graveyard on the same turn, add a loyalty counter to Tibor and Lumia, Ascendents.
[+1] Do 2 damage to target creature.
[-10] You get an emblem with "Whenever you or a source you control deals non-combat damage, draw a card."
{3}
Former ">Izzet Acolyte of Chronomancy.
Proud Creator of MassacreMorph, a.k.a., LOLAPHANT
Jhoira's 0 ability doesn't make sense to me. It fits in the U/R color pie, but not with Jhoira's characterization. And a U/R Oona Ascendant planeswalker? What the hell man? Only the Izzet.
For some reason I feel like a creative non-loyalty ability is going to be seen as the icing that makes the cake. I seem to recall past winners of planeswalker card contests in the CCC subforum being likewise gimmicky, but still cool. I have no illusions regarding this Clan Contest: It's not about making the best card or even a well-designed card necessarily; it's about wowing the pants off people, which generally means doing something stupid and/or broken.
The idea was that as a tinkerer she might steal other people's stuff and mess around with it. A bit of a stretch, I guess.
I'm a pretty big fan of the proliferate trigger, though. Maybe we can be a little crazy and squeeze that onto a card with three loyalty abilities?
That was a joke; the card is obviously broken. I chose Oona simply because she's the most prominent legendary Faerie (take that, Mistform Ultimus) and the ability is from Sower of Temptation.
Former ">Izzet Acolyte of Chronomancy.
Proud Creator of MassacreMorph, a.k.a., LOLAPHANT
Niv-Mizzet, The Risen UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Return target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard to your hand.
[-4]: Copy target spell from your graveyard without paying its mana cost.
[-8]: Draw a number of cards equal to your life total. For each card drawn this way, you may do one damage to target creature or player.
{2}
Very rough sketch. Some version of Invoke the Firemind would make a serious ultimate.
Also, as a a "spell manipulator" and combo player, this seems fun. I originally had, "You lose life equal to its CMC." tacked to the second ability, but dropped it. No other planeswalkers printed as of yet harm their controller, so I figured it was over the top.
True, it would kill everything, huh? I like it!
Johnny, born and raised. Always lookin' for the Next Level Combo. Thanks to Bornover of FHLS for the banner!
The non-loyalty ability is really clunky (the [+1] could be a [+2] instead and the card would play virtually the same) and the emblem ability doesn't read well, even though it's actually very powerful with certain cards (as noted). It's a false negative in that it looks terrible but is actually decent (though likely overcosted). I'm not sold on this idea, and I think I'd prefer a Niv design because of the stronger flavor connection both to the Clan and to the Magic storyline.
The biggest issue with this card is that its [+2] is hugely swingy. Sometimes you can't even activate it at all (and that is very bad for gameplay), but other times it's a blowout as you return Lightning Bolt or Counterspell every turn. The [-4] is fine, though a little obvious; the numbers on this may need to be tweaked considering how hard it is to cast Sins of the Past (there are also templating issues). The ultimate seems strange as no other Izzet card cares about life total. Maybe set it to number of instant or sorcery cards in your graveyard...maybe scrap it altogether because it's kind of obvious again. I like the theme, but not so much the "Duh" feeling I get from the card.
Apologies in advance: I'm a harsh critic.
Quick ideas before I leave for my exam:
UURR
[+1]: ~ deals 1 damage to target creature or player. Draw a card.
[-?]: Silence until your next turn. (Mean, but sweet-looking.)
[-??]: Eternal Dominion (-Epic).
{?}
About Timbor and Lumina Ascendants, I like the idea but the emblem wording is way too easy to misuse.
Niz Mizzet Risen: The loyalty swing has already been mentioned, but also the copying of card without paying mana ? Then why copy in my opinion, that would take out the fun specter.
About contest: I would love to see another trophy under SC , while at the same time evening odds with that certain member of Pack also but civilized and served cold!
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My apprentice intrigues me with this rough draft I like it but to be honest the casting cost is to cheap to back the functional abilities. I would also like to see him at three loyalty. We are looking for a planeswalker to represent us. Aside from nicol bolas, niv has always screamed the most powerful dragon. Why should he be an aggro style lay out within the two colors that should control a board without worry. Just my two cents.
Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal deals 2 damage divided as you choose among one or two target creatures and/or players.
[-X]: Cast target instant or sorcery card with converted mana cost X from your graveyard without paying its mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
[-7]: You get an emblem with "Instant and sorcery cards you cast have storm."
{4}
Former ">Izzet Acolyte of Chronomancy.
Proud Creator of MassacreMorph, a.k.a., LOLAPHANT
To quote Jack Burton, "Gimme yer best shot... I can take it." Brutally-honest-yet-constructive makes me happy.
The natural loyalty of {2} and the +2 to go along were meant to reflect Niv's one small flaw (blasphemy!) in that he's not a 5/5 or 6/6 dragon. Maybe the "plus" ability should be something that reflects flying while accomplishing something else?
[+2] Until your next upkeep, creatures without flying (cannot attack/cannot attack you/cannot attack you or permanents you control) <--one of these.
The most successful walkers have always been the ones that can defend themselves. The flavor of this ability being sort of like Treasure Mage's art is the idea, with a little Form of the Dragon thrown in for good measure.
And personally, I find Silence a miserable, skill testing card that people eventually reject. Also, like my reference to life total, it is in a different slice of the color pie.
Also maybe we should explore a CMC of 4UR to template along the route of Nicol Bolas's sparked up maelstrom-powered version, seen here: Nicol Bolas, Planeswalker.
Johnny, born and raised. Always lookin' for the Next Level Combo. Thanks to Bornover of FHLS for the banner!
The +2 is utterly broken, returning Time Warp every turn means an infinite turn combo that's fairly easy to set up.
I really like this design, seems very Izzet like. His +2 seems powerful, but his -X seems a tad bit underwhelming, I like the ultimate quite a bit though, since makings copies of spells is what the Izzet do best. Maybe if we change the -X to:
[-2]: Cast target instant or sorcery from your graveyard without paying it's mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
Pretty much read my mind. That was the type of spell I meant him to interact with, but still have targets on turn 4 that would be relevant. Can't seem to get out of my head the idea of a planeswalker combo piece, Pyromancer Ascension-style.
Johnny, born and raised. Always lookin' for the Next Level Combo. Thanks to Bornover of FHLS for the banner!
I can see "for each permanent you control," but "where X is your life total" is a bit random and un-Izzet-like.
We're going to get along just fine, then.
Too strong. I though of something similar myself, but some decks (mostly aggro) immediately lose to that kind of ability. And restricting it to just being unable to attack the PW is just as bad, because that removes the tension and built-in vulnerability that PWs have: Namely that they can be attacked and defeated. Look at Gideon Jura for the opposite extreme, and a design that works well.
Back-breaking.
Already there.
That too.
I considered allowing the controller to target instant and sorcery cards from any graveyard, but that is a blue/black ability, not a blue/red one. I also considered allowing the controller to cast cards from hand, but there's no clean template for that.
Your suggestion is way too powerful considering Sins of the Past costs the same amount of mana (though is much easier to cast. It might be acceptable at [-3], but we'd have to test it on MWS.
Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
[+2]: Niv-Mizzet, the Prodigal deals 2 damage divided as you choose among one or two target creatures and/or players.
[-3]: Cast target instant or sorcery card from your graveyard without paying its mana cost. If that card would be put into a graveyard this turn, exile it instead.
[-7]: You get an emblem with "Instant and sorcery cards you cast have storm."
{4}
I guess I'm off to find the rules for this contest, because I was shooting for something original, strong but answerable, and flavorfully Izzet. As to being an unanswerable lock, I'm thinking Phyrexian Revoker in an agro deck, Oblivion Ring in a WW... its very strong, but not impossible. Also, cards aren't designed in a vacuum usually, so can't we additionally let the design be a little tilted presuming an answer would be printed along with? (See: Ratchet Bomb in current standard given Elspeth Tirel and White Sun's Zenith)
P.S. Sorry, did I say CMC? I meant exact mana cost as 4UR rather than 2UURR.
Edit: Ah, here it is!
Ah, I see. Hmm. Frustrating but acceptable. Never been one on designing "second best" but if them's the rules, then them's the rules. Also I hope our natural choice of Legendary to focus on won't be presumed to be too obvious. Rule 3 seems to want to make sure there aren't repeats or lame choices, but it could be held against us.
Johnny, born and raised. Always lookin' for the Next Level Combo. Thanks to Bornover of FHLS for the banner!
...But I've decided to go with my gut instincts, and trade away my Sword of Light and Shadow as well as my Sword of Fire and Ice for a playset of Stoneforge Mystics...
I really feel like they'll be reprinted in the upcoming Commander decks, along with other wildly popular equipment choices like Loxodon Warhammer and such...
I hope I made a good call here >_<
Former ">Izzet Acolyte of Chronomancy.
Proud Creator of MassacreMorph, a.k.a., LOLAPHANT
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As for the paragraph writing, I say we nominate one person in the group to be the "editor" and continually post the most up to date version of the back story. Everyone can then freely contribute and the editor can decide what they do/do not want to include.
I like using Niv, makes sense for us, but let's not forget about some other people we could move U/R. What about a U/R Venser? Moving a blue mage to red is easy, red is passion and emotion and all it takes for that is some kind of trauma that throws someone into a firey red mage mood.
How about:
Arcanis Unleashed UUR
Planeswalker - Arcanis [M]
-1: Draw 3 Cards
-3: Reveal any numbers of instants or sorceries from your hand. You may put a copy of each of those spells on the stack.
0: Return ~ to your hand.
4
and I can take a crack at the niv mizzet stuff too:
Niv-Mizzet, Thoughts Aflame 2UURR
Planeswalker - Niv-Mizzet [M]
-1: Draw a card, you may use one of Niv-Mizzet's other abilities this turn.
+1: Deal damage to target creature or player equal to the number of cards you've drawn this turn.
-7: Each opponent shuffles his hand into his library and draws that many cards, then you may draw cards up to the number of cards drawn this way.
4
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The ability is certainly powerful, but I doubt it's broken, I agree with the -3 part though, it definitely needed to be toned down a bit.
Even if they have the Revoker or O-ring, the loss in tempo is still backbreaking for most decks. We're not looking for a card that says "Answer me now, or you lose" those cards are generally broken and unfun.
It doesn't seem like a terrible trade, but I doubt they'll reprint the swords in the commander precons.
I really hope this card is an april fools joke, I don't even think I need to explain just how utterly broken this card is.
This was litterally, a thirty second stab at it. The implication to take away here is a planeswalker with no plus abilities but a 0 ability that lets you return him to your hand. Perhaps a clause that says it can't be used the turn he comes into play to avoid any potential shenanigans.
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Vale: The Shadowlands
More sets to come
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I like the idea of a planeswalker that can reset itself as opposed to +X-ing itself, but it's first two abilities are way too good. The -1 is ancestral recall(Obviously overpowered), and the -3 is just so utterly broken when you can reveal Time Warp, take an extra turn, bounce Arcanis, replay him and reveal Time Warp again.
Oh yeah, he also costs 3 mana to play, which is ridiculous when you compare him to Jace Beleren.
Infinite turn combos with planeswalkers are broken, if you're gonna copy an instant or sorcery(Or replay it), make sure it has limitations.
That being said, I like where you were going with this guy, just try to tone him down a bit.
Valid... let's try:
Arcanis Unleashed 1UUR
Planeswalker - Arcanis [M]
-1: Each player draws 3 cards. (I like this change because I think it embodies red a little more. It just says "TAKE CARDS, SEE IF I CARE!")
-3: Reveal an instants or sorcery. Play 2 copies of that spell without paying it's mana cost, then exile it.
0: Return ~ to your hand.
4
What about that one?
Sets completed in the "Vale" Block
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More sets to come
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Oh, before I forget, I renamed the Clan in honor of the magnificent Neil Patrick Harris, also known by the holy initials "NPH." Let His Word guide your thoughts and His Love heat your loins. This is what life is all about, and we're going to glorify Him in all that we do. Give a smoke offering for NPH!
AMEN. :ai:
Today, my brother, you have taken another step towards the glory that is Neil Patrick Harris, take a moment to bask in his glory, then continue your way on the path to enlightenment.
All shall be reborn in the name of NPH. :ai: