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Magic: The Gathering 'Has Had Its Best Year in Its Twenty-seven Year History', According to MaRo


Despite the closings of local games stores and cancellations of major Magic tournaments due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Magic: The Gathering Head Designer Mark Rosewater's latest has shared some positive words about the success of Wizards of the Coast's popular card game this year.

Over on his Blogatog, Rosewater recently responded to a fan question about how players have been criticizing Magic this year, and according to the Head Designer, 2020 has had its best year in its twenty-seven year history.

"Magic has had its best year in its twenty-seven year history, so no, you're not alone," Rosewater said. "A lot of people are playing and enjoying Magic."

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Credit: Wizards of the Coast

"I think one of the by-products of the pandemic is that it's making social media a bit more toxic than normal," Rosewater added. "Being trapped in their homes for eight plus months is having a psychological impact on people. I've talked to designers of other games and this same phenomenon is happening there as well."

That may sound surprising to some players since 2020 has been a rough year for Magic. The game has been criticized for its products (especially The Walking Dead Secret Lair), recently-printed overpowered cards, and the lack of diversity in metagames of Constructed formats, but despite the criticisms, Magic has managed to rake in the profits thanks to Secret Lair drops, premium products, and increase of online play via Magic: The Gathering Arena and Magic Online.

What do you think about how the game is doing this year? Do you think Magic will continue to grow next year? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.


Related: 2020-21 Season MTG Rivals League Changes Announced

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