This past weekend, Magic: The Gathering brought fans together in Las Vegas for a nearly sold-out MagicCon: Las Vegas! Over three exciting days at the Las Vegas Convention Center, attendees immersed themselves in a variety of events, engaging panels, interactive experiences, merchandise, and exclusive previews of what’s in store for the future of the world’s most beloved trading card game. Whether congoers are new to the game or seasoned players, MagicCon has something for everyone and offers a variety of fun!
In line with the typical structure of conventions, whether for anime or comics, MagicCon was upbeat and filled with diverse sections. There were ticketed zones hosting card matches, an artist alley showcasing creative talents, and a shopping area bustling with vendors.
A Thriving Community of Deckbuilders
Players gathered around tables adorned with multi-illustrated playmats and sleeved cards, engaged in games that ranged from the exhilarating fun of Commander to competing for a spot at the Pro Tour. Throughout the weekend at MagicCon, a variety of ticketed games were available, enticing competitors with endless prizes. This year, Brian David-Marshall hosted the Grand Melee Full Box Commander Sealed event, where participants aimed to build a Commander deck using 24 packs of Mystery Booster 2. After constructing their decks, players then participated in a game of Commander with their newly assembled creations.
The newly released dragon-clan set landed in the ticketed area to test players in 3 rounds of Tarkir: Dragonstorm draft play. The top 8 finishers were given some storm-breaking prizes, such as an Alienware desktop computer.
Other events like the Savvy Pin Trader also took place, adding to the variety of deck-building fun.
Beyond the Cards
Throughout the weekend, MagicCon hosted panels and smaller events specific to families. Some of the panels that took over the Mana Stage featured The Preview Panel, which gave a glimpse into the new cards from Edge of Eternities, The Making of Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy, and Game Knights Live.
Taking a step away from the hustle and bustle of the game of Magic, Art of Magic is filled with color, engaging interactions between players and artists, and features the art of beloved cards. Stories and worlds come to life through richly imagined cards and beautiful prints. Art of Magic is an opportunity to connect with the creators of your favorite art, explore unique prints, playmats, and exclusive items typically found at these events, and even have your cards signed. This year, artists included Dan Frazier, Rebecca Guay, Scott M Fischer, and many more.
MagicCon: Las Vegas provided an unforgettable experience for Final Fantasy fans, featuring immersive photo ops, panels, and cosplay. The collaboration between Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy is both monumental and impressive. Over the years, the Final Fantasy universe has expanded to include sixteen games and countless cherished characters and story moments. Adapting such a beloved franchise into a trading card game format posed a unique challenge that the Wizards of the Coast design team expertly embraced.
The dates for MagicCon: Las Vegas 2026 have been locked in for May 1-3. MagicCon will also be returning to Atlanta in a couple of months for another incredible weekend! Be sure to check out the badge information on their website.
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