The article discusses the resurgence of the Magic: The Gathering card Whir of Invention, a powerful artifact tutor that allows players to put artifacts directly into play, especially effective in artifact-based decks and cEDH strategies, and highlights its applications across various formats.
Wizards of the Coast is considering changing the rules for Hybrid Mana cards in Commander from an 'and' to an 'or', which could significantly expand deckbuilding options and increase the playability of nearly 500 cards, though the proposal is still under feedback and not finalized.
Wizards of the Coast is considering banning two iconic Commander cards, Rhystic Study and Thassa’s Oracle, due to their powerful and game-altering effects, though community feedback and Rule Zero discussions will influence the final decision, which is expected to be made in 2026.
At MagicCon Atlanta, a new Commander card, Edea, Possessed Sorceress, was revealed, offering a unique strategy of stealing and sacrificing opposing creatures to draw cards and generate value, with various tech options to maximize its potential and mitigate drawbacks, making it a compelling choice for Commander players.
Wizards of the Coast introduces Pick-Two Draft, a new four-player draft format for Magic: The Gathering designed for Commander groups, featuring a simplified drafting process with two cards chosen from each pack, aiming to make deck building more focused and faster, with potential availability at local stores and ongoing testing at MagicCons.
At MagicCon: Las Vegas, new spoilers for Magic: The Gathering's Edge of Eternities set were revealed, including two secondary Commanders, Kilo, Apogee Mind and Szarel, Genesis Shepherd. Kilo enables multiple infinite combo strategies with cards like Aura of Dominion and Pentad Prism, while Szarel focuses on land sacrifice and recursion, offering new build-around potential. These cards introduce exciting gameplay mechanics and deck-building opportunities.
Wizards of the Coast announced a rule change for Magic: The Gathering's Commander format, allowing legendary Vehicles and Spacecraft to be played as Commanders starting July 25th, which could expand the variety of playable Commanders, though current options have limitations. The change is expected to make spoiler seasons more exciting for Commander players, with future potential for more powerful legendary Vehicles and Spacecraft.
Ali Ahmed Hassin, a top Hezbollah leader responsible for directing terror spies and attacks on Israel, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon. Hassin, a commander of the terror group’s Radwan forces, was believed to be planning and carrying out terrorist attacks against Israeli civilians in northern Israel. This marks at least the fifth time Israeli officials have killed a Hezbollah leader with a rank equivalent to a brigade commander since hostilities began between Israel and Lebanon. The continuous fighting has displaced tens of thousands of civilians in both Lebanon and Israel, prompting calls for the fighting to stop from UN officials.
The upcoming Secret Lair Equinox Superdrop 2024 features Laura Plansker’s Diabolical Dioramas, showcasing creepy yet mesmerizing artwork for MTG Commander staples like Aura Shards, Fiend Artisan, and Gravebreaker Lamia. The unique artwork and potential inclusions like Nethroi, Apex of Death, have garnered positive player reactions, with the total reprint value of nearly $18 making it a standout among Secret Lair releases.
The upcoming MTG Secret Lair Superdrop, Equinox Superdrop 2024, features a tarot card theme with four cards representing different suits in the Minor Arcana, designed by artist Rovina Cai. The cards include Arcane Signet, Sword of the Animist, Aether Vial, and Inalla, Archmage Ritualist, each with unique artwork. While the reprint value may not be high, the captivating art has garnered positive player reactions, although some have expressed concerns about the readability of the font and frame for gameplay.
President Biden's dog, Commander, bit Secret Service agents about 24 times, prompting concerns and adjustments in the agency's operations to ensure agent safety. The incidents occurred at the White House, in Delaware, Camp David, and other locations, leading to Commander being sent away. Despite efforts to control the dog's behavior, including training and consultations with animal behaviorists, the environment proved too overwhelming. The Bidens have expressed remorse and taken measures to address the situation, while dog training experts raised concerns about the handling of the situation.
President Joe Biden's dog Commander bit US Secret Service agents at least 24 times between October 2022 and July 2023, causing chaos and prompting changes in security tactics. The biting incidents led to injuries including deep bites, severe wounds, and the need for stitches, with one agent losing a significant amount of blood. The documents, obtained through Freedom of Information requests, also revealed blood on the floor of the White House and the suspension of tours. The Secret Service advised agents to give lots of room and be creative to ensure their own safety when Commander was present.
Newly released documents reveal that the Secret Service had to adjust their tactics to protect President Biden from his German shepherd, Commander, who had at least 24 biting episodes between October 2022 and July 2023, leading to some agents requiring medical attention. The dog was banished from the White House last fall, and the internal emails also show the stress this situation caused within the White House. The documents were released in response to a Freedom of Information Act request and shed light on the challenges posed by the dog's behavior.
The Navy has relieved the commanding officer of the Japan-based destroyer USS Howard, Cmdr. Cameron Dennis, less than six months after taking over the post, following the firing of his predecessor, Cmdr. Kenji Igawa, who was relieved due to a "soft grounding" incident. The Navy cited a "loss of confidence" in Dennis' ability to perform his duties and assigned Capt. Dave Huljack as commanding officer until a permanent replacement is identified. Dennis, who began his Navy career in 1993, will be reassigned to the U.S. 7th Fleet staff, and the Navy stated that there will be no impact to the ship's mission or schedule.
The most expensive new cards from the MTG Murders at Karlov Manor set have been revealed, with Vannifar, Evolved Enigma, Anzrag, the Quake-Mole, Massacre Girl, Rakdos, Patron of Chaos, and Delney, Streetwise Lookout making the top five. These cards, all potential Commanders, feature showcase frames and the unique Invisible Ink treatment, catering to the popular MTG format. With prices ranging from $53.30 to $64.86, these powerful and valuable cards are sure to make an impact in the game.