Fresh off Kaladesh, the Gatewatch arrives in Amonkhet, starting off the first set of the Amonkhet block.
Welcome to Amonkhet, where death is everything. The opulent world is filled with the might and majesty of the God-Pharoah, but unbeknownst to many is actually ruled over by Nicol Bolas. The denizens of Amonkhet live with one thing in mind; to prepare for a glorious afterlife. This set really puts the graveyard in the spotlight, but with the objective of taking out Nicol Bolas, the Gatewatch is really in for a fight.
Like every new set, we see some new mechanics, as well as an older one make a comeback. This time, we have three new abilities, Embalm, Exert, Aftermath and Cycling makes a return.
Embalm
Embalm is an ability you can activate if the creature with the ability is in your graveyard. Because its not being casted from the graveyard, counter spells won’t work against embalm. The original creature spell can be countered but that just puts the creature in the graveyard.
Exert
You can exert your creature while you declare it as an attacker. If you choose to exert it, an ability will trigger and grant a bonus, but the downside is your creature won’t untap during your next untap phase.
Aftermath
This new ability lets sorceries and instants in on the graveyard party (in the form of split cards) allowing them be cast in the same turn, or space it out.
Cycling
In a nutshell, cycling allows you trade a card in hand for a new card, tossing the previous card in the graveyard. Maybe your opponent doesn’t have any good targets for Limits of Solidarity, or maybe you’re just good on life for now and need to find a threat. Whatever the reason, cycling a card gives you another shot and finding what you need.
Magic Duels will officially update with the Amonkhet block starting 26 April on iPad, iPhone and Steam with brand new earnable cards, quests and story.
Prerelease events for Amonkhet runs from 22 April, while the set officially hits the market 28 April. Make sure you check with your friendly game stores!
