Evaluation Tips
In every Limited format there are archetypes. During spoiler season look for archetypes and keywords that support/synergize with those archetypes. However, nothing beats actually playing with the cards.
Limited Tips
Sealed: Look for creatures, cards that kill creatures and card advantage. Stick with two colors if at all possible for a stable mana base. Avoid more than 4 mana sources in a third color. Power level is slightly more important than mana curve but doing something productive every turn is key.
Draft: Take the best card and then identify what the second best card was so you can ear mark what color the next player is. Then know that the color is probably closed and avoid those colors moving forward.
The more you draft a set the more you will recognize synergies between cards.
Spending fewer resources than your opponent (when it comes to tricks) is to your advantage.
Don't commit fully to colors based on your first few picks. Understand you might be moved off those colors.
Beginner Tip: Draft two colors. Take the best card in two colors and stick with those.
Prepping for a Big Event
Healthy living is important. Getting enough sleep is critical. Loading your body with healthy food and avoiding drinking and drugs before the event gives you the best chance possible. You are playing against the best out there and you have to focused and on your game.
Get a team.
Team Building
Friendship and mutual respect come first and foremost. Then look for people with different strengths. If you are a good deck builder, look for a good sideboarder.
Play Testing
Organization and focus are important. Have a plan of action. Define the environment, build decks that represent the environment and then play against those.
Improvement
Find what color(s) resonate with you and just focus on that deck.
Interview Links
Connect With Gary
jgarywise1@hotmail.com - email him article ideas for his Star City Games column
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