After taking a week off, I returned to using the r/w initiative deck for some competition. For the record, I made no changes to the 60 cards, but I did switch out two sideboard cards by removing two Pyroclasm and replacing them with two StP. I did not believe that go-wide decks were still prevalent, but it turned out that I was mistaken. However, I was able to side-step the one I was worried about from succeeding. I faced the other one, but was able to effectively stop it. I still have confidence in this deck, as it is capable of applying early pressure and presenting must-answer threats.
Match 1 was against a doomsday
I was unsure of the opponent's strategy at first, even after the first game. I find it difficult to identify decks based solely on a few spells and lands.
Game 1, I was able to win by opening with Chancellor, followed by Chalice on 1, and then Archon. He admitted that if I had not done so, I would have lost. Archon of Emeria is an excellent card.
Game 2, my opponent successfully Doomsday'd me on turn one, and although I had a slight chance, a FoW quickly ended my hopes.
Game 3, my opponent mulligan'd down to 5, and then used FoW to counter my turn 1 Chalice, which I was content with. I followed up with foot stomping, and he had nothing. It felt good to win.
Match 2 was against a mentor deck
I had never played against the opponent before, so I was unsure of what to expect.
Game 1, I used pre-game Chancellor, followed by Chalice, followed by Dungeoneer, followed by Touch Spirit Realm on his Mentor. This allowed me to know that he was attempting to go wide.
I cannot recall the details of game 2.
Match 3 was against a naya depths deck
I suspected that the opponent was using this strategy.
Game 1, I was able to prevent the opponent's progress despite having a Maze out, through the use of Spellbinder and MY ONLY SOLITUDE THE ENTIRE NIGHT on his Knight.
Game 2, I made a mistake by attacking with my only flyer, which allowed my opponent to create a 20/20.
Game 3, I had numerous ways to prevent his "spaghetti monster," including 3 Magus, 2 StP, 4 Solitude, Karakas, and 3 Touch the Spirit Realm spells, but unfortunately, I did not draw any of them. Although I did have Archon out, it only slowed down his attempt to make a 20/20. Ultimately, I did not find any of my answers, but that is just how it goes sometimes.
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On a side note, I found it frustrating when some of the players were discussing the weeklies and deck choices. As an introvert, it takes me a while to process my thoughts before sharing them. I do not support the idea of gatekeeping a hobby that we all seem to enjoy. If paper play is available, we should celebrate it. I am not sure how many of the players showing up to the weekly events are practicing for a tournament or just trying to improve, but I believe that several are happy to be playing a format that they enjoy. For those who want to prepare for big events, I suggest playing online via MTGO or finding other players to practice with.
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In other news, I have started using CardSphere and have been slowly getting used to it. I was unsure of what to expect at first, but I have already acquired a SL Chrome Mox and have my sights. This sort of trading would almost be impossible on DeckBox.
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Currently in the kitty at Level Up games- $35. Still gonna carry at least $10 over week to week to play for "free."
However, there is a Legacy 1k coming up on 5/20. The entry fee is $40. Do I think I am willing to carve out 5-6 hours on a Saturday to play? Highly doubtful... would I like to play given the opportunity? Sure... Would I keep playing this deck- yup as I am familiar with it, and it seems good.
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