Welcome to the debut of a new blog series, ‘The Essentials.’ Here, we cut straight to the chase, focusing on the cards that have stood the test of time and see a lot of old school Magic play.

In this series, we’ll dissect the classic card pool, color by color, to pinpoint the must-have cards from every set that players should own. We kick things off with White, known for its righteous creatures, enchantments, and removal spells that shape the meta.

ABU

As we delve into the first core set, it becomes evident that White cards hold a special place in the hearts of many players. With many options to choose from, ranking them based on their average use by tiers can provide invaluable insight into their impact on gameplay. While the notion of ranking cards is undeniably subjective, it’s not without merit. Among the standout White cards from the inaugural core set are iconic creatures like Serra Angel, Balance and Wrath of God, revered for their game-changing abilities and unmatched versatility on the battlefield. These cards, along with others like Disenchant and Swords to Plowshares, consistently prove their worth across a myriad of strategies and deck archetypes, earning them top-tier status in the eyes of many Magic players.

Arabian Nights

In Arabian Nights, the allure of White cards casts its own captivating spell. Among the mainly flavorful treasures found within this expansion set are cards like Jihad and Camel, each with its own unique and quirky potential. While not as powerful as those in the core set, Arabian Nights White cards possess a distinct charm. Compared to other colors, you could argue that White was the weaker color in Arabian Nights.

Antiqueties

Things got even worse in Antiquities! The best White card of the set is ranked avarage. Argivian Archaeologist scores high on the cool factor but doesn´t see a lot of play, and for good reason. Circle of Protection: Artifacts showcase the adaptability of White, providing answers to the formidable artifacts that can dominate the battlefield.

Legends

In Legens things took a turn for the better for White. Among the illustrious roster of Legends cards, standout White spells like Moat and Land Tax solidified White’s reputation as one of the game’s strongest colors. Moat, with its ability to create an impenetrable barrier against ground-based threats, embodies the essence of White’s defensive prowess, providing players with unparalleled protection against aggressive strategies. Meanwhile, Land Tax showcases White’s unmatched ability to manipulate resources, allowing players to maintain consistent mana development throughout the game. The enduring legacy of these powerful White cards cements the color’s status as a formidable force to be reckoned with.

The Dark

While The Dark may be perceived as an overall weaker expansion in terms of power level, it still offers gems among its White cards that showcase the color’s enduring strength. Preacher, with its ability to commandeer enemy creatures to fight on the side of righteousness, exemplifies White’s capacity for strategic manipulation and control. Similarly, Dust to Dust provides a potent answer to the proliferation of artifacts, showcasing White’s ability to cleanse the battlefield of opposing threats. Despite the challenges posed by The Dark’s darker themes and diminished power level, these standout White cards serve as shining examples of the resilience and adaptability that define the color’s essence.

The List

In conclusion, while acknowledging the highly subjective nature of card rankings, it’s evident that certain White cards from Magic: The Gathering’s early expansions have solidified their status as timeless staples in the game’s history. Whether it’s the iconic Serra Angel from the core set, the strategic versatility of Land Tax from Legends, or the tactical prowess of Preacher from The Dark, these cards have left an indelible mark on the game, earning their place as must-haves in every players binder. While individual preferences may vary, the enduring appeal and strategic significance of these old-school White cards remain undisputed, serving as cornerstones of the Magic experience for players both old and new.

Conclusion

As I conclude my exploration of Old School White cards, it’s only natural to reflect on my rankings and consider the possibility of reassessment. Upon further contemplation, it’s debatable that certain cards like Pikeman and Northern Paladin, while impactful within their respective sets, may not hold the same weight when viewed through a broader lens. As for the question of ranking cards in general, it’s a topic that invites endless debate and discussion within the Magic community. While opinions may vary, the diversity of perspectives enriches our understanding of the game and its intricacies. Ultimately, whether in agreement or dissent, the exchange of ideas fosters growth and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cards that define Old School Magic.