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{{Otheruses}}
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A '''block''' is a group of ''[[Magic: The Gathering]]'' expansion [[set]]s that are centered or focused on a common storyline cycle, or arc. Typically, from ''[[Mirage]]'' onwards the first set in a block was a [[large expansion]], and was followed by two [[small expansion]]s; but, this trend was subverted a number of times (e.g., with [[Lorwyn block]] and [[Shadowmoor block]], which comprised two expansions each; [[Return to Ravnica block]], which comprises two large expansions and one small expansion). <ref>{{DailyRef|mtg/daily/mm/68|Playing With Blocks|[[Mark Rosewater]]|December 07, 2009}}</ref> <ref>{{DailyRef|mtg/daily/mm/245|Third Time's a Charm|[[Mark Rosewater]]|April 29, 2013}}</ref> <ref>{{DailyRef|mtg/daily/ld/247|Building Blocks|[[Sam Stoddard]]|May 17, 2013}}</ref>
  
   
  +
A '''block''' used to be a group of sequential ''[[Magic: The Gathering]]'' expansion [[set]]s with shared [[mechanic]]s, [[flavor]], and [[rotation]] schedule.
−
Beginning in the Fall of 2015, blocks will be two sets each. Each block will have one large set that introduces the world and one small set that builds upon it (this is the default and [[WotC]] reserves the right to have sets of different sizes if it serves the block). Blocks will no longer have a third set. There will be a large fall expansion and small winter expansion set in World #1. Then there will be a large spring expansion and a small summer expansion, usually set in World #2. The first two sets will be part of one block and the second two sets will usually be part of a second. <ref name="Metamorphosis">{{NewRef|mm/metamorphosis|Metamorphosis|[[Mark Rosewater]]|August 25, 2014}}</ref>
  
⚫
==History==
  
−
Modern block design commenced in 1997, with [[Mirage block]].
  
   
  +
==Description==
−
''[[Ice Age]]'' and ''[[Alliances]]'' were grouped together with ''[[Homelands]]'' as a block retroactively. As ''Homelands'' is thematically and mechanically unrelated to ''Ice Age'' and ''Alliances'', as well as being of a different storyline arc, it was later removed from the ''Ice Age'' block and replaced with ''[[Coldsnap]]'' in 2006.
  
  +
Blocks have ranged in size from two to four sets and were usually named for the first set they contain. A [[large expansion]] led off each block to establish its world and mechanical themes, which were explored further in the block's remaining set or sets, which have varied in size. Most block stories took place on a single [[plane]] and linked to the stories of adjacent blocks.
   
  +
In mid-2018, following the ''[[Ixalan]]'' block, the block structure was retired in favor of discrete large sets. It appeared that the second set in a block only sold 80% or less of the first set.<ref>{{EzTumblr|https://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/702732159108153344|title=Can we say MID and VOW was sort of an experiment with a block-like narrative structure?|December 4, 2022}}</ref>
−
One of the most important parts to [[R&D|designing and developing]] sets today is to create cross-block synergies so the sets within [[Standard]] play well with each other, but also so that there is enough of a change when Standard rotates to change things up. A diverse and shifting [[metagame]] is a healthy metagame. <ref>{{DailyRef|mtg/daily/ld/268|Cross-Block Synergies in ''Theros''|[[Sam Stoddard]]|October 11, 2013}}</ref>
  
   
  +
== Theme ==
−
The redesign of the block structure from three to two sets was announced by [[Mark Rosewater]] on August 25, 2016. <ref name="Metamorphosis"/>
  
  +
The theme is the concept that gives a block its identity, differentiating it from other ''Magic'' expansions. The theme can be either mechanical ("[[List of Magic slang#Bottom-up|bottom-up]]"), or flavorful ("[[List of Magic slang#Top-down|top-down]]").
  +
  +
For example, [[Odyssey block]] has a mechanical [[graveyard]] focus. The block mechanics, [[flashback]] and [[threshold]], incentivize greater use of [[discard]] and [[sacrifice]] effects. Varying the strength and focus of these mechanics allows [[R&D]] to highlight differing gameplay elements, such as [[creature type]] or [[multicolored]] cards, over time.<ref name="Tribal Theme" />
  +
  +
The theme can also be a genre or setting, which leads to mechanics designed to evoke a feeling, portray an environment, or otherwise enhance the story. [[Innistrad block]] is based on gothic horror, and features a [[Tribal (theme)|tribal]] component that pits [[human]]s against classic monsters, such as [[zombie]]s and [[vampire]]s. It also introduced [[double-faced card]]s to evoke the horror tropes of corruption and transformation.<ref name="Every Two Sides" /><ref name="C'mon In" />
  +
  +
If a block is too focused on one aspect of its theme, it can force players to commit heavily to specific archetypes in deckbuilding.<ref name="State 2005" /> One of the most important parts of designing and developing sets is the creation of cross-block synergies to promote a more complex [[metagame]]. Synergies are necessary both for the Standard environment in which a block initially releases, and the new Standard environment created when the next block releases (and the previous block rotates out of Standard).<ref name="Cross Theros" />
  +
  ⚫
== History ==
  +
During the game's first two years, prior to the introduction of the block structure, ''Magic'' expansions usually had no direct continuity. ''[[Alliances]]'', released in [[1996]], was the first set to borrow the environment and mechanics from a previous set, ''[[Ice Age]]'', although it did not immediately follow that set.<ref name="Play Blocks" /><ref name="Arcana Blocks" /> Despite this, ''Ice Age'' and ''Alliances'' were later grouped with the intervening, but otherwise unrelated, ''[[Homelands]]'' to retroactively form [[Ice Age block]].<ref name="Third Time" />
  +
  +
[[File:Three set blocks.gif|thumb|An illustration of the three-set block model; gray blocks are core sets. Click to animate.]]
  +
For much of ''[[Magic]]'''s history, blocks consisted of three sets. [[Mirage block]], released in 1996 and [[1997]], was the first block developed for the three-set formula. Its first set, the large expansion ''[[Mirage]]'', was released in the Northern Hemisphere's autumn, followed by small sets ''[[Visions]]'' and ''[[Weatherlight]]'' in winter and spring.<ref name="Play Blocks" /> This three-set "large-small-small" pattern was the default arrangement for blocks through [[Khans of Tarkir block]]. The three sets of a block, along with a [[core set]], filled the four seasonal [[Magic: The Gathering#Product slots|product slot]]s that feed into the [[Standard]] [[format]]. The beginning of a new block in the Northern Hemisphere's autumn coincided with the rotation of all cards from the block, and matching core set, from two years prior.<ref name="Return Standard" />
  +
  +
Some exceptions to that pattern were made, typically to expand the third set in order to advance established block mechanics and have enough original material to avoid feeling stale. ''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]'', ''[[Avacyn Restored]]'', and ''[[Dragons of Tarkir]]'' each match that description. They are large expansions to highlight and provide room for a dramatic reboot in gameplay and tone. Additionally, the second set in [[Return to Ravnica block]], ''[[Gatecrash]]'', was made large to allow a new distribution of the ten [[Ravnican guild|guilds]].<ref name="Size Matters" /><ref name="Metamorphosis" />
  +
  +
The most substantial break from the typical block structure was [[Lorwyn–Shadowmoor block]], which was divided into two mini-blocks, each with a large and small set.<ref name="Third Time" /> Another significant oddity is ''[[Coldsnap]]'', pitched as the "lost set" from Ice Age block, which replaced ''Homelands'' in that block upon its release.<ref name="Arcana Blocks" /><ref name="Back Issue" />
  +
  +
=== Two-Block Paradigm ===
  +
[[File:Two block paradigm.gif|thumb|An illustration of the two-block paradigm. Click to animate.]]
  +
A redesign of the block structure was announced by [[Mark Rosewater]] in 2014 and implemented the following year. Core sets were discontinued, and replaced with an additional expansion, allowing for one per calendar season. Replicating the structure of ''Lorwyn'' and ''Shadowmoor'', each year's sets were divided into two blocks, each containing a large set followed by a small set. This new default formula, subject to change for special cases, was known as the "Two Block-Paradigm," and was implemented following the release of the subsequent core set, [[Magic Origins]].<ref name="Metamorphosis" />
  +
  +
Along with the smaller block size, this new release pattern also promised Standard rotations following each block, such that Standard would contain the three most recent blocks. This increased rotation cadence proved deeply unpopular and was reverted to the traditional annual rotation.<ref name="Metamorphosis 2.0" />
  +
  +
The Two-Block Paradigm also introduced a new [[draft]] structure for the latter set in each block, consisting of two [[booster pack]]s from the second set, and one booster from the first. To accommodate the increased emphasis on the smaller second set, the typical size for a small expansion was increased to 184.<ref name="Draft Change" /><ref name="Small 184" /><ref name="Annual Cards" /><ref name="Learn Two Block" />
  +
  +
=== Three-and-One Model ===
  +
[[File:Three and one.gif|thumb|An illustration of the three-and-one model. Sets beyond Ixalan are labeled with codenames; gray blocks are core sets. Click to animate.]]
  +
The Two-Block Paradigm rapidly proved problematic. It revealed developmental challenges inherent to small sets, and demonstrated that core sets had served an important purpose in allowing for [[reprint]]s without regard for the mechanics or setting of the more coherent expansions around them.
  +
  +
As a result, [[Ixalan block]] was the final block. Beginning in 2018, a "revamped" core set once again filled the summer slot. The other three seasons would each contain a large, [[standalone]] set. These sets might continue the mechanics or story of the preceding set, as was typical within a block, on an individual basis, and the number of consecutive sets set on the same world would vary. This new release structure was called the "Three-and-One Model".<ref name="Metamorphosis 2.0" /> It raised the overall number a little (with [[reprint]]s), but the new card number stayed close to the same.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/170278447998/with-the-shift-to-large-large-large-core-doesnt|title=Doesn't the shift increase the total number of cards available in standard?|January 29, 2018}}</ref> Each set would have basic lands.<ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/173703327938/now-that-every-set-will-be-a-large-set-does-this|title=Does this mean that each set will have its own cycle of basic lands? |May 08, 2018}}</ref>
  +
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===Four-set Model===
  +
In 2021 core sets were retired again. ''[[Dungeons & Dragons: Adventures in the Forgotten Realms]]'' started out in design as core set but was later transformed in a more complicated [[expansion]] set.<ref>{{DailyRef|making-magic/dd-esign-part-1-2021-07-05|D&D-esign, Part 1|[[Mark Rosewater]]|July 5, 2021}}</ref> Going forward, there will be four standalone [[premier set]]s each year.<ref>{{EzTumblr|https://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/660511211950145536/are-core-sets-gone-for-good-mark|title=Are Core sets gone for good?|August 25, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/660502632878702592/which-set-announced-yesterday-is-replacing-the|title=Which set announced yesterday is replacing the Core Set? |August 25, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/660502632878702592/which-set-announced-yesterday-is-replacing-the|title=Now that the Core Set slot is turning into a fourth Premier Set slot...|November 8, 2021}}</ref>
   
 
==List of blocks==
  
==List of blocks==
  +
The following list details all ''Magic: The Gathering'' blocks in chronological order. The year given in parentheses is when the first set in a block was released. For the three-set blocks, the ''Magic'' year begins with the "large fall expansion,"<ref name="Metamorphosis" /> typically in October, with that block's subsequent sets releasing during February and April of the following year.
−
The following list details all of the blocks in ''Magic: The Gathering'' in chronological order.
  
  +
  +
With ''Lorwyn'' and ''Shadowmoor'', as well as expansions following the introduction of the Two-Block Paradigm, [[Wizards of the Coast]] printed two blocks per ''Magic'' year. For these, the first block's sets come out in autumn then winter next calendar year, while the second block's sets release that spring and summer. All seasons noted here are those of the Northern Hemisphere.<ref name="Metamorphosis" />
  +
  +
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
  ⚫
'''[[Ice Age block]]''' (1995)
  ⚫
*''[[Ice Age]]'' {{keyrune|ICE}}
  ⚫
*''[[Alliances]]'' {{keyrune|ALL}}
  ⚫
*''[[Coldsnap]]'' {{keyrune|CSP}} (2006)<br/>replaced ''[[Homelands]]'' {{keyrune|HML}}
  +
  ⚫
'''[[Mirage block]]''' (1996)
  +
*''[[Mirage]]'' {{keyrune|MIR}}
  +
*''[[Visions]]'' {{keyrune|VIS}}
  ⚫
*''[[Weatherlight]]'' {{keyrune|WTH}}
  +
  ⚫
'''[[Tempest block]]''' (1997)
  +
*''[[Tempest]]'' {{keyrune|TMP}}
  +
*''[[Stronghold]]'' {{keyrune|STH}}
  +
*''[[Exodus]]'' {{keyrune|EXO}}
  +
  ⚫
'''[[Urza's block]]''' (1998)
  +
*''[[Urza's Saga]]'' {{keyrune|USG}}
  +
*''[[Urza's Legacy]]'' {{keyrune|ULG}}
  +
*''[[Urza's Destiny]]'' {{keyrune|UDS}}
  +
  ⚫
'''[[Masques block]]''' (1999)
  +
*''[[Mercadian Masques]]'' {{keyrune|MMQ}}
  +
*''[[Nemesis]]'' {{keyrune|NEM}}
  +
*''[[Prophecy]]'' {{keyrune|PCY}}
  +
  +
'''[[Invasion block]]''' (2000)
  ⚫
*''[[Invasion]]'' {{keyrune|INV}}
  ⚫
*''[[Planeshift]]'' {{keyrune|PLS}}
  ⚫
*''[[Apocalypse]]'' {{keyrune|APC}}
  +
  +
'''[[Odyssey block]]''' (2001)
  +
*''[[Odyssey]]'' {{keyrune|ODY}}
  +
*''[[Torment]]'' {{keyrune|TOR}}
  +
*''[[Judgment]]'' {{keyrune|JUD}}
  +
  +
'''[[Onslaught block]]''' (2002)
  +
*''[[Onslaught]]'' {{keyrune|ONS}}
  +
*''[[Legions]]'' {{keyrune|LGN}}
  +
*''[[Scourge]]'' {{keyrune|SCG}}
  +
  ⚫
'''[[Mirrodin block]]''' (2003)
  +
*''[[Mirrodin]]'' {{keyrune|MRD}}
  +
*''[[Darksteel]]'' {{keyrune|DST}}
  +
*''[[Fifth Dawn]]'' {{keyrune|5DN}}
  +
  +
'''[[Kamigawa block]]''' (2004)
  +
*''[[Champions of Kamigawa]]'' {{keyrune|CHK}}
  +
*''[[Betrayers of Kamigawa]]'' {{keyrune|BOK}}
  +
*''[[Saviors of Kamigawa]]'' {{keyrune|SOK}}
  +
  ⚫
'''[[Ravnica block]]''' (2005)
  ⚫
*''[[Ravnica: City of Guilds]]'' {{keyrune|Rav}}
  ⚫
*''[[Guildpact]]'' {{keyrune|GPT}}
  ⚫
*''[[Dissension]]'' {{keyrune|DIS}}
   
  +
'''[[Time Spiral block]]''' (2006)
−
The year given in parentheses is the year in which the first set in the block was released. Typically, with a notable exception being Lorwyn and Shadowmoor blocks, [[Wizards of the Coast]] has released the first set in October of the year in parentheses and subsequent sets in the block in February and April of the following year.
  
  +
*''[[Time Spiral]]'' {{keyrune|TSP}}
  +
*''[[Planar Chaos]]'' {{keyrune|PLC}}
  ⚫
*''[[Future Sight]]'' {{keyrune|FUT}}
   
  +
'''[[Lorwyn–Shadowmoor block#Lorwyn block|Lorwyn block]]''' {{nowrap|(Autumn 2007)}}
−
{{col-begin}}
  
  +
*''[[Lorwyn]]'' {{keyrune|LRW}}
−
{{col-break}}
  
  ⚫
*''[[Morningtide]]'' {{keyrune|MOR}}
⚫
*[[Ice Age block]] (1995)
  
⚫
**''[[Ice Age]]'' ({{Set symbol|ICE symbol.png}})
  
⚫
**''[[Alliances]]'' ({{Set symbol|ALL symbol.png}})
  
−
**''[[Coldsnap]]'' ({{Set symbol|CSP symbol.png}})
  
⚫
***<small>''Coldsnap'' replaced ''[[Homelands]]'' ({{Set symbol|HML symbol.gif}})</small>
  
   
  +
'''[[Lorwyn–Shadowmoor block#Shadowmoor block|Shadowmoor block]]''' {{nowrap|(Spring 2008)}}
⚫
*[[Mirage block]] (1996)
  
−
**''[[Mirage]]'' ({{Set symbol|MIR symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Shadowmoor]]'' {{keyrune|SHM}}
−
**''[[Visions]]'' ({{Set symbol|VIS symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Eventide]]'' {{keyrune|EVE}}
⚫
**''[[Weatherlight]]'' ({{Set symbol|WTH symbol.png}})
  
   
−
*[[Tempest block]] (1997)
 +
'''[[Alara block]]''' (2008)
−
**''[[Tempest]]'' ({{Set symbol|TMP symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Shards of Alara]]'' {{keyrune|ALA}}
−
**''[[Stronghold]]'' ({{Set symbol|STH symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Conflux]]'' {{keyrune|CON}}
−
**''[[Exodus]]'' ({{Set symbol|EXO symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Alara Reborn]]'' {{keyrune|ARB}}
   
−
*[[Urza's block]] (1998)
 +
'''[[Zendikar block]]''' (2009)
−
**''[[Urza's Saga]]'' ({{Set symbol|Urza's Saga.gif}})
 +
*''[[Zendikar]]'' {{keyrune|ZEN}}
−
**''[[Urza's Legacy]]'' ({{Set symbol|ULsym.gif}})
 +
*''[[Worldwake]]'' {{keyrune|WWK}}
−
**''[[Urza's Destiny]]'' ({{Set symbol|Urzasdestiny.gif}})
 +
*''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]'' {{keyrune|ROE}}
   
−
*[[Masques block]] (1999)
 +
'''[[Scars of Mirrodin block]]''' (2010)
−
**''[[Mercadian Masques]]'' ({{Set symbol|MMQ symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[Scars of Mirrodin]]'' {{keyrune|SOM}}
−
**''[[Nemesis]]'' ({{Set symbol|NEM symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[Mirrodin Besieged]]'' {{keyrune|MBS}}
−
**''[[Prophecy]]'' ({{Set symbol|PCY symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[New Phyrexia]]'' {{keyrune|NPH}}
−
{{col-break}}
  
⚫
*[[Invasion block]] (2000)
  
⚫
**''[[Invasion]]'' ({{Set symbol|INV symbol.png}})
  
⚫
**''[[Planeshift]]'' ({{Set symbol|Planeshift symbol.gif}})
  
⚫
**''[[Apocalypse]]'' ({{Set symbol|APC symbol.png}})
  
   
−
*[[Odyssey block]] (2001)
 +
'''[[Innistrad block]]''' (2011)
−
**''[[Odyssey]]'' ({{Set symbol|ODY symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Innistrad]]'' {{keyrune|ISD}}
−
**''[[Torment]]'' ({{Set symbol|TOR symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Dark Ascension]]'' {{keyrune|DKA}}
−
**''[[Judgment]]'' ({{Set symbol|JUD symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Avacyn Restored]]'' {{keyrune|AVR}}
   
−
*[[Onslaught block]] (2002)
 +
'''[[Return to Ravnica block]]''' (2012)
−
**''[[Onslaught]]'' ({{Set symbol|ONS symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Return to Ravnica]]'' {{keyrune|RTR}}
−
**''[[Legions]]'' ({{Set symbol|LGN symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[Gatecrash]]'' {{keyrune|GTC}}
−
**''[[Scourge]]'' ({{Set symbol|SCG symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[Dragon's Maze]]'' {{keyrune|DGM}}
   
−
*[[Mirrodin block]] (2003)
 +
'''[[Theros block]]''' (2013)
−
**''[[Mirrodin]]'' ({{Set symbol|Mirrodin.gif}})
 +
*''[[Theros]]'' {{keyrune|THS}}
−
**''[[Darksteel]]'' ({{Set symbol|DST symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Born of the Gods]]'' {{keyrune|BNG}}
−
**''[[Fifth Dawn]]'' ({{Set symbol|5DN symbol.gif }})
 +
*''[[Journey into Nyx]]'' {{keyrune|JOU}}
   
−
*[[Kamigawa block]] (2004)
 +
'''[[Khans of Tarkir block]]''' (2014)
−
**''[[Champions of Kamigawa]]'' ({{Set symbol|CHK symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Khans of Tarkir]]'' {{keyrune|KTK}}
−
**''[[Betrayers of Kamigawa]]'' ({{Set symbol|BOK symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Fate Reforged]]'' {{keyrune|FRF}}
−
**''[[Saviors of Kamigawa]]'' ({{Set symbol|SOK symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Dragons of Tarkir]]'' {{keyrune|DTK}}
−
{{col-break}}
  
⚫
*[[Ravnica block]] (2005)
  
⚫
**''[[Ravnica: City of Guilds]]'' ({{Set symbol|Ravnica.gif}})
  
⚫
**''[[Guildpact]]'' ({{Set symbol|GPT symbol.gif}})
  
⚫
**''[[Dissension]]'' ({{Set symbol|DIS symbol.gif }})
  
   
−
*[[Time Spiral block]] (2006)
 +
'''[[Battle for Zendikar block]]''' {{nowrap|(Autumn 2015)}}
−
**''[[Time Spiral]]'' ({{Set symbol|Time Spiral symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[Battle for Zendikar]]'' {{keyrune|BFZ}}
−
**''[[Planar Chaos]]'' ({{Set symbol|Planar Chaos symbol.gif}})
 +
*''[[Oath of the Gatewatch]]'' {{keyrune|OGW}}
⚫
**''[[Future Sight]]'' ({{Set symbol|FUT symbol.png|100x20px}})
  
   
  +
'''[[Shadows over Innistrad block]]''' {{nowrap|(Spring 2016)}}
−
*[[Lorwyn–Shadowmoor block]]
 
  +
*''[[Shadows over Innistrad]]'' {{keyrune|SOI}}
−
**Lorwyn (2007)
  
−
***''[[Lorwyn]]'' ({{Set symbol|LRW symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Eldritch Moon]]'' {{keyrune|EMN}}
⚫
***''[[Morningtide]]'' ({{Set symbol|MOR symbol.png}})
  
−
**Shadowmoor (2008)
  
−
***''[[Shadowmoor]]'' ({{Set symbol|SHM symbol.png}})
  
−
***''[[Eventide]]'' ({{Set symbol|EVE symbol.png}})
  
   
−
*[[Alara block]] (2008)
 +
'''[[Kaladesh block]]''' {{nowrap|(Autumn 2016)}}
−
**''[[Shards of Alara]]'' ({{Set symbol|ALA symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Kaladesh]]'' {{keyrune|KLD}}
−
**''[[Conflux]]'' ({{Set symbol|CON symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Aether Revolt]]'' {{keyrune|AER}}
−
**''[[Alara Reborn]]'' ({{Set symbol|ARB symbol.png}})
  
   
−
*[[Zendikar block]] (2009)
 +
'''[[Amonkhet block]]''' {{nowrap|(Spring 2017)}}
−
**''[[Zendikar]]'' ({{Set symbol|Zendikar symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Amonkhet]]'' {{keyrune|AKH}}
−
**''[[Worldwake]]'' ({{Set symbol|Worldwake symbol.png}})
 +
*''[[Hour of Devastation]]'' {{keyrune|HOU}}
−
**''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]'' ({{Set symbol|Rise of the Eldrazi symbol.png}})
  
−
{{col-break}}
  
⚫
*[[Scars of Mirrodin block]] (2010)
  
−
**''[[Scars of Mirrodin]]'' ({{Set symbol|SOM symbol.png}})
  
−
**''[[Mirrodin Besieged]]'' ({{Set symbol|MBS symbol.jpg}})
  
−
**''[[New Phyrexia]]'' ({{Set symbol|NPH symbol.jpg}})
  
   
−
*[[Innistrad block]] (2011)
 +
'''[[Ixalan block]]''' {{nowrap|(Autumn 2017)}}
−
**''[[Innistrad]]'' ({{Set symbol|ISD symbol.jpg}})
 +
*''[[Ixalan]]'' {{keyrune|XLN}}
−
**''[[Dark Ascension]]'' ({{Set symbol|DKA symbol.jpg}})
 +
*''[[Rivals of Ixalan]]'' {{keyrune|RIX}}
  +
}}
−
**''[[Avacyn Restored]]'' ({{Set symbol|AVR symbol.jpg}})
  
   
  +
==Unofficial blocks==
⚫
*[[Return to Ravnica block]] (2012)
  
  +
Although in the 3+1 model blocks no longer existed, the extended stay on [[Ravnica]] was unofficially named the '''[[Guilds of Ravnica block]]'''.
−
**''[[Return to Ravnica]]'' ({{Set symbol|RTR symbol.jpg}})
  
−
**''[[Gatecrash]]'' ({{Set symbol|GTC symbol.jpg}})
 +
*''[[Guilds of Ravnica]]'' {{keyrune|GRN}}
−
**''[[Dragon's Maze]]'' ({{Set symbol|DGM symbol.jpg}})
 +
*''[[Ravnica Allegiance]]'' {{keyrune|RNA}}
  +
*''[[War of the Spark]]'' {{keyrune|WAR}}
   
  +
In a stronger link, [[Innistrad: Double Feature|two Innistrad sets]] came out only two months apart in the latter part of 2021, with two recurring keywords and similar allied-color drafting:
⚫
*[[Theros block]] (2013)
  
−
**''[[Theros]]'' ({{Set symbol|Therossymbol.jpg}})
 +
* ''[[Innistrad: Midnight Hunt]]'' {{Keyrune|MID}}
−
**''[[Born of the Gods]]'' ({{Set symbol|BNGsymbol.jpg}})
 +
* ''[[Innistrad: Crimson Vow]]'' {{Keyrune|VOW}}
−
**''[[Journey into Nyx]]'' ({{Set symbol|JOUsymbol.jpg}})
  
   
  +
In 2022, two sets are situated on Dominaria, though millennia apart.
−
*[[Khans of Tarkir block]] (2014)
  
−
**''[[Khans of Tarkir]]'' ({{Set symbol|Symbol_Khans_of_Tarkir.png}})
 +
* ''[[Dominaria United]]'' {{Keyrune|DMU}}
  +
* ''[[The Brothers' War]]'' {{Keyrune|BRO}}
−
**?
 
−
**?
 
−
{{col-end}}
  
   
 
==References==
  
==References==
  +
{{reflist|refs=
−
{{Reflist}}
  
  +
<ref name="Metamorphosis">{{DailyRef|mm/metamorphosis |Metamorphosis|[[Mark Rosewater]]|2014 August 25}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Metamorphosis 2.0">{{DailyRef|making-magic/metamorphosis-2-0-2017-06-12|Metamorphosis 2.0|[[Mark Rosewater]]|2017 June 12}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Return Standard">{{DailyRef|news/revisiting-standard-rotation-2016-10-19 |Revisiting Standard Rotation|[[Aaron Forsythe]]|2016 October 19}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="State 2005">{{DailyRef|making-magic/state-design-2005-2005-08-29-0 |State of Design 2005|Mark Rosewater|2005 August 29}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Tribal Theme">{{DailyRef|making-magic/lions-and-tigers-and-bears-2003-01-20 |Lions and Tigers and Bears|Mark Rosewater|2003 January 20}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Arcana Blocks">{{DailyRef|arcana/building-blocks-2014-08-25 |Building Blocks|[[Blake Rasmussen]]|2014 August 25}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Play Blocks">{{DailyRef|making-magic/playing-blocks-2009-12-07 |Playing With Blocks|Mark Rosewater|2009 December 07}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Size Matters">{{DailyRef|latest-developments/size-matters-2012-04-27 |Size Matters|[[Zac Hill]]|2012 April 27}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Third Time">{{DailyRef|making-magic/third-times-charm-2013-04-29 |Third Time's the Charm|Mark Rosewater|2013 April 29}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Back Issue">{{DailyRef|making-magic/back-issues-2006-02-06 |Back Issues|Mark Rosewater|2006 February 06}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Every Two Sides">{{DailyRef|feature/every-two-sides-has-story-2011-08-29 |Every Two Sides Has a Story|Mark Rosewater|2011 August 29}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="C'mon In">{{DailyRef|feature/cmon-innistrad-part-1-2011-09-05 |C'mon Innistrad, Part 1|Mark Rosewater|2011 September 05}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Cross Theros">{{DailyRef|latest-developments/cross-block-synergies-theros-2013-10-11 |Cross-Block Synergies in ''Theros''|[[Sam Stoddard]]|2013 October 11}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Learn Two Block">{{DailyRef|latest-developments/learning-two-block-world-2016-02-26 |Learning from the Two-Block World|Sam Stoddard|2016 February 26}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Draft Change">{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/128230798418/hi-mark-what-are-reasons-behind-changing-the|title=What are reasons behind changing the Draft format?|2015 September 02}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Small 184">{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/128588372698/in-this-new-bba-world-is-184-the-new-default|title=Is 184 the new default size of small sets?|2015 September 07}}</ref>
  +
<ref name="Annual Cards">{{EzTumblr|http://markrosewater.tumblr.com/post/128422298728/with-the-two-set-paradigm-are-you-now-going-to-be|title=Are you now going to be putting out more, or less cards every year?|2015 September 07}}</ref>
  +
}}
   
  +
{{Block}}
 
[[Category:Magic sets]]
  
[[Category:Magic sets]]

Latest revision as of 15:42, 1 April 2024

For other uses, see Block (disambiguation).

A block used to be a group of sequential Magic: The Gathering expansion sets with shared mechanics, flavor, and rotation schedule.

Description[ | ]

Blocks have ranged in size from two to four sets and were usually named for the first set they contain. A large expansion led off each block to establish its world and mechanical themes, which were explored further in the block's remaining set or sets, which have varied in size. Most block stories took place on a single plane and linked to the stories of adjacent blocks.

In mid-2018, following the Ixalan block, the block structure was retired in favor of discrete large sets. It appeared that the second set in a block only sold 80% or less of the first set.[1]

Theme[ | ]

The theme is the concept that gives a block its identity, differentiating it from other Magic expansions. The theme can be either mechanical ("bottom-up"), or flavorful ("top-down").

For example, Odyssey block has a mechanical graveyard focus. The block mechanics, flashback and threshold, incentivize greater use of discard and sacrifice effects. Varying the strength and focus of these mechanics allows R&D to highlight differing gameplay elements, such as creature type or multicolored cards, over time.[2]

The theme can also be a genre or setting, which leads to mechanics designed to evoke a feeling, portray an environment, or otherwise enhance the story. Innistrad block is based on gothic horror, and features a tribal component that pits humans against classic monsters, such as zombies and vampires. It also introduced double-faced cards to evoke the horror tropes of corruption and transformation.[3][4]

If a block is too focused on one aspect of its theme, it can force players to commit heavily to specific archetypes in deckbuilding.[5] One of the most important parts of designing and developing sets is the creation of cross-block synergies to promote a more complex metagame. Synergies are necessary both for the Standard environment in which a block initially releases, and the new Standard environment created when the next block releases (and the previous block rotates out of Standard).[6]

History[ | ]

During the game's first two years, prior to the introduction of the block structure, Magic expansions usually had no direct continuity. Alliances, released in 1996, was the first set to borrow the environment and mechanics from a previous set, Ice Age, although it did not immediately follow that set.[7][8] Despite this, Ice Age and Alliances were later grouped with the intervening, but otherwise unrelated, Homelands to retroactively form Ice Age block.[9]

Three set blocks

An illustration of the three-set block model; gray blocks are core sets. Click to animate.

For much of Magic's history, blocks consisted of three sets. Mirage block, released in 1996 and 1997, was the first block developed for the three-set formula. Its first set, the large expansion Mirage, was released in the Northern Hemisphere's autumn, followed by small sets Visions and Weatherlight in winter and spring.[7] This three-set "large-small-small" pattern was the default arrangement for blocks through Khans of Tarkir block. The three sets of a block, along with a core set, filled the four seasonal product slots that feed into the Standard format. The beginning of a new block in the Northern Hemisphere's autumn coincided with the rotation of all cards from the block, and matching core set, from two years prior.[10]

Some exceptions to that pattern were made, typically to expand the third set in order to advance established block mechanics and have enough original material to avoid feeling stale. Rise of the Eldrazi, Avacyn Restored, and Dragons of Tarkir each match that description. They are large expansions to highlight and provide room for a dramatic reboot in gameplay and tone. Additionally, the second set in Return to Ravnica block, Gatecrash, was made large to allow a new distribution of the ten guilds.[11][12]

The most substantial break from the typical block structure was Lorwyn–Shadowmoor block, which was divided into two mini-blocks, each with a large and small set.[9] Another significant oddity is Coldsnap, pitched as the "lost set" from Ice Age block, which replaced Homelands in that block upon its release.[8][13]

Two-Block Paradigm[ | ]

Two block paradigm

An illustration of the two-block paradigm. Click to animate.

A redesign of the block structure was announced by Mark Rosewater in 2014 and implemented the following year. Core sets were discontinued, and replaced with an additional expansion, allowing for one per calendar season. Replicating the structure of Lorwyn and Shadowmoor, each year's sets were divided into two blocks, each containing a large set followed by a small set. This new default formula, subject to change for special cases, was known as the "Two Block-Paradigm," and was implemented following the release of the subsequent core set, Magic Origins.[12]

Along with the smaller block size, this new release pattern also promised Standard rotations following each block, such that Standard would contain the three most recent blocks. This increased rotation cadence proved deeply unpopular and was reverted to the traditional annual rotation.[14]

The Two-Block Paradigm also introduced a new draft structure for the latter set in each block, consisting of two booster packs from the second set, and one booster from the first. To accommodate the increased emphasis on the smaller second set, the typical size for a small expansion was increased to 184.[15][16][17][18]

Three-and-One Model[ | ]

Three and one

An illustration of the three-and-one model. Sets beyond Ixalan are labeled with codenames; gray blocks are core sets. Click to animate.

The Two-Block Paradigm rapidly proved problematic. It revealed developmental challenges inherent to small sets, and demonstrated that core sets had served an important purpose in allowing for reprints without regard for the mechanics or setting of the more coherent expansions around them.

As a result, Ixalan block was the final block. Beginning in 2018, a "revamped" core set once again filled the summer slot. The other three seasons would each contain a large, standalone set. These sets might continue the mechanics or story of the preceding set, as was typical within a block, on an individual basis, and the number of consecutive sets set on the same world would vary. This new release structure was called the "Three-and-One Model".[14] It raised the overall number a little (with reprints), but the new card number stayed close to the same.[19] Each set would have basic lands.[20]

Four-set Model[ | ]

In 2021 core sets were retired again. Dungeons & Dragons: Adventures in the Forgotten Realms started out in design as core set but was later transformed in a more complicated expansion set.[21] Going forward, there will be four standalone premier sets each year.[22][23][24]

List of blocks[ | ]

The following list details all Magic: The Gathering blocks in chronological order. The year given in parentheses is when the first set in a block was released. For the three-set blocks, the Magic year begins with the "large fall expansion,"[12] typically in October, with that block's subsequent sets releasing during February and April of the following year.

With Lorwyn and Shadowmoor, as well as expansions following the introduction of the Two-Block Paradigm, Wizards of the Coast printed two blocks per Magic year. For these, the first block's sets come out in autumn then winter next calendar year, while the second block's sets release that spring and summer. All seasons noted here are those of the Northern Hemisphere.[12]

Ice Age block (1995)

Mirage block (1996)

Tempest block (1997)

Urza's block (1998)

Masques block (1999)

Invasion block (2000)

Odyssey block (2001)

Onslaught block (2002)

Mirrodin block (2003)

Kamigawa block (2004)

Ravnica block (2005)

Time Spiral block (2006)

Lorwyn block (Autumn 2007)

Shadowmoor block (Spring 2008)

Alara block (2008)

Zendikar block (2009)

Scars of Mirrodin block (2010)

Innistrad block (2011)

Return to Ravnica block (2012)

Theros block (2013)

Khans of Tarkir block (2014)

Battle for Zendikar block (Autumn 2015)

Shadows over Innistrad block (Spring 2016)

Kaladesh block (Autumn 2016)

Amonkhet block (Spring 2017)

Ixalan block (Autumn 2017)

Unofficial blocks[ | ]

Although in the 3+1 model blocks no longer existed, the extended stay on Ravnica was unofficially named the Guilds of Ravnica block.

In a stronger link, two Innistrad sets came out only two months apart in the latter part of 2021, with two recurring keywords and similar allied-color drafting:

In 2022, two sets are situated on Dominaria, though millennia apart.

References[ | ]

  1. ↑ Mark Rosewater (December 4, 2022). "Can we say MID and VOW was sort of an experiment with a block-like narrative structure?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  2. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2003 January 20). "Lions and Tigers and Bears". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  3. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2011 August 29). "Every Two Sides Has a Story". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  4. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2011 September 05). "C'mon Innistrad, Part 1". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  5. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2005 August 29). "State of Design 2005". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  6. ↑ Sam Stoddard (2013 October 11). "Cross-Block Synergies in Theros". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  7. ↑ a b Mark Rosewater (2009 December 07). "Playing With Blocks". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  8. ↑ a b Blake Rasmussen (2014 August 25). "Building Blocks". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  9. ↑ a b Mark Rosewater (2013 April 29). "Third Time's the Charm". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  10. ↑ Aaron Forsythe (2016 October 19). "Revisiting Standard Rotation". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  11. ↑ Zac Hill (2012 April 27). "Size Matters". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  12. ↑ a b c d Mark Rosewater (2014 August 25). "Metamorphosis". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  13. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2006 February 06). "Back Issues". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  14. ↑ a b Mark Rosewater (2017 June 12). "Metamorphosis 2.0". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  15. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2015 September 02). "What are reasons behind changing the Draft format?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  16. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2015 September 07). "Is 184 the new default size of small sets?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  17. ↑ Mark Rosewater (2015 September 07). "Are you now going to be putting out more, or less cards every year?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  18. ↑ Sam Stoddard (2016 February 26). "Learning from the Two-Block World". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  19. ↑ Mark Rosewater (January 29, 2018). "Doesn't the shift increase the total number of cards available in standard?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  20. ↑ Mark Rosewater (May 08, 2018). "Does this mean that each set will have its own cycle of basic lands?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  21. ↑ Mark Rosewater (July 5, 2021). "D&D-esign, Part 1". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  22. ↑ Mark Rosewater (August 25, 2021). "Are Core sets gone for good?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  23. ↑ Mark Rosewater (August 25, 2021). "Which set announced yesterday is replacing the Core Set?". Blogatog. Tumblr.
  24. ↑ Mark Rosewater (November 8, 2021). "Now that the Core Set slot is turning into a fourth Premier Set slot...". Blogatog. Tumblr.
Blocks
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