@xgranade imo this is more of a rule 0 matter. If I had a card like that in my deck, I would get the table's permission before starting and bring a replacement card in case someone objects.
@bec pantlaza will see the creature enter under the effect of Elesh Norn.
"Creatures get" is a status effect that applies as long as a creature is on the battlefield. It doesn't trigger, it just is.
Compare this with an activated or triggered ability which goes on the stack and can be responded to.
Elesh Norn simply changes the rules of the game, so Pantlaza never gets the chance to see the bigger version of the creature
@rigatti@MysticKetchup I agree with the article, except for the start point. I think the first sign of that big change was when they got rid of the block structure. I think there are a lot of problems with that structure being rigidly enforced, but I don't think that 4+ new planes a year is correct. It really does feel like they're frantically hopping from one place to the next in the hopes that "ooh shiney" will keep people invested
@dumples@MysticKetchup@paddirn yeah, the computer doesn't understand strategy or niche interactions. Most "AI" right now is just really good at averaging. So yeah, if you'd like an average deck that fits your requirements, it might do that. But it's probably only really playable for agro decks because they have the most straightforward strategy.
@bogdugg@andrew to me, that sounds like too much work. I dont want to have to look up the changes each week and feel obligated to try to build a new deck with the new set. Most likely, I'd skip playing Standard for 2 months until I was allowed to play with all the cards. It's an interesting idea for a store with a lot of established regulars trying to shake things up, but would probably drive everyone else away.
@elbowdrop@SophismaCognoscente
Same. Reserved a box and the decks just in case, but I'm not spending $400 on either of those at this point. The prices haven't dropped at all and the cards are mediocre. No thanks
@Graphy to get a lot of LOTR cards specifically, the best value is to buy singles. If you just want a bunch of cards in hand you could buy a box and have fun cracking packs (more expensive, but possible to pull some of the most popular cards) or you could contact someone who buys and sells cards (like CardGardenMTG on Twitter) who sells repacks. They're much cheaper, but do have the most chase cards already taken out. Still a good way to get cards if you want a variety.
@Graphy commander is fun, but it's a LOT for new players. Instead I'd recommend getting 2 starter decks specifically designed for new players (like intro decks).
Another option I like to use is Jumpstart packs! They're fairly simple and offer a lot of variety. Plus you can mix and match to customize the decks according to the new player's preferences. That way they can get a feel for what colors they enjoy