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MTG: Secret Lair Gets Spooky from MagicCon Las Vegas

4 Minute Read
Sep 24 2023
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The next Secret Lair Superdrop is right around the corner, and it’s bringing the spooky to the spooky season in a really big way.

MagicCon Las Vegas is still going strong, and there are a lot of exciting things still in the mix. From the conclusion of the World Championship to the Cosplay Competition grand finale, there are plenty of sights to see here in the Entertainment Capital. However, if you’re a player like me, there’s one thing you’re looking forward to; spoilers.

MagicCon has been LOUSY with looks into the future, from spicy releases in the Lost Caverns of Ixalan to brand new Lord of the Rings holiday bundles. Perhaps most exciting of all, however, is the upcoming Secret Lair Superdrop, going live on October 2nd. Dubbed “Spookydrop 2023”, the drops in these sets look phenomenal. If you’re a fan of old-school horror comics, 80s/90s movies, or British television, you’re in for a special treat.

Artist Series: John Avon

As always, there will be a featured artist spot, and the incredibly talented John Avon is the partner this time. His stunning work is captured in several popular cards, like Progenitus, Brainstorm, and Emrakul. The misty, far-off look of his pieces is beautifully rendered on each card. You can tell how much time and care went into the selection of pieces.

Japanese Watercolor/Pixel Art Lands

While Land Secret Lairs are rarely high on anyone’s buy list, I think these deserve a look. I am specifically fond of the Watercolor basics, and will likely be picking up a set myself. However, the Pixel Art lands have a certain charm about them. These will likely find their way into artifact or slightly more pastel decks.

Doctor Who Weeping Angels/Dalek Lands

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Fans of the BBC will immediately recognize these pieces, celebrating two of the Doctor’s deadliest enemies. The Weeping Angel Secret Lair is a must-have for any typal or mono-White player. I’m specifically fond of the Angel of Serenity, which shows the Doctor becoming an Angel herself. The Dalek lands are also gorgeous, chronicling various stages in the Dalek invasion of Earth. This is one drop you won’t want to miss.

Evil Dead

A hilarious and spooky addition to the drop, the Evil Dead set showcases the black comedy by Sam Raimi perfectly. Each card is perfectly themed, from Ash and his chainsaw to the ill-fated cabin retreat. There’s even a zombie token to represent Ash’s unfortunate lover Cheryl.  Hail to the King, baby.

Princess Bride

Of all the drops, this is definitely the one I was most excited for, and not just because it comes with nine cards. Princess Bride has always been one of my comfort movies, and adding it to Magic is just phenomenal. The cards are well worth the money, too, with power hitters like Sisay, Brion Stoutarm, and Fynn making an appearance. There’s even an ROUS card! If you miss this drop, you’ll truly find yourself in the Pit of Despair.

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Creepshow

(Sadly, my phone died right before this preview, but trust me, it’s good)

Rounding out the Superdrop is a set of double-faced cards based on the Creepshow comics. While I normally don’t go for those, these are incredibly crafted and perfectly illustrated. The zombies and other horrors that grace the cards look like they were pulled straight from a comic, and the art and rules text blend perfectly. Even Grimmgrin is there, looking like he sprang out of an old-school newstand. This is definitely one you don’t want to miss.

Till next time!

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Author: Clint Lienau
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