Mercurial Heart is the set that convinced me to sit down and learn to play Grand Archive. I picked up too much product from my LGS and TCG Player and built my shabby little Silvie deck. I chose Silvie because it was the deck I knew how to pilot the best, not because she is currently dominating the new format.
This weekend, I was able to carve out some time and head to my first-ever locals. It was a bit daunting since I had only learned the basic rules that day, but I wanted to play and didn’t have the friends to do so casually.
The place was pretty lively when I got there. Tables were busy with the other games the store was running, while others shopped around or waited for their event to start. I picked up a random playmat on my way to the counter, paid for the mat and my fee, and signed up for the event.
The event organizer was super nice. He asked me about my mat, but I didn’t know what game it was from (I picked it because it was on top of the stack). I told him it was my first time there, which made him really happy. Everyone was delighted to hear I was new and excited to play the game they loved. Grand Archive has some of the nicest fans who are so glad to see the game grow.
I didn’t do well in the event, but my opponents were always patient and understanding. While I feel bad that the games were probably boring for some, they never showed it. They gave me tips, explained interactions, and even let me look through their decks for ideas. I even started getting better with each match. Not good enough to make a difference, but better than the first time I pulled out the deck.
Between matches, the coordinator came to check in on me. We talked for a bit about the game, and he asked me about my interests and talked to me about the other events in the area. I appreciate that he took the time to check in on me, and made sure that my first experience was a good one.
I stayed a little after to chat with my last opponent who was a very patient guy who explained all sorts of combos, and interactions and helped me theory-craft a few decks. He was also very excited to show me his collection. It was very cool to see promos I have only seen online.
The experience was a bit overwhelming at first. I have bad social anxiety, and my ADHD made focusing in a room where too much was going on difficult. Once I started playing, it got a little easier. The fact that everyone was so friendly made things easier. I had a blast and will be going back. I have some deck ideas I want to try for next time. I don’t think I’ll be bringing the most souped-up meta deck, but I definitely will bring something better.
If you’re thinking of playing Grand Archive, I say pull the trigger. Find an LGS that runs events, buy some products, build your deck, and have some fun. You might not win the first time you show up, but it gets better as you learn the many nuances that come with the game. Grand Archive is a unique card game with creative mechanics and beautiful cards. Based on my experience, the player base is very kind and welcoming. This might vary based on the location and type of event, but my LGS is fantastic and I will be supporting them every chance I get!
