With Distorted Reflection just around the corner, lets check out the starter decks. Let’s take a look at our boy, Ciel, Mirage’s Grave, the Fire/Umbra Guardian deck! The deck releases on July 25th with an MSRP of $14.99. Make sure you always support your LGS, but you can always grab your Ciel, Mirage’s Grave Starter Deck on TCG Player through my affiliate link. It really helps me out if you do.
The List
Material Deck Spirit of Fire x 1 Ciel, Loyal Valet x 1 Ciel, Omenbringer x 1 Ciel, Mirage’s Grave x 1 Bauble of Abundance x 1 Grande Aiguille x 1 Bulwark Sword x 1 Leporine Masque x 1 Life Essence Amulet x 1 Tariff Ring x 1 Manxome Armoire x 1 Grande Sonnerie
Main Deck Coy Bauclier x 3 Sablier Guard x 3 Stalwart Shielmate x 4 Vigil Rampart x 3 Whimsy’s Warden x 4 Conflagrant Sentinel x 4 Torch Marshal x 3 Heavy Swing x 4 Lamentation’s Toll x 2 Flamme Sorcel x 4 Tempered Steel x 3 Idle Thoughts x 4 Martial Guard x 2 Overpowering Defense x 2 Ombreux Chavalier x 4 Sinistre Stab x 3 Umbra Sight x 3 Reverse Affliction x 2 Nocturne’s Oblivion x 2 Devotion’s Price x 1
Universus sent me a few packs and a playmat to cover their game. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let sway my opinions. I will be doing pack opening and a review of the playmat so stay tuned for that. I will also be using my TCG Player affiliate links throughout the article, but always support your LGS first.
Attack on Titan: Apocalypse
Universus has just released their newest expansion, Attack on Titan: Apocalypse, and I already see a few cards I want for my collection. If you haven’t had chance to play Universus, it is definitely worth trying once. The game has a unique flow and flavor, and it includes some very recognizable IPs. I recommend picking up a couple clash decks to get a feel for what to expect. I had a lot of fun with the Solo Leveling deck, but you can always pick your flavor.
Apocalypse is introducing 180 new cards to finish off the Attack on Titan saga. Players are going to want to chase the six serialized chrome cards with special art from the creator of the anime, but there are some neat cards I wouldn’t mind cracking.
Chrome Rares
The serialized chrome rares, and I am sad I will never get to see one in real life. The art on these look so good, and you know there are going to shine on the table (even the flimsy plastic ones). I can only hope they don’t have the foil lines that seems to be common issue across the thread. I don’t mind it too much on regular foils, but I would expect the serialized cards to be perfect. Either way, good luck finding your copy! I’m aiming for Erin, but will settle for any.
Armin Arlert, Power of the ColossusEren Yeager, UsurperLevi Ackerman, Vengeance-DrivenMikasa Ackerman, Hizuru’s HopeReiner Braun, Marley’s ShieldBeast Titan, Finale
Ultra Rares
The problem with the attack on titan set, at least from a collectors perspective, is the manga art doesn’t grab the attention like other games. At least the common ones anyway. After seeing them in my binder and seeing the whole story, the game grew on me. What this game does have going for it are its ultra rares and alt arts. The unique art for the Attack on Titan cards are incredible, especially in person. Some have a very nice texture to them. I am a huge fan of the use of color. Here are some of my favorites from the Apocalypse set:
Ultra Rare Alt Arts
It is a shame that the images for the alt art cards do not do them justice. I have pulled a couple from the Attack on Titan alt art cards, and they are amazing. I am a huge fan of the texture and the hand drawn feel. They are definitely worth chasing. Here are my favorites from Apocalypse, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go hunting for everything else!
Character Alt Art
This is where the set disappointing a bit. While there are some alt cards I wouldn’t mind pulling, there are some that I would be sad if I did. Maybe they look better in person, but I prefer the Heroes of Exandria alt cards better. That said, here are my favorites Apocalypse alt art cards:
Secret Rares
The secret rare design is my absolute favorite part of the Attack on Titan cards. They have such a unique style and presentation, and they look so good in person. I do have a couple, and while they aren’t going to buy me a house, they are my favorite parts of my collection. I don’t think Apocalypse has the strongest collection of secret rares, but it does have a few pieces I want for my collection.
Impressions
I only play casually and mostly just collect. I do get the cards for free, but I don’t let that sway my opinion. Apocalypse doesn’t excite me as much as Heroes of Exandria did, at least the art doesn’t. I think the manga art is fine, but it doesn’t have the same pop the comic book style of Heroes of Exandria. As a casual player, there are some cards I want to add to a couple of my decks. That said, I need to open a few more packs and watch how the meta shifts to form a better idea on the set.
If you want to pick up Universus Attack on Titan: Apocalypse, always ask your LGS, but TCG Player has what you need if that isn’t an option.
Grand Archive has officially turned two, and we got a fun and informative stream to get us hyped for the games growth. Make sure to check it out. The most exciting news were the Mercurial Heart Alter Edition spoilers! The Alter Edition is a reprint with a few new cards you’re going to want to add to your collection. It is also a fantastic place to start your collection. The set will be reprintable for up to three years, which is great news for those just getting into the hobby. Make sure you always support your LGS, but you can always buy Grand Archive product from TCG Player using my affiliate links. It really helps me out.
There are a few exciting announcements that dropped that you might have missed. Grand Archive’s 7th set has been announced, and the hype is real. If you’re looking to pick up product, always support your LGS, but using my TCG Player affiliate links to pick up product like the newest Guo Jia and Diao Chan Recollection Decks or a box of Abysal Heaven.
Worlds Reminder
As a reminder, worlds is coming up in June so make sure you are grinding those points efficiently. Tickets are still on sale and it would be a good idea to start planning accommodations.
Distorted Reflections
Distorted Reflections has been leaked for a July release, and it looking like the magical girl set I didn’t know I needed in my life. The set will focus on the Guardian and Ranger classes, with a whimsical flavor I am most excited about.
The set takes archivist to Wonderland, a world ruled by the Queen of Heats. If you are a fan of the literary classic, this might be the set for you.
The set will introduce 222 unique cards, with 234 foil variations. This will be a 24 twelve pack booster box. MSRP:
Pack: $4.49
Box: 107.99
As a reminder, 1st Edition boxes will include unique art, so make sure you buy in early. Once it’s gone, its gone.
Ciel, Mirage’s Grave Starter Deck
Ciel will hit the format as one of the sets two starter decks. Ciel is a fire/umbra deck launching with a MSRP of $14.99.
Diana Moonpiercer Starter Deck
Diana is back, and with a new flavor. She is still a ranger, but this time fighting using the Water and Astra elements. Hopefully this will bring her back into the scene. The starter deck also MSRPs at $14.99. I am very excited to see what the CSR for this line looks like.
Always support your LGS, but you can pick up the Percy Starter Deck and any other Heroes Exandria products on TCG Player using my affiliate links. It really helps me out. You can also get both Starter decks bundled for cheap on Game Nerdz if you’re buying enough for the free shipping.
Introduction
Universus just released their Heroes of Exandria set, and it is already my favorite set of the year. The art is great, the card quality is nice, and flavor is all there. Fans of the series will want to at the very least get in on collecting. Can’t speak on the power level since I just got the starter decks, but I’ll come back after some proper testing. More on that later.
I got my hands on the Percy starter deck and I’ll leave the decklist for your convenience. Spoilers, you’re going to want to get this deck just to collect the beautiful Percy champion card. It’s not as cool as the art cards, but its cool enough for any collection.
Deck List
Champion
Percival De Rolo III: Pepperbox Sharpshooter
The Deck
4x Weapon at the Ready 4 x Tarot Reading 4 x Show Off 4 x Inspired Design 4 x Imprisoned Noble 4 x Found Family 2 x Electric Resilience 4 x Collecting Components 2 x Shaun Gilmore 4 x Tinker Shot 4 x Pepperbox Fire 2 x Merciless Lead 3 x Golem Beating 3 x Bang Bang 3 x Alchemical Satchel Toss 3 x The List 2 x Quest Board 2 x Science Bros (Foil) 2 x Bad News Bullet (Foil)
Visual List
Bang BangBad News BulletThe ListAlchemical Satchel TossCollecting ComponentsMerciless LeadShaun GilmoreQuest BoardElectric ResilienceTarot ReadingShow OffGolem BeatingWeapon at the ReadyScience BrosInspired DesignImprisoned NobleFound FamilyTinker ShotPepperbox Fire
The Abyssal Heaven spoiler season has officially started! As always, I will collect all the spoilers in one convenient spot, and will be updating this post as soon as I can, but new updates should be up by the end of the day. The newest spoilers will always be on top. Make sure you get your preorders in, and don’t forget to support the official creators!
The Abyssal Heaven developer stream officially kicks off the set’s spoiler season, and there is a lot to go over. I’ve compiled all the important bits in one convenient spot, but make sure you check out the official stream. Always support your LGS, but if you are looking for Abyssal Heaven or any Grand Archive product, pick it up on TCG Player using my affiliate link. It really helps me out if you do.
The Stream
Diao Chan Re:Collection
The Diao Chan Re:Collection deck releases March 7th, so make sure you put your preorders when you can because its going to be a banger. Re:Collection decks will have art and cards unique to the deck, and a chance at some very cool rares. These have been very powerful decks, and you aren’t going to want to miss picking them up.
Gua Jia Re:Collection
Abyssal Heaven Spoilers
Dual Card CSR
Ascent Promo
The ascent promo for Seattle, Kaula Lampur, and worlds is going to be Incapacitate, and it is beautiful. it is time to get good because you are going to especially want the day 2 promo in your collection!
Ascent Day 2 Promo
Changes for Day 2 Qualification
There will be changes to qualify for day 2 starting with the HVN season. Players are now required to earn 16 or 18 points (depending on the size of the event) to move to day to. That means no more bubbling!
Ascent Worlds
Worlds Judge Promo
Words Promos (Non-Foil)
Worlds Packages
Worlds Prizing
Worlds Top 8
Worlds Top 4
Lu Bu Deck Box
Spoiler Season
I’ll be posting all of the spoilers in one convenient spot as I get them, but you can always check out the creators to get them there first.
The first European Ascent event was held in Utrecht this weekend, and it was an exciting time for the game. Make sure you check out the VOD on the official Grand Archive Youtube channell for high quality coverage of the event. The production keeps getting better with each event, and its a great place to start learning the meta.
Aside from its exciting gameplay, there was some exciting news that you aren’t going to want to miss. As always, I’ve collected all the important details in one place for you to enjoy! If you’re looking to pick up some Grand Archive, always support your LGS. If that isn’t an option, you can always get product from TCG Player using my affiliate link.
2025 Nationals Schedule Announced!
The schedule for Nationals have been announced. Specific dates are too come, but we have locations and months! It’s time to get grinding for Nationals!
Day 2 Promos
Like last year, players who qualify for Day 2 will receive a unique Sword of Seeking promo you aren’t going to want to miss out. This card is so pretty and it makes me wish I was better at the game.
Nationals Prize Card
Nationals finalists will get their hands on a beautiful Eternal Magistrate alt art. If haven’t been motivated to get good this season, you’re going to want to after seeing it.
Nationals Pre-registration Gift
Players who pre-register for Nationals will receive a special backpack. I’ll try to make the announcement as soon as pre-registration goes live, but the official Discord is a fantastic place to stay on top of the announcements.
Ascent Worlds
Ascent worlds will be in Anaheim this year, June 27 to the 29th. Tickets go on sale on the February 2nd, so make sure you start planning accordingly. Remember, this year you can qualify for worlds through normal means or the gauntlet, so keep on grinding!
Worlds Promo
This year’s worlds promo is a beautiful Spurn to Ash that belongs in everyone’s collection.
and there is a VIP variant!
Developer Stream Announcement
The most exciting news is the Developer stream happening on February 1st. This will officially kick of the Abyssal Heaven spoiler season, and have some important notes on the upcoming supplement set. You aren’t going to miss out, but I’ll be covering the key points shortly after. Stay tuned for that.
The Santa Clara Ascent brought a welcomed shift to the meta as we sort of move away from the RE: Collection dominated meta with Arisanna taking her place in the sun. Silvie continues to be a dominating presence, but its nice to see some variety. Here are the top three decks of the event, make sure to check out the official event post for the full list.
If you need to pick up Grand Archive, make sure to do it over at TCG Player using my affiliate link. I’ll be leaving links to the singles!
Ascent Santa Clara was a very exciting event. Arisanna got her moment in the sun, and we got a lot of spoilers for some cool new product! If you need to pick up any Grand Archive, make sure to always support your LGS, but you can always pick up product on TCG Player using my affiliate link.
Table of Contents
Alchemical Revolution Alter Edition Spoilers
Alchemical Revolution is getting its alter edition with a few new cards to spice up the meta. Looks like Arisanna is getting a bit more support, but the ranger support doesn’t seem to bad.
Kongming Holiday Set
Get ready to empty your wallets this holiday season with the first ever holiday themed product. Kongming will be kicking things off with what is definitely going to be flying off the shelves. Make sure you put your preorder in on Christmas day!
The set includes:
Play set of Revitlizing Cleanse promo (3 non-foil and 1 foil with a chance the foil is a Collector Rare)
Revitalizing Cleanse Playmat
Acrylic Kongming Standee
Acrylic Kongming keychain
B2 Tapestry
Waterproof Sticker
Deckbox
Storage Box
Re:Collcection Lite
The Re:Collection decks are getting their reprints, but these won’t include the additional packs. This is wil be a great time to pick up what have been some strong and competitive decks without having to pay the scalper tax.
Abyssal Heaven
The Abyssal Heaven expansion set, which will be a smaller set than the base set, will release March 7th, so make sure you budget accordingly.
Mercurial Heart Alter Edition
If you missed out on Mercurial Heart, it is not too late. Mercurial heart is getting it’s own alter edition in May. This is the set that started it all for me, and I am very excited to see what new cards it will bring.
Gua Jia Deck Box
Now we shift to the competitive side of the game with Acent Utrecht deck box exclusive. Folks heading to Utrech on January 25 better get their VIP or Champion package to pick up this beautiful Gua Jia deck box. With how good the past exclusive deck boxes have been, you aren’t going to want to miss out.
Ascent Seattle Spirit
Worlds Announcement
Worlds 2025 has been announced for June 28th – 29th, so make sure you start making your grind towards Anaheim.
The Gauntlet
Those who don’t qualify for worlds will get their last chance on June 26th in a one day closed invite event. The top 16 players will qualify and I’m sure it will be grueling event.
2025 Full Schedule
M.Rage Collab
If you’ve been waiting for some official Grand Archive merch, an official collaboration with M.Rage is in the works, it is sounding promising. More information to come.
