Magic: The Gathering’s newest set blends tradition with modernity in its first futuristic sci-fi plane
Friday 11 February, 2022 — Wizards of the Coast today released Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty, the newest set for the world’s oldest and best trading card game, Magic: The Gathering (MTG). A long-awaited return to the plane initially seen in the original Kamigawa block released in 2004, Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty transforms the feudal Japan-inspired setting into a bright, futuristic neonscape. The set contains 302 cards and releases on MTG Arena today and for tabletop on 18 February.
In a city of looming skyscrapers and vibrant cherry blossom trees, cyber ninja Kaito Shizuki searches for the missing Emperor of Kamigawa. With returning Planeswalkers Tamiyo and The Wanderer by his side, Kaito must journey through the neon Undercity to investigate an unfolding mystery; one that threatens the spiritual world of Kamigawa and the delicate balance between soul and machine.
Set 1,200 years after the events of the original Kamigawa story, Neon Dynasty merges old with the new as it transforms returning mechanics and introduces never-before-seen abilities. The new mechanic, Reconfigure, imbues creatures with the ability to equip themselves to other creatures and confer new bonuses. Double-faced cards return and are key to changing the tides of battle, with Sagas that turn into enchantment creatures to offer player’s additional unique abilities. Channel also returns in Neon Dynasty, allowing players to discard a card with the ability to get a temporary effect. Another returning mechanic, Ninjutsu, allows Ninja creatures to slip past an opponent’s defences: cards with Ninjutsu can be put into play already attacking by returning an unblocked creature to its owner’s hand.
Legendary creatures of Kamigawa make a comeback with the highlight being five legendary Spirit Dragons who are central to the plane. Samurai and Ninja creatures also return with various cool new iterations for players to collect.
Taking inspiration from traditional Japanese iconography, Neon Dynasty features 10 “Ukiyo-e” basic lands with each basic land type getting two different pieces of woodblock art available in foil and non-foil versions.
The new set also brings modernity to feudal aesthetics with Ninja and Samurai showcase frames, styling these specific creature types with elegant and futuristic borders.
In a special collaboration with prominent Japanese artists Hara Tetsuo (Fist of the North Star), Yoji Shinkawa (Metal Gear Solid), and many more, Neon Dynasty features some exquisite works of full-art cards that showcase certain Legendary creatures and Planeswalkers from the set as dazzling, vibrant pieces.
Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty will be available in regular Draft Boosters, Theme Boosters, Collector Boosters, Set Boosters, as well as the Neon Dynasty Bundle and two Commander decks.
For more information on Kamigawa: Neon Dynasty, view the official cinematic trailer, or visit https://magic.wizards.com/en/products/kamigawa-neon-dynasty.
About Magic: The Gathering
Magic: The Gathering’s compelling characters, fantastic worlds, and deep strategic gameplay have entertained and delighted fans for more than 25 years. Fans can experience Magic through the tabletop trading card game, the new digital game Magic: The Gathering Arena, a New York Times bestselling novel, critically acclaimed comic book series, and professional esports league. With over 40 million fans to date, Magic is a worldwide phenomenon published in eleven languages in over 70 countries.
About Wizards of the Coast
Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, Inc., is an award-winning developer and publisher of tabletop and digital games that ignite a sense of adventure in passionate players around the globe. Best known for publishing groundbreaking fantasy franchises, MAGIC: THE GATHERING® and DUNGEONS & DRAGONS®, Wizards is dedicated to bringing together world-class talent to create unforgettable play experiences at its headquarters in Washington and studios in Austin and Montreal. Learn more at www.wizards.com.
