Second Look—Magic 2014

So far I’ve gotten to play each version of Duels of the Planeswalkers that has come out, and each time they play better than the last. Magic 2014 is no exception, and takes a huge leap in improvement over 2013.

While functionally the game plays pretty much the same, you’ve now got a storyline that plays out as you progress through the game.

The best, and biggest feature in my opinion, is the addition of Sealed Play. Deckbuilding! In Sealed Play you’re given booster packs to open and build a deck to play with. It’s the one thing Duels of the Planeswalkers has been missing, and really needed. The only thing missing is that wonderful new card smell you get from opening a physical pack.

Tight gameplay, a plot, Sealed Play. What’s not to love?

The best part? The game is only $9.99, so it’s not like you’re shelling out a ton to buy the game even if you purchased last year’s version. $9.99 is less than an Intro Deck, and you’ll get a lot more for your money here.

I still have more to dig into with this title, and I’m looking forward to every minute of it. Even though I play Magic with my son using actual Magic cards, it’s always nice to have the escape of playing on my own against the computer, or even a stranger over the internet.

Magic 2014 was provided free for review by Wizards of the Coast. Review was written after playing the Steam version.