Next Level Deckbuilding

by Patrick Chapin

Genres: Nonfiction, Games

437 pages, Unknown Binding

Reviews

[Iain · Rating 2 out of 5]

An uneven book in that it has a few gems of wisdom lost in a sea of often rambling prose. Readers should be prepared to have a website like magicards.info open while readings as Chapin routinely assumes an encyclopedic knowledge of Magic cards across the game's history. The page format, with about half the width filled with text and the remainder white space seems designed to lengthen the book.

I don't regret reading it, but I feel it would have benefited from a stronger editorial effort.

Sadly, I can't imagine who I'd recommend this book for. I think that the target audience is experienced enough that there would be nothing new here for them. Those looking to improve their skills as deckbuilders will find a few gems, but honestly there is free content online that might better serve that level of reader (myself included). Newcomers will simply be overwhelmed by this sort of treatment and should avoid this title until more experienced.

[Matthew Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great breakdown of the various deck types mixed with some great decks from the history of the game. Definitely left with a stronger understanding of the game.

[Brendon Richey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Like many people have said, this book isn't formative. There are some hidden gems amongst paragraphs of redundant ideas. I will say this book is mainly for Standard/Modern players, and those looking for a Commander deckbuilding book will have to stick to the YouTubes for any helpful info. If you are looking at using a specific archetype this book may give you some leads to building a good start otherwise Commander's Quarters, Jumbo Commander and the like will better serve you.

[Willow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid book of MTG theory and discussion. A bit dated at this point but the general lessons are still super relevant.