Magic: The Statistical Gathering

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Magic: The Statistical Gathering

Introduction
In this paper we will analyze the statistics involved in Magic: The Gathering through the use of Jon Prywes’s research paper, published in 1999, titled “The Mathematics of Magic: The Gathering.” We will be analyzing how he gathers data and compiles it in order to reach a statistical conclusion of our favorite card game. In his paper, Prywes discusses the elements of skill and probability and how much of a factor they each play in the outcome of a match. He also discusses game theory, the idea that a player can analyze different choices of decks to play with and determine which one will give him the best chance to win a match against whichever deck he is faced against. He goes on to explain that game theory plays a huge part in not just the deck building process, but almost the entire game of Magic. Using the data and theories that Prywes provides in his paper, we aim to determine if his ideas are statistically acceptable in the modern-day world of Magic.
Magic: The Gathering is a trading card game released by Wizards of the Coast in 1993, and is played by approximately twelve million people as of a 2011 census. It is based on the concept that there is a “Multiverse” with infinitely many universes inside. These universes can be traveled between by beings called “Planeswalkers.” The player himself is considered a Planeswalker, and uses “spells” which are represented by the playing cards themselves. Each year a new block is released, which usually signifies the Planeswalkers leaving the plane from the previous block to the new one. This concept of planes and Planeswalkers allows the developers to refresh their concepts and ideas for spells and locations by having themes with e...

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...r experience prevails over deck type and that careful deckbuilding is vital. During a game, a player who can more easily see a profitable outcome is bound to succeed over one who cannot. Despite the deck used, it was clear that Jon was able to defeat Jim. However, it is important to use a deck that is suitable in certain environments, even for very experienced players. A deck that thrives on cards that can quickly diminish life before an opponent can cast a single spell is very suitable, while the opposing one is not. A deck needs spells that can win the game when used correctly, and consequently needs the cards that allow you to use them correctly.
Magic: the Gathering has a world with an ever changing climate, where the data to be collected is never as it was. However, the methods of analyzing it will be remain the same as long as there is statistical premise.

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