Welcome back to Mana Monthly, your reliable source for the latest news in the world of Magic: The Gathering. April 2025 has brought us major updates across the game, including new set previews, Arena developments, and exciting crossovers. Let’s jump in!
Assassin’s Creed x MTG Universes Beyond Expands
Wizards of the Coast has unveiled a thrilling new Universes Beyond crossover with Assassin’s Creed, scheduled for release in July 2025. This set will feature iconic characters like Ezio, Kassandra, and Eivor reimagined as powerful MTG cards.
The set introduces new mechanics inspired by stealth and assassination, and early card teasers suggest interactions based on hidden information and graveyard synergy. Assassin’s Creed fans and MTG players alike are hyped for what could be the most thematic Universes Beyond drop yet.
Outlaws of Thunder Junction Previews Begin
Preview season has officially kicked off for the upcoming Outlaws of Thunder Junction set, launching in May 2025. Described as a “Western-fantasy heist adventure,” this set brings new flavor to the multiverse with bounty mechanics, outlaw-themed spells, and saloon-style enchantments.
Key preview cards include a Planeswalker version of Jace under a new alias and the return of modal double-faced cards. Players are speculating heavily on how this set will impact both Standard and Commander formats.
MTG Arena April Update Highlights
Arena’s April update rolled out several improvements and additions:
- Explorer Anthology IV was released, bringing more Pioneer-relevant cards to digital play.
- New Cosmetic Bundles themed around Thunder Junction and Assassin’s Creed.
- Draft Improvements for mobile users, addressing long-standing UI complaints.
The update continues Arena’s mission to provide a more seamless experience while aligning better with tabletop formats.
Pro Tour Barcelona Results Recap
Pro Tour Barcelona, held April 5–6, saw a dramatic showdown between seasoned pros and emerging stars. The winning deck was a 4-Color Control list that dominated the top 8, with standout performances in both Modern and Limited formats.
This Pro Tour highlighted the rising influence of multicolor midrange decks and the power of recent reprints in shaping the meta.
Tarkir Dragonstorm Teasers Hint at a Fiery Return
Wizards has also dropped early teasers for a future set that has MTG veterans buzzing: Tarkir Dragonstorm. While details are scarce, what we do know points to a return to the plane of Tarkir, with a renewed focus on the dragon clans and time-manipulation themes.
The teaser art features updated visuals of elder dragons like Atarka and Ojutai, sparking speculation about whether this set will merge timelines or revisit alternate futures. Expect more details to emerge leading into summer 2025 previews.
Final Thoughts
April was action-packed with crossovers, competitive action, and bold new design directions. Whether you’re theorycrafting your next deck or diving deep into lore, there’s never been a better time to be part of the MTG community.
Stay locked to TCG Gear for your monthly dose of Magic updates, set previews, and expert takes. What was your highlight of April? Share your thoughts below!
