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Recently I visited a local hobby store where virtually everyone was
playing black. What is the fascination with black? Players that play black
seem to have an attitude that they're invincible. I knew right away that
this particular color must be explored deeper. I felt that the fascination
with black stemmed from various reasons, and I was proved right after
further exploration.
Black as a color represents an ominous foreboding presence within the
game. This presence stems from its many creatures often derived from horror
pictures, and some seriously twisted minds. Black's creatures are also
known for their art work, which instills images of terror and dread. So,
what are some of these creatures? Well, for starters, the Sengir Vampire. A
flying 4/4 two black and three colorless casting cost creature that gets
+1/+1 for every creature that goes to the graveyard in the same turn after
being damaged by the Vampire. The Sengir Vampire is generally considered a
staple in any black deck. Besides the Sengir, the Hypnotic Specter, the
Royal Assassin, and the Will O' The Wisp are often common-place in many
black decks. These four creatures are a perfect blend of attack, and
defense. While there are many other creatures in black that equally deserve
mentioning, the four listed above were prevalent in all the black decks
that I looked at that day.
Black also has some of the greatest enchantments and enchant worlds in the
game. Black boasts the ever popular Breeding Pit. This enchantment pops out
0/1 Thrulls at the end of the controller's turn, but has an upkeep cost of
two black. Throw a Bad Moon, which is an enchantment that gives black
creatures +1/+1, in play, and pretty soon you have a little army that can
attack, defend, and be a sacrifice for one of the several black spells that
require a sacrifice. Oubliette, Necropotence, Forbidden Crypt, Dance of the
Dead, Animate Dead, and many other enchantments help enhance black. To
delve into some of the best theme decks around, look no further than
black's enchant worlds. They are fierce to say the least. Underworld
Dreams, Forsaken Wastes, Nether Void, Tombstone Stairwell, and The Abyss
cause many players nightmares. The Abyss combined with an artifact deck
spells doom for the unprepared that rely heavily on creatures.
Sorcery is just another spelling for black. Demonic Tutor instantly comes
to mind. Any card that lets the player search their library for a needed
card should be given one of the games highest rankings. Another sorcery
that comes to mind is Ashen Powder from the Mirage set. For two black and
two colorless mana Ashen Powder will let you take control of a creature out
of an opponents graveyard and put it into play. Try using Hypnotic
Specters, Hymn to Tourach, and a Millstone with Ashen Powder. Your
opponents will hate you when you start crushing them with their own
creatures. A black deck without sorcery is a seriously crippled deck.
Black's instants worth mentioning include Terror, Dark Banishing, Bone
Harvest, and Carrion. The above mentioned either deals with the elimination
of other player's creatures, or producing creatures either from the
graveyard or through sacrifice. A group of fairly important spells, but
better used in small amounts. Usually two Terrors or any other instant in a
black deck will do.
When you think of black interrupts, Dark Ritual (now ruled as a mana
source) comes to mind. With two Dark Rituals, a swamp, and a Sengir Vampire
in hand on the opening draw, you have the potential to cast one of the most
feared creatures in the game. Another great opening draw combo is one Dark
Ritual and one Hypnotic Spectre. The Dark Ritual is simply a must for the
black player.
So why do a lot of players play black? Most players that I have talked with
feel that black provides a wicked list of spells from which to choose, and
the backing of great creatures that spark fear among many players.
In ending black is certainly all and more of what I have made it out to
be. Every player should play black right? Black certainly seems to fit some
of the players personalities. Watch a players face the next time a Lord of
the Pit is put into play... does the evil grin look familiar? Up to this
point, players that play black and happen to be reading this article are
feeling superior; well tune in next month as I discuss ways in which to
send them running scared.
If you agree or disagree and want to let me know about it, my e-mail
address is: Also if you happen to be in the Knoxville / Maryville Tennessee area write me if you would like to play or trade.
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