Switch in format tides

While the format hasnt changed much as in the decks that are topping are still the same big 2 or 3, there are some things i would like to point out just in case you haven't noticed. If you play tourneys weekly (no time LOL) or constantly read every Shriek decklist, you would probably have noticed this. Although there has been a major set released (REDU), it doesnt change much to the AE meta because it only introduces geargia and since there is no Birdman to self touch, its not hard to kill either.

1) the reduction of traps. With MST at 3 and people spamming it, everyone is reducing the number of traps in their deck or switching to chainable ones. For example, Jeff maxed out on Raigeki Breaks in his maindeck for Asia Championships. Decks that dont play Raigeki Break suddenly play it, and nobody plays more than 1 Call of the Haunted in Inzektors anymore. And if you are still setting Lair Wires and COTH then just seriously pray that you dont die.

2) With Raigeki Break and Torrential flying around, it is advisable to put Forbidden lance in everything as we see Hieratic Hanzo. Im surprised nobody mains it in Malaysia so i strongly urge players to do so. The standard number you would play is 1 or 2, but 3 in Hieratics probably. Since it kills Ninja Transformation, its too good not to main.

3) The format has become more skilled based if you have not noticed. But of course you cant say having Monster Reborn or Mind Control is not skilled because keeping and conserving it is skill, but topdecking it with Destiny Draw is lucksack.

Nationals is coming up soon, and i advise everyone to prepare for it by playtesting intensively. No matter how good you are, you may still lose out to someone who playtests 24/7 (no life but hardworking) 

At the same time, we need to decide each card to side in and out for of our sideboards with our decks long before we play the real match. This is so crucial and I cannot stress how important this is. Some players take ages to do so which could reveal to their opponent what they are trying to keep or what to side in. It only takes about 10 minutes on your own to think about it thoroughly. So dont be lazy. When you go into game 2, if you do the siding in less than 30 seconds, no one can see through everything. Anything that keeps you from being anxious and calm should be reduced to a minimum. 

And also, i advise players to discuss and chat with other players about card options, decklists, side options and even playtest together. The more better players you have access to, the better. I believe that when we do so, we are humbling ourselves and both players should help each other out. Having the insight of good players will give you an edge because you can see the game in different perspectives.

I apologize for the lack of posts, because most of the other bloggers are doing good jobs of posting news and stuff until I have nothing left to say =X