JudgeCast: Recent Episodes
JudgeCast
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we trek through the misty mountains to retrieve the release notes for the latest MTG set, The Hobbit. We delve too deep into the newest mechanics of Storied, and Recruit, as well as a new type of counter, the Hone counter. Then we talk about new cards, and they keep coming, like uninvited dwarves to a party. We’ve got something for everyone, even if you are a Sackville-Baggins. Well, Not Lotho. He knows what he did. (but if you didnt read the books, you might not know)
Social Media Links Join JudgeCast on our Discord server!
https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Whats better than playing Magic side by side with an elf? Playing Magic side by side with a friend.
Yes, but what about second friend? Ok, enough of that, its not even the right IP.
Join Bryan and Marcos as we talk to the Head Judge of Magic Spotlight Marvel Super Heroes Team Trios event, John Brian McCarthy. Sealed events can be a challenge, but Team Sealed events can be even challenginger. We talk about what makes team Trios different from regular events, and what preparation goes into ensuring they run smoothly. These are a fun and unique event that are rather rare at the LGS level, but you can learn a lot from the larger events and bring the fun home with you.
Show Notes
If you are looking for a professional photo in a judge uniform or want to see professional photos of judges from various games making the magic (lowercase) happen, check out John Brian’s website at: www.judgesatwork.com
John Brian McCarthy’s Head Judge Event Briefing: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MaCSTFCgwGocE2YR2LqoSJQzHYDymFnEt9aKcJ52GYg/edit?usp=sharing
Join Bryan and Charles as we discuss Limited RCQs with Sam Philliber.
Your LGS has just asked you to run a limited RCQ and you haven’t done one before. What should you expect? How do you do a “pool swap”? Do you need any special materials? What’s involved in running the top 8? Should I time the draft?
With all the tips and tricks in this episode, you will be ready to pull off your RCQ without any [judge created] issues.
Show Notes:
Sam’s Article on Sealed RCQs – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2024/10/22/competitive-sealed-101/
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Join Charles and Marcos as they drag Bryan, kicking and screaming, into a discussion around one of the newer tournament types: CEDH. Love it or hate it, players are willing to pay TOs to be asked ‘Did you pay the 1?” for seven hours. As a result, it’s a topic that judges should be somewhat aware of before their LGS TO says “I’m having a CEDH tournament in two weeks, are you available?”
In this episode we talk about the different meanings of “CEDH”, the round structure, podding, penalties, how to deal with overly talkative players, and what special software or tools you might need to keep your event running smoothly. While we do predominately discuss CEDH within the convention setting, we also talk about CEDH at the local level.
Show Notes:
MTA Multiplayer Tournament Addendum – https://mtgmta.notion.site/mtgmta
UK CEDH Document – https://cedh-uk.github.io/mtr-ipg/
EU CEDH Document – https://www.cedheurope.com/rules
Pastimes MTR Multiplayer doc – https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pKRlowT4MssMllVFQVkOMAU_WcPvx22RourT1fy1GD0/edit?usp=drivesdk
Pastimes IPG Multiplayer doc – https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j6kb1gkCqrUQPtgM06o_9PIfcjHkaXCo6z1Vm4amxfQ/edit?usp=drivesdk
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Join the canny Bryan and the credible Marcos as we discuss the new mechanics and cards from the most recent Magic: The Gathering Set, Marvel Super Heroes. We talk about Power-Up, Teamwork, doubleface cards and what the correct plural of “Spider-man” is.
And, we even briefly discuss what to do at your prerelease if you get an influx of players that have never played Magic before and are really just there because they are Marvel fans.
Missed Trigger Project Link: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/mtg/standard-missed-triggers
Annotated IPG Missed Trigger Link: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/ipg2-1
Social Media Links Join JudgeCast on our Discord server!
https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we take an incredibly deep dive into the concept of Missed Triggers. Triggers are common and often invisible. In this episode we discuss how to recognize when a trigger is missed, what an opponents obligations are when a trigger is missed, and what to do when you are called to a table for that missed trigger. We briefly touch on triggers at regular REL before spending the bulk of our time talking about Competitive REL.
Missed Trigger Project Link: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/mtg/standard-missed-triggers
Annotated IPG Missed Trigger Link: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/ipg2-1
Social Media Links Join JudgeCast on our Discord server!
https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about the April Rules update. A good chunk of it was housekeeping and clarifications, but we got a subtle rules change to Sagas that can have a big impact on modern and commander. Additionally we found something subtle with paradigm, and finally got to look at the nuts and bolts of how prepare works.
SOS Update Bulletin: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/secrets-of-strixhaven-update-bulletin
Ambitious Augmenter Bluesky Post: https://bsky.app/profile/wotcmatt.bsky.social/post/3mj5v5edcbs2o
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.com/invite/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial • Carbon Leaf – Seed (OFFICIAL AUDIO)
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we Prepare for the upcoming release of Secrets of Strixhaven by going over the release notes! Our witty Repartee will Converge into a new Paradigm… Incrementally of course as we stay mindful of the past by injecting our discussion with Infusions of the past, via Flashbacks and … Books?
Seriously though, we have a LOT of stuff to cover in this set, including a pretty complex mechanic in Prepare that lets you cast literal power nine spells in standard. Let’s get to it.
SOS Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/feature/secrets-of-strixhaven-mechanics
SOS Update Bulletin: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/secrets-of-strixhaven-update-bulletin
Ambitious Augmenter Bluesky Post: https://bsky.app/profile/wotcmatt.bsky.social/post/3mj5v5edcbs2o
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.com/invite/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial • Carbon Leaf – Seed (OFFICIAL AUDIO)
There are two things that are certain in the world; Death and Taxes. No. Not the deck. In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Marcos are joined by Former Judge and current Tax Attorney Patrick Evans. Here we talk about the extremely important topic of taxes as it pertains to judging. Whether you work FNM and the occasional RCQ, or are a weekend road warrior, or even visit the US for an event, Uncle Sam wants his cut. You, on the other hand, want to keep as much as you are entitled to. We talk about expenses, deductions, and what expectations are.
And while we can give lots of Judging advice; none of this is tax advice. Reach out to tax organizations in your state if you have any specific questions.
Check out: https://www.unitedway.org/our-impact/financial-security/my-free-taxes
for information about the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program to assist folks with their taxes for free.
Show Notes
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Artwork by Tobias Vyseri: http://www.vyseri.com/ and on Etsy at https://www.etsy.com/shop/VyseriArt
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
A shortcut is a way to get one or more things done quicker, and if you have ever tried to play a technically precise game of Magic, you will know there’s a lot of things that can be done quicker.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we go over the tournament shortcuts found in the Magic Tournament Rules. These shortcuts are the default behavior in many situations that may arise in a game of Magic, and are designed to reduce ambiguity and protect players from other players that might want to use that ambiguity to their advantage. We go into detail for each one, even the wibbly-wobbly-timey wimey ones.
Show Notes
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Artwork by Tobias Vyseri: http://www.vyseri.com/ and on Etsy at https://www.etsy.com/shop/VyseriArt
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Cowabunga Judges! It’s another release notes episode, and Bryan, Charles, and Marcos are here to cover new cards, rules interactions, and perhaps sneak in a pop culture reference or two while they’re at it. Keep an eye out for those Mutagen canisters though before they disappear. Um… Alliance. Okay, that should do it.
Stay tuned to the end for a special news bulletin from Charles regarding tournament fraud, and try to keep count of exactly how many other IPs we can mention while discussing everyone’s favorite turtles.
Show Notes
Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/feature/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-release-notes
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Editor & Intro VFX: Marcos Sanchez @MJ6Music
Artwork by Tobias Vyseri: http://www.vyseri.com/ and on Etsy at https://www.etsy.com/shop/VyseriArt
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Join Bryan and Charles as we return to policy episodes and talk about Game Rule Violations (GRVs) from the Magic Infraction Procedure Guide. Magic is a complex game, and there are many things that players can do to cause problems in the game. As Tournament officials we need to know how to recognize and, if possible, fix the situation. However, how can you fix a mistake that happened 3 turns ago, and has had its impact build over three turns.
In this episode, we talk about how to recognize a GRV, how to recognize if you can fix the problem, how to fix the problem if you can, and then why you shouldn’t just make up your own fixes. GRVs are among the most common infraction given at Competitive tournaments, and definitely something any judge working an RCQ or higher should understand.
“It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.”
As a player who is used to casual commander pods and the occasional Wednesday night draft, you might be curious about other events, and look to try something different. Maybe your store’s RCQ, maybe traveling to a nearby SCG CON. Either way, you’ll be surprised to see that things work a little differently when serious prizes are on the line.
Join Bryan and Marcos, as we give you our top 12 things we (as Judges) believe you (as Players) should know when going to your first Competitive REL events. Many players have the same questions, and similar problems when they are used to the ultra-laid back vibe of casual play, and run up against structures with more rigidity.
Number 6 will shock you. Or maybe it won’t. I didn’t look up what number 6 was before writing that sentence.
Just like the plane of Lorwyn/Shadowmoor, our release notes episode is also divided in 2, as Bryan couldn’t join us for this episode. Having said that, Charles and Marcos run through Lorwyn, attempting to evoke some emotions (and seriously force some segue puns) for one of our favorite Magic planes! Join us as we travel the vivid landscape, avoiding the blight on the paths, and behold our kindred brethren – the goblins of Lorwyn. Wait, no, that’s just a changeling. I always confuse them for… well everything.
Also, which cards will ruin CEDH? Which cards excite us the most? How many times can we talk about the +1/+1 and -1/-1 counter state-based action in one show? Take a listen to find out!
Update Bulletin: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/lorwyn-eclipsed-update-bulletin
Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/feature/lorwyn-eclipsed-release-notes
In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Marcos do NOT tackle complex rules interactions, or deep dive into tournament operations. Instead we each choose one or two smaller topics, ones not worth a full show, and instead talk about those. Will it be coherent? Probably not. Will it be entertaining? Definitely not! Will it be over an hour? Absolutely.
In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Marcos are joined by Brandon Welch, the Head Judge of the recent Regional Championship in Vegas to talk about a topic many HJs care a lot about: “End of Round”. This episode goes deep into the tournament logistics of reducing people’s least favorite part of the tournament: Waiting for the next round to begin.
Turns out a lot more goes into making sure the next round starts as quickly as possible than harassing players to enter their results. But lets be clear, that absolutely is part of it.
“It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.”
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about attending your first big event. Maybe its a MagicCon, or an SCGCon, or a Regional Championship, or maybe, your first large event isn’t even Magic related. Judges new to these events have a lot of questions, and the JudgeCast crew take a stab at pre-answering many of them, or letting you know where to find the answers. While our background is in Magic Tournaments, many of these questions/answers are common across all game IPs, and as other games are entering the tournament space, we are having more and more folks staffing these events for the first time.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we discuss cards and mechanics from the latest MTG Set, Avatar the Last Airbender. We go over important topics like how ‘How does Earthbend work’, ‘Is Firebending a mana ability’, ‘How Waterbending works with additional costs’ and ‘Is a platypus bear more or less weird than a badgermole?’.
Hopefully you are as excited for this set as we are.
The interaction of Continuous effects, commonly known as the Layers, were first immortalized in the forth century when the monk Evagrius Ponticus increased forms of continuous effects from 6 to 7. Since then they have been part of our shared zeitgeist.
We sing about Seven Layers a ‘laying at Christmas. We go on rides at Disney based on Snow White and the Seven Layers. The White Stipes write songs about them. Even the king of comedic counter culture did a bit about the Seven Layers you cant say on TV. My personal favorite is the Akira Kurosawa classic where a town recruits the seven layers to defend them from a bandit gang of state based actions. Armed with nothing but bamboo spears and timestamps, our hearty band of continuous effects are able to fend off the bandit gang in a bittersweet pyrrhic victory.
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about the interaction of continuous effects, AKA The Layers, the supposed boogieman of the Magic Rules. Our goal is to help you realize that this Boogieman is more Dog and less John Wick. We talk about what the layers are, how to combine effects both within the layers, and across the layers, then we spend a lot of time going over examples. Too many examples, really. We even help you realize that you’ve been figuring out dependencies all along, you just didnt realize it. So sit back, give us a listen, or give us a watch on YouTube where we can share card images.
Oh, and Bryan spent time thinking about which of the seven deadly sins would map to each layer, so you get to enjoy this rare glimpse into his brain. Do you agree or disagree?
Copy – Lust
Control – Envy
Text – Pride
Type – Wrath
Color – Sloth
Abilities – Greed
Power/Toughness – Gluttony
Everything Else – Acedia
In our JudgeFoundry L1 Essentials videos we go over items that candidates need to know for their L1 exams. However, at the beginning of each episode we say that we go into topics deeper on our podcast. In this episode of JudgeCast, join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we take a topic we just covered in our L1 Essentials video and go over the rules in more detail, and cover rules that were left out of the L1 Essentials.
Do you know the difference between a one-shot and a continuous effect? What about the difference between a continuous effect generated by a resolving spell versus a permanent?
This is Part 1 of a 2 part series where we discuss what continuous effects are before we cover the interaction of continuous effects, AKA Layers.
The L1 certification process is relatively straightforward. Mix up some rules, sift in a light dusting of policy, bake for a couple of prereleases weekend at 70% of 25 questions on an exam, and BAM you’re now an L1. But as a new L1, you might be wondering, now what?
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we discuss a list of things new L1s often ask after they pass their exam, or should ask, but don’t know that they should. We discuss:
– Finding other judges
– How to find other events outside your LGS
– How to apply to those events
– What your responsibility is now to the Magic community
– What is a “purple fox”
– And other topics that your mentor might have forgot to tell you.
Social Media Links
Join JudgeCast on our Discord server! https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
JudgeCast: BlueSky – @Judgecast.bsky.social / Twitter: @JudgeCast
Bryan: BlueSky – @Bprill.bluesky.social
Charles: BlueSky – @MTGDad.bsky.social
Marcos: BlueSky – @MJ6Music.bsky.social / Twitter @MJ6Music
Credits
Intro & Outro Music: “Seed” by Carbon Leaf. Used with permission. @carbonleafofficial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxDb4ydae50
Thwip! Is your Peter-tingle tingling? Join Bryan and Marcos as we web-sling across the JudgeCast-verse and bring back former host CJ Shrader for a stroll down his least favorite of all episode types, the Release Notes episode. We spend nearly 90 minutes talking about mechanics and interactions to get you ready for prerelease weekend, while we weave a web of non-sequiturs and references to 10 year old episodes. If you want to know how Spider-ham works, go listen somewhere else, but if you want to understand some of the details of web-slinging or transforming modal double-faced cards, listen up. With great power comes great content.
Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/feature/spider-man-release-notes
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk entries in the comprehensive rules, and not just any rule entries. These rule entries support a single unique Magic Card, and there are more of them than you might think. Sure, you might realize that Shahrazad requires unique rules, but did you realize that Zack Fair also does? Did you even know there was a card named Zack Fair? Although I can’t say we fully researched this ourselves. This episode was made possible by the Scryfall tagger project, where folks can tag individual cards based on whatever criteria they want. Scryfall tags are maintained by a community of dedicated fans, and we appreciate their efforts, as it served as a starting point for this episode.
If you have ever read a CR entry and wondered just when and where this rule is used, then this might be the episode for you.
https://tagger.scryfall.com/tags/card/unique-cr-reference
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about Commander.
But guys, we already know about Commander, there are a billion podcasts and YouTube series focusing on Commander. What do you provide that’s new?
Well, while we do discuss the rules, its not the focus of the episode. Instead we talk about how to foster Commander at your store, things to consider if you want to run a commander event, and even how to seat players in a 4 person pod when your software will only match folks for 1v1. We discuss pitfalls of trying to run a “Bracket 3 Tournament”, and what would happen if you do a bracket 4 tournament. We also talk about cEDH Competitive Rules enforcement tournaments. Come for the tournament logistics, stay for Bryan’s rant about proxies.
Judges, I’m not a Renton serial villain. Do you seriously think I’d post a job application if there remained the slightest chance of you affecting its outcome? I did it thirty-five minutes ago.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we go over something so small from the outside that caught the Magic Judge Community by surprise: A Hasbro job posting for a Magic Judge Program Manager. We speculate on motivation while we discuss our hopes and fears and work through some anger issues in real time. Will this lead to a renaissance of MTG Judging? Will this be a mutually beneficial relationship, or is it blatant attempt by WotC to seize control? Will the community they abandoned welcome them back as liberators, or will they be ignored? We spend an hour discussing these questions before settling on: “We don’t know”. Join us in our uncertainty.
Hasbro Job Posting: https://jobs.hasbro.com/job/Renton-Manager%2C-Magic-Judge-Program-Wash/1309319400/
Join Bryan, Charles, Marcos and possibly Zorak and Moltar as we discuss the newest MTG set, Edge of Eternities. We discuss the new station mechanic, as well as warp, void, landers, and so many other terms you might think we were talking about a Protoss rush.
We go over specific cards and interactions you might run into at your prerelease.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we celebrate our 350th episode by doing…literally nothing special. We discuss one of the least understood and least celebratory aspects of Magic; Loops. We talk about how to recognize a loop and what to do when you have dueling loops. Then we circle back and talk about the loop boogie-men, the Four Horsemen, and why its not really a loop, and how anything that requires a TI-85 is probably a bad idea.
The Ghost train is pulling out of the station. Join Bryan, Charles, Marcos (and Biggs and Wedge in spirit) as they give you the Pheonix Down low on the newest magitek in the latest MTG set, Final Fantasy. We summon up the changes to the saga rules and the new Tiered mechanic. We cover enough individual cards to chocobo a horse, threading the gold needle between complex cards, and interactions you might be asked at your local Golden Saucer. If you are looking for rules nerd banter and a little bit of 8-bit theater, we are the right folks for the job.
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos are joined by Pastimes’ Meg Baum to talk about the “other side of staffing”. We have talked in the past about how to apply for events as well as tips and tricks to help you get staffed, but this is the first time we have talked about what it takes to make an event staff. And while we have done staffing for “ballroom sized events”, we have never had to staff with as many applications or roles to fill as a MagicCon. Meg pulls back the curtain and lets us know many of the considerations that need to be made when constructing a staff of hundreds.
MTG Judge Conferences are an amazing resource when it comes to learning and growing as a Judge. However, conferences need presenters and creating a presentation can be daunting if you have never done it before. Topics can range from layers or state-based actions, to more complex topics like Hidden Card error or competing replacement enter effects, or all the way up to investigation workshops. But the journey of a thousand presentations begins with a single google doc. Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about how to figure out what you want to present on, how to start a draft and plan for your audience, and finally tips and tricks to present effectively.
In this episode of JudgeCast, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about upgrades. Those little paragraphs or sentences at the bottom of your favorite entries in the Magic Infraction Procedure Guide.
Upgrades are when a certain series of events happen, and the penalty an MTG Judge would normally assign gets bumped up one or two steps.
In this episode we talk about all the upgrades, even the FOUR hidden in the JAR. If you are looking to run RCQs or staff larger MTG events, this is one to check out.
In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Marcos go over how to run a successful draft at your LGS. Drafting is a very common way players can enjoy new sets, and running a smooth draft is a skill all judges need to develop. Like many things in running events, preparation and watchfulness will help you detect small problems before they can become big ones. We talk about how to prepare product, how to prepare the drafting area, and how to administer and watch the draft itself.
BEHOLD… A PODCAST. In this episode, Bryan Charles, and Marcos go over the mechanics from Tarkir: Dragonstorm and a dragon-sized clawful of cards that tickled our collective fancy. Join us as we go over more cards in more detail than you though you needed and perhaps more than you actually wanted. But don’t worry, there’s lots of big old dragons to give you that dopamine hit we all so desperately crave these days.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as they spend entirely too much time and go into entirely too much detail on all the things you need to consider when taking a call as a Judge.
Quick, what are the first three things you should do when you hear “Judge!”. Did you know there are things were supposed to be doing even before that?
There are many types of calls you might get at an event. Running all the way from requests to go to the bathroom/request for oracle text, all the way up to having to de-escalate players calling each other cheaters. We spend this episode talking about the tips and tricks you need in order to successfully navigate all these different types of calls at your LGS all the way up to the Pro Tour
In this episode Charles and Marcos troll Bryan by making him hype his least favorite infraction: Hidden Card Error, aka HCE, aka GRV-Private, aka Super Obnoxious Error.
We go over how to recognize when HCE has occurred and when it hasn’t as well as the flow chart that handles all the exceptions and variables.
It’s a fun time.
If your last name is De Sade.
Are you expecting a racing pun here? Too bad, because our special guest, Perry Kraker used them all in the episode. Like I would have to resort to Smokey and the Bandit, Days of Thunder, or maybe even Christine puns. And no one wants that. Join Bryan, Charles, and Perry as we talk about all the mechanics in Aetherdrift, and several of the cards you might see in your prerelease.
Aetherdrift Missed Trigger Guide: Aetherdrift Missed Triggers Guide – Rules Resources
Hello and Welcome to JudgeCast.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we take a somewhat tongue-in-cheek take on the Top 10 worst rules/mechanics in Magic. We pull from the IPG, MTR, and Comprehensive Rules on this tour-de-force of utter nonsense. We talk about rules, mechanics, and policy that are hard to keep straight or cause problems with judges or events.
And no, banding does not make the list. Get out of here. Banding is easy.
Whether you are an judge candidate trying to learn the comprehensive rules, or an established L1 trying to learn the IPG, there are certain approaches that can help you learn the materials. One of those approaches involves listening to this podcast, but there are others as well. Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about study tips and advice in tackling the massive amounts of documentation out there and how you can best make use of whats available.
Links mentioned:
https://www.youtube.com/@JudgingFtW – Rules YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@keepingitcasualmtg – Rules and occasional MTG Skit Rules channel
https://www.cranial-insertion.com/ – Weekly Rules questions
https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/ipg/ – Annotated IPG – Line by Line deconstruction of the Magic Infraction Procedure Guide
Happy Festivus listeners! Bryan, Charles, and Marcos are feeling festive, and you all know what that means. Time for an airing of grievances! Modeled after the incredibly relevant and timely episode of Seinfeld from 1997, we share how we find tinsel too distracting, how you’ve all disappointed us in the last year, and finish off with the feats of strength, where we wrestle an actual bear cub before the festivities can properly begin.
Or you know, we share our accomplishments over the last year in our feats of strength, share things that we have genuine grievances over, and round things off with a Festivus Miracle because we like positive endings, even when we make the theme of an episode “airing grievances.” Happy Holidays and looking forward to even more JudgeCast shenanigans in 2025!!
Links:
Pendragon: https://sites.google.com/view/pendragonmtg/basic-rules-guidelines
Pendragon Discord: https://bit.ly/PendragonMTGDiscord
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about the things you can do to prepare for a big event. Starting with the application itself, we talk about all phases that lead up to the big day. Be sure to share your own tips via skeet or eXcreet.
Links referenced:
Annotated IPG: Magic Infraction Procedure Guide – Rules Resources
Academy Ruins: Academy Ruins
Previous episode on Cover Letters: JudgeCast #295 – MTG Event Cover Letters | JudgeCast
Warning: This episode is light on technical rules/policy content.
In the spirit of the US Thanksgiving holiday, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos look back over the last year and reflect on what we are thankful for within the Judging and larger M:TG community. It’s a bit sappy, but each host brings several items we are thankful for, and some of us didn’t even need to stretch or say the same thing twice only with different words.
If you want to share something you are thankful for, join our discord at https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Also, since BlueSky is more of a thing now
@judgecast.bsky.social
@mtgdad.bsky.social
@mj6music.bsky.social
@bprill.bsky.social
Join Charles and Marcos as they discuss the ins and outs of Magics newest set, Foundations. They take a leisurely tour of the returning mechanics and several of the cards that you might have rules questions about. Its good to have a Magic set that actually feels like Magic.
Here at JudgeCast we have multiple traditions. One of those traditions is having a part 2 after a part 1. This here is part 2 of our two part episode on types. Join Bryan, Charles, and not Marcos as we talk about all your favorite card types, as long as they start with a letter between L and Z. And then all your favorite super types. Listen to Bryan fumble-bumble around those planechase/archenemy types he loves so much.
It seems we have a tradition here on JudgeCast. Every 5 years we do a two-part series on Card Types. However, in the last five years the game has added several new types and subtypes (Like Dungeons, and Battles, and Sagas). Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about all your favorite card types, as long as they start with a letter between A and I.
Be sure to join us for Part 2 where we finish up the types, including the weird Archenemy ones, talk about super types, and some of the rules around type changing.
Uh…what happened this week? Bryan, Charles, and Marcus talk about the recent commander bans and the community response that became so reprehensible it culminated in the RC ceding ownership of the format to Wizards in order to protect themselves.
Oh, and there were some policy updates to Missed Trigger and such. That’s what you are really here for. You can get that commander chatter on countless youtube videos, but you can only get a thoughtful discussion regarding the MTR shortcut and how it applies to Cavern of Souls but not Arena of Glory right here!
Toby’s Blog – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2024/09/26/policy-update-for-duskmourn/
Wizard’s Announcement regarding Commander: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/on-the-future-of-commander
On this episode, follow Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as they run, Scooby Doo style through multiple Rooms in the House of Horror release notes! The Eerie vibes of the house, combined with their ability to Manifest Dread makes us all question our hero’s chances of Survival, especially when you factor in the Impending doom that awaits them behind every locked door.
Also, there’s a very weird math problem, plus a question about infinite copying of abilities around a VERY creepy ventriloquist dummy. Sort of brings me back to those Goosebumps days…
Link to the Reddit Post about unprovable math equations: https://www.reddit.com/r/BadMtgCombos/comments/1feps3y/deal_infinite_damage_for_4gru_as_long_as_the_twin/
Video that inspired the Marvin talk: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ATTw4G1gKys
Bryan, Charles, and Marcos were at SCGCon Tampa this past weekend working Magic events. However, there were THREE other TCGs at the SCGCon; Lorcana, Star Wars: Unlimited, and Flesh and Blood. We took the opportunity to speak to three head judges for the three games this weekend. Join us as we gain a little insight into other games, and their judge programs.
Ben Harris – Lorcana
Seth Arar – Star Wars
Dan Collins – Flesh and Blood
Discord Link for the Start Wars Judge Discord: https://discord.gg/HtkJUcHT6a
Bryan, Charles, and Marcos all have SCGCon Tampa this weekend, so we need a small episode with little prep. Or thats what we THOUGHT. Join us as we take turns stepping on and off the soapbox for topics like: the recent bannings, excessive charging for store championships, Wizards giving Judges the finger AGAIN, the new Spotlight Series of Tournaments, and the importance of Online Judge Communities.
Unfortunately the cEDH drama hadn’t fully exploded when we recorded or that would have been a topic too.
Judges are not immune to twitter drama. We get sucked in the same way players do when there is a post about a potentially bad judge call. In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about how judges respond when we hear about an issue on social media, and how we go about trying to figure out what really happened, and how we attempt to reconcile the player version of the story with what we know about policy. We also discuss why judges typically don’t make comments about contentious calls. It’s a very meta episode.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we forage over the mechanics of the newest set, as well make a valiant effort to review some cards that you might have questions about at your prerelease or local commander game. We spring off into a tangent about a punk band, and have an otter ridiculous Mickey Mouse impersonation (Steamboat Willy version), and discuss the proper ways to gift a fish.
Oh, frogive me, did I mention this set was Bloomburrow?
The Proper Way to Gift a Fish – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8XeDvKqI4E
Preview of Emmet Otter’s Jug band Christmas – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFJ2jxIe4CQ
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos this week as they talk about the system Magic uses to determine which player can act when, what they can do, and how the game advances to the next part. This is a fundamental MTG topic, so if you are looking to become a judge, an existing judge looking to brush up, or an old-timer just listening to hear them say things you already know, this is the episode for you!
Is it a reference to a Celine Dion Song, or a little-known skit from The State. How about both? Both is good.
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we talk about the Judging at Regular Policy document. This document governs judging at Regular Rules Enforcement Level (REL), which covers the vast majority of events. Everything from 8-player Wednesday night drafts to 200-player Myster Booster Sealed events at MagicCons, the JAR tells us how to handle common problems that can occur in games. The JAR is also part of any L1 exam you might be considering. We go over the philosophy, and the various categories of issues, making sure you know everything you need to know.
If you are studying to become an L1, or just need a refresher, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Did you know there are a lot of rules regarding ending the game? There sure are! Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we go into the rules around ending the game. There’s a surprising amount of rules around this seemingly simple task. And not just the Comprehensive rules, we talk about Tournament rules and Infraction procedures. There’s even a “blink and you’ll miss it” shout out to the old Platinum Angel/Sudden Death scenario. I won’t spoil the answer; you’ll have to listen. Or Google. I guess you could google it. If you wanted to be lame.
Modern Horizons 3 has a LOT of mechanics, and a LOT of cards. So for this release notes episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos decided to try something a little different. We each chose our 6 favorite cards from the set to talk about, along with covering a selection of mechanics that may need an in depth refresher for your MH3 Prerelease events this weekend.
We highlight some Nightmares, say Umbra Armor until the words lose all meaning, and have fun with some of the most absurd and interesting names of cards in the set. Join us for this fun look through some super powerful and complex cards from MH3.
PS: Bryan challenged Marcos to try to edit a funny bit – and oh does he deliver. So, like your favorite Marvel movie, this episode also has a post credits scene. Stick around through the very end – just like you do every episode. Right? RIGHT??
Prompt: Write a 2 paragraph description of a Podcast episode JudgeCast where the hosts Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about AI in MTG Judging, and then ask ChatGPT a bunch of policy/rules questions and then discuss how well it did.
Response: In a recent episode of JudgeCast, hosts Bryan, Charles, and Marcos delve into the intriguing intersection of artificial intelligence and Magic: The Gathering (MTG) judging. The trio begins by exploring how AI can potentially assist judges in managing tournaments, interpreting complex rules, and ensuring fair play. They discuss both the benefits and limitations of AI in this context, highlighting how machine learning algorithms could streamline the adjudication process and reduce human error. [Bryan: Lol, no we didnt, and no you don’t] However, they also caution about the current technological constraints and the essential role of human judgment in interpreting the nuanced aspects of the game.
To put AI to the test, the hosts invite ChatGPT to answer a series of challenging [Bryan: Simple] MTG policy and rules questions. The questions range from handling obscure [Bryan: Common] card interactions to resolving intricate [Bryan: Simple] gameplay scenarios. After each question, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos analyze ChatGPT’s responses, comparing them to official rulings and their own experiences. They find that while ChatGPT demonstrates impressive knowledge and can provide accurate answers in many [Bryan: Slow your roll there, Chatty] cases, it occasionally [Bryan: Frequently] falters on more complex or context-dependent issues. The episode concludes with a lively discussion on the future potential of AI in MTG judging, acknowledging that while AI can be a powerful tool, it is unlikely to fully replace the expertise and intuition of experienced human judges anytime soon.
In this episode Bryan and Marcos go over the April Policy updates. But that’s not enough for a full episode, so we bring in three other smaller topics.
– The Judge contradiction of “I want to be staffed because of what I know, not who I know” vs the sense of entitlement when all the TOs know you.
– When new information is gained with respect to Reversing decisions.
– Open Book vs Closed Book testing.
Bryan, Charles, and Marcos work an event together. We talk about our time at SCGCon: Atlanta, and then we do micro interviews with many of the judges working the event.
Who are you? Why do you keep judging? Do you have a PG rated story you could share?
Big thanks to all the judges that took time out of their shift to talk to us, and big thanks to Star City Games for allowing our shenanigans during their event.
If you want to share a story, join our discord at https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we tour this western planet of hats and discuss the new mechanics such as Plot, crime, Saddle, and Spree. We go over nearly 50 cards to help you get ready for your prerelease. The only thing missing is a in depth discussion regarding the different between the Cattleman, the Gambler, the Pinched Front, and the Gus. Which now that I think about it, thats at least worth 50 cents on patreon..
Bryan, Charles, and Marcos venture once again into the Unknown. But why? Is it an Unfulfilled quest? Is it an Undercover task to Unseat some evil? Join us for an Undeniably special treat. You won’t want to miss this one, the clock is ticking!
“Hey Judge, Can I offer my opponent any extra cash for the RC invite?
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos discuss the rules around bribery; what it is, isn’t, what’s legal, what isn’t, and how to handle some common questions that you might run into at your RCQ. If you are a player, this episode will help you stay out of trouble, but it won’t teach you the most common question of: “Ok, so I understand I can’t bribe my opponent, but how can I offer them something for the win.” That’s kinda the same thing.
In this episode, the JudgeCast hosts welcome David Hibbs and Joe (TxJoe) Klophic, to talk about the Hunter Burton Memorial Open (HBMO). The HBMO is an annual Dallas based tournament designed to raise awareness of the impact suicide can have on our lives, and the importance of having a place you are welcome.
David and Joe were the HJ and TO, respectively, for the HBMO this year as it celebrated its 10th year. We talk about how this event is different from other events, its inspiration, and its history. And despite being a charity event, many judges offer to volunteer their time to make this a memorable event for the players.
Previous Episodes with Guests:
https://judgecast.com/archives/833 – Judging Hibbstory
https://judgecast.com/archives/1777 – Forging Ahead with Judge Foundry
https://hunterburtonmemorialopen.com/
Suicide Prevention Hotline – 988
Completely unrelated to any twitter drama you might have read about, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about the types of information in Magic. We talk about what types of information you have to tell your opponent, what questions you have to answer, and what types of things do you have to be truthful about and what you can even lie about. Lying? Not in my competitive card game with money on the line!
During the winter break, we asked listeners for their “Judge New Years Resolutions”. One of our listeners said they wanted to work on confidence. In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos bring on L2 from Tennessee, Madison Henry to talk confidence. We talk about things that can rattle your confidence, tips and tricks to build confidence, and we even get personal and share stories about times we specifically lacked confidence, and how we dealt with it.
Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we discuss the ins and outs of the latest MTG Set, Murders at Martina Navratilova Manor, and go into more detail than you probably wanted about the new cards and mechanics. Want to know about Morph 2.0? We got you covered like a fedora. Want to know about Manifest 2.0, we got you covered like a cloak. Want to know about Mole Gods? We talk about that too.
Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Mark talk about the rules and policies around Marked Cards. Do you ever wonder what the criteria for an upgrade is? How to protect yourself as a player? What to look for as a judge? Are all foils inherently marked? Join us as we take a guided tour through all these questions and more.
Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Marcos celebrate Festivus, JudgeCast-Style. We have our own Festivus dinner (questions from our discord), the airing of grievances, feats of strength, and finally acknowledgement of the Festivus miracle that we are still judging at all.
Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about reviews. We go over the history of reviews within the various judge programs of the past, their requirements in the future. We also talk about the importance of reviews, and a few tips on how to write a good one, and pitfalls to avoid. We even write a few review snippets on the fly.
You can also leave us a review on your podcast platform of choice. wink
Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
It’s a brave new world, with the announcement of Judge Foundry’s launch date coming next week. In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos welcome Joe Klopchic, one of the founding exploratory committee members of Judge Foundry, and we ask the hard hitting questions you want to know about Judge Foundry. Things like will there be judge foils, what level will I be with this new structure, how much are dues, seriously what’s with foils, and why do I need Judge Foundry in the first place?
Seriously though, we cover as many questions as we can based on what the judging community has been hoping to learn, and have some frank talks about what Judge Foundry means for us all as Magic Judges. Oh, and Judge Apps is back, yay!
Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Judge Foundry’s Website: https://www.judgefoundry.org
Judge Apps: https://apps.magicjudges.org
Bears, Beats, Bad Seques into the next card
It’s a prerelease episode. You know the drill.
Oh, and WOTC is changing some card types. Here’s the info: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/card-updates-coming-with-khans-of-tarkir-on-mtg-arena
After the serious/heart-wrenching episode that was last podcast, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos take a significantly less serious approach to this episode. Everyone loves a good tier list. “Everyone” loves state-based actions (or would if they knew what was good for them). Watch these donkeys push the ball around the metaphorical barnyard as we rank all State-Based actions in the game based on our highly scientific and completely objective system?
Disagree with our rankings? Join Our Discord Server, and add your braying voice to our own: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
We do circle back on Anger a few times. And acceptance is a bit iffy, but….
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about the most recent Judge News. In case you haven’t heard, Wizards of the Coast has cancelled their relationship with Judge Academy effectively killing the company and abandoning judges. In a substantially more candid episode than usual, we talk about the announcements from WotC, Judge Academy, and a new player on the scene, Judge Foundry. We also talk about our thoughts on what happened, why it happened, and what we think about the future.
Links:
Our very own Discord Server, come say hey: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Insulting Nonsense from Wizards of the Coast: https://wpn.wizards.com/en/news/wizards-of-the-coast-and-judge-academy-partnership-ends
Statement from Judge Academy: https://judgeacademy.com/2023-open-letter-and-faq/
Judge Foundry Website: https://www.judgefoundry.org/
Curious about what a 501c(6) is: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/business-leagues
You down with OPOP? (Other People’s Organized Play) Yeah, you know me. Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we have special guest Niccolo Paqueo. Niccolo has been an L2 judge in the Flesh and Blood Judge Program for several years, and the current team lead for the FaB Rules Team. We discuss their game, their organized play, and similarities and differences with Magic Judging. Spoilers: Running Magic events and running FaB events are pretty similar, except when they aren’t.
Flesh and Blood Website: https://fabtcg.com/
Flesh and Blood Judge Website (requires account) : https://judge.fabtcg.com/
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos delve into the updates from the first IPG update in over 900 days. Strap in, it’s going to be a doozy. Actually, the changes aren’t that big. But like a thirsty man in the desert, we are going to savor this little bit of a stretched metaphor as much as possible.
Toby’s Policy Perspective Blog: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2023/09/06/policy-update-for-wilds-of-eldraine/
New MTR: https://media.wizards.com/2023/wpn/marketing_materials/wpn/mtg_mtr_2023sep4_en.pdf
New IPG: https://media.wizards.com/2023/wpn/marketing_materials/wpn/mtg_ipg_2023sep4_en.pdf
Judge Academy Statement on Misgendering: https://judgeacademy.com/ja-statement-on-intentional-misgendering/
Bryan, Charles, and Marcos respect the oxford comma. We also discuss the new mechanics for Wilds of Eldraine. Want to know how Adventure cards work? We can help. Want to know what happens if you triple a triple, we have the answers. Want to know what all the seven different role enchantments do? You are on your own. But we do talk about the generic rules behind them.
New Host, who dis? Join Bryan, Charles, and... Marcos Sanchez, a level 2 that recently made the [poor] decision to move to Florida [at the start of hurricane season], to talk about a different kind of new start. In this episode we take a whole hour to talk about all the things that happen when you start a game. Do you know exactly when you are supposed to determine who goes first? What about when you reveal your companion? Did you know that at competitive events you are encouraged, nay, required to shuffle your opponent's deck when they present?
Well after this episode, you will know all that and more!
In this episode Bryan and Charles have on Matt Williams (aka Billy Willy) to talk about what goes into Head Judge Announcements. Do you want to know what to include in your Prerelease Announcements? What about your RCQ? How about that 2HG event at a Convention? It should be no surprise that while your announcements will have many things in common, there are also different areas of focus. Join us as we talk about those differences, from the Pre-Release to the Pro Tour, what will make your Head Judge Announcements pop.
This is SPARTA! Wait, no. This is...our 300th Episode! While my favorite topic to talk about is myself, we put the breaks on that celebration to invite on a few other judges active providing content for the masses. We talk about what makes their projects special, what keeps them motivated, and how it helps others.
Charlotte Sable - Ask a Magic Judge (tumblr.com) - Tumblr
David Elden - Judging FtW - YouTube - YouTube
Rhianna Milton - Ask-the-Judge (Magic: the Gathering Rules & Policy Group) | Facebook - Facebook
Also a big shout out to all the hosts, past and present that have contributed to Judgecast in its mission to teach and possibly entertain.Sean CataneseRiki HayashiJose BovedaJess DunksRoy ShraderBryan PrillamanBrogan KingJacob Milicic Samantha HarrCharles Featherer
Have you ever wondered about the planning that goes on before an event? Join Bryan, Charles, and special guest Jared Sylva from Star City Games to discuss Event Management with a focus on SCG Con Baltimore. For information on upcoming SCGCons, check out https://scgcon.starcitygames.com/ and look for events:
Columbus Sep. 1 - 3
Dallas-Fort Worth Oct. 20 - 22
Pittsburgh Nov. 10 - 12
If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding judging for SCG events, please email judge@starcitygames.com or join the SCG Judge Discord.
Bryan and Charles welcome back Marcos Sanchez to talk about interesting cards from the newest Straight to Modern set to come out of Wizards. Join us as we take a tour of the Shire, take a shortcut to mushrooms before skulking through Mirkwood and wondering just how many different Gandalfs are in this set.
In this episode Bryan and Charles discuss several smaller “bite size topics” while we gear up for the LoTR Prerelease episode. We go over:
- What is a Called Draft and should I do one at my RCQ
- Answering Judge Questions Outside of an Event
- Giving Too Much Negative Feedback
- MagicKids by Weirdcards in the Partnership Education track of Judge Academy
Join Bryan and Charles with special guest Vona to talk about 2HG. And not just the rules, on no, dear listener, we talk about special considerations in running 2HG events, from the logistics to the pack distribution to increased time in investigations. Give it a listen, and you might learn a bit about why we dont do Comp Rel 2HG events anymore.
In a bout of unintended irony, Bryan and Charles spend an hour talking about how important it is to be brief in your cover letters. We talk about what you should/should not include and how certain choices may/may not help your chances of being accepted.
Want to know how battles work? what about transforming tokens? How about Copy effects and Backup. We got you covered. If you also want to know the lore of Segovia and listen to Bryan yell at clouds, we have you covered there too.
Its a Release Notes episode. We talk nonsense.
Judging is a Customer Service gig. However, customer service at small events and large events can look very different. In this episode Bryan and Charles are joined by L2 Marcos Sanchez to talk about what things you can do at large events to up your customer service game.
In this episode Bryan and Charles talk about one of the more subjective infractions in the IPG; Slow Play. We talk about its definition, it’s subjectivity, why it can’t have an objective definition and how to deal with players that might get upset you give them Slow Play. We even talk about Chess Clocks. No, really. Thats been a suggestion.
And, to play into the theme, this episode gets a Warning for being a day late.
In this episode Bryan and Charles talk to @BonafideVonafyd about their recent experiences at MagicCon Philly, including but not limited to: wearing good shoes, dinosaurs with hand-rails, breaks, how so many concurrent event were managed, and a myriad of non-standard events.
In this episode, Brian and Charles go over the few rules updated with All Will Be One and then we delve into a smorgasbord of recent reddit threads that have caught our eye while we wait for MagicCon Philly.
Topic 1 – Hold Priority: https://www.reddit.com/r/EDH/comments/10xqd6x/players_that_hold_priority_for_a_whole_phase/
Topic 2: Card quality/differences in general: https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10zxfem/lots_of_art_with_these_weird_wiggly_lines_is_this/
Topic 3: Placeholders as Proxies?:
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10q3g57/are_mdfc_placeholder_cards_proxies/
Topic 4: How to prepare for your first Magic convention
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10zvzo6/how_to_prepare_for_first_magic_convention/
Topic 4: Card art with a side of dong
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10pcvne/wizards_what_the_hell/
Potentially NSFW
Topic 5: Magic is expensive, yo.
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10y2u7w/frustrated_magic_the_gathering_fans_say_hasbro/
Topic 6: Weird Judge Call
https://old.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10w5c0j/scg_indy_judge_call_tldr_there_are_scumbags/
In this episode, Bryan and Charles go over the mechanics and notiable cards from Phyrexia: All Will Be One. Toxic, Compleated, Oil Counters, and that one mechanic that has an exclamation point. Also at the end of the episode we talk about a workaround in EventLink for running a Sealed RCQ.
In this episode Bryan and Charles go over the zones of Magic, as well as all the exceptions to the well-known rule of “objects changing zones are considered new objects”. Turns out, there are a lot of exceptions.
Happy New Year! It’s a time for celebration and resolutions for the new year. In this episode Bryan and Charles are joined by Brook Gardner-Durbin (@TheBG_D) to discuss the factors that go into your decisions for fair compensation at the various levels. Is judging your hobby, career, or side hustle? What is the complexity of the event you are going to be working? What is considered fair? Where do you have the ability to negotiate? As we discuss issues around pay, just a reminder: We are not lawyers or CPAs. We are glorified donkeys pushing a ball around the pasture. Consult your local, state, or federal laws before acting on any of our barnyard braying.
Talking about missed triggers has been all the rage lately in the twitterverse, and Bryan, Charles, and Samma thought we would bring it to your podcast listening device. In this episode, the JudgeCast crew talk about the philosophy behind Missed Triggers, how to identify one, what the opponents’ responsibilities are, and a little bit of a history lesson.
Detrimental Trigger Guide – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/mtg/
Annotated IPG – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/ipg2-1/
Bryan, Charles, and Samma discuss the recent level updates announced by Judge Academy. Samma and Charles also go over their Magic 30 experience, including a behind the scene look at the massive Unfinity Draft. We also stop recording right before Samma admits Bryan was 100% right about [redacted] and Bryan doesn’t even say ‘I told you so’, so he instead puts this comments in the show notes.
Level Update Overview – Level Clarifications and Updates: Overview – 2023 – Judge Academy
Judge Academy Renewal information: Membership Renewal Payments in Fall/Winter 2022 – Judge Academy
Omega Mart (whatever that is) : Omega Mart | Explore Immersive Art | Meow Wolf Las Vegas
Following the BRO Code, Bryan, Charles, and Samma battle their way through new mechanics, new cards, and very bad puns. We discuss Prototype, Meld, Unearth, zone change triggers, 50% off of 50% off coupons. Stick around and you might just learn something. Probably not, but it could happen.
A Pot-Pour-EE Episode is an episode where we discuss smaller topics that aren't worth a full episode themselves. In this vaguely apple-cinnamon scented episode Bryan and Charles talk about Game Markers, Solo Deck Checks, Tournament Policy on Notes, and Proxies. Real Proxies, not those fake proxies being sold for $250 a "pack".
This Wicker Picker with Sticker Kicker makes me want to grab liquor quicker than a city slicker. In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Samma talk about the latest Un-set from Wizards. Un-sets are no longer goofy fun sets judges can choose to embrace. With the introduction of stickers and attractions into eternal formats, we boldly go where several other podcasts have gone before, and tackle many of the mechanics and rules questions you might encounter now that players have to register your sticker sheets on their decklists.
Join JudgeCast in welcoming new host, L2 from New Jersey, Charles Featherer! In this episode we talk about things new L1s should know but might not. Things like “Where do the judges hang out online?”, “Where do I get shirts?”, … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss the new rules and cards for the upcoming MTG Set Dominaria United. We talk about Sagas, Bee Children, Bryan sneaks in obscure song lyrics from the 80s, and other interesting rules tidbits from … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma bring on Meg Rickman to talk about the return of Local Comp Rel play. We discuss how it feels to “get back into it”, the return of local players, how to rebuild connections that … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma go over the major mechanics and a selection of cards from the new Commander Legends 2: Quest for Curly’s Gold.
In this episode Bryan and Samma go over the Judge Academy process for becoming an L3. We go over the various steps and badges, and Bryan talks way too much about “the way it used to be”.
In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about the mechanics of New Capenna as well as highlight some of the cards with more interesting rules interactions.
In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about the recently announced changes to Wizards’ Premiere Play and a little bit about what judges can expect. Bryan rants (too much) about his dislike of PPTQs, while Samma waits for him to … Continue reading →
Big Events are slowing making a comeback and in this episode the JudgeCast crew sit down with L2 Patrick Nelson to talk about the Team Constructed event at SCG Con Indy, and live vicariously through his experiences.
In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss the altered card policy, why its set up the way it is, who it is supposed to protect, and how common arguments against it. All with just the slightest sprinkling of nonsense.
Join Bryan and Samma as we discuss the new cards and new mechanics of Kamigawa Neon Dynasty. We go over Reconfigure, Transforming Sagas, Ninja and Ducks with Hooves.
Join Bryan and Samma as they go over the ins and outs of the Combat Phase. We go over declaring attackers, requirements and restrictions, combat damage assignment order, the combat damage shortcut, and even when you declare your bands.
In this Episode, Bryan and Samma talk about Judge Academy Deadlines, Digital vs Physical conferences, the newly hired JAc “champions”, and end of year conferences. Then the post show banter devolves into some literary nonsense.
Join Bryan and Samma as we cleave through the release notes for Crimson Vow and go into more rules details than you probably needed to know for this MTG set that only has the most subtle of wedding themes.
One of the requirements for becoming a Certified Magic Judge is obtaining an L1 endorsement. In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss what an L1 endorsement is and why its necessary. We also discuss what the endorsing L2 or L3 … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma welcome Judge Academy Magic Program Manager Nicolette Apraez! This week Judge Academy made a rather lengthy announcement on upcoming changes for 2022 and beyond. Nicolette was good enough to join us as we go … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss the mechanics of Midnight Hunt, as well as going over some of the cards that might generate some rules questions at your local store of whatever larger event may be happening in or … Continue reading →
In this episode, Bryan and Samma go into more detail than you probably thought possible on the specifics of Targeting. What a target does, how do you change targets, what happens if the target becomes illegal, is Target really just … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about how the focus on Customer Service has shifted in Judging over the years, and some tips that will help you improve your customer service skills at both large and small events.
In this episode Bryan and Samma take a super serious look at all the infractions of the IPG and rank them based on our scientific criteria of “whatever we feel like at the moment”. Join us as we durdle our … Continue reading →
Join Bryan and Samma on this tour up and down the Sword Coast as we pull up a chair at the Yawning Portal and talk about the new set over a mug of Shadowdark Ale. Behold the new mechanics as … Continue reading →
Hello and Welcome to JudgeCast. In this episode Bryan and Samma tackle the very serious, multi-faceted issue of which icosahedrons should be your icosahedron of choice when playing MTG Adventures in the Forgotten Realms. And psychological observation becomes a self-fulfilling … Continue reading →
Events are starting to happen again and the pre-releases keep coming. In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about things to do before and during a Pre-Release to keep your players happy. We also talk about the unique challenges of … Continue reading →
In this supersized episode Bryan and Samma dig deep on the rules and mechanics of several Modern Horizon 2 Cards. If you want to know how Urza’s Saga makes various Modern Decks better, go somewhere else. But if you want … Continue reading →
In a precursor to the Modern Horizons 2 Release Notes episode, Bryan and Samma go over the returning mechanics in the latest set. All the way from Aftermath to Unearth, we go into more detail than you probably needed to … Continue reading →
Join Bryan and Samma as they talk about the hot new mechanic of the past year that wasn’t: Modal Double-Faced Cards. You know, those cards that look like Transform cards but aren’t, but still make you avoid yellow sleeves.We break … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Samma catch up on whats been happening with Judging during the pandemic, as well as discuss what they have (or haven’t) been doing to stay current. We also talk about resources that might help you … Continue reading →
Yes its been a while, but we are back! This episode we introduce new host Samantha Harr, L2 Judge from Tampa Florida, and go over both the mechanics and some of the more rule-complex cards from everyone’s favorite Wizarding World: … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Jacob are joined by former JudgeCast host Jess Dunks to go over cards of interest from M21 as well as talk about how wildly inconsistent P/T of whales are in relation to their size. Catch … Continue reading →
Better late than never: In this episode Bryan and Jacob discuss the the recent WOTC bannings, companion rules change, and give first muddled impressions of the new Digital MTR and Digital IPG Banning and Companion Rules Change – https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/june-1-2020-banned-and-restricted-announcement?asp=4 Depictions … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Jacob discuss a bevy of topics too small for their own episode. We discuss the ins and outs of the Multiplayer format Grand Melee, as well as the Notes Policy, Mana, and Proxies.
In this episode Bryan and Jacob sit down with GPHJ Kevin Desprez and talk about Investigations from a GPHJ perspective. We talk about what information HJs want to know from floor judges, as well as tips and tricks used during … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Jacob talk about the policy impacts of Companion, as well as go into more detail than you probably wanted on the rules updates with Ikoria. Were you aware that Sharks are no longer fish? Oops. … Continue reading →
In the behemoth of an episode Bryan and Jacob discuss the ins and outs of Ikoria. And as long as you are not desperate to hear about how Companion works in subgames or Karn restarts (you’ll have to wait for … Continue reading →
In this episode Bryan and Jacob learn about MTGMelee, a new web based service that allows running and playing in online MTG Tournaments. The JudgeCast crew sit down with Steve Port and learn the ins-and-outs for Players, TOs, and Judges. … Continue reading →
Join Brogan, Bryan and new host Jacob Milicic (still has that new host smell) in discussing the types of mistakes judges can make and how to deal with them in the event and outside of the event as well. Also, … Continue reading →
Or “The Cootie Shot” is not an effective Health Care treatment. In this episode, Brogan and Bryan have special guest Erik Aliff to talk about steps you can take to keep yourself healthy at large events. We also talk about … Continue reading →
In this episode, Brogan and Bryan go over USC-Aggressive Behavior, Minor and Major. We go over what these penalties are, when to give them, when not to give them, and parts of the human element to consider when dealing with … Continue reading →
Burnout in Judges is a real thing. It happens to us at any level, and recognizing it is the first step in preventing it. In this episode we are joined by Canadian Level 3 Jason Wong to discuss Judge Burnout, … Continue reading →
Oh yeah, Its a new year and a new set! Brogan and Bryan show their devotion to the new set by escaping their day jobs and delivering you this godly podcast of pseudo-heroic proportions. We talk about the rules ins … Continue reading →
For this episode we bring in Jonah Kellman to help us talk about MagicFest Richmond+ and how having a Mythic Championship attached to a GP impacts things. We also discuss Oko fallout, Mystery Boosters, and alterations of lands.
In this episode, Brogan and Bryan continue to talk about more than you ever wanted to know about types, supertypes and the rules around making things an elk.
Reboots are Popular, and we last covered this topic in 2014. Join Brogan and Bryan as we talk about rules regarding card types. Its an episode so big we cant contain it all in one episode. Join us as we … Continue reading →
Join Brogan and Bryan as the go over the virtual flood of Throne of Eldraine Policy Updates, and then spend the rest of the episode discussing impressions of the first week of Judge Academy.
Are you ready to go on an Adventure? Brogan and Bryan go over some of the more interesting (rules-wise) cards in Throne of Eldraine, and spend entirely too much time talking about Food, Monty Python, and cows.
While JudgeCast is a podcast for Judges, big events happen with the help of a whole host of people with other skills and talents. In this episode, we have Matt Newnam, to talk to us about Scorekeepers and Scorekeeping at … Continue reading →
Not every rules question has to be tournament or even EDH relevant. Sometimes you just want to watch the world burn. In this episode Brogan and Bryan bring in Isaac King, a Corner Case Connoisseur, to talk about some fun … Continue reading →
Everything old is new again. Just when you got used to saying “MCQs are just like old PTQs”, we have to start saying “PTQs are just like old MCQs”. In this episode Brogan and Bryan talk about the changes to … Continue reading →
Brogan and Bryan sit down with Tim Shields (Owner of Judge Academy) and Nicolette Apraez (Program Manager for Magic for Judge Academy) to talk about the hot topic everyone in the judge community is talking about. In this super-sized episode, … Continue reading →
In this episode Brogan and Bryan discuss the M20 MTR and IPG policy changes. We go over updates to Deck Errors, Tardiness, the ever popular Hidden Card Error, as well as the much anticipated update to Mulligan Procedure Error in … Continue reading →
Brogan and Bryan go over the rules and mechanics for several of the more complicated cards introduced with M20. And yes, we do complete our Release Notes checklist by talking about intervening-if clauses, alternate costs, copying spells, X being zero … Continue reading →
Special Guest Matt Williams (a.k.a Billy Willy) joins Brogan and Bryan to go over the ins-and-outs of the most complicated infraction in the IPG, Hidden Card Error. They discuss Tournament Scenarios, how to recognize HCE, what the fix is, and … Continue reading →
Brogan and Bryan team up with the Once and Future L2 Erik Aliff to discuss Future Sight 2, AKA Modern Horizons. In our Finest Hour, we outlast the nay-sayers and persist through all 45 mechanincs that appear on cards in … Continue reading →
In this episode we have Eric Levine of TCG Solutions LLC, to discuss the Judge Code of Conduct and avoiding congressional subpoenas You can read the code here: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/conduct/magic-judge-code/
This episode Brogan and Bryan discuss what makes Mythic Championship Qualifiers (MCQs) different from the PPTQs you’re used to, and how they’re similar to the PTQs you may remember. MCQ Staffing Level Recommendations: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/recommended-staffing-guidelines/
Join Bryan and Brogan as we tackle some of the more complicated War of the Sparks cards. We cover the new mechanics and Planeswalkers…so many Planeswalkers
In this episode, we are joined by L3 Dan Collins to discuss the technological terror he’s constructed. It might not be able to destroy a planet, but it does provide the communication and event application backbone for the Judge Program.
In this episode, we say farewell to Jess Dunks, who is leaving the show after 7 years of being a host. In respect to that, we discuss the rules that control what happens when a player leaves the game in … Continue reading →
Let’s talk about efficiency! Here are some things you can be doing to keep your events moving quickly, even when you suddenly have a tone more players than expected!
This episode, we discuss the ins and outs of the rules around triggered abilities. Avoid common rules pitfalls and learn weird corners like the infamous “to your graveyard from anywhere” triggers. Send your questions to JudgeCast@gmail.com!
Hang out with Jess, Bryan, and Brogan, as this episode we just sit back, relax, and talk about whatever comes up, and also judge shirts. Judge uniform guidelines: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/judge-uniform-guidelines/ Jess’s take on Judge Program Rules: https://youtu.be/jl0hMfqNQ-g PC announcement about judge shirts: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/coordinators/2019/02/13/the-future-of-judge-shirts/
We unpack the rather substantial rules and policy updates coinciding with Ravnica Allegiance, including changes to Missed Triggers and changes to the penalties for Bribery and Wagering.
Join us as the team breaks down the new mechanics and most complex cards from the newest magic set!
Bryan and Jess are joined by Samantha Harr (aka Samma) to talk about one of our favorite topics, how to run a prerelease! This is useful information for Organizers and Judges alike.
We return to the countdown format as we trek through 10 common mistakes judges make (most of which we’ve made ourselves) and talk about how to avoid them.
Priority is the system that lets players take actions in Magic. On this episode, we explore that system, including how it works in the rules, how players actually use it, and the tournament shortcuts designed to bridge these two things.
There are four different types of information that exist in a game of Magic. The team breaks them down and goes over some examples of each, then talks about what happens when something goes wrong. When does a judge issue … Continue reading →
Brogan has taken over and locked Jess and Bryan out of the show! (Not really, they’ll be back next week). On this episode, she interviews two regional coordinators about what they do and why: Returning US-Southeast RC Nicolette Apraez and … Continue reading →
There have been a lot of Magic announcements the last two weeks, and in this episode, we talk about as many as we can fit into an hour. There are tournament policy changes, MagicFest has been announced alongside Grand Prix … Continue reading →
Join us as we discuss the new mechanics and interesting cards in Guilds of Ravnica! Check out the full Release Notes here: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/guilds-ravnica-release-notes-2018-09-20
You won’t believe number 3! Or maybe you will. Yeah, you probably will. JudgeCast picks their list of worst triggered abilities in Magic. We look at why triggers have sometimes caused problems in tournaments starting with Horizon Spellbomb and ending … Continue reading →
L3 judge and architect of tournament policy Toby Elliott joins us to discuss what loops are, how they’re handled, and what’s chief among the pantheon of breakfast cereals.
On this episode, the team tackles three policy topics that aren’t big enough for their own episode: Electronic Devices, Notes, and Outside Assistance. Listen, learn, and send us questions to JudgeCast@Gmail.com.
On this episode, the team runs through the new mechanics and a few of the awesome cards in Commander 2018! Also… a bat-dragon? Full C18 Release Notes from WotC: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/commander-2018-edition-release-notes-2018-07-27
Feedback is a two-way street. We talk about why you should write reviews about peers and leaders that you feel are more experienced than you, and how you should do it. We also review the recent tournament policy changes, and … Continue reading →
Prepare for your prerelease! There are no new mechanics, but there are plenty of fun interactions still to be had as we peruse the most interesting cards from the Magic 2019 Core Set release notes! Stuff we talked about: Lots … Continue reading →
Join us as we talk to Level 3 judge and Grand Prix Side Events expert Eric Dustin Brown, also known as EDB, about side events. We ask him what is the best side, and why is it cornbread? He tells us … Continue reading →
JudgeCast is taking the week off to make sure we’re on track for the M19 release notes. But never fear! We’ve still brought you a great episode from the archive; it’s an interview with Jared Sylva about investigations! JudgeCast will … Continue reading →
On this episode we talk about everything 2HG, including the upcoming Battlebond supplemental set! We also introduce Judge Tales: record and send us your favorite judge stories to be on the show! Last, but certainly not least, we ask you what … Continue reading →
We’re often asked about our conversations before and after the show. What do we talk about? How do we interact? Hang out with us as, on our 200th episode, we go in unscripted and unstructured. Our stories and silliness will … Continue reading →
In a continuation from episode 197, we talk about layers and how effects interact using them. We also talk a bit about dependencies, and reference too many moons (Blood Moon, Bad Moon, Imprisoned in the Moon, etc)
The rules are changing, but the sky isn’t falling. Along with new mechanics and weird cards, Dominaria brings with it rules changes that have caused the errata of many, many Magic cards. Additionally, we go card-by-card over some of the most … Continue reading →
Judges talk about continuous effects until end of episode. We reference copy effects, discussed in more detail here: https://judgecast.com/archives/1034 We also reference our Types episodes, which are here: https://judgecast.com/archives/651 and here: https://judgecast.com/archives/659
On this episode, we’re joined by Charles Featherer, AKA “Dr. Judge” at Un-Set events, about judging local, regular REL events, especially FNM. Whether you’re new to judging or old hat, you’re sure to learn something from this episode.
In which we discuss each penalty, why they’re given for various infractions, and how that applies at Regular vs. Competitive RELs. Disqualification process and FAQ: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/disqualification-process/ Toby’s April Fools Challenge Flags article: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/making-magic/introducing-challenge-flags-new-approach-appeals-2013-04-01
Join us as we interview Pro Tour Rivals of Ixalan Head Judge Jared Sylva! We talk about the prep that goes into the Pro Tour and the way in which it’s different from a Grand Prix or other event. Jared … Continue reading →
Jess, Brogan, and Bryan tackle the steps of casting a spell in this concise, evergreen episode. You may want to bookmark this one for your friends that want to become a judge.
Join the team as we discuss new policy updates, new background check requirements for Tournament Organizers, and the new banned and restricted list. Banned and Restricted list – https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/january-15-2018-banned-and-restricted-announcement-2018-01-15 Tournament policy documents – https://wpn.wizards.com/en/resources/rules-documents Toby’s Policy update Blog (Including SECRET Cavern of … Continue reading →
Prepare yourself for the prerelease! Join Jess, Brogan, and Bryan as they discuss the new mechanic (that’s right, just one) in Rivals and some of the more interesting interactions. Full Rivals of Ixalan Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/rivals-ixalan-release-notes-2018-01-05
In this episode, we discuss what judging was like in 2010 when the first JudgeCast was recorded, and we talk about some of what has changed. Bryan managed to get his hands on a copy of the IPG from 2010, … Continue reading →
A new Judge can have lots of questions about the Judge program. Brogan, Bryan and Jess try to answer all the questions you have, and even a few you didn’t know you had. How do I get a Shirt? What … Continue reading →
CJ Shrader joins us as Brogan hosts JudgeCast’s new game show, “Wait, Wait, Don’t Spell Me.” She asks the team questions about Unstable mechanics and cards, and the team gives their best answer (along with some not so accurate ones). Check … Continue reading →
Brogan, Bryan, and Jess break down all the turn-based actions that occur in Magic, even the ones no one knows about! Did you know there are special ones just for the beginning of combat step and the precombat main phase? … Continue reading →
This special bonus episode discusses the new Unstable card Rules Lawyer. In addition, we talk about the alternate art Judge promo version that will be available to judges starting in January! Have a listen and learn about how Unstable breaks … Continue reading →
We spent Halloween talking about some of our favorite rules and interactions, both obscure and intricate. What’s yours?
This episode we tackle special actions in the Comp Rules. They’re not just for Leonin Arbiter anymore! Other rules episodes we referenced: Steps of casting a spell (JC #71) https://judgecast.com/archives/531 Morph (JC #99) https://judgecast.com/archives/707 State-Based Actions (JC #147) https://judgecast.com/archives/974
The JudgeCast crew spent the weekend at GP Providence, and they’re here to tell the tale! BPrill was on sides, Brogan was on the main, and Jess was playing in his favorite format. Listen as we regale you with stories … Continue reading →
Vampires and Pirates and Dinosaurs, oh my! Let’s walk the dinosaur together as we prepare for Ixalan prerelease weekend with a review the new mechanics rules changes, and most interesting new cards from Ixalan. You can check out the official release … Continue reading →
L2 Kyle Knudson, Event Guru at Cascade Games, joins us to talk about Magic events that take place at conventions. We talk about his experiences at PAX, Comic-Con, and elsewhere. They’re great fun and great learning opportunities for level 1+ judges. Check … Continue reading →
On this episode, we are joined by Level 3 Judge Eric Levine, a member of the Player Investigation Committee, to talk about Bribery. What is it, how do you recognize it, and what isn’t bribery? Find the answers to these questions … Continue reading →
In this episode, we discuss the Commander format and the perks and quirks of cards in the new Commander 2017 decks. What happens if your cat is enchanted by a rat? How does phasing even work? How does Commander Damage work, … Continue reading →
Level Three judge Matt Williams joins us to discuss the JudgeCast Open that took place in Atlanta recently, where all three of our hosts were Classic HJs on Sunday. We talk about some challenges that lead to the event and … Continue reading →
In this episode, we talk about the state of judge testing, some styles of learning, and how one can study and prepare for tests without being able to spam practice tests. In addition to JudgeCast, we talk about lots of … Continue reading →
Settle in as Brogan, Bryan, and Jess bring you everything you need to know about Hour of Devastation. Learn about the Afflict mechanic as well as the pseudo-return of Embalm and Exert. We also go over all our favorite new … Continue reading →
Welcome to Episode #175 In this Episode we talk about things a player may want to know before taking the plunge and attending their first Competitive Rules Enforcement Episode. What is a decklist and why do I need to bring … Continue reading →
Edit: This is the second attempt to publish this episode. The first had some unfortunate audio errors that made it impossible to listen to. This has been corrected. Sorry about that. -Jess We are joined by L3 and GP Head … Continue reading →
The JudgeCast team reprises an episode from five years ago by tackling replacement effects. If you would skip this episode, instead don’t! Replacement effects rules on Yawgatog: http://yawgatog.com/resources/magic-rules/#R614
There’s a lot to go over in this policy episode, but first we introduce the newest regular co-host of JudgeCast. Please welcome Brogan King back to the show for her first episode as a full-fledged co-host! The MTR, the IPG, … Continue reading →
We are once again joined by Brogan King as we talk about the newest Magic set, AlmondCat! Oh wait… Amonkhet! Yeah, that one. We discuss the mechanics, what we love, what we hate, and some Madness Weirdness. And, of course, … Continue reading →
Listen to Channelfireball.com’s own Jon Saso and Mashi Scanlan talk about the new world of Grand Prix and the challenges they face ramping up from 12 GPs this year to ~55 next year! What does this mean for the events, the players, and especially the judges? We ask those questions and ask for your feedback. Do...
Listen to Channelfireball.com’s own Jon Saso and Mashi Scanlan talk about the new world of Grand Prix and the challenges they face ramping up from 12 GPs this year to ~55 next year! What does this mean for the events, … Continue reading →
Join us in talking to Brogan King, an admin of the Review Revue Facebook Group. We talk about that project and reviews generally. This includes what a judge review is, how to access them, and the different kinds of reviews … Continue reading →
Welcome back our Judge of the Week interviewer and level 2 judge Jacob Milicic (From episode #166) to talk about his experience Head Judging a recent StarCityGames.com Classic event. We ask him a lot of questions and get even more … Continue reading →
On this episode, we’re joined by the amazing Billy Willy to discuss the numerous parts of a card. Find out about the rules for illustrations (yes, there’s a rule for that!) and how set symbols used to be relevant in … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have special guest and representative of Judge of the Week Jacob Milicic on to interview us for Judge of the Week! You can consider a future Judge of the Week spoiled! Jacob asks us a fantastic … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have special guest and representative of Judge of the Week Jacob Milicic on to interview us for Judge of the Week! You can consider a future Judge of the Week spoiled! Jacob asks us a fantastic range of questions, including how we got started, what we do to edit, if each...
On this episode, we cover quite a bit of news and policy updates! So much, that we have to bring special guest Erik Aliff on to help! Some mysterious changes to hidden card error, some tweaks to looking at extra … Continue reading →
On this episode, we cover quite a bit of news and policy updates! So much, that we have to bring special guest Erik Aliff on to help! Some mysterious changes to hidden card error, some tweaks to looking at extra cards, and some exciting changes to deck decklist error! If you’re not excited about minor...
We’re back with the Aether Revolt release notes episode, and this time we’re joined by judge Amanda Coots, who helps us go over the mechanics and favorite cards from the new set. She also tells us what it’s like when the rodeo’s … Continue reading →
On this episode, we take a look at the various changes to the Judge Program over the year. Policy changes, Program changes, personal changes; we run the gambit. We also discuss our favorite episode from 2016 and what 2017 holds … Continue reading →
On this episode, we take a look at the various changes to the Judge Program over the year. Policy changes, Program changes, personal changes; we run the gambit. We also discuss our favorite episode from 2016 and what 2017 holds for us personally and for the podcast. It gets surprisingly heavy for such a light...
On this episode, we take the time to go over listener e-mails! We cover rules, policy, and some mysterious “other” questions. The mysteries of transform are revealed, and how many Emrakuls are too many Emrakuls? Also, everyone’s second favorite weird … Continue reading →
We combine our deep and vast wealth of knowledge to talk about all the “other” stuff you need to know to head judge your first PPTQ. Sure, you know there are 50 minute rounds with a 40 minute minimum. But … Continue reading →
On this episode, the three amigos cover everything anyone could ever want to know about copy effects. If by the end of this there is some corner of copy effects you don’t understand, then you just weren’t listening. On this … Continue reading →
On this episode, the three amigos cover everything anyone could ever want to know about copy effects. If by the end of this there is some corner of copy effects you don’t understand, then you just weren’t listening. On this episode, the three amigos cover everything anyone could ever want to know about copy effects....
On this spooookky episode (That came out after Halloween, but what’re you gonna do) we talk all about the Graveyard! We go into random rules around it, talk about a mish mash of graveyard abilities, and talk about a few … Continue reading →
On this spooookky episode (That came out after Halloween, but what’re you gonna do) we talk all about the Graveyard! We go into random rules around it, talk about a mish mash of graveyard abilities, and talk about a few of our favorite graveyard cards. You know, like Savannah Lions!
It’s important, when you have a podcast, to come up with great memorable titles for your episodes. On this episode, we have fungus expert, L2, and prolific judge blogger Nik Zitomer on to talk about balancing out your work, judging, … Continue reading →
It’s important, when you have a podcast, to come up with great memorable titles for your episodes. On this episode, we have fungus expert, L2, and prolific judge blogger Nik Zitomer on to talk about balancing out your work, judging, playing, and family life. We also talk about some of the advantages that Magic can...
We spend this episode going over a mish-mash of policy updates and news! First, we cover some of the new IPG updates. Nothing earth-shattering, but some new changes to HCE, tweaks to Missed Trigger, some clarifications on DDLP downgrades, and some … Continue reading →
Tabak and Mox, attorneys at law. Tabak and Mox, chefs extraordinaire. Tabak and Mox, crime fighting duo. Whatever they may be to you, we have Matt Tabak (Some random editor at WotC who would agree to be on. I think … Continue reading →
Tabak and Mox, attorneys at law. Tabak and Mox, chefs extraordinaire. Tabak and Mox, crime fighting duo. Whatever they may be to you, we have Matt Tabak (Some random editor at WotC who would agree to be on. I think he writes some stories on the website?), Sara Mox (The judge manager at WotC and...
On this episode, we cover the pregame procedure! You already know the pregame procedure, you say? Just listen and see, I have a feeling you’ll learn something that surprises you. We also cover everything that can go wrong in the … Continue reading →
On this episode, we cover the pregame procedure! You already know the pregame procedure, you say? Just listen and see, I have a feeling you’ll learn something that surprises you. We also cover everything that can go wrong in the pregame procedure, and occasionally a quick overview on how to fix it. There’s a lot...
We talk about the newest Conspiracy set! We discuss what Conspiracy is and what to look out for, and give a brief refresher on multiplayer rules. We then cover the new mechanics, including the king of all new mechanics: Monarch! … Continue reading →
We talk about the newest Conspiracy set! We discuss what Conspiracy is and what to look out for, and give a brief refresher on multiplayer rules. We then cover the new mechanics, including the king of all new mechanics: Monarch! We fight over the pronunciation of melee and goad each other over the pronunciation of...
We have L2, frequent e-mailer, and pirate aficionado Kali Rainwater to help us get through our backlog of e-mails. We cover policy questions like how to handle if someone actually drew out of their sideboard, or if you can scry 3 … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have L3, RC, and swell guy extraordinaire Rob McKenzie on to talk about Judge Projects! We cover what are judge projects, how to join them and be involved in the judge community, how to start them, … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have L3, RC, and swell guy extraordinaire Rob McKenzie on to talk about Judge Projects! We cover what are judge projects, how to join them and be involved in the judge community, how to start them, and talk about some of our favorites (Sorry if we didn’t mention your favorite project…there’s...
As per the pact made with 4 demons, we are back yet again with another Release Notes episode! We cover our top picks of cards that we think are interesting rules-wise or maybe just interesting. We seem to really like … Continue reading →
As per the pact made with 4 demons, we are back yet again with another Release Notes episode! We cover our top picks of cards that we think are interesting rules-wise or maybe just interesting. We seem to really like cards that make spirits, and we make sure everyone knows a new card isn’t a...
It’s that spooooookkkkyyyy time again! The Release Notes for Eldritch Moon will be emerging soon, and to prevent our episodes from escalating in length too much, we decided to go ahead and cover the rules ahead of the release notes … Continue reading →
It’s that spooooookkkkyyyy time again! The Release Notes for Eldritch Moon will be emerging soon, and to prevent our episodes from escalating in length too much, we decided to go ahead and cover the rules ahead of the release notes being released! Just meld this episode with the one after it to get the entire...
We’re missing Bryan this episode, so take the opportunity to go over one of our oldest ideas for a show topic: Head Judge announcements! We cover what you should think about saying in your announcements, how you should prepare, and … Continue reading →
We’re missing Bryan this episode, so take the opportunity to go over one of our oldest ideas for a show topic: Head Judge announcements! We cover what you should think about saying in your announcements, how you should prepare, and how you should actually present the announcements. Here is CJ’s outline for the last event...
Release notes: the eternal punishment for being a JudgeCast host. We cover all the exciting abilities in Eternal Masters, and a wide selection of our favorite nostalgia-filled and most-dreaded cards! Animate Dead! Werebear! Sylvan Library! Isochron Scepter! All these and … Continue reading →
Much like SBAs, we post every time you’re about to get priority. That makes no sense. But we’re here and covering State Based Actions again! Learn all about these little critters that help keep the game clean and fresh. GP … Continue reading →
Much like SBAs, we post every time you’re about to get priority. That makes no sense. But we’re here and covering State Based Actions again! Learn all about these little critters that help keep the game clean and fresh. GP Charlotte SK Article: http://www.mtgscorekeeper.com/2016/05/gp-charlotte-2016-saturday.html Why does Bryan hate CJ?
We’re back with another e-mail episode! We cover a variety of rules topics and touch on a couple of policy questions as well. How does converge work with clones? How much information is too much on the back of a … Continue reading →
We’re back with another e-mail episode! We cover a variety of rules topics and touch on a couple of policy questions as well. How does converge work with clones? How much information is too much on the back of a match slip? Who is our most prolific e-mailer? Can we ever be wrong in an...
As promised, we discuss the new level redefinition in this episode. We cover why the changes were made and what it means for each level of judge. We also make weird wrestling references? Blog Announcing the Reasoning: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/04/11/the-new-new-world-order/ Explanations of current … Continue reading →
New set, new IPG, new infractions! We go in depth on Hidden Card Error and how it looks now. It’s much more clear and generally we’re all a lot happier with it, and you will be too after you listen … Continue reading →
CJ Shrader Creature — Human 1/2, UG Defender At the beginning of each upkeep, if CJ isn’t available to record, transform into Matt Williams. Matt Williams Creature — Human 2/1 (White/Red) Haste, Indestructible, Vigilance Matt Williams must attack each combat if able. … Continue reading →
Ok maybe that show title is a stretch. What’s this? An episode a week after our previous episode? It’s some kind of miracle! On this episode, we have a stacked crew of W. Matt Williams, Jared Sylva, and Riki Hayashi … Continue reading →
Ok maybe that show title is a stretch. What’s this? An episode a week after our previous episode? It’s some kind of miracle! On this episode, we have a stacked crew of W. Matt Williams, Jared Sylva, and Riki Hayashi on all to talk about their experiences in planning, judging, and playing in GP DC...
Skulk into a comfy chair and listen to this episode! We investigate the new Shadows over Innistrad Mechanics. Reading this is basically a promise to listen, so you have to now. You don’t want to be a double-faced liar about it. You’d … Continue reading →
Skulk into a comfy chair and listen to this episode! We investigate the new Shadows over Innistrad Mechanics. Reading this is basically a promise to listen, so you have to now. You don’t want to be a double-faced liar about it. You’d have to be delirious or struck by some form of madness to not...
On this episode, we talk about appeals in depth! What is an appeal? As the floor judge, what you should you do when you get appealed (And some tips on how to avoid it)?. As the head judge, what should … Continue reading →
On this episode, we talk about appeals in depth! What is an appeal? As the floor judge, what you should you do when you get appealed (And some tips on how to avoid it)?. As the head judge, what should you do when a floor judge comes to you with an appeal (Or doing the...
Another episode in a long and sordid history of forcing Bryan Prillaman’s name into the title. On this episode, we cover the Exemplar program in depth with its convenient leader, Bryan Prillaman! We talk about the history of the program … Continue reading →
Warning: Explicit language in this one As promised, we dedicate this episode entirely to Bryan and CJ’s judge suspension. We cover what happened, discuss why we didn’t report anything, and where we are today. If you’re more interested in fancy … Continue reading →
A new IPG is out, and with it some new changes! The most major is Hidden Card Error, which we cover in detail here. What is it? When to apply it? And examples galore abound! There are also some small … Continue reading →
Another set, another set of release notes. It’s our oath to you to have these episodes. In this one, we cover the more interesting tidbits of the Oath of the Gatewatch Release Notes! Looking for in-depth coverage on the new … Continue reading →
Another set, another set of release notes. It’s our oath to you to have these episodes. In this one, we cover the more interesting tidbits of the Oath of the Gatewatch Release Notes! Looking for in-depth coverage on the new mechanics? TOO BAD. That’s in the previous episode. But want to hear thoughts on specific...
a.k.a. “The non-suspension stuff starts at 32:10” Bryan and CJ got player suspensions for 3 months oh no! We spend some time talking about what that means, what happened (as much as we can say right now) and what the … Continue reading →
It’s time again for another e-mail show! We cover a wide variety of topics from listeners just like you, such as: what is appropriate on a decklist, copy effects, random cards from Portal and 9th edition, blocking order, how to … Continue reading →
Is triggers are wonderful things! In this episode, we take a deep dive into triggers. You might know how to identify a trigger, but did you know there are different types of triggers? State triggers, zone change triggers, intervening if … Continue reading →
All three hosts were at GP Atlanta! We spend this episode to talk about our experiences, including what our roles were and what we ended up doing throughout the weekend. It was a big GP and a lot of fun, … Continue reading →
On this episode, the equivalent of the Avengers for deck checking assembles to share our great bounty of knowledge upon you. We talk about what deck checks are and why we do them (Beyond just the fact that the MTR … Continue reading →
On this episode, the equivalent of the Avengers for deck checking assembles to share our great bounty of knowledge upon you. We talk about what deck checks are and why we do them (Beyond just the fact that the MTR says to). We also cover our favorite methods for performing a deck check, all the...
We decide to cover a topic we did in one of our very first episodes all over again, but this time we bring special guest Justin Turner (L3, RC of the SouthEast) into the mix to help us. Hear some … Continue reading →
We decide to cover a topic we did in one of our very first episodes all over again, but this time we bring special guest Justin Turner (L3, RC of the SouthEast) into the mix to help us. Hear some of the most common mistakes judges make, and some of our own stories of our...
On this episode, we cover the brand new IPG in all its glory! We take another deep dive into the changes made for DEC, talk about handling scry with mulligans (And a new tournament shortcut built around scry), and a … Continue reading →
On this episode, we cover the brand new IPG in all its glory! We take another deep dive into the changes made for DEC, talk about handling scry with mulligans (And a new tournament shortcut built around scry), and a bunch of miscellaneous changes up to and including it now being illegal to bribe a...
In our quarterly tradition, we’re back with an episode all about the Battle for Zendikar release notes! We cover every mechanic in depth, and pick out the juiciest looking cards to give you a boost for playing in and judging … Continue reading →
In our quarterly tradition, we’re back with an episode all about the Battle for Zendikar release notes! We cover every mechanic in depth, and pick out the juiciest looking cards to give you a boost for playing in and judging your prerelease. Want to learn how Awakening a spell might not always be the best...
JudgeCast is excited to introduce Molten Nursery to the world! We spend this special episode discussing the card in-depth, including everything rules-related for the card and our own personal thoughts on all parts of the card, down to the flavor … Continue reading →
Ahoy! We take an episode to get caught up on e-mails, and with the help of Nicolette Apraez, L2 from Wiscons (you’ll get it soon), we are able to knock out a whopping 12 e-mails in one short, action packed … Continue reading →
We have L4, 15 year judge, and head of the Conference Sphere Damián Hiller on to talk about conferences. We cover what to expect from attending and presenting at a conference, how the entire conference system works, and how a being … Continue reading →
We have L4, 15 year judge, and head of the Conference Sphere Damián Hiller on to talk about conferences. We cover what to expect from attending and presenting at a conference, how the entire conference system works, and how a being a judge for 15 years can make you lose your hair. Conferences blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/conferences/
We have special guest Riki Hayashi on to talk about cover letters, and applying to events in general on Judge Apps! We talk about how to prepare your profile, and what to include in your applications, and what not to … Continue reading →
Yes I know I used this title on episode 38. YOU COME UP WITH NEARLY 100 TITLES AND KEEP THEM FRESH. Speaking of fresh, we have a brand new IPG out! This one has some big changes, and we go … Continue reading →
The release notes for Magic Origins are here! Learn about double faced cards, spell mastery, and renown! Want to hear our thoughts on Lorwyn for some reason? Well they are in this episode! How about an extremely unlikely corner case … Continue reading →
On this JudgeCast SPECIAL, CJ tried something different: To capture the usual judge chats that happen after a GP and have them recorded for all of posterity. The problem? Those chats are made in a moving car, and the sound quality … Continue reading →
We take an episode to talk about all the judge levels, up to and including levels 1, 4, and even 2! Yep, all 5 of the levels are here. We talk about the roles and responsibilities of each level, what’s … Continue reading →
On this very special episode, we have Toby Elliott (one of the many head judges of GP Vegas, L5, and all around swell guy) on to give us a debrief of GP Vegas. We talk about some of the planning … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have special guest David Greene on (Of Judge’s Corner fame!) to help us cover most of the abilities and many of the cards in Modern Masters. We put a little bit of extra focus on these … Continue reading →
We have special guest and very-long-time-judge David Hibbs on to discuss the Judge Hall of Fame and the history of the judge program in general. We cover some of Hibbs’s favorites from the first ballot, talk about the early days of … Continue reading →
We dedicate this episode to e-mails! We get caught up on a bunch, covering such topics as: What to do when a judge is wrong, rules questions with Dragonlord Silumgar, what is rotting in Jess’s fridge, assorted additional rules questions, … Continue reading →
The definitive episode on missed triggers! How to recognize them, how to tell whether or not one was missed, and what to do after you know one was missed. CJ was sick so we have special guest and former host … Continue reading →
We have our very own April Fool on, L3 and RC Justin Turner, to talk about how to talk to a TO when you’re new in town. We cover such topics like how to show you add value to the … Continue reading →
Part 2 of our episodes on the Dragons of Tarkir release notes! We cover the rulings on some individual cards, with some behind-the-scenes looks thanks to our returning guest Matt Tabak! Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/dragons-tarkir-release-notes-2015-03-18 Fblthp Walking the Planes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LF7l4gkOekY
On this super-special episode we have Magic Rules Manager and all around tall dude Matt Tabak on to talk about the Dragons of Tarkir release notes! We’ve split the notes into two episodes. In this one, you’ll find a discussion … Continue reading →
Part 3 of our mega-series on all the formats legal in FNM! In this episode, we focus on the limited formats that can be played in FNM: Solomon, Winston, Rotisserie, Cube, Back, Pick a Pack, and Reject Rare draft. And … Continue reading →
We go off-script and cover Zones in detail! Learn exciting facts about the “battlezone,” the exile zone, objects moving between zones, and listen to us bravely try to come up with scenarios for some of these ridiculous rules. We also … Continue reading →
Alternate proposed titles: “Backing up is hard to do,” “We got your backup,” “Baby got backup,” “Backup to the future,” and “The Way Backup Machine.” Also the words “Back that sass up” were said at one point. On this episode, … Continue reading →
(You know, like the movie) On this episode, we have L4 and charity playmat star Jared Sylva on to discuss investigations! And not just the cheaty-kind too, but what it means to walk up on a table blind and determine … Continue reading →
It’s manifesting time! Just doesn’t have the same ring as morphin’ time. Sad. On this episode, we cover the FAQ for Fate Reforged. We cover some specific cards and go over the new rules for Dash, Bolster, and everyone’s favorite … Continue reading →
This is another part in our series on all the newly legal FNM formats, and how to play them and judge them! In this episode, we’re able to cover the relatively-new Tiny Leaders format, Wizard’s Tower, Emperor, Star, Archenemy, Planechase, … Continue reading →
This episode is as casual as they come! The JudgeCasters have special guest Joe Hughto on to simply reminisce about whatever we want. Get a little taste of what happens before and after every show, and what happens at every … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have frequent guest, L4, former Regional Coordinator, Smooth Voice Champion 6 Years Running, JudgeCast co-creator Sean Catanese on to talk about the new Code of Conduct document. We cover why the document exists, what it says, … Continue reading →
On this very special episode, we finally dedicate an entire episode to the JAR. This is must-have knowledge for L1 hopefuls, and really something every judge needs to know at all levels as the nearly all sanctioned Magic events that … Continue reading →
Is that reference in the title too obtuse? Nah. On this episode, we once again have L3 and/or fantastic guest Eric “Raging” Levine on! As part of our series on formats, we cover Commander in depth. Learn how to play … Continue reading →
JudgeCast starts a new mega-series, to be picked up at some point in the future. The plan? Cover every format that was announced to be legal for FNM. In this first episode of that series, we cover standard, modern, vintage, … Continue reading →
In this episode, the quickest judges this side of the Mississippi cover slow play in depth! When should you give it, how should you give it, why we give it, so on and so forth. If you’re a player, this … Continue reading →
The Judgers Grimm take this episode to discuss the recent policy updates! We cover changes to Drawing Extra Cards, Improper Draw at Start of Game, GRV, and also go over how to handle morph at Competitive REL events! We also … Continue reading →
The Khans of JudgeCast go over the Khans of Tarkir FAQ! We cover the new mechanics (Except morph, we already did an episode on that and it didn’t change), and go over the interesting cards in the Khans FAQ. Links … Continue reading →
This episode is all about JudgeCast! We have some very special guests (Who could they be?!) on and discuss the past, present, and the future of JudgeCast in all its forms. If you’re only in it for the education, this … Continue reading →
You’ve all waited a long time, and finally we can say… It’s Morphin’ Time! With Morph coming back in Khans of Tarkir, we take this opportunity to talk about Morph and Face Down Spells/Permanents in general. We cover every situation … Continue reading →
It’s been an eventful month for judges! On this episode we have special guest Joe “Hugho” Hughto on to discuss all the changes coming down the pipe. We cover the Exemplar program, additional GPs coming to town, the changes to … Continue reading →
There’s been so much happening over the past few weeks! On this episode the judgefellas have special guest Justin Turner (L3 and RC) on to talk about some big changes to the judge program. We go into the L2 redefinition … Continue reading →
On this lovely episode of JudgeCast, we go over the interesting bits of the M15 FAQ. Learn about convoke! Or squid horrors! Or ape predators! Release notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/release-notes-2014-07-07
We discuss the disqualification process from start to finish, including the paperwork a judge needs to do and what happens after they pass it off. And because we don’t know what happens after the judge passes it off, we have … Continue reading →
On this episode, we each bring a smaller topic that doesn’t fill an entire episode but something we wanted to talk about. Learn about numbers! Setting life totals! Damage! Drawing cards! And the finer points of casting a spell. We … Continue reading →
On this episode, we cover the Conspiracy FAQ IN DEPTH. Learn all about Will of the Council, draft-matters cards (and how they interact with each other), Conspiracies, Dethrone, and Parley. We skip Morbid; you’ll be fine. We also read e-mails … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have Jeremy Behunin and Abe Corson on to talk Pro Tour Atlanta and judging the pro tour in general! What’s it take to judge a Pro Tour? How is it different than a GP? What are … Continue reading →
On this episode, we cover the newest incarnation of the IPG and the MTR! Topics include changes to the electronic device policy, the elimination of Failure to Follow Official Announcements, and the newly renamed Limited Procedure Violation. We also spend … Continue reading →
On this super-special episode, we strive (see what I did there) to bring you all the interesting and relevant interactions in Journey Into Nyx! We cover the FAQ in just-enough depth. Links from the show: The FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/faq/jou Judge Classes: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Judge_Classes Annotated … Continue reading →
On this, our second part of our two part series on types, we cover Subtypes and type-changing effects in detail! This podcast is not a trap and there is nothing arcane about it. Uhh…curse your gated shrines? Urza’s? This joke … Continue reading →
This episode promises to be anything but basic, in fact you might call it legendary! Are you snowed in with only your creature comforts? It’s a good thing you landed here of all places in the world. Turn on this … Continue reading →
On this episode, we have special guest L2 Carsten Haese on to talk about two projects near and dear to his heart. First, we discuss CranialInsertion.com, including its history, its purpose, and all the lovely things Carsten has done on … Continue reading →
On this episode, your very favorite team is back again to talk about team leading and the individual teams at an event! Learn more about the mysterious deck checking team (What could they possibly do?), the intriguing logistics team, and … Continue reading →
A new set is out, and with that comes new policy documents. We cover the minimal changes in depth, as well as take some time to get caught up on some e-mails (Including a few about Born of the Gods). … Continue reading →
Everything you need to know about Born of the Gods to prepare for your prerelease! We cover such exciting topics as tribute! Inspired! Devotion to multiple colors! That weird chimera that swaps things! So exciting! Also, a huge congratulations to … Continue reading →
On this episode we cover Tournament Shortcuts! These are used in almost every single game, yet many players aren’t even aware they are using them. We additionally have special guest Paul Baranay (L2 judge and all around Harvard superstar) on … Continue reading →
Merry Christmas and happy holidays! We clearly don’t like our listeners very much so this year everyone is getting a lump of coal in the form of this episode. We cover the most awful and defunct mechanics from Magic’s past. … Continue reading →
On this episode, the judgefellas team up to cover all the rules and procedures around two headed giant. Never again can you make the excuse of not knowing 2HG on those test questions. NEVER AGAIN We also talk about CJ’s … Continue reading →
On this episode we have very special guest John Temple on to talk about the Judge of the Week project. In a shocking twist, we’ve been nominated Judge of the Week and so John interviews us about JudgeCast’s past, present, … Continue reading →
We have super duper special guest and rules manager for all of Magic Matt Tabak on to discuss his life at Wizards and his opinions on punctuation. Truly, we waste our too-short time with him. But he did sing the … Continue reading →
Gather you ghouls and goblins and other Halloween stereotypes you hear on costume commercials and prepare for a spooooooky episode on the combat phase! We cover such creepy topics as the beginning of combat step, the end of combat step, … Continue reading →
On this episode we talk about the “being a jerk” portion of Unsporting Conduct in the IPG: Aggressive Behavior, Major, and Minor. Want to know what happens when someone literally flips a table? This episode is for you! As always … Continue reading →
We got so behind on e-mails we decided to dedicate an entire episode to them! Listen as we discuss bestow some more, talk tournament policy, CJ fails to pronounce anything correctly, and answer a whopping 24 e-mails from listeners around … Continue reading →
Your devotion to JudgeCast has been strong and so we bestow upon you a special gift! This FAQ episode is a heroic undertaking to answer all of the major rules questions that might come up at your prerelease and beyond. … Continue reading →
We have brand new fancy pants L4 and former host Sean Catanese on this very special episode! We discuss his rise to L4, his new roles and responsibilities, and how if it weren’t for the continuation of JudgeCast he never … Continue reading →
We have very special guest L4 Jeff Morrow on to talk about the life of an L4, and take an in-depth look at the L3 advancement process. As the man in charge of the L3 interview process, no one knows … Continue reading →
The JudgeFellas take some time to get caught up on this episode, and L2 James Elliott comes along to join the party (And lend his special brand of Scottish flair). We get caught up on e-mails, discuss the minor changes … Continue reading →
As promised, here is our very special episode on the steps to cast a spell. Think you already know how to cast a spell? You might be surprised! Already know how? Well maybe an L0 you know could use this … Continue reading →
In this episode, we have special guest Jason Flatford on and we cover the M14 FAQ and every detail you may need to know for your prerelease and beyond! We also spend too much time discussing the exact size of … Continue reading →
On this lighter episode, the JudgeCast bros discuss their experiences at GP Vegas and Miami, including rulings, interesting stories, and weird appeals. Of course we also read e-mails from listeners just like you! (A little note…we can’t answer every M14 … Continue reading →
We have special guest L3 Justin Turner on again, this time to discuss the (what feels like a million) abilities and mechanics in Modern Masters. Just in time for GP: Las Vegas! We of course also read our listener e-mails, … Continue reading →
Tuktuktutktuktuktuk On this episode, we cover all of the upcoming changes for M14! This includes how favorably the new legend rule works with Tuk Tuk the Explorer (Among other cards). We also get caught up on our e-mails, which range … Continue reading →
On this episode, the Billy Judges Gruff cover the top decks from GP Portland and any interesting rules interactions that can occur with those top decks. Note: This episode was recorded before the announcement of the M14 rules changes, but … Continue reading →
On this episode, we cover the (thankfully few) changes to the IPG, JAR, and MTR that came in the last round of updates. We also discuss our prerelease experiences and get caught up on e-mails! Links from the show: All … Continue reading →
In this JudgeCast SPECIAL (Meaning it’s a bonus episode), we cover the FAQ for Dragon’s Maze. We also go in-depth on split cards as they can be a bit of a tricky widget. Jess couldn’t make this episode so we … Continue reading →
On this episode the JudgeBros have special guest L1 Mark Bush on to discuss everything you need to know to be head judge of your first competitive level event. We cover everything from announcements, to talking to the tournament organizer, … Continue reading →
The boys are back in town with the second part of their two-part series on layers! This time, they cover the more complicated aspects of layers including dependencies and what happens when you remove an ability after it’s already done … Continue reading →
Copy the URL to this one down! Try to control your excitement! Text all of your friends who are rules-loving types and tell them to listen to our very special episode on layers (Or, “Interaction of Continuous Effects”). Never heard … Continue reading →
GP Charlotte was the largest Magic event to date (And much bigger than estimated), which had some unique judging challenges. We have L2 Matt Williams (lovingly referred to as Billy Willy) on to discuss being at the GP with a … Continue reading →
This is a good one! We have Level Emeritus…Emeritused…the former L5 Sheldon Menery on to talk about whatever we want! We discuss cats, the history of the judge program, being an L5, naming beasts, and anything else that comes to … Continue reading →
Okay. You people sit tight, hold the fort and keep the home fires burning. And if we’re not back by dawn… call the president. On this episode we have special guest L3 James Bennett on to discuss the new (super … Continue reading →
Get ready for judging and playing Gatecrash with this episode of JudgeCast! We cover all of the new mechanics and a lot of the cards that may be interesting rules-wise during the prerelease! We also answer all our Gatecrash-related mails. … Continue reading →
In this episode, CJ, Jess, and Bryan discuss the steps and phases of a turn. Is it worth it? Let me work it. I put my thing down, flip it and reverse it. Or something like that. I’m not up … Continue reading →
On this episode of JudgeCast we have brand-new L4 judge (and alleged robot) Jared Sylva on to discuss his recent promotion. We talk about the roles and responsibilities of an L4 judge and ask Jared all kinds of fabulous questions. … Continue reading →
On this ostentatious episode of JudgeCast, the fellas have special guest Jeremy Behunin on! We get caught up on some news over the past few weeks (Judge stream! L3 changes!) and get caught up on our listener e-mail. For our … Continue reading →
A new IPG is out and effective on October 1, and that means it’s time for us to discuss all the changes in it! This time, it’s a really good one. We have L5 and Policy Master Toby Elliott on … Continue reading →
What time Izzet? Prerelease time! In this special, off-schedule episode the judge fellas go over the new rules and interesting interactions that could make you an unstoppable Tyran-Azorius Rex at your prerelease! No need to Rakdos brains about how Overload … Continue reading →
On this episode of JudgeCast we have two very special guests: Justin Turner and Sean Catanase! Justin is regional coordinator of the southeast, and Sean (as well as being a creator/former host of JudgeCast) is regional coordinator southwest. Both men … Continue reading →
Jess missed last episode. CJ missed this one. Now, if we can only get Bryan to miss one. But that’s OK. Because we have James Tiberius Bennett in this Episode. In addition to having the finest beard in the program, … Continue reading →
You see, Jess Dunks couldn’t make it to this episode so we replaced him with nothing. The joke will make a lot more sense when you listen to this fabulous episode about replacement effects! We also go over some recent … Continue reading →
The Hosts are back in town with another awesome guest host! This time we have the knowledgeable and hilarious Eric Levine on to discuss investigations. Whether you’ve never disqualified a person or you sleep atop a pile of DQ reports, … Continue reading →
Your three JudgeCast monkeys are back to see no evil, hear no evil, and do no evil! On this episode we discuss our GP Atlanta adventures and also some of the bad habits that otherwise good L1s (And sometimes L2s) … Continue reading →
Jess, CJ, and Bryan are back with another action packed episode of JudgeCast! On this episode, we discuss the new Infraction Procedure Guide and Magic Tournament Rules. We also take some time to discuss how priority works in Magic (You’re … Continue reading →
How well do you know your State Based Actions? Could you name all 21 of them? Could you accurately compare them to some cartoon that only Bryan is aware of? After this show, you’ll be able to do all of … Continue reading →
Jess unfortunately couldn’t join us for this podcast, so Bryan and CJ soldier on with a very special guest: Jon Loucks from Limited Resources! We kick the show off with some discussion on the Cavern of Souls ruling, do a crack a pack … Continue reading →
Your favorite three-man group since the Blue Man Group is back! There has been much discussion lately about women in Magic, and this show Bryan, Jess, and CJ invite L3 Ingrid Lind-Jahn on to give a JudgeCast twist to the … Continue reading →
JudgeCast welcomes a third host to the mix! You’ll never guess who it is (Hint: His name rhymes with Lion Frillapan). We talk about our prerelease experiences and other news. Do you know the difference between free, derived, and private … Continue reading →
Bryan Prillaman joins Jess and CJ again for another action-packed episode of JudgeCast. (If you listen real close you can hear a high speed chase in the background, followed by an explosion. ACTION) We go over the new abilities coming … Continue reading →
On this episode CJ and Jess have professional cheater-catcher Arthur Halavais on to discuss how you can look out for Manipulation of Game Materials. We also discuss the much-anticipated changes to the IPG and the MTR, as well as other … Continue reading →
Jess and CJ (Collectively known as CJess) return! We have a guest on, the lovely and informative L2 Bryan Prillaman. Bryan talks about the roles and responsibility of being a judge manager for GP Orlando and the upcoming GP Atlanta. … Continue reading →
Judgecast is back! In this episode, Sean hands off the show to the new and extremely handsome hosts of Judgecast: Jess Dunks and CJ Shrader. We spend some time introducing ourselves, talk about the changes that happened to the Infraction … Continue reading →
Sean (freshly minted Level 3!) and Riki are joined by Canadian judge Chris Landsell to talk about PT Philly, GP Montreal. They also cover investigations in more detail, listener questions, and an extra special interview with new L3 judge and … Continue reading →
In this Judge Conference learning sessions, Eric Levine will discuss ‘How to prevent judging mistakes’.
In this Judge Conference learning sessions, Jeff Morrow will discuss ‘Resources available to judges’.
In this Judge Conference learning sessions, Tody Elliot will discuss ‘How to recover from judging mistakes ‘.
In this Judge Conference learning sessions, Tody Elliot will discuss ‘How you can help the DCI’.
In this short interview, Sean interviews his wife Lindsay about her perspective on Magic, judges, and how the game can be more accessible to women. Some of the interview questions were blatantly stolen from the guys over at RedSiteWins in … Continue reading →
This episode, our guest is CJ Shrader, L2 from Atlanta. He’s got a judge conference coming up. You should go. Also, now we know what it takes to become a L3 Judge. Riki helps us cover the checklist and explain … Continue reading →
This episode is chock full of guest goodness. Riki returns for his second show in a row, Jose is also here. But wait, there’s more! We’re joined by Michael Jimenez, Californian L2 and fellow Canada-basher, and Andreas Jepsen, the intrepid … Continue reading →
Riki’s back for this extended-double-huge episode, and he brings the banter. In this mountain of content, we discuss the new changes to the Magic Infraction Procedure Guidelines, tons of great listener questions, Pro Tour Philly anticipation, and all manner of … Continue reading →
For this episode, Sean and Jose discuss the new judge classes you can find here:http://wiki.dcifamily.org/index.php/Judge_Classes, changes to FNM’s offerings, listener questions, characteristic-defining abilities, and fixing the last episode where Sean cut a part out that he shouldn’t have.
Kevin Binswanger re-joins our crew for this riveting, timely episode! Your intrepid hosts cover myriad varied subjects this time around, including the May rules changes and updates (http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/daily/feature/141a) and the NPH FAQ just in time for your local prerelease (http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/daily/arcana/703). … Continue reading →
We’ve been a long time gone…and a lot’s happened during our time away. Nonetheless, send your rules questions tojudgecast@gmail.com (we’ve been answering them even on hiatus). In this episode, Sean and Jose cover new developments in the DCI, including a mass … Continue reading →
Our guest in this episode is Kevin Binswanger, DCI Regional Coordinator for the Southwest United States. We chat about remote judge certification, regional conferences, and his war with northern Europe. Jose’s battery dies midway (or the DCI ninjas got to him, … Continue reading →
For BanterCast (Episode #25), Riki returns for the SCG Open in San Jose. We cover his spin out in Nebraska, interesting rulings from the tournament floor, and a host of banter. When Jose and Riki get started, Sean doesn’t stand … Continue reading →
Worlds Interviews in #24, including Fabian Peck, Edwin Zhang (China’s DCI Regional Coordinator), and a great review of how logistics works at a large event from Australian Level 4 Judge James Mackay. Rules and policy questions can be sent tojudgecast@gmail.com, … Continue reading →
Hello and welcome to JudgeCast! This time, Sean and Jose discuss Sean’s recent trip to Magic’s World Championship in Chiba, Japan. We also bring you interviews recorded on the event floor and elsewhere (stay tuned for more in future episodes). … Continue reading →
In this episode, the Sean (newly relocated to Berkeley, CA) and Jose (still in Sacramento) cover the hottest new things in the world of judging Magic, ahead of Sean’s trip to Chiba later this week. Is Saito Magic’s new Pete … Continue reading →
In this episode, our intrepid JudgeCast crew is dragged back to the mike, kicking and screaming to talk about recent changes to the Wizards Play Network that may impact events near you. Sean and Jose also cover California State Champs … Continue reading →
Episode 20 here where L2 judge Sean Catanese and L1 judge Jose Boveda finish our largest pack giveaway contest, talk about GP Portland and Worlds coming up, talk about pro tour resources, kick off a new contest and of course … Continue reading →
Jose Boveda from JudgeCast here, with a brand spankin new episode! I know, I’m as surprised as you are. Anyway here it is. Sean has given me the job of sending this, but he was mum on additional details so … Continue reading →
The JudgeCast crew took a short road trip to the Bay Area to interview Toby Elliott, Level 5 judge and all-around policy guru. They talk at length about the new Magic Infraction Procedure Guide, Tournament Rules, and Guide to Fixing … Continue reading →
Sean, Riki, and Jose are back with a plan for this episode, including: – Reviewing the changes in the new Magic Infraction Procedure Guidelines, Magic Tournament Rules, and brand spankin’ new Fixing Common Errors document – What do you do … Continue reading →
In this episode, Sean, Riki, and Jose are back with listeners’ questions, stories, and rules and tournament quandries. They discuss how to not kill a Tarmogoyf with the slowest Lightning Bolt ever. Other things covered in this episode include upgrading penalties, split … Continue reading →
This time Sean, Jose, and Riki discuss JudgeCast #15! Send us your questions, stories, and contest entries at judgecast@gmail.com! Thanks, as always, to our hosts at MTGCast and the folks at Music Alley (http://music.mevio.com) for providing podsafe bumper music by Carbon … Continue reading →
This time Sean, Jose, and Riki delve into the realm of what you can and can’t say at the end of a tournament when all you want to do is win something or make top 8, using a fellow podcasting … Continue reading →
Sean, Riki, and Jose are back with more from the world of judging Magic! They discuss listener e-mails, rules questions, and tournament scenarios. They field a couple questions from the Yo! MtG Taps hosts, and Sean promises to cut some … Continue reading →
Once again, Riki and Sean talk rules, policy, tournaments, and give away packs! They go in-depth on Riki’s future with StarCity Games (he’s got a real job there!) and what it means for JudgeCast. They also cover a ton of … Continue reading →
After a longer-than-expected delay (Sean’s fault, not our hosts’!), Riki and Sean are back with more stories from the trenches and answers to your questions. What happens when Experiment Kraj adds 2 loyalty counters and taunts your opponent? How did Riki lose … Continue reading →
We test a power 9 card for authenticity (thanks to our guest DCI L1 Judge Jose Boveda), answer tons of rules questions, and pick a winner of our “worst mangling of the rules” story contest. We also pick a winner … Continue reading →
Riki and Sean have a special guest this time, Toby Elliott, one of four Level 5 judges in the world! Toby discusses the new edition of the Magic Infraction Procedure Guidelines in depth, as he’s known as the “policy guy” … Continue reading →
Riki and Sean discuss the recent changes to the Magic Infraction Procedure Guidelines published and how they might affect interactions between players, their opponents, and the judges who babysit…er…answer their calls. They have a ton of new listener questions ranging … Continue reading →
How do you properly resolve the trigger on Rhystic Study? Is Vesuva broken with Scapeshift? Riki and Sean are back with more of your questions and a few clarifications from episodes past. They’ve also decided to start giving stuff away because, … Continue reading →
Riki and Sean take on your rules questions as always, and go in depth to talk about what each of the levels of judges does, how they’re different, and what it means to advance. Send your questions to judgecast@gmail.com. Our great … Continue reading →
In this episode, Riki and Sean discuss their experiences at Pro Tour San Diego, including a couple sensitive incidents that have caused a stir among players and judges alike. They also answer listeners’ e-mail questions about the fine line between … Continue reading →
This time, Riki and Sean have taken the show on the road. Sean sat down with a unique pair of judges at Grand Prix Oakland to get the international perspective of Barry Swan (L2 from Colombia and Head Judge of … Continue reading →
Riki and Sean are back with more of your rules and player interaction questions, from listeners spanning the globe (and try to pump up the volume a bit)! They also cover Riki’s dominating performance at a Grand Prix Trial for … Continue reading →
In this episode, Riki and Sean introduce the world’s newest Level 1 judge, Jose Boveda, and celebrate Sean’s leveling up to Level 2. Riki and Sean (and Jose!) explain how they got started in judging. They cover interesting rules interactions … Continue reading →
In this inaugural episode, Riki and Sean introduce JudgeCast to the world and hit the ground running. Topics for this episode include: – Game loss penalties given in the recent Star City Games Legacy $5K – Complex rules interactions for … Continue reading →