MTG Alters: What They Are & Why You'll Love Them

Hey there, fellow Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts! Ever wondered about those gorgeous, unique cards you see floating around, the ones that make your opponents do a double-take? Well, you've stumbled upon the world of MTG alters! Let's dive deep and explore what MTG alters are all about, why they're so awesome, and how you can get your hands on some. Get ready to have your card-collecting world turned upside down (in a good way!).

Unveiling the Magic: What are MTG Alters?

So, what exactly are MTG alters, you ask? Simply put, they're modified Magic: The Gathering cards. Artists, using their creative wizardry, take existing cards and transform them into something totally unique. This can involve anything from adding new art, extending the existing artwork, or even completely changing the card's appearance while keeping the original game text. Think of it as giving your favorite cards a makeover, a fresh coat of paint, or a whole new personality! These alterations can range from subtle enhancements to full-blown artistic masterpieces, each one adding a personal touch to your deck.

Alters are not the same as proxies. Proxies are usually used to stand in for expensive cards, or cards that you don't own. MTG alters, on the other hand, are the real deal, legally playable in most formats (more on that later!). They’re about expressing yourself, showcasing your love for the game, and adding a little bit of pizzazz to your gameplay experience. It's like having a custom-built car versus a factory model – both get you to your destination, but one has that extra touch of personality.

The beauty of MTG alters lies in their diversity. You can find alters that are humorous, serious, thematic, or abstract. Some artists specialize in a particular style, like border extensions that make the art burst out of the card frame. Others focus on creating full art cards that completely reimagine the card's original artwork. There is truly an alter out there for everyone, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. You can even commission an artist to create a custom alter based on your specifications, resulting in a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your personal style and love for the game.

Why Embrace the Altered Life: Benefits of MTG Alters

Alright, so they look cool, but why should you consider getting some MTG alters for your own collection? Let's break down the advantages, shall we?

• Personalization and Uniqueness: This is the big one! Alters allow you to infuse your personality into your deck. Want your favorite creature to feature your pet? Done! Do you want your commander to look like a character from your favorite movie? Consider it done! Having alters in your deck sets you apart from the crowd, making your deck truly your own. Each card tells a story and offers a glimpse into your unique perspective. It sparks conversations, attracts attention, and allows you to express your individual style. Your cards become a reflection of your character, and your deck becomes a conversation starter.
• Enhanced Collectibility and Value: While the price of alters can vary greatly, some highly sought-after alters by renowned artists can actually increase the value of your cards. This is especially true for limited edition alters or alters of iconic cards. If you're a collector, alters offer a unique opportunity to own one-of-a-kind pieces of art that also happen to be playable in your favorite game. They add a layer of prestige and rarity to your collection, making it even more special. The value of alters is often driven by the artist's reputation, the complexity of the alteration, and the popularity of the card itself.
• Artistic Appreciation: MTG alters are a celebration of art! They give incredible artists a platform to showcase their talent and passion. By collecting alters, you’re supporting the arts, directly contributing to the creative community, and appreciating the skills of talented artists. It's like having mini-art galleries within your deck. Each time you play, you’re not only enjoying the game but also appreciating the artistic beauty of each card. The attention to detail, the creativity, and the passion that goes into creating these alters are truly impressive.
• Conversation Starter: Let's be honest, alters are a great conversation starter. They often get attention during gameplay, sparking discussions about the art, the artist, and the card itself. It’s a fantastic way to connect with other players and share your love for MTG. Alters are a bridge between the game and art, creating a unique social experience. You’ll find yourself sharing stories about your cards, and exchanging experiences.

Finding the Right Alter: Types and Artists

Now, let's explore the types of MTG alters and how to find artists to create them!

There are several popular types of alters out there:

• Border Extensions: This is a classic! The artist extends the original artwork beyond the card's border, creating a visually stunning effect.
• Full Art Alters: The artist completely repaints the card, creating a brand new piece of art on the entire surface.
• Character Alters: This type of alter usually replaces the character artwork on the card to something completely different.
• Textless Alters: The artist removes the card text, leaving only the artwork. This is great for showcasing the artwork and removing any possible distractions.
• Token Alters: This is a fun and creative way to create custom tokens for your deck. You can even design your tokens.

Finding an artist can be done through various platforms:

• Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are full of talented alter artists. Search for hashtags like #mtgalters, #mtgartist, and #magicart to discover artists whose styles appeal to you. You can often directly contact artists through their social media profiles to discuss commissions.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like Etsy host a vibrant community of alter artists. You can browse their shops, view their portfolios, and purchase pre-made alters or commission custom pieces.
• MTG Communities: Join MTG online communities and forums, such as Reddit's r/mtgalters. You can find recommendations for artists, see examples of their work, and learn about commission opportunities.

Do some research, browse portfolios, and don’t hesitate to reach out to artists whose styles you admire. Discuss your ideas, get a quote, and make sure you and the artist are on the same page before commissioning an alter. Remember to ask for references if you have doubts, and be patient - creating an alter is a meticulous process, but the final result is well worth the wait.

Rules and Regulations: Playability of Alters

Okay, so you've got these amazing alters, but can you actually play with them? That's a valid question. The playability of alters depends on a few factors, and here's the lowdown:

• Tournament Legality: This is the most crucial part, because the rules can vary between tournament formats. Generally, if the artist's work doesn't obscure the card's name, mana cost, and rules text, and the card can still be easily identified, it's considered legal. However, the final decision rests with the head judge of the event. Always check with the tournament organizer beforehand.
• Casual Play: For casual games with friends, the rules are usually more relaxed. The most important thing is that everyone agrees that the alter is acceptable. Communicate with your group and make sure everyone's cool with your altered cards before you start playing.
• Judge's discretion: If the alter is too distracting or could be mistaken for another card, a judge might rule it as illegal. The goal is to make sure your card is still clearly identifiable. A good rule of thumb is that if an alter would cause confusion, it's best to err on the side of caution.
• Key Considerations: Ensure that the card is still easily recognizable. Don't cover up any key information, such as the card name, mana cost, or rules text. Make sure the alter doesn’t make it easier to cheat or manipulate the game. Consider the size of the artwork and that it does not create any advantage in a game, since some alters may be judged as marked cards.

Collecting and Caring for Your Altered Treasures

So, you're officially part of the alter-loving community, congrats! Here's how to protect your investments and keep your altered cards in tip-top shape:

• Sleeves and Toploaders: This is the most important step! Always sleeve your altered cards before playing with them. Use high-quality sleeves to protect them from scratches and wear and tear. Toploaders offer even further protection, especially if you're transporting your cards or putting them away for storage.
• Storage: Store your altered cards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Binders and deck boxes are great for organizing and protecting your collection. Consider using archival-quality storage materials to ensure that your cards remain in the best possible condition over time.
• Handling: Be mindful when handling your altered cards. Avoid bending or creasing them. Always wash your hands before handling them to avoid transferring oils and dirt. Be gentle when shuffling your deck to prevent unnecessary wear.
• Cleaning: If your altered cards get dirty, gently wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these could damage the artwork. If the card is particularly dirty, consider consulting with a professional conservator to help restore the card.

Conclusion: Embrace the Altered World!

So there you have it, folks! Now you know the basics of MTG alters. They're a fantastic way to personalize your MTG experience, showcase your creativity, and connect with other players. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newbie, exploring the world of alters is a journey worth taking. So, go out there, find an artist whose work you adore, commission an alter, and bring a little bit of extra magic to your next game!

Happy altering, and may your cards always be the most stunning on the table!