Behind the Lights

All Ages Feel the ‘Magic’

Magic the Gathering is one of the world’s most popular trading card games. Since it’s conception in 1993 it has grown to include players from all over the world having more than 32 countries represented at this years World Championships.

But when people think of Magic they think of little kids and nerds crowding someone’s basement loosing themselves in their own fantasy world. The fact is Magic is played by people of all ages from 14 to 40 male and female alike.

“Magic is the last event we do at the store,” said Mike Willsons store manager at Head 2 Head Games in Irvington New York. “Most of the people who play Magic come in after they get off of work.”

Magic the Gathering was created by a math professor from Whitman College named Richard Garfield. The game sets two wizards to face off with each other using and assortment of spells and creatures each attempting the get their opponent from 20 to zero life points.

To some people Magic is much more that just a card game. Some Magic pros travel the world competing in tournaments with cash payouts up to $32,000.

The road to Magic stardom requires large amounts of time and money. Myles Leon is a 21-year-old Marketing student who has been playing since he was 12 years old.

“This isn’t just a waste of money and time these cards are worth money to me, some of these cards can be sold for $50 a piece. To me making a great collection of cards is almost like making an investment for my future,” said Leon.

Myles was one of the 124 players and this year’s states tournament. The tournament included both casual players as well as those trying to become pros.

Adam Levitt age 22, one of New York’s best players, stated “After winning your first tournament, after claiming your first prize, you get such a rush that you can’t stop and you’ll keep playing to get that feeling again.”
However not everyone who plays the game plays to become pro, some people simply play it cause it’s fun. Jerry Jaimen has been playing the game for close to two years and speaks to the less competitive side of magic.

“I’m a thinker,” said Jaimen “Magic is a great way to get me to think outside of the box and it keeps me on my toes.” He also stated, “It’s more than just playing a game you start playing with people and you get to know them Magic is really a great way to meet new friends.”

Either from a competitive aspect or just for fun the people who play Magic just can’t seem to get enough. As Myles Leon plainly puts it. “Once you’ve put as much time and effort into it as I have, it’s not just a game anymore it’s a part of your daily life style.”