Every new CCG has several factors that determine the ultimate success or failure of the game. Prize support, of course, is the "ace in the hole" so to speak. So, rather than focus on Wolverine or some other hero, try looking at some of the non-character, "trick" cards, both for play and investment, as good cards will be needed by Pro Tour players.

 

    Blinsided is one of the best Plot Twists in the game. A measly 2 threshold cost means you can burn one early to push through a little more, and use the next 5th or 6th turn for lethal damage. The fact that every creature deals breakthrough damage makes cards like Blindsided an obvious must have for serious tournament players.

 

    Another exceptional card is Antarctic Reasearch Base. Wow, every equipment you play draws you a card... aren't some of those equipment free? This card, as well as Signal Flare, Fantasticar, and Clobberin' Time, shows that the Fantastic Four deck might just make the cut. And don't forget Pogo Plane. Just in case some of these are obscure to you, I'll explain the little Pogo Plane trick: Pogo plane costs 1, is an equipment, and gives equiped Fantastic Four character flying, and may be sacrificed to search for any location in your deck and put in your hand. Antarctic research base will be easy to get (you will effectively have 8 in your deck), and every additional Pogo Plane draws a card. It's unique, but if you draw 2, sac the first!

 

    Genosha is a location that can be ko'd to draw 2 cards, or, if you control Magneto, 4 cards. This location is exceptional, and should be used in many different deck archetypes. The power cosmic is a plot twist that, for a price, let's you steal initiative the next phase!?! Can you say game over? Freedom Four Plaza lets you search your deck for a card every turn and put it in your hand, if you control the original Fantastic Four. Another card to watch, another non-character that's required for the serious player's collection.

 

    There are several cards like this in the new Marvel Vs. game; cards that have a high level of playability, but that aren't SPIDER MAN!!! just don't seem as popular. Well, if you got into this game not just for fun, but for pro tour or singles or just competative play, look at the text, not the name. Alicia Masters is a better card than Dark Phoenix, but it's not worth as much. I wonder if the first publicized tournament will change that? I'd be willing to bet it does. I'd also be willing to bet that after that, Blindsided and Sabertooth will be the cards of the day, not dark Phoenix. For those of you who disagree, take the Pre-con brotherhood deck, add 3 more Savage Lands, and REMOVE ALL CARDS THAT COST 7 OR MORE  from the deck! Add 4 flying kick, 4 Pyro, 4 Quicksilver, and if you got Sabertooth (the Rare) use it, if not Sauron will work. 8th turn won't happen. 10th is a pipe dream. Even if you must keep Mr' Expsensive in your deck, try using the 8 cost Magneto. If your opponent can last two turns against that, he deserves a Dark Phoenix. Well, this isn't my first or last article. If you liked this one, tell the management of this page! Maybe they'll call me again.