Exploring the C.O.R.E. Attributes

The Designer #6: A Deep-Dive into the Elements of the C.O.R.E. System

This issue of the Designer Newsletter is free to read for a limited time. To get the full value of this article, read the previous article called C.O.R.E. Attributes.

C.O.R.E. Attributes

Curiosity

“There. That was the moment where it all unraveled.” I stood in complete shock as my twenty thousand-dollar mistake was revealed to me. It was still early in my Magic career at a Pro Tour championship in Chicago. After fighting my way through over a dozen opponents over two days, I had just lost a match that would have qualified me for the finals on Sunday and an additional cash prize.  

It was a match that was easy to lose. My opponent had a blisteringly fast draw, with a perfect blend of resource cards (lands) and action cards (spells).  He put pressure on me from turn one, playing cards at a lightning pace. My hand was slow, with only 3 spells I could play before turn seven. I played a defensive game, playing two Wall of Roots cards and using them to block a few attacks.  I kept hoping I could draw more spells …