Gathering Stories: The History of Magic

My guest this week is Jamie Wakefield. Jamie was one of the first tournament report writers who really elevated the craft. Jamie turned bland game results into epic stories of triumph and defeat. His work was a cut above almost everyone else, and the players appreciated it.

During our chat, we talked about writing, the passing of his first wife, optimism, and purpose. I enjoyed our talk and I hope you do too.

Jamie's Spain book. 

Music by Kara Comparetto

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My guest this is week is Mark Rosewater. Mark is the head designer of Magic, in charge of the process that creates new cards. But he's also a prolific communicator, writing a million words a year about Magic and games in general.

During our chat we talked about Hollywood, the Pro Tour, diversity, and lots more. This was really fun.

Mark's Twitter, podcast, weekly column, and blog.

Music by Kara Comparetto

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This week I am joined by Brian David-Marshall. Brian was one of the first tournament organizers, then co-founding perhaps the most famous game store in the world, Neutral Ground. Brian has also been a fixture at events as a WoTC contractor

In our conversation we talk about getting involved with Magic, event planning, store-running, 9/11, and lots more. We had a fun talk and I hope you enjoy our conversation.

BDM's Twitter

Music by Kara Comparetto

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This week I am joined by Skaff Elias. Skaff was one of the early playtesters of pro-Magic and joined early WoTC. Quickly Skaff distinguished himself as brilliant, a hard worker, and who was focused on Magic's long-term success. 

In our conversation we talk about inventing the Pro Tour, targets costs for competitive players, the Harry Potter TCG, and lots more. I was very fortunate to talk to Skaff and I hope you enjoy.

Skaff's textbook.

Music by Kara Comparetto

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My guest this week is Jesper Myrfors. Jesper was Magic's first art director and helped create the iconic styles Magic still uses today. Jesper is also a talented artist and painted many pieces in the early sets.  

In this episode we talk about getting involved with WoTC, shifts in culture, advice for artists, and lots more. Jesper is fun to chat with, and I was fortunate to get to talk to him. 

Jesper's recent project: Luna and the Moonling

Music by Kara Comparetto

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My guest this week is Richard Garfield. Richard Garfield is a prolific game designer who famously invented Magic: The Gathering. 

In this episode we talk about designing and playtesting Magic, teaching, current projects, advice for future game designers, and lots more. Richard is brilliant and a pleasure to talk to. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.

Current project: Half-Truth (Designed with Ken Jennings)

Music by Kara Comparetto

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This week I talk to Peter Adkison. Peter was Wizards of the Coast's first CEO and created the infrastructure for Magic to exist and thrive. Peter has since moved on to other projects, including running Gen Con and his personal IP World of Chaldea (adult content); but he was still happy to talk about Magic's early years. This was a fun interview.

Music by Kara Comparetto 

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A mini-episode. My purpose for this project and its current status. Thank you for listening.

-Noah

Music by Kara Comparetto