Should You Use Proxy Cards in Magic: the Gathering?


The first proxies were rudimentary, often just slips of paper with the card's name written on it, inserted into a sleeve with a basic land card for rigidity. These were primarily used for casual play among friends, especially when players wanted to test new deck ideas without committing to buying expensive cards.
Now, however, you can [print Magic proxies](https://printmtg.com/) online that are extremely high quality and fit into your deck perfectly. That said, they remain a point of debate – particularly in tournaments.
Benefits of MTG Proxy Cards
Using proxy cards in Magic: The Gathering offers several benefits, particularly for players who are looking to enhance their gameplay experience without incurring significant expenses. Here are some key advantages:
1. Lowering the Barrier to Entry for New Players: Proxy cards reduce the cost of entry into the game. They allow players to build decks at a fraction of the cost of using original cards, making the game more accessible, especially for beginners who might be deterred by the high prices of some cards.
2. Playtesting: Proxies are valuable for testing new deck strategies and card combinations before making expensive purchases. This allows players to experiment and refine their decks without the risk of investing in cards that may not suit their play style.
3. Cost Savings: Proxy cards can save players significant amounts of money. They provide an affordable alternative to purchasing rare or expensive cards, enabling players to enjoy playing with a diverse range of cards without the financial burden.
4. Versatility in Deck Building: Proxies allow players to experiment with different deck builds and strategies. They can also be used to play with banned or restricted cards in a controlled environment, helping players understand these cards better without affecting the game's balance.
5. Customization and Creativity: Proxy cards offer opportunities for creative expression. Players can design their own cards to fit their style and preferences, adding a personal touch to their decks.
6. Educational Value: Using proxies can have an educational aspect, as players learn more about the mechanics and strategies of the game. It also helps new players understand the game better before investing in a full collection.
7. Use as Placeholders: Proxy cards can serve as placeholders for cards that are out of stock or difficult to acquire, allowing players to continue enjoying the game with their desired cards.
8. Ethical Considerations: While using proxies in casual games with friends is generally acceptable, there are ethical considerations to keep in mind, especially regarding the impact on local game stores and the potential slippery slope of proxying too many cards.
It's important to note that proxy cards are not allowed in official tournaments or sanctioned events as per the official rules of Magic: The Gathering. Wizards of the Coast, the creators of the game, acknowledge the usefulness of proxies in casual play but maintain strict rules against their use in official settings to preserve the integrity of the game.
The Art of Proxy Creation
Creating a proxy card is much more than just replicating the functionality of an original MTG card; it's an artistic venture. Many players who create proxies use them as a medium to showcase their artistic skills. This can range from hand-drawing or painting on card stock to digitally designing custom artwork. The art on these cards can be inspired by the original MTG themes, or it can venture into completely new realms, reflecting the creator's personal style and imagination.
Custom Designs
Custom-designed proxy cards are where creativity truly shines. Some players redesign the entire layout of a card, including new art, unique fonts, and even altered card frames. These designs can be thematic, based on a player’s favorite characters, scenes, or personal aesthetics. The custom artwork on proxies often pays homage to the rich lore of MTG or explores new concepts that resonate with the player.
Digital Art and Printing
With advancements in digital art and printing technology, creating high-quality proxy cards has become more accessible. Artists can digitally paint or design their artwork, then print these designs on card stock that mimics the feel and quality of official MTG cards. This approach has allowed for more complex and detailed artworks to be featured on proxy cards.
Artistically Altered Official Cards
Another fascinating aspect is the alteration of existing MTG cards. Artists take genuine MTG cards and paint directly onto them, adding elements, changing backgrounds, or completely overhauling the original art. These altered cards are particularly prized in the community for their blend of official and custom elements.
While it's challenging to describe the vast range of styles and designs seen in proxy cards, some notable trends include:
• Fantasy and Mythology: Proxies featuring mythical creatures, fantastical landscapes, or characters from popular fantasy series.
• Abstract and Modern Art: Proxies that use abstract patterns, vibrant colors, and modern artistic styles.
• Personal Themes: Proxies designed around personal interests, hobbies, or significant life events of the creator.
• Homage to Classic Art: Some proxies pay tribute to classic artworks, reimagining famous paintings with a magical twist.
Final Thoughts
Overall, proxy cards offer a range of benefits to Magic: The Gathering players, from cost savings and educational value to creative expression and versatile gameplay. However, their use should be approached with consideration for the game's rules and the broader player community. In our opinion PrintMTG and ProxyKing are the best providers of Magic proxy cards.