JudgeCast

Bryan, Charles, and Marcos work an event together. We talk about our time at SCGCon: Atlanta, and then we do micro interviews with many of the judges working the event.
Who are you? Why do you keep judging? Do you have a PG rated story you could share?

Big thanks to all the judges that took time out of their shift to talk to us, and big thanks to Star City Games for allowing our shenanigans during their event.

If you want to share a story, join our discord at https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we tour this western planet of hats and discuss the new mechanics such as Plot, crime, Saddle, and Spree. We go over nearly 50 cards to help you get ready for your prerelease. The only thing missing is a in depth discussion regarding the different between the Cattleman, the Gambler, the Pinched Front, and the Gus. Which now that I think about it, thats at least worth 50 cents on patreon..

Bryan, Charles, and Marcos venture once again into the Unknown. But why? Is it an Unfulfilled quest? Is it an Undercover task to Unseat some evil? Join us for an Undeniably special treat. You won’t want to miss this one, the clock is ticking!

“Hey Judge, Can I offer my opponent any extra cash for the RC invite?
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos discuss the rules around bribery; what it is, isn’t, what’s legal, what isn’t, and how to handle some common questions that you might run into at your RCQ. If you are a player, this episode will help you stay out of trouble, but it won’t teach you the most common question of: “Ok, so I understand I can’t bribe my opponent, but how can I offer them something for the win.” That’s kinda the same thing.

In this episode, the JudgeCast hosts welcome David Hibbs and Joe (TxJoe) Klophic, to talk about the Hunter Burton Memorial Open (HBMO). The HBMO is an annual Dallas based tournament designed to raise awareness of the impact suicide can have on our lives, and the importance of having a place you are welcome.
David and Joe were the HJ and TO, respectively, for the HBMO this year as it celebrated its 10th year. We talk about how this event is different from other events, its inspiration, and its history. And despite being a charity event, many judges offer to volunteer their time to make this a memorable event for the players.

Previous Episodes with Guests:
https://judgecast.com/archives/833 – Judging Hibbstory
https://judgecast.com/archives/1777 – Forging Ahead with Judge Foundry

https://hunterburtonmemorialopen.com/
Suicide Prevention Hotline – 988

Completely unrelated to any twitter drama you might have read about, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about the types of information in Magic. We talk about what types of information you have to tell your opponent, what questions you have to answer, and what types of things do you have to be truthful about and what you can even lie about. Lying? Not in my competitive card game with money on the line!

During the winter break, we asked listeners for their “Judge New Years Resolutions”. One of our listeners said they wanted to work on confidence. In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos bring on L2 from Tennessee, Madison Henry to talk confidence. We talk about things that can rattle your confidence, tips and tricks to build confidence, and we even get personal and share stories about times we specifically lacked confidence, and how we dealt with it.

Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we discuss the ins and outs of the latest MTG Set, Murders at Martina Navratilova Manor, and go into more detail than you probably wanted about the new cards and mechanics. Want to know about Morph 2.0? We got you covered like a fedora. Want to know about Manifest 2.0, we got you covered like a cloak. Want to know about Mole Gods? We talk about that too.

Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Mark talk about the rules and policies around Marked Cards. Do you ever wonder what the criteria for an upgrade is? How to protect yourself as a player? What to look for as a judge? Are all foils inherently marked? Join us as we take a guided tour through all these questions and more.

Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Marcos celebrate Festivus, JudgeCast-Style. We have our own Festivus dinner (questions from our discord), the airing of grievances, feats of strength, and finally acknowledgement of the Festivus miracle that we are still judging at all.

Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about reviews. We go over the history of reviews within the various judge programs of the past, their requirements in the future. We also talk about the importance of reviews, and a few tips on how to write a good one, and pitfalls to avoid. We even write a few review snippets on the fly.

You can also leave us a review on your podcast platform of choice. *wink*

Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

It’s a brave new world, with the announcement of Judge Foundry’s launch date coming next week. In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos welcome Joe Klopchic, one of the founding exploratory committee members of Judge Foundry, and we ask the hard hitting questions you want to know about Judge Foundry. Things like will there be judge foils, what level will I be with this new structure, how much are dues, seriously what’s with foils, and why do I need Judge Foundry in the first place?

Seriously though, we cover as many questions as we can based on what the judging community has been hoping to learn, and have some frank talks about what Judge Foundry means for us all as Magic Judges. Oh, and Judge Apps is back, yay!

Links:
JudgeCast Discord: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Judge Foundry’s Website: https://www.judgefoundry.org
Judge Apps: https://apps.magicjudges.org

Bears, Beats, Bad Seques into the next card
It’s a prerelease episode. You know the drill.

Oh, and WOTC is changing some card types. Here’s the info: https://magic.wizards.com/en/news/announcements/card-updates-coming-with-khans-of-tarkir-on-mtg-arena

After the serious/heart-wrenching episode that was last podcast, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos take a significantly less serious approach to this episode. Everyone loves a good tier list. “Everyone” loves state-based actions (or would if they knew what was good for them). Watch these donkeys push the ball around the metaphorical barnyard as we rank all State-Based actions in the game based on our highly scientific and completely objective system?

Disagree with our rankings? Join Our Discord Server, and add your braying voice to our own: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR

We do circle back on Anger a few times. And acceptance is a bit iffy, but….
In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos talk about the most recent Judge News. In case you haven’t heard, Wizards of the Coast has cancelled their relationship with Judge Academy effectively killing the company and abandoning judges. In a substantially more candid episode than usual, we talk about the announcements from WotC, Judge Academy, and a new player on the scene, Judge Foundry. We also talk about our thoughts on what happened, why it happened, and what we think about the future.

Links:
Our very own Discord Server, come say hey: https://discord.gg/hQd48guKFR
Insulting Nonsense from Wizards of the Coast: https://wpn.wizards.com/en/news/wizards-of-the-coast-and-judge-academy-partnership-ends
Statement from Judge Academy: https://judgeacademy.com/2023-open-letter-and-faq/
Judge Foundry Website: https://www.judgefoundry.org/
Curious about what a 501c(6) is: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/business-leagues

You down with OPOP? (Other People’s Organized Play) Yeah, you know me. Join Bryan, Charles, and Marcos as we have special guest Niccolo Paqueo. Niccolo has been an L2 judge in the Flesh and Blood Judge Program for several years, and the current team lead for the FaB Rules Team. We discuss their game, their organized play, and similarities and differences with Magic Judging. Spoilers: Running Magic events and running FaB events are pretty similar, except when they aren’t.

Flesh and Blood Website: https://fabtcg.com/

Flesh and Blood Judge Website (requires account) : https://judge.fabtcg.com/

In this episode, Bryan, Charles, and Marcos delve into the updates from the first IPG update in over 900 days. Strap in, it’s going to be a doozy. Actually, the changes aren’t that big. But like a thirsty man in the desert, we are going to savor this little bit of a stretched metaphor as much as possible.

Toby’s Policy Perspective Blog: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2023/09/06/policy-update-for-wilds-of-eldraine/
New MTR: https://media.wizards.com/2023/wpn/marketing_materials/wpn/mtg_mtr_2023sep4_en.pdf
New IPG: https://media.wizards.com/2023/wpn/marketing_materials/wpn/mtg_ipg_2023sep4_en.pdf
Judge Academy Statement on Misgendering: https://judgeacademy.com/ja-statement-on-intentional-misgendering/

Bryan, Charles, and Marcos respect the oxford comma. We also discuss the new mechanics for Wilds of Eldraine. Want to know how Adventure cards work? We can help. Want to know what happens if you triple a triple, we have the answers. Want to know what all the seven different role enchantments do? You are on your own. But we do talk about the generic rules behind them.

New Host, who dis? Join Bryan, Charles, and… Marcos Sanchez, a level 2 that recently made the [poor] decision to move to Florida [at the start of hurricane season], to talk about a different kind of new start. In this episode we take a whole hour to talk about all the things that happen when you start a game. Do you know exactly when you are supposed to determine who goes first? What about when you reveal your companion? Did you know that at competitive events you are encouraged, nay, *required* to shuffle your opponent’s deck when they present?

Well after this episode, you will know all that and more!

In this episode Bryan and Charles have on Matt Williams (aka Billy Willy) to talk about what goes into Head Judge Announcements. Do you want to know what to include in your Prerelease Announcements? What about your RCQ? How about that 2HG event at a Convention? It should be no surprise that while your announcements will have many things in common, there are also different areas of focus. Join us as we talk about those differences, from the Pre-Release to the Pro Tour, what will make your Head Judge Announcements pop.

This is SPARTA! Wait, no. This is…our 300th Episode! While my favorite topic to talk about is myself, we put the breaks on that celebration to invite on a few other judges active providing content for the masses. We talk about what makes their projects special, what keeps them motivated, and how it helps others.

Charlotte Sable – Ask a Magic Judge (tumblr.com) – Tumblr

David Elden – Judging FtW – YouTube – YouTube

Rhianna Milton – Ask-the-Judge (Magic: the Gathering Rules & Policy Group) | Facebook – Facebook

Also a big shout out to all the hosts, past and present that have contributed to Judgecast in its mission to teach and possibly entertain.
Sean Catanese
Riki Hayashi
Jose Boveda
Jess Dunks
Roy Shrader
Bryan Prillaman
Brogan King
Jacob Milicic
Samantha Harr
Charles Featherer

Have you ever wondered about the planning that goes on before an event? Join Bryan, Charles, and special guest Jared Sylva from Star City Games to discuss Event Management with a focus on SCG Con Baltimore.

For information on upcoming SCGCons, check out https://scgcon.starcitygames.com/ and look for events:

• Columbus Sep. 1 – 3
• Dallas-Fort Worth Oct. 20 – 22
• Pittsburgh Nov. 10 – 12

If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding judging for SCG events, please email [email protected] or join the SCG Judge Discord.

Bryan and Charles welcome back Marcos Sanchez to talk about interesting cards from the newest Straight to Modern set to come out of Wizards. Join us as we take a tour of the Shire, take a shortcut to mushrooms before skulking through Mirkwood and wondering just how many different Gandalfs are in this set.

In this episode Bryan and Charles discuss several smaller “bite size topics” while we gear up for the LoTR Prerelease episode. We go over:

• What is a Called Draft and should I do one at my RCQ
• Answering Judge Questions Outside of an Event
• Giving Too Much Negative Feedback
• MagicKids by Weirdcards in the Partnership Education track of Judge Academy

Join Bryan and Charles with special guest Vona to talk about 2HG. And not just the rules, on no, dear listener, we talk about special considerations in running 2HG events, from the logistics to the pack distribution to increased time in investigations. Give it a listen, and you might learn a bit about why we dont do Comp Rel 2HG events anymore.

In a bout of unintended irony, Bryan and Charles spend an hour talking about how important it is to be brief in your cover letters. We talk about what you should/should not include and how certain choices may/may not help your chances of being accepted.

Want to know how battles work? what about transforming tokens? How about Copy effects and Backup. We got you covered. If you also want to know the lore of Segovia and listen to Bryan yell at clouds, we have you covered there too.

Its a Release Notes episode. We talk nonsense.

Judging is a Customer Service gig. However, customer service at small events and large events can look very different. In this episode Bryan and Charles are joined by L2 Marcos Sanchez to talk about what things you can do at large events to up your customer service game.

In this episode Bryan and Charles talk about one of the more subjective infractions in the IPG; Slow Play. We talk about its definition, it’s subjectivity, why it can’t have an objective definition and how to deal with players that might get upset you give them Slow Play. We even talk about Chess Clocks. No, really. Thats been a suggestion.

And, to play into the theme, this episode gets a Warning for being a day late.

In this episode Bryan and Charles talk to @BonafideVonafyd about their recent experiences at MagicCon Philly, including but not limited to: wearing good shoes, dinosaurs with hand-rails, breaks, how so many concurrent event were managed, and a myriad of non-standard events.

In this episode, Brian and Charles go over the few rules updated with All Will Be One and then we delve into a smorgasbord of recent reddit threads that have caught our eye while we wait for MagicCon Philly.

Topic 1 – Hold Priority: https://www.reddit.com/r/EDH/comments/10xqd6x/players_that_hold_priority_for_a_whole_phase/

Topic 2: Card quality/differences in general: https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10zxfem/lots_of_art_with_these_weird_wiggly_lines_is_this/

Topic 3: Placeholders as Proxies?:
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10q3g57/are_mdfc_placeholder_cards_proxies/

Topic 4: How to prepare for your first Magic convention
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10zvzo6/how_to_prepare_for_first_magic_convention/

Topic 4: Card art with a side of dong
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10pcvne/wizards_what_the_hell/
Potentially NSFW

Topic 5: Magic is expensive, yo.
https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10y2u7w/frustrated_magic_the_gathering_fans_say_hasbro/

Topic 6: Weird Judge Call
https://old.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/10w5c0j/scg_indy_judge_call_tldr_there_are_scumbags/

In this episode, Bryan and Charles go over the mechanics and notiable cards from Phyrexia: All Will Be One. Toxic, Compleated, Oil Counters, and that one mechanic that has an exclamation point. Also at the end of the episode we talk about a workaround in EventLink for running a Sealed RCQ.

In this episode Bryan and Charles go over the zones of Magic, as well as all the exceptions to the well-known rule of “objects changing zones are considered new objects”. Turns out, there are a lot of exceptions.

Happy New Year! It’s a time for celebration and resolutions for the new year. In this episode Bryan and Charles are joined by Brook Gardner-Durbin (@TheBG_D) to discuss the factors that go into your decisions for fair compensation at the various levels. Is judging your hobby, career, or side hustle? What is the complexity of the event you are going to be working? What is considered fair? Where do you have the ability to negotiate? As we discuss issues around pay, just a reminder: We are not lawyers or CPAs. We are glorified donkeys pushing a ball around the pasture. Consult your local, state, or federal laws before acting on any of our barnyard braying.

Talking about missed triggers has been all the rage lately in the twitterverse, and Bryan, Charles, and Samma thought we would bring it to your podcast listening device. In this episode, the JudgeCast crew talk about the philosophy behind Missed Triggers, how to identify one, what the opponents’ responsibilities are, and a little bit of a history lesson.

Detrimental Trigger Guide – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/mtg/

Annotated IPG – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/rules/ipg2-1/

Bryan, Charles, and Samma discuss the recent level updates announced by Judge Academy. Samma and Charles also go over their Magic 30 experience, including a behind the scene look at the massive Unfinity Draft. We also stop recording right before Samma admits Bryan was 100% right about [redacted] and Bryan doesn’t even say ‘I told you so’, so he instead puts this comments in the show notes.

Level Update Overview – Level Clarifications and Updates: Overview – 2023 – Judge Academy

Judge Academy Renewal information: Membership Renewal Payments in Fall/Winter 2022 – Judge Academy

Omega Mart (whatever that is) : Omega Mart | Explore Immersive Art | Meow Wolf Las Vegas

Following the BRO Code, Bryan, Charles, and Samma battle their way through new mechanics, new cards, and very bad puns. We discuss Prototype, Meld, Unearth, zone change triggers, 50% off of 50% off coupons. Stick around and you might just learn something. Probably not, but it could happen.

A Pot-Pour-EE Episode is an episode where we discuss smaller topics that aren’t worth a full episode themselves. In this vaguely apple-cinnamon scented episode Bryan and Charles talk about Game Markers, Solo Deck Checks, Tournament Policy on Notes, and Proxies. Real Proxies, not those fake proxies being sold for $250 a “pack”.

This Wicker Picker with Sticker Kicker makes me want to grab liquor quicker than a city slicker.
In this episode Bryan, Charles, and Samma talk about the latest Un-set from Wizards. Un-sets are no longer goofy fun sets judges can choose to embrace. With the introduction of stickers and attractions into eternal formats, we boldly go where several other podcasts have gone before, and tackle many of the mechanics and rules questions you might encounter now that players have to register your sticker sheets on their decklists.

Join JudgeCast in welcoming new host, L2 from New Jersey, Charles Featherer! In this episode we talk about things new L1s should know but might not. Things like “Where do the judges hang out online?”, “Where do I get shirts?”, “Why is running an RCQ the week after you pass your certification is a bad idea?”

Judge Academy Profile Privacy Settings – https://judgeacademy.com/my-account/privacy/
Judge Academy Event Announcement Settings – https://judgeacademy.com/my-account/notifications/
Shirts/Badges – https://mtgproshop.com/judge-academy/

In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss the new rules and cards for the upcoming MTG Set Dominaria United. We talk about Sagas, Bee Children, Bryan sneaks in obscure song lyrics from the 80s, and other interesting rules tidbits from the new cards.

In this episode Bryan and Samma bring on Meg Rickman to talk about the return of Local Comp Rel play. We discuss how it feels to “get back into it”, the return of local players, how to rebuild connections that might have atrophied over the pandemic and remind stores that they want to secure certified experienced judges early.

In this episode Bryan and Samma go over the major mechanics and a selection of cards from the new Commander Legends 2: Quest for Curly’s Gold.

In this episode Bryan and Samma go over the Judge Academy process for becoming an L3. We go over the various steps and badges, and Bryan talks way too much about “the way it used to be”.

In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about the mechanics of New Capenna as well as highlight some of the cards with more interesting rules interactions.

In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about the recently announced changes to Wizards’ Premiere Play and a little bit about what judges can expect. Bryan rants (too much) about his dislike of PPTQs, while Samma waits for him to tucker himself out. Spoilers: Both agree that we are happy that something has returned, though.

Wizard’s Announcement: https://magic.gg/news/return-of-the-pro-tour-your-path-to-playing-magic-at-the-highest-level
Judge Academy’s compiled list of links: https://judgeacademy.com/2022-premier-play/
Staffing Recommendations for Events: https://judgeacademy.com/recommended-staffing-guidelines/
Direct Link to Premier Tournament Invitation Policy: https://assets.ctfassets.net/ryplwhabvmmk/2ZwbE9BQV1L4P1LjfeaW5F/c229126f05d0b77bdc68874ed34ad756/MTG_PTIP-2223_2022-03-31.pdf

Big Events are slowing making a comeback and in this episode the JudgeCast crew sit down with L2 Patrick Nelson to talk about the Team Constructed event at SCG Con Indy, and live vicariously through his experiences.

In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss the altered card policy, why its set up the way it is, who it is supposed to protect, and how common arguments against it. All with just the slightest sprinkling of nonsense.

Join Bryan and Samma as we discuss the new cards and new mechanics of Kamigawa Neon Dynasty. We go over Reconfigure, Transforming Sagas, Ninja and Ducks with Hooves.

Join Bryan and Samma as they go over the ins and outs of the Combat Phase. We go over declaring attackers, requirements and restrictions, combat damage assignment order, the combat damage shortcut, and even when you declare your bands.

In this Episode, Bryan and Samma talk about Judge Academy Deadlines, Digital vs Physical conferences, the newly hired JAc “champions”, and end of year conferences. Then the post show banter devolves into some literary nonsense.

Join Bryan and Samma as we cleave through the release notes for Crimson Vow and go into more rules details than you probably needed to know for this MTG set that only has the most subtle of wedding themes.

One of the requirements for becoming a Certified Magic Judge is obtaining an L1 endorsement. In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss what an L1 endorsement is and why its necessary. We also discuss what the endorsing L2 or L3 should be looking for when they give an endorsement, and what the endorsement review should entail, as well as some traps you might fall into.

Judge Academy L1 Endorsement: https://judgeacademy.com/endorsement-information/

In this episode Bryan and Samma welcome Judge Academy Magic Program Manager Nicolette Apraez! This week Judge Academy made a rather lengthy announcement on upcoming changes for 2022 and beyond. Nicolette was good enough to join us as we go through the changes, and get more detail on dues, conferences, foils, and level updates.

Read the Full Blog Post here: https://judgeacademy.com/judge-academy-2022-announcements/
Read the Letter from Tim Shields here: https://judgeacademy.com/2022-letter-from-tim-shields/
Read about updates to L3 Badges here: https://judgeacademy.com/judge-levels-and-maintenance/
Apply to be a beta tester for new Judge Academy features here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScZLLTb5tg2pinlGIiOFp8oALryhmDPicHR8phpxJPvhzQAwg/viewform

In this episode Bryan and Samma discuss the mechanics of Midnight Hunt, as well as going over some of the cards that might generate some rules questions at your local store of whatever larger event may be happening in or around Vegas. Come for the detailed rules explanation of Day/Night, Disturbed as well as what it means to transform into an aura, stay for the bad puns involving…just about everything.

In this episode, Bryan and Samma go into more detail than you probably thought possible on the specifics of Targeting. What a target does, how do you change targets, what happens if the target becomes illegal, is Target really just a cleaner Walmart. You know, the usual facts with a light dusting of bad jokes and random stories

In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about how the focus on Customer Service has shifted in Judging over the years, and some tips that will help you improve your customer service skills at both large and small events.

In this episode Bryan and Samma take a super serious look at all the infractions of the IPG and rank them based on our scientific criteria of “whatever we feel like at the moment”. Join us as we durdle our way through the infractions and post your own rankings. But if you disagree with us, we will argue with you, because we are subjectively correct.

Join Bryan and Samma on this tour up and down the Sword Coast as we pull up a chair at the Yawning Portal and talk about the new set over a mug of Shadowdark Ale. Behold the new mechanics as we do a Waterdeep dive into some rules you possibly didn’t know, and probably didn’t care about. Don’t forget to Candlekeep on listening as Bryan critically fumbles his way through a recount of the classic tale, “The Head of Vecna”. And finally we talk about the new MTR and Policy updates that came out with the new set.

Hello and Welcome to JudgeCast. In this episode Bryan and Samma tackle the very serious, multi-faceted issue of which icosahedrons should be your icosahedron of choice when playing MTG Adventures in the Forgotten Realms. And psychological observation becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy in real time.

Events are starting to happen again and the pre-releases keep coming. In this episode Bryan and Samma talk about things to do before and during a Pre-Release to keep your players happy. We also talk about the unique challenges of running a pre-release solo or with a group, as well as what to do when you are a player in the same Pre-Release you are a judge in.

In this supersized episode Bryan and Samma dig deep on the rules and mechanics of several Modern Horizon 2 Cards. If you want to know how Urza’s Saga makes various Modern Decks better, go somewhere else. But if you want to know how Urza’s Saga works under a Blood Moon, or the difference between creating a token, and having a token enter the battlefield under your control then you have come to the right place.

In a precursor to the Modern Horizons 2 Release Notes episode, Bryan and Samma go over the returning mechanics in the latest set. All the way from Aftermath to Unearth, we go into more detail than you probably needed to know, all in a quest to make next episode not be 3 hours long.

Join Bryan and Samma as they talk about the hot new mechanic of the past year that wasn’t: Modal Double-Faced Cards. You know, those cards that look like Transform cards but aren’t, but still make you avoid yellow sleeves.
We break down when you can cast or play the different sides, how they work with Cascade and Transform, searching and flicker effects, as well as talk a little about policy around them.

In this episode Bryan and Samma catch up on whats been happening with Judging during the pandemic, as well as discuss what they have (or haven’t) been doing to stay current.  We also talk about resources that might help you start to get your judge legs back under you.

Links

L2 and L3 Content has been uploaded at: https://judgeacademy.com/

Shirts and Name Badges https://mtgproshop.com/judge-academy/

Rules Questions: Cranial Insertion | Welcome to Cranial Insertion!

More Rules Questions: RulesGuru

Diffs of Rules and Tournament Docs: Venser’s Journal (vensersjournal.com)

Rules Q&A: Magic the Gathering Judge Rules Q&A Chat | MagicJudges.org

Annotated IPG:- Magic Infraction Procedure Guide – Rules Resources (magicjudges.org)

Yes its been a while, but we are back! This episode we introduce new host Samantha Harr, L2 Judge from Tampa Florida, and go over both the mechanics and some of the more rule-complex cards from everyone’s favorite Wizarding World: Strixhaven.

In this episode Bryan and Jacob are joined by former JudgeCast host Jess Dunks to go over cards of interest from M21 as well as talk about how wildly inconsistent P/T of whales are in relation to their size. Catch up with Jess as we cover intervening if clauses, copy effects, state based actions, playing additional lands, and all sorts of other rules minutia for the discerning rules nerd.

Better late than never: In this episode Bryan and Jacob discuss the the recent WOTC bannings, companion rules change, and give first muddled impressions of the new Digital MTR and Digital IPG

Banning and Companion Rules Change – https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/june-1-2020-banned-and-restricted-announcement?asp=4

Depictions of Racism in Magic – https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/depictions-racism-magic-2020-06-10

Digital Policy Docs – https://judgeacademy.com/policy-documents/

In this episode Bryan and Jacob discuss a bevy of topics too small for their own episode. We discuss the ins and outs of the Multiplayer format Grand Melee, as well as the Notes Policy, Mana, and Proxies.

In this episode Bryan and Jacob sit down with GPHJ Kevin Desprez and talk about Investigations from a GPHJ perspective. We talk about what information HJs want to know from floor judges, as well as tips and tricks used during investigations by the experts.

In this episode Bryan and Jacob talk about the policy impacts of Companion, as well as go into more detail than you probably wanted on the rules updates with Ikoria. Were you aware that Sharks are no longer fish? Oops. I just spoiled 12 seconds.

In the behemoth of an episode Bryan and Jacob discuss the ins and outs of Ikoria. And as long as you are not desperate to hear about how Companion works in subgames or Karn restarts (you’ll have to wait for the Comp Rules Update) we have you covered.

In this episode Bryan and Jacob learn about MTGMelee, a new web based service that allows running and playing in online MTG Tournaments. The JudgeCast crew sit down with Steve Port and learn the ins-and-outs for Players, TOs, and Judges. Spoilers: It’s pretty slick in at least 6 feet in every direction.

MTGMelee Webpage: https://mtgmelee.com/
MTGMelee on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mtgmelee
MTGMelee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MTGMelee/
How to Use MTGMelee : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tn0FGtn-V-0

Join Brogan, Bryan and new host Jacob Milicic (still has that new host smell) in discussing the types of mistakes judges can make and how to deal with them in the event and outside of the event as well. Also, Brogan has an announcement.

Or “The Cootie Shot” is not an effective Health Care treatment.

In this episode, Brogan and Bryan have special guest Erik Aliff to talk about steps you can take to keep yourself healthy at large events. We also talk about impacts of the CoronaVirus on Magic events. Please note, that while this episode was recorded on March 17th, the situation is rapidly changing in all directions. While editing it was a bit surreal how much had changed in just two to three days.

CDC page on the CoronaVirus: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

Judge Academy Module on Illness and Large Events : https://judgeacademy.com/courses/illnesses-and-large-events/

Hand Washing Meme generator: https://washyourlyrics.com/

CFBE Online MagicFest news: https://www.cfbevents.com/magicfestonline

In this episode, Brogan and Bryan go over USC-Aggressive Behavior, Minor and Major. We go over what these penalties are, when to give them, when not to give them, and parts of the human element to consider when dealing with these infractions.

Burnout in Judges is a real thing. It happens to us at any level, and recognizing it is the first step in preventing it. In this episode we are joined by Canadian Level 3 Jason Wong to discuss Judge Burnout, what can cause it, what it looks like, and what you can do about it.

Also Burnout can target a spell that isn’t blue, it just won’t counter it.

Oh yeah, Its a new year and a new set!
Brogan and Bryan show their devotion to the new set by escaping their day jobs and delivering you this godly podcast of pseudo-heroic proportions.
We talk about the rules ins and outs of some of your favorite and not so favorite cards from Theros Beyond Death. This is also the podcast where Bryan learns Elspeth has black hair. Who knew?

For this episode we bring in Jonah Kellman to help us talk about MagicFest Richmond+ and how having a Mythic Championship attached to a GP impacts things. We also discuss Oko fallout, Mystery Boosters, and alterations of lands.

In this episode, Brogan and Bryan continue to talk about more than you ever wanted to know about types, supertypes and the rules around making things an elk.

Reboots are Popular, and we last covered this topic in 2014. Join Brogan and Bryan as we talk about rules regarding card types. Its an episode so big we cant contain it all in one episode. Join us as we talk about all you’ve ever wanted to know about Super Types, Types and Subtypes…yes, even the Planechase ones.

Join Brogan and Bryan as the go over the virtual flood of Throne of Eldraine Policy Updates, and then spend the rest of the episode discussing impressions of the first week of Judge Academy.

Are you ready to go on an Adventure? Brogan and Bryan go over some of the more interesting (rules-wise) cards in Throne of Eldraine, and spend entirely too much time talking about Food, Monty Python, and cows.

While JudgeCast is a podcast for Judges, big events happen with the help of a whole host of people with other skills and talents. In this episode, we have Matt Newnam, to talk to us about Scorekeepers and Scorekeeping at big events.

Not every rules question has to be tournament or even EDH relevant. Sometimes you just want to watch the world burn. In this episode Brogan and Bryan bring in Isaac King, a Corner Case Connoisseur, to talk about some fun edge cases.

Rules Website: RulesGuru.net

Everything old is new again. Just when you got used to saying “MCQs are just like old PTQs”, we have to start saying “PTQs are just like old MCQs”. In this episode Brogan and Bryan talk about the changes to organized play and how it can and will effect events in your local communities.

Official OP Announcement:
https://www.magic.gg/news/the-future-of-magic-esports

WPN OP Announcement: https://wpn.wizards.com/en/article/introducing-players-tour-qualifiers

Brogan and Bryan sit down with Tim Shields (Owner of Judge Academy) and Nicolette Apraez (Program Manager for Magic for Judge Academy) to talk about the hot topic everyone in the judge community is talking about. In this super-sized episode, you can hear first hand what the goals and upcoming challenges are for the new upcoming Certification body, and stick around for the post-show where Brogan and Bryan discuss their thoughts.

Judge Academy FAQ: https://judgeacademy.com/faq/
Wizards Statement: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2019/07/29/the-next-era-of-magic-judging/
Program Coordinator Statement: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/coordinators/2019/07/29/future-of-judge-program/
GenCon Q&A with Tim: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1L_x6N1nnQw&t=30s

In this episode Brogan and Bryan discuss the M20 MTR and IPG policy changes. We go over updates to Deck Errors, Tardiness, the ever popular Hidden Card Error, as well as the much anticipated update to Mulligan Procedure Error in the wake of the London Mulligan.

July 12th IPG: https://wpn.wizards.com/sites/wpn/files/attachements/mtg_ipg_12jul19_en.pdf
July 12th MTR: https://wpn.wizards.com/sites/wpn/files/attachements/mtg_mtr_12jul19_en.pdf
Toby’s Policy Change Blog: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2019/07/08/policy-changes-for-core-2020/
Scott Larabee’s Tournament Rules Update: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/competitive-gaming/july-magic-tournament-rules-release-notes-2019-07-08

Brogan and Bryan go over the rules and mechanics for several of the more complicated cards introduced with M20. And yes, we do complete our Release Notes checklist by talking about intervening-if clauses, alternate costs, copying spells, X being zero everywhere but the stack, and additional costs. Thank you for asking.

Special Guest Matt Williams (a.k.a Billy Willy) joins Brogan and Bryan to go over the ins-and-outs of the most complicated infraction in the IPG, Hidden Card Error. They discuss Tournament Scenarios, how to recognize HCE, what the fix is, and how to deliver the ruling, and flexi-discs.

Brogan and Bryan team up with the Once and Future L2 Erik Aliff to discuss Future Sight 2, AKA Modern Horizons. In our Finest Hour, we outlast the nay-sayers and persist through all 45 mechanincs that appear on cards in Modern Horizons. We were hellbent on getting through all of them and created a 2 hour monstrosity of an episode. To accomplish this task, we delved into old show notes and dredged up old rules, and attempted to overload your senses with bad puns. ‘Snow Joke.

In this episode we have Eric Levine of TCG Solutions LLC, to discuss the Judge Code of Conduct and avoiding congressional subpoenas

You can read the code here:
https://blogs.magicjudges.org/conduct/magic-judge-code/

This episode Brogan and Bryan discuss what makes Mythic Championship Qualifiers (MCQs) different from the PPTQs you’re used to, and how they’re similar to the PTQs you may remember.

MCQ Staffing Level Recommendations:
https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/recommended-staffing-guidelines/

Join Bryan and Brogan as we tackle some of the more complicated War of the Sparks cards. We cover the new mechanics and Planeswalkers…so many Planeswalkers

In this episode, we are joined by L3 Dan Collins to discuss the technological terror he’s constructed. It might not be able to destroy a planet, but it does provide the communication and event application backbone for the Judge Program.

In this episode, we say farewell to Jess Dunks, who is leaving the show after 7 years of being a host. In respect to that, we discuss the rules that control what happens when a player leaves the game in multiplayer. Join us and learn something you didn’t know that you didn’t need to know!

Let’s talk about efficiency! Here are some things you can be doing to keep your events moving quickly, even when you suddenly have a tone more players than expected!

This episode, we discuss the ins and outs of the rules around triggered abilities. Avoid common rules pitfalls and learn weird corners like the infamous “to your graveyard from anywhere” triggers. Send your questions to [email protected]!

Hang out with Jess, Bryan, and Brogan, as this episode we just sit back, relax, and talk about whatever comes up, and also judge shirts.

Judge uniform guidelines: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/judge-uniform-guidelines/
Jess’s take on Judge Program Rules: https://youtu.be/jl0hMfqNQ-g
PC announcement about judge shirts: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/coordinators/2019/02/13/the-future-of-judge-shirts/

We unpack the rather substantial rules and policy updates coinciding with Ravnica Allegiance, including changes to Missed Triggers and changes to the penalties for Bribery and Wagering.

Join us as the team breaks down the new mechanics and most complex cards from the newest magic set!

Bryan and Jess are joined by Samantha Harr (aka Samma) to talk about one of our favorite topics, how to run a prerelease! This is useful information for Organizers and Judges alike.

We return to the countdown format as we trek through 10 common mistakes judges make (most of which we’ve made ourselves) and talk about how to avoid them.

The team tackles the combat phase and goes in-depth on how it works.

Priority is the system that lets players take actions in Magic. On this episode, we explore that system, including how it works in the rules, how players actually use it, and the tournament shortcuts designed to bridge these two things.

There are four different types of information that exist in a game of Magic. The team breaks them down and goes over some examples of each, then talks about what happens when something goes wrong. When does a judge issue a warning for the (relatively rare) “Communication Policy Violation” Tournament Error?

Brogan has taken over and locked Jess and Bryan out of the show! (Not really, they’ll be back next week). On this episode, she interviews two regional coordinators about what they do and why: Returning US-Southeast RC Nicolette Apraez and newly selected US-Midatlantic RC Eric Dustin Brown.

If you’d like to contact your region’s RC about anything judge-related, you can do so here: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/contact/contact-a-regional-coordinator/

There have been a lot of Magic announcements the last two weeks, and in this episode, we talk about as many as we can fit into an hour. There are tournament policy changes, MagicFest has been announced alongside Grand Prix next year, new Regional Coordinators have been selected, and JudgeCast’s own Bryan Prillaman was selected as the newest Judge Program Coordinator. And that doesn’t even mention the death of PPTQs!

Stuff we talked about in the show:
Grand Prix Schedule for 2019: https://www.cfbevents.com/2019

WotC’s announcement about MagicFest and Changes to Pro Tours – https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/competitive-gaming/2019-schedules-pro-tour-qualifying-and-magicfest-2018-10-04

Program Coordinators’ statement on Changes to Pro Tour Qualifying – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/coordinators/2018/10/04/statement-on-pro-tour-qualifying-system-changes/

Regional Coordinator Selection Process – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2018/10/01/regional-coordinator-selection-process-fall-2018-results/

Bryan Prillaman new Judge Program Coordinator! – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/coordinators/2018/10/01/introducing-the-fall-2018-program-coordinator-class-and-the-grand-prix-head-judge-lead/

Toby Elliott’s policy changes for Guilds of Ravnica – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2018/10/01/policy-changes-for-guilds-of-ravnica/

Join us as we discuss the new mechanics and interesting cards in Guilds of Ravnica!

Check out the full Release Notes here: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/guilds-ravnica-release-notes-2018-09-20

You won’t believe number 3! Or maybe you will. Yeah, you probably will.

JudgeCast picks their list of worst triggered abilities in Magic. We look at why triggers have sometimes caused problems in tournaments starting with Horizon Spellbomb and ending with… Well, you’ll just have to listen and find out!

Creative Commons Media used in this episode:
“Tech Rythmic Sound” Copyright © 2011 Varazuvi™ www.varazuvi.com
“Intro Brass One” by klankbeeld
Both found on www.freesound.org

L3 judge and architect of tournament policy Toby Elliott joins us to discuss what loops are, how they’re handled, and what’s chief among the pantheon of breakfast cereals.

On this episode, the team tackles three policy topics that aren’t big enough for their own episode: Electronic Devices, Notes, and Outside Assistance. Listen, learn, and send us questions to [email protected].

On this episode, the team runs through the new mechanics and a few of the awesome cards in Commander 2018! Also… a bat-dragon?

Full C18 Release Notes from WotC:
https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/commander-2018-edition-release-notes-2018-07-27

Feedback is a two-way street. We talk about why you should write reviews about peers and leaders that you feel are more experienced than you, and how you should do it.

We also review the recent tournament policy changes, and promise we’ll finally delve into loops in a future episode! You can always find the latest policy documents at www.judgecast.com/docs.

Other stuff we talked about:

General review info on JudgeCast #196- Overviewing Reviews: https://judgecast.com/archives/1091

Toby Elliott’s M19 policy updates blog post: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2018/07/09/policy-changes-for-m19/

Prepare for your prerelease! There are no new mechanics, but there are plenty of fun interactions still to be had as we peruse the most interesting cards from the Magic 2019 Core Set release notes!

Stuff we talked about:
Lots of cards from the Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/core-set-2019-release-notes-2018-06-22

JudgeCast Layers episodes:
#197 – https://judgecast.com/archives/1245
#199 – https://judgecast.com/archives/1257

Join us as we talk to Level 3 judge and Grand Prix Side Events expert Eric Dustin Brown, also known as EDB, about side events. We ask him what is the best side, and why is it cornbread? He tells us how side events work and why they’re his favorite area of a GP to be working.

JudgeCast is taking the week off to make sure we’re on track for the M19 release notes. But never fear! We’ve still brought you a great episode from the archive; it’s an interview with Jared Sylva about investigations!

JudgeCast will be back with new episodes next week.

Stuff mentioned in the show:

Great article series by Eric Shukan
Part 1 – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2014/12/30/investigations-the-search-for-collateral-truths/

Part 2 – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2015/01/06/investigations-the-search-for-collateral-truths-part-2/

Part 3 – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2015/01/13/investigations-the-search-for-collateral-truths-part-3/

Another episode on investigations with Eric Levine – https://judgecast.com/?p=408

On this episode we talk about everything 2HG, including the upcoming Battlebond supplemental set!  We also introduce Judge Tales: record and send us your favorite judge stories to be on the show! Last, but certainly not least, we ask you what Jess should do with the newly acquired www.bprill.com!

2HG quick reference: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/2hg/faq/

Battlebond Release Notes (Unavailable when we recorded): https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/battlebond-release-notes-2018-06-01

We’re often asked about our conversations before and after the show. What do we talk about? How do we interact? Hang out with us as, on our 200th episode, we go in unscripted and unstructured. Our stories and silliness will give you a peek behind the curtain. For some reason, we’ll talk a lot about food. Regular Magic learning content will resume in two weeks.

In a continuation from episode 197, we talk about layers and how effects interact using them. We also talk a bit about dependencies, and reference too many moons (Blood Moon, Bad Moon, Imprisoned in the Moon, etc)

The rules are changing, but the sky isn’t falling. Along with new mechanics and weird cards, Dominaria brings with it rules changes that have caused the errata of many, many Magic cards. Additionally, we go card-by-card over some of the most interesting interactions in the set. Listen in as we explain it all!

Links:
Dominaria Release Notes (.docx): http://media.wizards.com/2018/downloads/DOM_Release_Notes/EN_MTGDOM_ReleaseNotes.docx

Dominaria templating changes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/dominaria-frame-template-and-rules-changes-2018-03-21

Dominaria Comprehensive Rules Changes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/dominaria-comprehensive-rules-changes-2018-04-13

Dominaria Oracle Text Changes https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/dominaria-oracle-changes-2018-04-13

Judges talk about continuous effects until end of episode.

We reference copy effects, discussed in more detail here: https://judgecast.com/archives/1034

We also reference our Types episodes, which are here:  https://judgecast.com/archives/651 and here: https://judgecast.com/archives/659

On this episode, we’re joined by Charles Featherer, AKA “Dr. Judge” at Un-Set events, about judging local, regular REL events, especially FNM. Whether you’re new to judging or old hat, you’re sure to learn something from this episode.

In which we discuss each penalty, why they’re given for various infractions, and how that applies at Regular vs. Competitive RELs.

Disqualification process and FAQ: https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/disqualification-process/ 

Toby’s April Fools Challenge Flags article: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/making-magic/introducing-challenge-flags-new-approach-appeals-2013-04-01

Join us as we interview Pro Tour Rivals of Ixalan Head Judge Jared Sylva!

We talk about the prep that goes into the Pro Tour and the way in which it’s different from a Grand Prix or other event.

Jared has been our guest before! Check out these awesome topics, especially Episode 51.
About being an L4, Episode 51: https://judgecast.com/archives/423
About Investigations, Episode 111: https://judgecast.com/archives/771
About Grand Prix DC, Episode 142: https://judgecast.com/archives/952

Jess, Brogan, and Bryan tackle the steps of casting a spell in this concise, evergreen episode. You may want to bookmark this one for your friends that want to become a judge.

Join the team as we discuss new policy updates, new background check requirements for Tournament Organizers, and the new banned and restricted list.

Banned and Restricted list – https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/january-15-2018-banned-and-restricted-announcement-2018-01-15

Tournament policy documents – https://wpn.wizards.com/en/resources/rules-documents

Toby’s Policy update Blog (Including SECRET Cavern of Souls rules) – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2018/01/15/policy-changes-for-rivals-of-ixalan/

WPN Article – “Making magic Spaces Safer” –  https://wpn.wizards.com/en/article/making-magic-spaces-safer

Prepare yourself for the prerelease! Join Jess, Brogan, and Bryan as they discuss the new mechanic (that’s right, just one) in Rivals and some of the more interesting interactions. Full Rivals of Ixalan Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/rivals-ixalan-release-notes-2018-01-05

In this episode, we discuss what judging was like in 2010 when the first JudgeCast was recorded, and we talk about some of what has changed. Bryan managed to get his hands on a copy of the IPG from 2010, and we also discuss some craziness from that document.

A new Judge can have lots of questions about the Judge program. Brogan, Bryan and Jess try to answer all the questions you have, and even a few you didn’t know you had. How do I get a Shirt? What is Judgeapps? How do I find other judges? What is this Code of Conduct I have to agree to? What is that squeaking sound? And many more!!

Referenced Links:
Judging at Regular – https://judgecast.com/docs
Judge Code of Conduct – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/conduct/magic-judge-code/
Judgeapps – https://apps.magicjudges.org
Official Announcements – https://apps.magicjudges.org/forum/71/
Your email settings – https://apps.magicjudges.org/notifications/settings/
Level Definitions – https://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/judge-levels/

CJ Shrader joins us as Brogan hosts JudgeCast’s new game show, “Wait, Wait, Don’t Spell Me.” She asks the team questions about Unstable mechanics and cards, and the team gives their best answer (along with some not so accurate ones).  Check it out!

Unstable Release Notes: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/unstable-faqawaslfaqpaftidawabiajtbt-2017-11-22

Brogan, Bryan, and Jess break down all the turn-based actions that occur in Magic, even the ones no one knows about! Did you know there are special ones just for the beginning of combat step and the precombat main phase?

Other related episodes and stuff mentioned in the show:
Steps of a Turn – JudgeCast #52 – https://judgecast.com/archives/425
Combat Phase (more in-depth) – JudgeCast #72 – https://judgecast.com/archives/573
Ultimate Showdown of Ultimate Destiny – https://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/285267

This special bonus episode discusses the new Unstable card Rules Lawyer. In addition, we talk about the alternate art Judge promo version that will be available to judges starting in January!  Have a listen and learn about how Unstable breaks State-Based Actions.

We spent Halloween talking about some of our favorite rules and interactions, both obscure and intricate. What’s yours?

This episode we tackle special actions in the Comp Rules. They’re not just for Leonin Arbiter anymore!

Other rules episodes we referenced:
Steps of casting a spell (JC #71) https://judgecast.com/archives/531
Morph (JC #99) https://judgecast.com/archives/707
State-Based Actions (JC #147) https://judgecast.com/archives/974

The JudgeCast crew spent the weekend at GP Providence, and they’re here to tell the tale! BPrill was on sides, Brogan was on the main, and Jess was playing in his favorite format. Listen as we regale you with stories and talk about our various perspectives on the event.

Vampires and Pirates and Dinosaurs, oh my! Let’s walk the dinosaur together as we prepare for Ixalan prerelease weekend with a review the new mechanics rules changes, and most interesting new cards from Ixalan.

You can check out the official release notes here: https://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/ixalan-release-notes-2017-09-15

L2 Kyle Knudson, Event Guru at Cascade Games, joins us to talk about Magic events that take place at conventions. We talk about his experiences at PAX, Comic-Con, and elsewhere. They’re great fun and great learning opportunities for level 1+ judges. Check it out!

Thanks to Kyle for joining us on this episode. You can reach him by email here: [email protected].
Be sure to check out upcoming Cascade Game conventions at CascadeGames.com and, as always, check out other opportunities at http://apps.MagicJudges.org.

On this episode, we are joined by Level 3 Judge Eric Levine, a member of the Player Investigation Committee, to talk about Bribery. What is it, how do you recognize it, and what isn’t bribery? Find the answers to these questions and more on this episode of JudgeCast.

If you enjoy listening to Eric Levine’s dulcet tones, you’ll be pleased to know that he also appeared on episode # 44 – Investigations and also episode #105 – Commandeering.

In this episode, we discuss the Commander format and the perks and quirks of cards in the new Commander 2017 decks. What happens if your cat is enchanted by a rat? How does phasing even work? How does Commander Damage work, Generally? Find out all of this and more in this episode of JudgeCast.

Commander 2017 Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/commander-2017-edition-release-notes-2017-08-11

Level Three judge Matt Williams joins us to discuss the JudgeCast Open that took place in Atlanta recently, where all three of our hosts were Classic HJs on Sunday.  We talk about some challenges that lead to the event and interesting things that occurred.

For more information on team events, check out episode 174: https://judgecast.com/?p=1114

In this episode, we talk about the state of judge testing, some styles of learning, and how one can study and prepare for tests without being able to spam practice tests. In addition to JudgeCast, we talk about lots of other resources for judges to learn from. We end the episode by discussing the list of things you need to know to pass the Level 1 and Level 2 exams.

Resources discussed in this episode:

Rules Documents:
Basic Rulebook and Comp Rules (PDF/TXT Formats)
Comp Rules (Hyperlinked; Good for reference)
WPN Doc Center (IPG, MTR, JAR, etc)
Annotated IPG
Annotated MTR

Other Learning Resources:
Knowledge Pool (Weekly Policy Scenarios)
Cranial Insertion (Weekly Rules Articles)
Mystical Tutor (Judge Classes and Presentations)
Judge School (Available in English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Polish)
Jueces en Vivo (Spanish Language Latin American Judge Podcast)

Exam Information:
Level One Exam
Level Two Exam

Settle in as Brogan, Bryan, and Jess bring you everything you need to know about Hour of Devastation. Learn about the Afflict mechanic as well as the pseudo-return of Embalm and Exert. We also go over all our favorite new cards and tell you what tricky rules to watch out for.

Be sure to check out the full release notes.

Welcome to Episode #175

In this Episode we talk about things a player may want to know before taking the plunge and attending their first Competitive Rules Enforcement Episode. What is a decklist and why do I need to bring it?  Is there a lunch break? Why is this person in a black shirt hovering behind me? It’s full of chillax and whatever wine pairs well with chillax’in.

We also are joined by a special guest;  Michael Shiver from The Mana Pool.  The Mana Pool is one of the longest running MTG related podcasts in the world, and are only a few months away from Episode #500.  Please check them at themanapool.com or find them on Twitter at twitter.com/themanapool

Edit: This is the second attempt to publish this episode. The first had some unfortunate audio errors that made it impossible to listen to. This has been corrected.  Sorry about that.
-Jess

We are joined by L3 and GP Head Judge Paul Baranay as he and Jess chat about their recent experiences Head Judging ~900 player Team Constructed Opens. We talk logistics, weird stuff, deck checks, and take a nice tangent into investigations.

For more listening on Investigations, listen to:
JudgeCast #44 – Investigating Raging Levine
JudgeCast #111 – Sylva Linings Investigationsbook

The JudgeCast team reprises an episode from five years ago by tackling replacement effects. If you would skip this episode, instead don’t!

Replacement effects rules on Yawgatog: http://yawgatog.com/resources/magic-rules/#R614

There’s a lot to go over in this policy episode, but first we introduce the newest regular co-host of JudgeCast. Please welcome Brogan King back to the show for her first episode as a full-fledged co-host!

The MTR, the IPG, the combat shortcut, and decklist problems. Also deck problems.  Wait, what? There’s two of them now?  Find out about all of this and more on this episode of JudgeCast!

You can always find the most recent policy docs at our JudgeCast policy redirect: https://judgecast.com/docs.

Toby Elliot’s Amonkhet Policy Update Blog:
https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2017/04/24/policy-changes-for-amonkhet/

Toby Elliot’s Combat Shortcut Examples:
https://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2017/04/27/how-to-think-about-the-new-combat-shortcut/

We are once again joined by Brogan King as we talk about the newest Magic set, AlmondCat! Oh wait… Amonkhet! Yeah, that one. We discuss the mechanics, what we love, what we hate, and some Madness Weirdness. And, of course, we go through a ton of interesting cards and rules interactions.

Amonkhet Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/amonkhet-release-notes-2017-04-14

Listen to Channelfireball.com’s own Jon Saso and Mashi Scanlan talk about the new world of Grand Prix and the challenges they face ramping up from 12 GPs this year to ~55 next year!  What does this mean for the events, the players, and especially the judges?  We ask those questions and ask for your feedback.

Do you have more questions about judging at Grand Prix? Email us at [email protected].

Mashi also said in the show that he’s open to questions at [email protected].

You can give feedback about what you want out of GPs and also read the article Mashi mentions here: https://www.channelfireball.com/home/how-can-we-improve-your-grand-prix-experience/

Join us in talking to Brogan King, an admin of the Review Revue Facebook Group. We talk about that project and reviews generally. This includes what a judge review is, how to access them, and the different kinds of reviews judges write. We also speak a little about the basic dos and don’ts of writing reviews. We’ll tackle deeper review topics, such as gathering feedback for a review at an event, in a later episode.

The Review Revue: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1720829451483343/

Reviews (requires JudgeApps login): https://apps.magicjudges.org/reviews

Investigations (requires JudgeApps login): http://www.judgeapps.com/investigations

Welcome back our Judge of the Week interviewer and level 2 judge Jacob Milicic (From episode #166) to talk about his experience Head Judging a recent StarCityGames.com Classic event. We ask him a lot of questions and get even more answers. How did his judge career get to this point? What did he do to prepare? How did he even get on a list to do that?  Is the proper plural of staff “staves”?

Find out more about Tour events at StarCityGames.com/content/scgtour. (We’re not affiliated with them, it’s just topical)

On this episode, we’re joined by the amazing Billy Willy to discuss the numerous parts of a card. Find out about the rules for illustrations (yes, there’s a rule for that!) and how set symbols used to be relevant in the game! Bprill reminisces about the good old days before color indicators and tells you about his new puppy, pictured below.  You can more or less follow along in the comprehensive rules section 2, also titled “Parts of a card“.

On this episode, we have special guest and representative of Judge of the Week Jacob Milicic on to interview us for Judge of the Week! You can consider a future Judge of the Week spoiled!

Jacob asks us a fantastic range of questions, including how we got started, what we do to edit, if each of us was to name a Magic card to represent the others what would it be, and we talk about our future as well.

This is also CJ’s final episode on JudgeCast. Hard to believe it’s over. I (yes I’m swapping from third person to first person you’ll be fine) kinda rambled at the end of the episode and I didn’t really have my thoughts straight, so here’s one last opportunity to correct that.

Thank you so much to the fans of JudgeCast! Each and every one of you I’ve met has made events better, and I really appreciate it. I also appreciate all the e-mails, facebook posts, tweets, and the support we’ve gotten over the past 5 years.

And thank you so much to Jess and Bryan. They give me a lot of credit in the episode, but the reality is the show wouldn’t be the show without the two of them. I wouldn’t have wanted to do it with anyone else.

So thank you everyone, and be excited for what JudgeCast has in store for the future! I’m excited to be listening right along side of you.

Links from the show:

Judge of the Week: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/jotw/

Feedback Loop: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/feedback/

Our theme music! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5a0pplmtW6w

On this episode, we cover quite a bit of news and policy updates! So much, that we have to bring special guest Erik Aliff on to help! Some mysterious changes to hidden card error, some tweaks to looking at extra cards, and some exciting changes to deck decklist error! If you’re not excited about minor policy tweaks then honestly what can you be excited for?

We also cover some changes in the MTR, like the new “you can only pile shuffle at the start of a game” rule.

And we read a few policy related e-mails from listeners just like you or who are you.

Links from the show:

Toby’s blog about changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2017/01/16/policy-changes-for-aether-revolt/

Article about MTR updates: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/magic-tournament-rules-release-notes-2017-01-16

Great page about disqualifications: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/disqualification-process/

We’re back with the Aether Revolt release notes episode, and this time we’re joined by judge Amanda Coots, who helps us go over the mechanics and favorite cards from the new set. She also tells us what it’s like when the rodeo’s in town.

Oh and Emrakul was banned. That wily Emrakul.

Here’s the full release notes for your reading pleasure:
http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/aether-revolt-release-notes-2017-01-06

On this episode, we take a look at the various changes to the Judge Program over the year. Policy changes, Program changes, personal changes; we run the gambit. We also discuss our favorite episode from 2016 and what 2017 holds for us personally and for the podcast.

It gets surprisingly heavy for such a light topic.

Note:  No celebrities were harmed during the recording of this podcast

On this episode, we take the time to go over listener e-mails! We cover rules, policy, and some mysterious “other” questions. The mysteries of transform are revealed, and how many Emrakuls are too many Emrakuls? Also, everyone’s second favorite weird red card Illicit Auction is here (the first favorite is of course Goblin Game).

This episode may hold the record for our shortest ever (but maybe not)…and it may also hold the record for longest amount of bonus material after the episode is done. In other words, this episode was so rubber.

Links from the show:

http://www.xnotestopwatch.com/

http://www.online-stopwatch.com/

http://challonge.com/

We combine our deep and vast wealth of knowledge to talk about all the “other” stuff you need to know to head judge your first PPTQ. Sure, you know there are 50 minute rounds with a 40 minute minimum. But what do you do before the day of the event to prepare? When do you show up? What should you bring and what should you make sure the TO has? How should you handle player seatings and top 8? All this and so much more in this action packed episode!

Episode on HJ Announcements: https://judgecast.com/?p=982

Got a rules question, comment, concern? E-mail us at [email protected]

On this spooookky episode (That came out after Halloween, but what’re you gonna do) we talk all about the Graveyard! We go into random rules around it, talk about a mish mash of graveyard abilities, and talk about a few of our favorite graveyard cards. You know, like Savannah Lions!

It’s important, when you have a podcast, to come up with great memorable titles for your episodes.

On this episode, we have fungus expert, L2, and prolific judge blogger Nik Zitomer on to talk about balancing out your work, judging, playing, and family life. We also talk about some of the advantages that Magic can give in all of those!

Nik’s article on the topic: https://theelvishfarmer.wordpress.com/2016/07/11/magic-the-balancing-judging-family-and-career/

We spend this episode going over a mish-mash of policy updates and news!

First, we cover some of the new IPG updates. Nothing earth-shattering, but some new changes to HCE, tweaks to Missed Trigger, some clarifications on DDLP downgrades, and some changes to the MTR which apparently ruined Magic!

After that we cover the L2 Tester position and how you can certify for it. We also welcome a new Program Coordinator to the program!

Toby’s Description of Changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2016/09/26/policy-changes-for-kaladesh/

L2 Tester: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/09/29/announcing-the-level-2-tester-certification/

New PC: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/coordinators/2016/09/30/your-new-program-coordinator/

Tabak and Mox, attorneys at law.

Tabak and Mox, chefs extraordinaire.

Tabak and Mox, crime fighting duo.

Whatever they may be to you, we have Matt Tabak (Some random editor at WotC who would agree to be on. I think he writes some stories on the website?), Sara Mox (The judge manager at WotC and contender for #1 fan of the show), and a silent and mysterious Kayla (who attempts to, behind the scenes, reign the first two in but also knows deep in her heart that it is impossible) on the show to talk about the release notes for Kaladesh!

With this much greatness on, something had to give and CJ was not able to make this episode and he’s deeply sad about it. You won’t notice him missing though. HIS COHOSTS SURE DIDN’T NOR DO THEY MENTION IT AND THEY QUICKLY REPLACE HIM.

Oh yeah. Kaladesh. We go over the new mechanics! We talk card by card for the cards of interest! I’m told there is some form of wrestling game in the middle for some reason!

Warning: If you’re not someone who enjoys shows where we have fun, this might not be the episode for you. You can jump in 21 minutes to where mechanics talk starts.

Matt’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/tabakrules

Matt’s Tumblr: http://tabakrules.tumblr.com/

Sara’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/serranalaar

ExtraLife Charity: http://tinyurl.com/magicextralife

This link too why not: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/making-magic/ramp-approval-2016-05-16

And finally, the release notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/kaladesh-release-notes-2016-09-16

* Matt doesn’t have a pinterest…I think.

On this episode, we cover the pregame procedure!

You already know the pregame procedure, you say? Just listen and see, I have a feeling you’ll learn something that surprises you.

We also cover everything that can go wrong in the pregame procedure, and occasionally a quick overview on how to fix it. There’s a lot that can go wrong for something that’s done so often!

We also cover some modifications to the L2 “checklist,” and talk about how to become get the L2 Team Leader Certification.

L2 Changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/08/30/the-level-2-in-the-nnwo/

L2 Team Leader Certification: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/08/15/the-level-2-team-leader-certification/

We talk about the newest Conspiracy set!

We discuss what Conspiracy is and what to look out for, and give a brief refresher on multiplayer rules. We then cover the new mechanics, including the king of all new mechanics: Monarch! We fight over the pronunciation of melee and goad each other over the pronunciation of orchard.

We then go over some of the more interesting cards and conspiracies in the set, and make Ghostbusters 2 references.

Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/conspiracy-take-crown-release-notes-2016-08-22

We have L2, frequent e-mailer, and pirate aficionado Kali Rainwater to help us get through our backlog of e-mails.

We cover policy questions like how to handle if someone actually drew out of their sideboard, or if you can scry 3 infinite times to order your library.

On the rules front we cover a ton of cards from Eldritch Moon and some wacky Blood Moon shenanigans, among others. We even have a special sidebar on what’s apparently the most confusing card in Standard: Spell Queller.

We even have some great discussions on what it means to be an L2, how to handle counterfeits, and what to do when you make an incorrect ruling.

Kali’s Blog: http://masteringcommander.com/

On this episode, we have L3, RC, and swell guy extraordinaire Rob McKenzie on to talk about Judge Projects! We cover what are judge projects, how to join them and be involved in the judge community, how to start them, and talk about some of our favorites (Sorry if we didn’t mention your favorite project…there’s so many!)

We also cover the newest IPG changes and GPTs being switched to Regular REL. Jump in to a little over an hour in if that’s all you’re interested in, you monsters.

Some of the projects mentioned in this episode:

Mystical Tutor
Judge of the Week
Cranial Insertion
Judge Buddy
Judge Classes (Outdated, you should update them!)
Exemplar Program
Annotated IPG
List of Other Projects

Toby’s blog post on IPG changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2016/07/18/policy-changes-for-eldritch-moon/

As per the pact made with 4 demons, we are back yet again with another Release Notes episode! We cover our top picks of cards that we think are interesting rules-wise or maybe just interesting.

We seem to really like cards that make spirits, and we make sure everyone knows a new card isn’t a one-turn-kill. Oh and Emrakul. That wily Emrakul.

Release Notes: https://judgecast.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/JudgeCast_151.mp3

It’s that spooooookkkkyyyy time again!

The Release Notes for Eldritch Moon will be emerging soon, and to prevent our episodes from escalating in length too much, we decided to go ahead and cover the rules ahead of the release notes being released!

Just meld this episode with the one after it to get the entire Eldritch Moon rules experience.

Mechanics article with delightful videos: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/eldritch-moon-mechanics-2016-06-27

We’re missing Bryan this episode, so take the opportunity to go over one of our oldest ideas for a show topic: Head Judge announcements!

We cover what you should think about saying in your announcements, how you should prepare, and how you should actually present the announcements.

Here is CJ’s outline for the last event he was HJ of (An SCG Legacy Classic), and you can get a feel for how he outlines his announcements and how brief he’s trying to be:

What did the cannibal get when he was late for dinner?

A cold shoulder

 

Welcome

Judges – Chris, Taylor, Nicholas, Yuval

(Name, table number, minute for deck list checks.)

***Take up deck lists***

 

REL Competitive

50 minute rounds

0/10 Tardiness policy

Match slips

 

Calling a Judge 

Have fun

Round 1:

# of Players ____

# of Rounds ____

Also CJ wrote an article on this topic quite a while ago: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2014/06/24/head-judge-o-pun-ing-announcements/

Release notes: the eternal punishment for being a JudgeCast host.

We cover all the exciting abilities in Eternal Masters, and a wide selection of our favorite nostalgia-filled and most-dreaded cards! Animate Dead! Werebear! Sylvan Library! Isochron Scepter! All these and so much more in this action packed episode.

Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/eternal-masters-release-notes-2016-06-02

Much like SBAs, we post every time you’re about to get priority.

That makes no sense.

But we’re here and covering State Based Actions again! Learn all about these little critters that help keep the game clean and fresh.

GP Charlotte SK Article: http://www.mtgscorekeeper.com/2016/05/gp-charlotte-2016-saturday.html

Why does Bryan hate CJ?

We’re back with another e-mail episode! We cover a variety of rules topics and touch on a couple of policy questions as well. How does converge work with clones? How much information is too much on the back of a match slip? Who is our most prolific e-mailer? Can we ever be wrong in an answer?

These questions and more are answered on this very special episode!

As promised, we discuss the new level redefinition in this episode. We cover why the changes were made and what it means for each level of judge. We also make weird wrestling references?

Blog Announcing the Reasoning: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/04/11/the-new-new-world-order/

Explanations of current level requirements: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/judge-levels-redefinition/

AMA on the redefinition: https://www.reddit.com/r/mtgjudge/comments/4ebe89/judge_program_redefinition_ask_us_anything/

Program Coordinator announcement: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/04/11/meet-your-program-coordinators/

New set, new IPG, new infractions!

We go in depth on Hidden Card Error and how it looks now. It’s much more clear and generally we’re all a lot happier with it, and you will be too after you listen to us!

We also cover a brand new infraction – Mulligan Procedure Error. And throw in some other odds and ends like minor changes to GRV, D/DLP, and the MTR.

Links from the show:

Article about policy changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2016/04/04/soi-policy-changes/

Article about HCE corner cases: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2016/04/04/revisiting-the-hidden-corners-of-hce/

CJ Shrader
Creature — Human 1/2, UG
Defender

At the beginning of each upkeep, if CJ isn’t available to record, transform into Matt Williams.

Matt Williams
Creature — Human 2/1 (White/Red)
Haste, Indestructible, Vigilance

Matt Williams must attack each combat if able.

At the beginning of your upkeep, put a hustle counter on Matt Williams. This turn, there is an additional combat step for each hustle counter on Matt Williams.

It’s that time of the season again! Ghosts skulk in the basements, men transform into beasts, delirium and madness drive the crowds to riot, and we record another release notes episode!

We cover all the cards we deem interesting in the interest in getting you ready to play or judge in your prerelease, and try to cover some of the wackier stuff that can happen with the new rare cards.

SOI Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/shadows-over-innistrad-release-notes-2016-03-30

Ok maybe that show title is a stretch.

What’s this? An episode a week after our previous episode? It’s some kind of miracle!

On this episode, we have a stacked crew of W. Matt Williams, Jared Sylva, and Riki Hayashi on all to talk about their experiences in planning, judging, and playing in GP DC (The largest team sealed event to date) over this past weekend.

Also this video for some reason: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlhOUyy4wbs

Skulk into a comfy chair and listen to this episode! We investigate the new Shadows over Innistrad Mechanics.

Reading this is basically a promise to listen, so you have to now. You don’t want to be a double-faced liar about it. You’d have to be delirious or struck by some form of madness to not listen to us.

SOI Mechanics Article: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/shadows-over-innistrad-mechanics

On this episode, we talk about appeals in depth!

What is an appeal? As the floor judge, what you should you do when you get appealed (And some tips on how to avoid it)?. As the head judge, what should you do when a floor judge comes to you with an appeal (Or doing the appeals dance)? And even as a player, what are your responsibilities before you appeal?

We also cover the fact that Wave 5 Exemplar nominations are open! More info here: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/exemplar/wave-5-opens-and-other-updates/

Another episode in a long and sordid history of forcing Bryan Prillaman’s name into the title.

On this episode, we cover the Exemplar program in depth with its convenient leader, Bryan Prillaman! We talk about the history of the program and where it is today. We also spend some time discussing what a recommendation should look like, what makes a bad one, and what makes a good one.

We also learn that “exemplar” doesn’t really mean what we think it means. Whoops!

There was SO MUCH JUDGE NEWS this episode too. Here are some of the links:

New L3 Luca Romano – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/01/31/luca-romano-promoted-to-l3-at-gp-vancouver/

New L4 Riki Hayashi – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/02/05/riki-hayashi-promoted-to-l4/

New RCs and new regions in the Midwest USA – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2016/02/03/the-usa-north-and-usa-great-lakes-regions/

Sean Catanese’s article about the JCC’s perspective on the recent judge/player suspensions – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/seacat/applying-a-lens-of-clarity-to-the-us-southeast-suspensions/

Warning: Explicit language in this one

As promised, we dedicate this episode entirely to Bryan and CJ’s judge suspension. We cover what happened, discuss why we didn’t report anything, and where we are today.

If you’re more interested in fancy book-learnin’, then this episode is not for you. That’s why #138A is released at the exact same time! Give it a listen.

A new IPG is out, and with it some new changes!

The most major is Hidden Card Error, which we cover in detail here. What is it? When to apply it? And examples galore abound!

There are also some small tweaks to GRV and D/DLP, and we cover those as well.

Toby released two articles on the changes:

http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2016/01/18/ogw-policy-changes/

http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2016/01/25/the-hidden-corners-of-hce/

And you can always find the latest policy documents at judgecast.com/docs

Another set, another set of release notes. It’s our oath to you to have these episodes.

In this one, we cover the more interesting tidbits of the Oath of the Gatewatch Release Notes! Looking for in-depth coverage on the new mechanics? TOO BAD. That’s in the previous episode. But want to hear thoughts on specific cards! Oh we got you covered.

Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/oath-gatewatch-release-notes-2016-01-13

The day after we recorded this, Bryan and CJ got unsuspended! We’ll have an episode on that soon, but Wizards also posted this article on the topic: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/learning-opportunities-2016-01-13

a.k.a. “The non-suspension stuff starts at 32:10”

Bryan and CJ got player suspensions for 3 months oh no! We spend some time talking about what that means, what happened (as much as we can say right now) and what the future is going to look like.

However, if you don’t care about any of that then just jump to 32:10 and we’ll talk about the new mechanics in Oath of the Gatewatch!

Current JudgeApps page on the suspensions: http://apps.magicjudges.org/suspended.html

mtgfocus podcast with Helene Bergeot: http://mtgfocus.tumblr.com/post/135825890598/mtg-focus-ep-39-inside-a-leak-ft-helene

Oath of the Gatewatch Mechanics: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/oath-gatewatch-mechanics-2015-12-28

It’s time again for another e-mail show! We cover a wide variety of topics from listeners just like you, such as: what is appropriate on a decklist, copy effects, random cards from Portal and 9th edition, blocking order, how to handle game losses during the second game, and so much more!

Plus! Stay until the end to hear the Forbidden Question, the question we weren’t going to discuss but ended up discussing anyway. I’m definitely overselling it.

AutocardAnywhere: http://www.autocardanywhere.com/

Also! The affectionately named “JudgeCast Open” is coming. CJ, Jess, and Bryan are all head judges at the upcoming SCG Atlanta on January 23-24. If you’re a judge, we’d love to have you apply to the event here (Deadline is December 23): http://apps.magicjudges.org/events/4318/

If you’re a player, we’d love to see you there! http://www.starcitygames.com/content/schedule

Is triggers are wonderful things!

In this episode, we take a deep dive into triggers. You might know how to identify a trigger, but did you know there are different types of triggers? State triggers, zone change triggers, intervening if triggers…the list is endless!

Ok it’s just like seven or something, but it’s a good list.

Exemplar Wave 3 Announcement and Updates:  http://blogs.magicjudges.org/exemplar/exemplar-wave-3-published-and-wave-2-and-wave-4-updates/

All three hosts were at GP Atlanta! We spend this episode to talk about our experiences, including what our roles were and what we ended up doing throughout the weekend.

It was a big GP and a lot of fun, and our experiences range from the main event to every portion of side event. If you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look of how a GP is run, this is it.

And stay until the end for an abject lesson on reading Oracle text from CJ!

On this episode, the equivalent of the Avengers for deck checking assembles to share our great bounty of knowledge upon you.

We talk about what deck checks are and why we do them (Beyond just the fact that the MTR says to). We also cover our favorite methods for performing a deck check, all the way from the swoop to the check to the return.

After that, we discuss the infractions that can come up as the result of a deck check. Become a deck check master. Learn the secrets.

We decide to cover a topic we did in one of our very first episodes all over again, but this time we bring special guest Justin Turner (L3, RC of the SouthEast) into the mix to help us. Hear some of the most common mistakes judges make, and some of our own stories of our own mistakes (Mostly Turner’s).

CJ’s article on HJ announcements: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2014/06/24/head-judge-o-pun-ing-announcements/

Feedback Loop on writing reviews of higher level judges: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/feedback/2015/05/06/a-coworker-is-a-coworker-no-matter-the-level/

New sealed deck procedure: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/news/sealed-pool-procedure-update-starting-gp-sydney-and-gp-madison-2015-10-08

Toby’s post on DEC tweak: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2015/10/14/tweaking-the-new-dec-rules/

On this episode, we cover the brand new IPG in all its glory! We take another deep dive into the changes made for DEC, talk about handling scry with mulligans (And a new tournament shortcut built around scry), and a bunch of miscellaneous changes up to and including it now being illegal to bribe a judge!

New IPG: http://wpn.wizards.com/sites/wpn/files/attachements/mtg_ipg_02oct15_en.pdf

Article on Changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2015/09/28/bfz-policy-changes/

Article about Scrying Improperly During Mulligans: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2015/10/03/the-forbidden-look/

In our quarterly tradition, we’re back with an episode all about the Battle for Zendikar release notes! We cover every mechanic in depth, and pick out the juiciest looking cards to give you a boost for playing in and judging your prerelease.

Want to learn how Awakening a spell might not always be the best move? How about how it interacts with manlands? How colorless is devoid? Converge, what’s the deal with that? How to handle “processing” when there are multiple piles of facedown exiled cards, I know that’s been eating away at you.

Come for the knowledge, stay for the awkward segues!

Release notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/battle-zendikar-release-notes-2015-09-23

JudgeCast is excited to introduce Molten Nursery to the world! We spend this special episode discussing the card in-depth, including everything rules-related for the card and our own personal thoughts on all parts of the card, down to the flavor text.

Here’s the card you’ll all skip the episode to see:

If you’re interested in becoming a judge, please visit http://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/judge-levels/become-a-magic-judge/

Ahoy!

We take an episode to get caught up on e-mails, and with the help of Nicolette Apraez, L2 from Wiscons (you’ll get it soon), we are able to knock out a whopping 12 e-mails in one short, action packed hour! We cover questions from all corners of policy and the rules.

Exemplar Blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/exemplar/

CJ’s cats, as cardified by Josh Carr:

We have L4, 15 year judge, and head of the Conference Sphere Damián Hiller on to talk about conferences. We cover what to expect from attending and presenting at a conference, how the entire conference system works, and how a being a judge for 15 years can make you lose your hair.

Conferences blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/conferences/

Bryan’s seminar on giving seminars: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FkWLtwbia0&app=desktop

We have special guest Riki Hayashi on to talk about cover letters, and applying to events in general on Judge Apps! We talk about how to prepare your profile, and what to include in your applications, and what not to include.

We also get weird at the end and learn the secret of why CJ’s name is CJ.

Yes I know I used this title on episode 38. YOU COME UP WITH NEARLY 100 TITLES AND KEEP THEM FRESH.

Speaking of fresh, we have a brand new IPG out! This one has some big changes, and we go in-depth on the biggest: Drawing Extra Cards is now a warning! We go in deep on what this means with a few examples.

We also discuss some of the other miscellaneous changes to the IPG and some small changes to the rules (A change to casting spells?! Will we need to learn a new mnemonic?), and read the spiciest of e-mails.

Toby’s Blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2015/07/13/magic-origins-policy-changes/

Tabak’s Rules Update: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/magic-origins-update-bulletin-intro-2015-07-16

The release notes for Magic Origins are here! Learn about double faced cards, spell mastery, and renown! Want to hear our thoughts on Lorwyn for some reason? Well they are in this episode! How about an extremely unlikely corner case involving two copies of a mythic? People love those, and JudgeCast gives them to you for free!

Release notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/magic-origins-release-notes-2015-07-08

Application to apply for SCG Charlotte, where Jess and CJ will be: http://apps.magicjudges.org/events/2984/

On this JudgeCast SPECIAL, CJ tried something different: To capture the usual judge chats that happen after a GP and have them recorded for all of posterity.

The problem? Those chats are made in a moving car, and the sound quality was not good. As such, we decided to release this one as a bonus episode outside of our normal every-two-week schedule! So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the soothing road noises haphazardly edited out as you follow along with driving with JudgeCast. We even answer some road e-mails!

We take an episode to talk about all the judge levels, up to and including levels 1, 4, and even 2! Yep, all 5 of the levels are here.

We talk about the roles and responsibilities of each level, what’s expected of someone in that level, and how someone becomes that level. For an even deeper dive into the Level 3 process, see episode 73.

We also cover a bunch of news (HoF! Exemplar! And sadder things).

Article on Judge Levels: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/o/judge-levels/

Gofundme to support Carsten Haese’s family: http://www.gofundme.com/xctx6pk

On this very special episode, we have Toby Elliott (one of the many head judges of GP Vegas, L5, and all around swell guy) on to give us a debrief of GP Vegas. We talk about some of the planning that went in from a head judge perspective, some of the problem cards from the event, and even talk about a ruling Toby had that he’d never had before.

We also read a few policy-based e-mails, and one single e-mail about everyone’s favorite card: Precursor Golem.

Toby’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/tobyelliott

Toby’s Blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/

On this episode, we have special guest David Greene on (Of Judge’s Corner fame!) to help us cover most of the abilities and many of the cards in Modern Masters.

We put a little bit of extra focus on these cards at Competitive REL to help you get prepared for GP Vegas!

Modern Masters 2015 Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/modern-masters-2015-edition-release-notes-2015-05-12

Judge’s Corner: http://www.gatheringmagic.com/author/judgescorner/

Nathan Long’s in-depth article on Modern Masters rules: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2015/05/22/modern-rules-problems-going-through-modern-masters-2015/

Card Advantage’s episode about the previous GP Vegas: http://www.cardadvantagecast.com/2015/04/10/episode-085-does-it-have-cascade/

We have special guest and very-long-time-judge David Hibbs on to discuss the Judge Hall of Fame and the history of the judge program in general.

We cover some of Hibbs’s favorites from the first ballot, talk about the early days of the program, take a quiz from the original Arena exams, and even discuss the old chestnut Failure to Agree on Reality.

Hibbs’s blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/timedistortion/

A review form Hibbs provided us after the episode: http://archive.wizards.com/dci/downloads/judge_review_form_%28v3.3%29.pdf

We dedicate this episode to e-mails! We get caught up on a bunch, covering such topics as: What to do when a judge is wrong, rules questions with Dragonlord Silumgar, what is rotting in Jess’s fridge, assorted additional rules questions, and whether or not you can register in two different events. Plus much more!

We also take a few minutes to talk about the brand new Magic Judge Hall of Fame!

Knowledge Pool Scenario: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/knowledgepool/2013/06/05/the-devil-in-the-details/

Judge Feedback Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1d01SoySBQxdhfv67yQhl2Sp7Zq9Ung9NDwjwekdqf1Q/viewform

Hall of Fame Announcement: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/hof/2015/04/24/announcing-the-judge-hall-of-fame/

The definitive episode on missed triggers! How to recognize them, how to tell whether or not one was missed, and what to do after you know one was missed. CJ was sick so we have special guest and former host Riki Hayashi on to fill in.

We also break our usual policy of not discussing the “hot-button” issues of the week and spend some time talking about the Patrick Chapin upgraded GRV ruling at the Pro Tour.

Links from the show:

Toby Elliott posting about Missed Trigger: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2015/03/23/dtk-policy-changes-for-judges/

Annotated IPG about Missed Trigger: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Annotated_IPG/Missed_Trigger

Riki’s Article on Whisperwood Elemental: http://mtgrikipedia.blogspot.com/2015/04/is-it-missed-4-whisperwood-elemental.html

Cedric Phllips’s Article about Chapin: http://www.starcitygames.com/article/30641_On-Patrick-Chapin-Round-Six-And-The-Importance-Of-First-Impressions.html

We have our very own April Fool on, L3 and RC Justin Turner, to talk about how to talk to a TO when you’re new in town. We cover such topics like how to show you add value to the TO, how to ingrain yourself as the judge for that TO’s store, compensation, and what to do if they store already has a judge. These are the types of things that apply to more than just judging at the store level!

We also cover some of the changes from the newest IPG. Listen and let the smooth sounds of Florida crickets put you to sleep as Justin Turner explains it all.

New IPG Changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2015/03/23/dtk-policy-changes-for-judges/

Judge Classes: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Judge_Classes

Part 2 of our episodes on the Dragons of Tarkir release notes! We cover the rulings on some individual cards, with some behind-the-scenes looks thanks to our returning guest Matt Tabak!

Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/dragons-tarkir-release-notes-2015-03-18

Fblthp Walking the Planes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LF7l4gkOekY

On this super-special episode we have Magic Rules Manager and all around tall dude Matt Tabak on to talk about the Dragons of Tarkir release notes!

We’ve split the notes into two episodes. In this one, you’ll find a discussion of Matt’s career at Wizards of the Coast, some forced Gummi Bear references, and we go over the new mechanics in Dragons of Tarkir.

Release notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/dragons-tarkir-release-notes-2015-03-18

Matt’s Tumblr: http://tabakrules.tumblr.com/

Matt’s previous episode: https://judgecast.com/?p=581

Part 3 of our mega-series on all the formats legal in FNM! In this episode, we focus on the limited formats that can be played in FNM: Solomon, Winston, Rotisserie, Cube, Back, Pick a Pack, and Reject Rare draft.

And of course we cover e-mails from around the globe!

Steve Argyle’s Playmat Art: http://steveargyle.tumblr.com/post/113178634660/judges-2015-when-i-talk-about-my-own-art-im

We go off-script and cover Zones in detail! Learn exciting facts about the “battlezone,” the exile zone, objects moving between zones, and listen to us bravely try to come up with scenarios for some of these ridiculous rules.

We also read some e-mails from listeners just like you!

Alternate proposed titles: “Backing up is hard to do,” “We got your backup,” “Baby got backup,” “Backup to the future,” and “The Way Backup Machine.” Also the words “Back that sass up” were said at one point.

On this episode, we have former host and Dawsons Creek fan Riki Hayashi on to cover the great umbrella that is Game Rule Violation in detail! We also take a deep dive into rewinds: How to perform a backup, when to perform them, and more importantly, when NOT to.

We also cover the other fixes for Game Rule Violation (including an exhaustive look into “leaving the game state as-is”), and the few partial fixes that are allowed. This is one of the most frequent infractions given at a competitive event, so there’s something in here for everyone!

Riki’s Feedback Blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/feedback/

Riki’s Other Blog: http://mtgrikipedia.blogspot.com/

Riki’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/mtgRikipedia

(You know, like the movie)

On this episode, we have L4 and charity playmat star Jared Sylva on to discuss investigations! And not just the cheaty-kind too, but what it means to walk up on a table blind and determine what went wrong and how to fix it.

We also cover the sparse IPG changes and some minor changes to supplementals.

New IPG can always be found at judgecast.com/docs

Investigations, the Search for Collateral Truths by Eric Shukan

Part 1 – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2014/12/30/investigations-the-search-for-collateral-truths/

Part 2 – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2015/01/06/investigations-the-search-for-collateral-truths-part-2/

Part 3 – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2015/01/13/investigations-the-search-for-collateral-truths-part-3/

Episode on investigations with Eric Levine – https://judgecast.com/?p=408

Jared’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/jaredsylva

Judges for Charity playmat featuring Jared – http://judgesforcharity.com/product/team-dapper-vs-team-handsome-playmat/

It’s manifesting time!

Just doesn’t have the same ring as morphin’ time. Sad.

On this episode, we cover the FAQ for Fate Reforged. We cover some specific cards and go over the new rules for Dash, Bolster, and everyone’s favorite new boogeyman, Manifest.

Fate Reforged Release Notes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/fate-reforged-release-notes-2015-01-14

This is another part in our series on all the newly legal FNM formats, and how to play them and judge them!

In this episode, we’re able to cover the relatively-new Tiny Leaders format, Wizard’s Tower, Emperor, Star, Archenemy, Planechase, and even throw in Grand Melee for good measure. We hope you never have to judge any of these formats, but if you do, you should be prepared.

Links from the show:

Tiny Leaders rules and banlist

Wizard’s Tower rules

Star rules

Changes to L3 Qualities

CJ’s guest appearance on Leaving a Legacy

This episode is as casual as they come! The JudgeCasters have special guest Joe Hughto on to simply reminisce about whatever we want. Get a little taste of what happens before and after every show, and what happens at every Judge Dinner. Arguably, standing around with a bunch of judges and talking about is the best part about being a judge!

Oh, and we cover the morph policy change BECAUSE WE HAVE TO. And finally read some e-mails!

Links from the show:

Change to morph policy: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2014/12/12/changing-morph-handling-in-the-ipg/

On this episode, we have frequent guest, L4, former Regional Coordinator, Smooth Voice Champion 6 Years Running, JudgeCast co-creator Sean Catanese on to talk about the new Code of Conduct document.

We cover why the document exists, what it says, how to report breaches in code of conduct and what it means if someone were to report a breach against you.

Links from the show:

The Code of Conduct: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/conduct/files/2014/12/MagicJudgeCode1.pdf

GP Vegas Application: http://apps.magicjudges.org/events/1674/

On this very special episode, we finally dedicate an entire episode to the JAR. This is must-have knowledge for L1 hopefuls, and really something every judge needs to know at all levels as the nearly all sanctioned Magic events that ever happen are run at Regular REL.

To help us, we have special guest L4 and JAR Boss Kim Warren on to guide us through.

Links from the show:

The latest version of the JAR can always be found at judgecast.com/docs

Regular REL blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/regular/

Judges for Charity: judgesforcharity.com

Is that reference in the title too obtuse? Nah.

On this episode, we once again have L3 and/or fantastic guest Eric “Raging” Levine on! As part of our series on formats, we cover Commander in depth. Learn how to play Commander! Learn what happens exactly when your Commander goes to the command zone! Learn what happens when you Oblivion Ring your opponent’s creature and then lose the game! Learn a lot about life and a little about love!

Links from the show:

Commander rules and banned list: mtgcommander.net

Eric Levine’s Articles: http://www.channelfireball.com/author/eric-levine/

JudgeCast #59 – Sheldon Menery Explains It All

JudgeCast #44 – Investigating Raging Levine

JudgeCast starts a new mega-series, to be picked up at some point in the future. The plan? Cover every format that was announced to be legal for FNM.

In this first episode of that series, we cover standard, modern, vintage, block, legacy, draft, and sealed. These may seem basic but you have a standard JudgeCast money-back guarantee you’ll learn something along the way.

Links from the show:

FNM Format announcement: http://www.gatheringmagic.com/news-10112014-fnm-format-and-regional-ptq-updates/

Episode on 2HG: https://judgecast.com/?p=593

Episode on Investigations: https://judgecast.com/?p=691

In this episode, the quickest judges this side of the Mississippi cover slow play in depth! When should you give it, how should you give it, why we give it, so on and so forth.

If you’re a player, this isn’t personal! This may also be a valuable episode for you to learn why we are asking you to make a play.

The Judgers Grimm take this episode to discuss the recent policy updates! We cover changes to Drawing Extra Cards, Improper Draw at Start of Game, GRV, and also go over how to handle morph at Competitive REL events!

We also get caught up on some listener e-mails, mostly about the new cards in Khans of Tarkir.

Links:

Articles on Policy Updates: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2014/09/23/khans-of-tarkir-policy-changes/

Annotated IPG: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Annotated_IPG

IRC: http://chat.magicjudges.org/mtgrules/

The Khans of JudgeCast go over the Khans of Tarkir FAQ! We cover the new mechanics (Except morph, we already did an episode on that and it didn’t change), and go over the interesting cards in the Khans FAQ.

Links from the show:

The FAQ: http://community.wizards.com/comment/51284091

Morph episode: https://judgecast.com/?p=707

Power Rangers / Magic crossover fanfic (It came up ok): https://www.fanfiction.net/s/7235538/1/Mirridon-Force

This episode is all about JudgeCast! We have some very special guests (Who could they be?!) on and discuss the past, present, and the future of JudgeCast in all its forms.

If you’re only in it for the education, this episode might not be for you. Take a couple weeks off, read the CR, take a nap. For the enfranchised fan, this is one of the best episodes ever.

You’ve all waited a long time, and finally we can say…

It’s Morphin’ Time!

With Morph coming back in Khans of Tarkir, we take this opportunity to talk about Morph and Face Down Spells/Permanents in general. We cover every situation with them we can possibly think of, and how you should handle people breaking the rules with them at all RELs.

Links from the show:

Judge Foil Lands FAQ: http://apps.magicjudges.org/forum/topic/11588/?page=1#post-73843

It’s been an eventful month for judges! On this episode we have special guest Joe “Hugho” Hughto on to discuss all the changes coming down the pipe. We cover the Exemplar program, additional GPs coming to town, the changes to the PTQ structure, and, of course, the removal of judge foils from GPs.

We also take the opportunity to get caught up on e-mails from listeners just like you.

Links from the show:

Exemplar Program: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2014/07/28/exemplar-program/

Lems’s Article about the Exemplar Program: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/lems/2014/07/28/the-magic-judge-exemplar-program/

Turner’s Article about the Loss of Foils: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/turner/2014/07/29/turn-down-foils-for-what/

Organized Play Changes: http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/2014-2015-premier-play-updates-2014-07-29

There’s been so much happening over the past few weeks!

On this episode the judgefellas have special guest Justin Turner (L3 and RC) on to talk about some big changes to the judge program.

We go into the L2 redefinition in depth. Why did it change, what do L1s looking to become L2 need to do now, and even what do existing L2s need to do to remain L2?

We also cover the new IPG. Listen to exciting changes/clarifications to Improper Draw at Start of Game, Game Rule Violation, Deck/Decklist Problem, and the expanded and upgraded version of Unsporting Conduct – Major

Links from the show:

L2 Redefinition – http://apps.magicjudges.org/forum/topic/11108/

IPG – http://wpn.wizards.com/sites/wpn/files/attachements/mtg_ipg_18july14_en.pdf

MTR – http://wpn.wizards.com/sites/wpn/files/attachements/mtg_mtr_18jul14_en.pdf

JAR – http://wpn.wizards.com/sites/wpn/files/attachements/mtg_jar_18jul14_en.pdf

Toby’s Article on the IPG – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/blog/2014/07/14/m15-policy-changes/

Kim’s Article on the JAR – http://blogs.magicjudges.org/regular/2014/07/15/jar-update/

Chewie’s Kickstarter – https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/themanapool/the-mana-pool-mtg-merchandise-videos-podcasts-and?ref=nav_search

Mameshiba (Everyone needs this) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjsZbnTNB8c

On this lovely episode of JudgeCast, we go over the interesting bits of the M15 FAQ. Learn about convoke! Or squid horrors! Or ape predators!

Release notes:

http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/release-notes-2014-07-07

We discuss the disqualification process from start to finish, including the paperwork a judge needs to do and what happens after they pass it off. And because we don’t know what happens after the judge passes it off, we have very special guests Eric “Toucan” Shukan (head of the Investigations Committee) and Guillaume Beuzelin (also of the Investigations Committee) on to discuss the process entirely.

(Unfortunately, Jess’s audio gets weird as the episode progresses. We apologize for that, it hopefully won’t happen again and does not take away from the great information in the show)

The Mana Pool’s Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/themanapool/the-mana-pool-mtg-merchandise-videos-podcasts-and?ref=nav_search

On this episode, we each bring a smaller topic that doesn’t fill an entire episode but something we wanted to talk about. Learn about numbers! Setting life totals! Damage! Drawing cards! And the finer points of casting a spell.

We also celebrate a new L4, issue a correction from the previous episode, and read listener e-mails.

Links:

Steps of Casting a Spell Episode: https://judgecast.com/?p=531

Missed Trigger Episode: https://judgecast.com/?p=140

Annotated IPG on Missed Triggers: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Annotated_IPG/Missed_Trigger

On this episode, we cover the Conspiracy FAQ IN DEPTH.

Learn all about Will of the Council, draft-matters cards (and how they interact with each other), Conspiracies, Dethrone, and Parley. We skip Morbid; you’ll be fine.

We also read e-mails from listeners just like you, covering topics from sleeves to a minorly racist way to remember the layers!

Conspiracy FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg%2Freleasenotes%2Fcns

On this episode, we cover the newest incarnation of the IPG and the MTR! Topics include changes to the electronic device policy, the elimination of Failure to Follow Official Announcements, and the newly renamed Limited Procedure Violation.

We also spend a few minutes discussing these God Packs that are all the rage these days, and of course reading e-mails from our beautiful listeners.

Multitude of links from the show:

Toby’s Article for Judges

Toby’s Article for Players 

New IPG

New MTR

Annotated IPG

Article on Split Cards

Jess’s Article on the Changes

On this super-special episode, we strive (see what I did there) to bring you all the interesting and relevant interactions in Journey Into Nyx! We cover the FAQ in just-enough depth.

Links from the show:

The FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/faq/jou

Judge Classes: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Judge_Classes

Annotated IPG: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/Annotated_IPG

Contact information:

E-mail: [email protected]

Twitter: twitter.com/judgecast

Facebook: facebook.com/judgecast

On this, our second part of our two part series on types, we cover Subtypes and type-changing effects in detail! This podcast is not a trap and there is nothing arcane about it.

Uhh…curse your gated shrines? Urza’s? This joke is not as easy with Subtypes as it was on episode 88 (Which you should listen to first before listening to this one!)

Also, be sure to listen after “the credits” for One Weird Tip a local mom discovered on how to increase the quality of your podcast audio!

Links from the show:

SCG’s rewards changes: http://www.starcitygames.com/news/293_Judge+Rewards+Page+Relaunch+and+Judge+Compensation+Changes

The episode of Card Advantage with CJ on it: http://www.cardadvantagecast.com/2014/04/02/episode-053-a-theros-guide-to-planeswalkers/

This episode promises to be anything but basic, in fact you might call it legendary! Are you snowed in with only your creature comforts? It’s a good thing you landed here of all places in the world. Turn on this episode about types in Magic and in an instant prepare to be enchanted.

Through what sorcery do we put out content so good? We have special guest Aaron LaCluyze on, a fan of the tribe of Goblins and an all around scientific expert.

Unrelated, Karn is an artifact and a planeswalker. I mean, not really, but something has to complete this belabored joke.

Aaron’s twitter: https://twitter.com/lacluyze

Card Advantage: http://cardadvantagecast.com/

Monday Night Magic: http://mtgcast.com/topics/mtgcast-podcast-shows/active-podcast-shows/monday-night-magic

On this episode, we have special guest L2 Carsten Haese on to talk about two projects near and dear to his heart.

First, we discuss CranialInsertion.com, including its history, its purpose, and all the lovely things Carsten has done on it.

Next, we talk about running a charity event. Carsten has been running Cast a Spell on MS for many years now, and has some great tips on how you can run your own charity event. If you’re in the Ohio area, check it out on March 29th!

Links from the show:

Cranial Insertion: cranialinsertion.com

Cranial Insertion Layers Article: cranialinsertion.com/ooo

Cast a Spell on MS: castaspellonms.org

Carsten’s Twitter: twitter.com/c_haese

Cranial Insertion’s Twitter: twitter.com/cranialtweet

JudgeCast contact info:

[email protected]

twitter.com/judgecast

facebook.com/judgecast

On this episode, your very favorite team is back again to talk about team leading and the individual teams at an event!

Learn more about the mysterious deck checking team (What could they possibly do?), the intriguing logistics team, and the always-beats-rock paper team. We also cover some of the new-fangled teams like floor, breaks, and somehow a spinach team as well.

And of course we give tips on how to be an effective team lead in any of these situations.

We also read e-mails from listeners just like you!

E-mail: [email protected]

Twitter: twitter.com/judgecast

Facebook: facebook.com/judgecast

A new set is out, and with that comes new policy documents. We cover the minimal changes in depth, as well as take some time to get caught up on some e-mails (Including a few about Born of the Gods).

Special thanks to L2 Jeff Higgins for hopping on as a cohost while CJ was out deathly ill. So ill.

Updated policy documents can be found at judgecast.com/docs

Everything you need to know about Born of the Gods to prepare for your prerelease! We cover such exciting topics as tribute! Inspired! Devotion to multiple colors! That weird chimera that swaps things!

So exciting!

Also, a huge congratulations to Jess Dunks on making Level 3! What a heroic accomplishment, truly inspired. So much devotion to being a judge, it’s really a monstrous feat. We should all pay him tribute.

FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/faq/bng

On this episode we cover Tournament Shortcuts! These are used in almost every single game, yet many players aren’t even aware they are using them.

We additionally have special guest Paul Baranay (L2 judge and all around Harvard superstar) on to help us out!

You can find the shortcuts in the Magic Tournament Rules at judgecast.com/docs

Paul Baranay’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/twotwobearz

Magic Judge Reddit: http://www.reddit.com/r/mtgjudge

Merry Christmas and happy holidays! We clearly don’t like our listeners very much so this year everyone is getting a lump of coal in the form of this episode.

We cover the most awful and defunct mechanics from Magic’s past. Looking for something you can use in your everyday Magic games? Nope! Not this episode. Looking for how bestow and phasing interact? Or want to finally learn how banding works? This is the episode for you!

We also of course cover the latest judge news and answer listener e-mails.

JudgeCast is now on iTunes! To find us, just search for JudgeCast on iTunes and and click the one with the JudgeCast logo (The others are related to mtgcast.com). Why subscribe to our site over mtgcast? You’ll get higher quality episodes posted the day the were meant to come out!

On this episode, the judgefellas team up to cover all the rules and procedures around two headed giant. Never again can you make the excuse of not knowing 2HG on those test questions. NEVER AGAIN

We also talk about CJ’s cats and pancakes because that is surely why you’re tuning in. And of course we read e-mails from listeners just like you!

2HG FAQ

On this episode we have very special guest John Temple on to talk about the Judge of the Week project. In a shocking twist, we’ve been nominated Judge of the Week and so John interviews us about JudgeCast’s past, present, and future!

Judge of the Week: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/jotw/

We also announce our build-a-bear contest winners! The winners and their winning submissions can be found below:

Hideaway Cub by Jeff Simmers

Bear Cubling by Phil Miller

Bear Cubmander by Tim Sargent

Thanks to everyone for all the great entries! All entries can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.644870622202765.1073741825.105788072777692&type=1

We have super duper special guest and rules manager for all of Magic Matt Tabak on to discuss his life at Wizards and his opinions on punctuation. Truly, we waste our too-short time with him. But he did sing the Duck Tales theme so we certainly can’t say it was all a waste.

This episode is easily one of our favorites and a great look at the behind-the-scenes of how the rules get made. We can’t wait to have Matt on again.

Our Build-A-Bear contest is still going! To enter, please submit your bear cub to [email protected] or here: https://www.facebook.com/JudgeCast/posts/641879652501862

The deadline for this contest is Sunday, November 24th.

Tabak’s Tumblr: http://tabakrules.tumblr.com/

Tabak’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/tabakrules

Gather you ghouls and goblins and other Halloween stereotypes you hear on costume commercials and prepare for a spooooooky episode on the combat phase! We cover such creepy topics as the beginning of combat step, the end of combat step, and everything in between.

We also announce a new contest! Create a bear cub card of your choosing, showcasing a unique picture or idea or name or anything! If we choose yours as the winner, you will win a judge foil to be announced! To enter please post the image to our facebook page or send it to [email protected].

An example card:

Links from the show:

Previous episode on steps of a turn: https://judgecast.com/?p=425

A possible image to use for contest: http://www.wildnatureimages.com/images%202/050612-100..jpg

On this episode we talk about the “being a jerk” portion of Unsporting Conduct in the IPG: Aggressive Behavior, Major, and Minor. Want to know what happens when someone literally flips a table? This episode is for you!

As always we read e-mails from the listeners, including such hot topics as Master of Waves, bestow, and…Abu Ja’far?

Motel California series:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HztAWVUO1Zo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6uPN30plvM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJeqDV_j48g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Qze4djzyIQ

Sneetches for some reason:

http://www.amazon.com/Sneetches-Other-Stories-ebook/dp/B00ESF28YY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382029614&sr=8-1&keywords=sneetches

We got so behind on e-mails we decided to dedicate an entire episode to them! Listen as we discuss bestow some more, talk tournament policy, CJ fails to pronounce anything correctly, and answer a whopping 24 e-mails from listeners around the world.

Links from the show:

Yawgatog Changes: http://yawgatog.com/resources/rules-changes/m14-ths/

MTGCast Announcement: http://mtgcast.com/the-new-face-of-mtgcast

Very special thanks to Josh Carr and Rob Chronister for the JudgeCast e-mail praise/song. You can find the song and the lyrics at the following link: https://judgecast.com/?attachment_id=559

Your devotion to JudgeCast has been strong and so we bestow upon you a special gift! This FAQ episode is a heroic undertaking to answer all of the major rules questions that might come up at your prerelease and beyond. Want to know how bestow works with almost anything? Wondering if equipment will trigger heroic? You won’t need to scry into a crystal ball to find out, just listen here!

Not knowing the rules can be monstrous, so make sure to listen as soon as you can.

FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/magic/magazine/article.aspx?x=mtg/faq/ths

We have brand new fancy pants L4 and former host Sean Catanese on this very special episode! We discuss his rise to L4, his new roles and responsibilities, and how if it weren’t for the continuation of JudgeCast he never would have made it. Basically we made SeaCat an L4.

We also discuss the next steps for a new L1 to take after passing that test. What should you bring to an event? How do you find an event? This and many more questions are answered!

Hyperlinked rules: http://yawgatog.com/resources/magic-rules/

Cranial Insertion: cranialinsertion.com

We have very special guest L4 Jeff Morrow on to talk about the life of an L4, and take an in-depth look at the L3 advancement process. As the man in charge of the L3 interview process, no one knows more about it than Jeff.

Every time we have an L4+ on the show it’s always a great one, so don’t miss this one!

Wiki Page on L3 Advancement Process: http://wiki.magicjudges.org/en/w/The_Level_Three_Advancement_Process

Jeff Morrow’s blog: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/road-to-l3/

Rob McKenzie’s article on the L3 process: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/robbit/2013/07/10/making-l3-what-it-means-and-why-it-is-a-big-deal/

George Fitzgerald and Matteo Callegari’s article on slow play: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/articles/2012/12/25/slow-play/

The JudgeFellas take some time to get caught up on this episode, and L2 James Elliott comes along to join the party (And lend his special brand of Scottish flair).

We get caught up on e-mails, discuss the minor changes in the IPG and MTR, and for some reason make Doctor Who jokes that CJ just doesn’t get.

Midwest Judge Conference: http://apps.magicjudges.org/events/497/

MOJO 2013: https://www.facebook.com/events/471942189568359/

As promised, here is our very special episode on the steps to cast a spell. Think you already know how to cast a spell? You might be surprised! Already know how? Well maybe an L0 you know could use this episode. Listen we just make them, what you do with the episodes after that is up to you.

We skip e-mails on this one but don’t you worry, we’ll be getting caught up on all of them in our next episode.

In this episode, we have special guest Jason Flatford on and we cover the M14 FAQ and every detail you may need to know for your prerelease and beyond!

We also spend too much time discussing the exact size of Colossal Whale in comparison to other creatures, and we answer every question about Strionic Resonator that has been sent to us so far. Don’t you all know there are other cards in M14?

Links from the show:

Our episode on M14 rules changes: https://judgecast.com/?p=507

Link to the FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/faq/m14

On this lighter episode, the JudgeCast bros discuss their experiences at GP Vegas and Miami, including rulings, interesting stories, and weird appeals.

Of course we also read e-mails from listeners just like you! (A little note…we can’t answer every M14 question yet until the FAQ comes out, though it should be out soon so feel free to keep sending them).

We have special guest L3 Justin Turner on again, this time to discuss the (what feels like a million) abilities and mechanics in Modern Masters. Just in time for GP: Las Vegas!

We of course also read our listener e-mails, including a special e-mail finally solving our “12th gate” problem that we thought was unsolvable.

Links from the show:

Our steps of casting a spell episode (Jump in at 55:30): https://judgecast.com/?p=321

Archive of old articles by Justin Turner, including ones on modern mechanics and casting a spell: http://www.gatheringmagic.com/author/justinturner/

Daym Drops Super Official (I don’t know why we referenced this but it happened): http://www.youtube.com/user/GhettoNN

Tuktuktutktuktuktuk

On this episode, we cover all of the upcoming changes for M14! This includes how favorably the new legend rule works with Tuk Tuk the Explorer (Among other cards).

We also get caught up on our e-mails, which range from easy answers to incredibly complex phasing questions. Judging is fun!

Links from the show:

Article with Changes: http://www.wizards.com/magic/magazine/article.aspx?x=mtg/daily/feature/248e

Explanation of why Legend Change was Made: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/daily/feature/248f

Pronunciation of Portcullis (It will matter, trust me):  http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Portcullis

On this episode, the Billy Judges Gruff cover the top decks from GP Portland and any interesting rules interactions that can occur with those top decks.

Note: This episode was recorded before the announcement of the M14 rules changes, but we do look a little bit like psychics during portions of the episode.

On this episode, we cover the (thankfully few) changes to the IPG, JAR, and MTR that came in the last round of updates. We also discuss our prerelease experiences and get caught up on e-mails!

Links from the show:

All documents – thedci.com/docs

In this JudgeCast SPECIAL (Meaning it’s a bonus episode), we cover the FAQ for Dragon’s Maze. We also go in-depth on split cards as they can be a bit of a tricky widget.

Jess couldn’t make this episode so we have very special guest L2 Adam Hubble on to bring some much-needed British/Mississippi class to the show. Maybe now we can finally win a Grammy.

Links from the show:

New JAR: http://www.wizards.com/ContentResources/Wizards/WPN/Main/Documents/Magic_The_Gathering_Judging_at_Regular_REL_PDF1.pdf

FAQ: http://www.wizards.com/magic/magazine/article.aspx?x=mtg/faq/dgm&dcmp=ilc-mtgrss#86140

All other documents: thedci.org/docs

On this episode the JudgeBros have special guest L1 Mark Bush on to discuss everything you need to know to be head judge of your first competitive level event. We cover everything from announcements, to talking to the tournament organizer, to what to do when the event is wrapped up. We could never impart everything you learn through experience in one show but we sure gave it our best shot!

(Midway through the episode Skype decided it didn’t want the quality of Jess/Bryan to be good anymore. Sorry about that, it’s still plenty listenable, just not the high quality we usually like).

Infinite links from the show:

IPG Flash Cards – http://www.bluewizard.net/flashcards.html

Decklists – judgecast.com/docs

Wizard’s Event Reporter – http://www.wizards.com/WPN/Events/Tools.aspx

Guide to WER – http://www.wizards.com/dci/downloads/wer_guide_%20V2_7may11.pdf

IRC – http://chat.magicjudges.org/ (After joining, type /join #mtgjudge to join the #mtgjudge chatroom. For the IRC-savvy, we are on EFNET)

Sean Catanese’s Judgebreaker deck – http://deckbox.org/sets/31969

The boys are back in town with the second part of their two-part series on layers! This time, they cover the more complicated aspects of layers including dependencies and what happens when you remove an ability after it’s already done its thing.

Will you learn a lot from this episode? It depends! (An ol’ layer joke for you)

Copy the URL to this one down! Try to control your excitement! Text all of your friends who are rules-loving types and tell them to listen to our very special episode on layers (Or, “Interaction of Continuous Effects”). Never heard of layers? Color us impressed! Part of the greatness of layers is their ability to reach intuitive results without the players needing to think about them. It’s a powerful tool, and it’s tough sometimes to even see where the layers are working.

As is characteristic of all our episodes, we set out to educate you, the listener, on all the basics of layers. Is there anything you’d like us to modify about this episode? Did we say something counter to what you’d expect? This episode is all about the basics (What someone going for L1 would need to know) and next episode we switch it up with the advanced stuff.

Have something you want to hear on the next episode? E-mail us at [email protected].

Links from the show:

Our episode on copy effects: http://www.mtgcast.com/mtgcast-podcast-shows/active-podcast-shows/judgecast/judgecast-53-do-you-copy

Our episode on resources (Ignore mentions of lapsing abilities): http://www.mtgcast.com/mtgcast-podcast-shows/active-podcast-shows/judgecast/judgecast-37-unlimited-resources

GP Charlotte was the largest Magic event to date (And much bigger than estimated), which had some unique judging challenges. We have L2 Matt Williams (lovingly referred to as Billy Willy) on to discuss being at the GP with a focus on being the Public Events lead for an event with so very many people. We also talk paper cutters for much longer than rational people should.

As always, we read e-mails from listeners like you! This week had some real doozies, including a rant and proclamation by CJ about Hive Mind and/or Knowledge Pool.

This is a good one! We have Level Emeritus…Emeritused…the former L5 Sheldon Menery on to talk about whatever we want! We discuss cats, the history of the judge program, being an L5, naming beasts, and anything else that comes to mind. We also ask questions from our readers!

This episode is one of our favorites and is extremely full of fun and wisdom, so please give it a listen.

Okay. You people sit tight, hold the fort and keep the home fires burning. And if we’re not back by dawn… call the president.

On this episode we have special guest L3 James Bennett on to discuss the new (super new) IPG! We talk triggers (Everyone loves triggers!), the other policy changes (We should rename a past episode due to some of these changes), and the newest MTR. Also for some reasons we make a lot of references from Big Trouble in Little China!

And of course we read all the e-mails from listeners just like you.

Here is a list of all the many and varied articles about the new IPG:

Toby Elliott’s post for judges: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2013/02/03/gatecrash-policy-changes-for-judges/

Toby Elliott’s commentary on Trigger changes: http://blogs.magicjudges.org/telliott/2013/02/03/missed-triggers-3-the-bonus-disc/

James Bennett’s lovely write up on the new IPG: http://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/17umqb/the_gatecrash_ipg_and_triggers/

Article from Rules Manager Matt Tabak: http://www.wizards.com/Magic/Magazine/Article.aspx?x=mtg/daily/feature/233

And an article from former host, Riki Hayashi! http://www.starcitygames.com/article/25624_Trigger-Me-This.html

Get ready for judging and playing Gatecrash with this episode of JudgeCast! We cover all of the new mechanics and a lot of the cards that may be interesting rules-wise during the prerelease!

We also answer all our Gatecrash-related mails. Other mails, your day will come! Aren’t you interested to hear how Phasing and Cipher interact?

Click Here for the full Gatecrash FAQ

On this episode we discuss the intricacies of Out of Order Sequencing, a concept that comes up a lot in games but is rarely actually noticed or called out.

On this episode we have special guest Calvis Laprarie on to discuss tips for studying and taking the Judge exam. We also discuss testing candidates with dyslexia and how judge candidates with dyslexia can give themselves a boost while testing.

On this episode of JudgeCast the JudgeBros have special guest L3 Ben McDole on to discuss anything and everything about the Tournament Errors section of the IPG! Listen as Ben cleverly ruins all of CJ’s good segues (That word is spelled weird).

Got a rules question, comment, concern? E-mail us at [email protected]

In this episode, CJ, Jess, and Bryan discuss the steps and phases of a turn.  Is it worth it? Let me work it.  I put my thing down, flip it and reverse it.  Or something like that.  I’m not up on all the hippity-hop you kids listen to these days.  Jess announces his bid for the Presidency, based on a platform we can all get behind, and CJ discusses a situation of great “gravity.”

And of course we answer questions from listeners like you!

Got a rules question, comment, concern? E-mail us at [email protected] Like us on Facebook:www.facebook.com/judgecast Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/judgecast

Regional Coordinators: http://wiki.internationalmagicjudges.net/index.php/Regional_Coordinators