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Hi, I’m Maria Bartholdi, MTG Caster and Content Creator. With every Magic release there is an Open House event—your best opportunity to introduce new players to The Gathering. We want to ensure your store has the tools you need to make this experience awesome. Here are our top three tips for running the perfect in-store Magic demo!
When you start your Magic demo, first take a moment to get your player excited about what Magic has to offer. Beyond the countless strategies and showstopping card variants, at its heart Magic is all about a warm, welcoming, and diverse community united by the game they love.
Next, briefly explain the basic rules of the game and show the player a few cards. Teach them about drawing seven, life totals, mana costs, colors, and the basics of combat.
You can show off a land, a creature, and an instant or sorcery as you go. We recommend avoiding the more complex parts of the rules, such as mulligans or the phases of combat, and only covering those as they come up.
The best product to run a demo with is the 2023 Starter Kit. These two decks are evenly matched, with a strong mix of introductory mechanics and thrilling synergy. We recommend having one on hand, with each deck sleeved in different colors, so you’re always demo-ready.
If you have a learn-to-play mat or demo flipbook from a past initiative, use it now! If you don’t have these items, check with Retail Support for availability in your region.
You can also download a printable playmat from the evergreen section of the WPN marketing materials page.
Using a mat will help players remember the different zones of play and keep their cards tidily arranged. Play one open hand game during your demo, helping the new player as needed.
They’ll likely need extra guidance during the first few turns, and then less as you go. You don’t have to throw the game, but always be graceful about the outcome.
Before Open House, you’ll want to ensure that everyone in your store is on the same page. Owners, managers, and other staff should be fully versed on what to do when approached by a brand-new player, a player familiar with the game, or an experienced player. This ensures that your store delivers a high quality and consistent experience.
To achieve this result, more staff training, or a meeting ahead of the event may be helpful.
After running your demo, direct the player to join the Open House event. There, they can play games of Two-Headed Giant with Jumpstart products. Wizards’ research shows that the best game for a new player, both in terms of enjoyment and likelihood to return, is a game of Two-Headed Giant paired with an experienced mentor.
It gives a player a helping hand as they explore Magic, adding to the joy and camaraderie of their experience. Because playing with a friend is even more fun, be sure to use our rewards and your own to incentivize players to bring in a friend.
Now you’re ready. We hope you have an incredible Open House event and continue to run Magic demos year-round!
