Nine Eight Questions with… BephhhMTG

What first interested you in Magic (or even TCGs more generally)? Was there a moment, or did it happen more gradually?

I grew up playing Yu-Gi-Oh! with my brothers, but didn't get into Magic until shortly before Wilds of Eldraine. My coworkers and I were working an event at an LGS, and I was captivated by the art of the cards and also heartwarmed by the face-to-face connection and conversation and laughter during games. I bought my first precon that evening and have been absolutely hooked ever since!

Similarly, what first got you interested and active in content creation? What keeps you interested?

Before getting into Magic, I streamed on Twitch! I have always been a game, and have always needed a creative outlet, so taking pictures of the beautiful art of Magic: The Gathering just made sense to me. It is so easy to stay inspired when there are constantly new cards and sets releasing!

What’s your all-time favorite Magic card, and does it hold a personal story or significance for you?

This is very specific and two-fold, but my favorite MTG card for the art is the Exotic Orchard from Bloomburrow, Art by Ron Spears. When I saw that card for the first time, I literally cried because it's so beautiful. I have a playmat of it and everything, LOL. My favorite card mechanically is Path to Exile because that card has saved my ass one too many times, ha ha!

If you had to choose one Magic format to play forever, which would it be and why?

Commander, no questions asked. 

Who are some creators or players in the Magic community that inspire you, or you think deserve more recognition?

Literally all of them, couldn't pick if I tried... I am astounded by the creative engines of Magic Content Creators. It is such an immensely passionate group of people and I feel so fortunate to be among them. 

What’s your take on the current state of Magic: The Gathering—formats, new sets, or the community?

I think that right now the game is definitely in a growth state. Which like anything, has its pros and cons. As a newer-ish player who came in during a lot of changes, bans, rules changes, etc. I remind myself that at the end of it all and at its core, it is a game that is meant to be enjoyed with friends. I try not to place any deeper emotions into it than that. As long as the community stays positive and healthy, that's all that matters to me. 

Have you ever had an epic Magic moment—like a top-deck win, an unexpected combo, or a perfect draft—that you’ll never forget?

My most epic Magic moment was my first win with my first home-brew, Aesi. That deck is full of a LOT of expensive sea creatures and it really takes a perfect opening hand to get it doing what it needs to do. To this day, wins with Aesi just hit different. 

How has being part of the Magic: The Gathering community enriched your life, and what do you value most about it?

Being a part of Magic has hands down been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Having always gamed and having been part of many different gaming communities, none has brought me the friendship and laughter that this game has. It has provided me with a much needed creative outlet from taking pictures, to deck brewing/editing, and growing a community. I value that this game provides a space and place to call home for those that may not have it. It is truly a game for everyone and the world needs that more than ever.

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Follow and connect with BephhhMTG on Instagram at BephhhMTG.

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