If you’re a fan of Magic the Gathering (MTG), card games, or are interested in starting your own small business in the hobby world, then you won’t want to miss the latest episode of Appalachia TCG. In Episode 15, hosts Bigjohn and Tony Carty delve into fascinating topics around Magic the Gathering alters, their favorite current card sets, and the entrepreneurial journey of opening a small card shop in Eastern Kentucky.
What Are MTG Alters?
For those unfamiliar with Magic the Gathering alters, it’s an artistic modification of MTG cards, transforming them into unique pieces of art while retaining their playability. The customization can range from extending the art of the original card to entirely new illustrations that reflect the player’s taste and creativity. In this episode, Bigjohn and Tony explore the artistry behind these alters, sharing what sets currently catch their eye. If you love to personalize your cards, whether for aesthetic reasons or to flex during a match, this conversation is full of insights into the growing culture of alters in the MTG community.
Starting a Small Card Shop: The Hurdles and Rewards
In the heart of Appalachia, opening a small card shop presents its own set of challenges and rewards. Tony and Bigjohn speak candidly about the obstacles they’ve encountered in their own journey, especially in a region like Eastern Kentucky, which may not have the same resources or community support as larger urban centers. But through their determination and love for trading card games like Magic the Gathering and Flesh and Blood, they’re forging ahead.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into:
- Starting with a niche: How focusing on a specialized audience, like MTG enthusiasts, has helped carve out a community.
- Handling logistics: From securing inventory to managing local competition, their conversation is a goldmine for anyone considering opening a card shop.
- Building a local community: Hear about the importance of building relationships with players and fostering a welcoming environment for both casual and competitive card gamers.
Whether you’re a business owner or just curious about the card shop life, Tony and Bigjohn’s experiences will be both inspiring and educational.
Flesh and Blood: Another Rising Star in the TCG World
In addition to MTG, the duo also dive into Flesh and Blood, another trading card game that has been gaining a dedicated following. Flesh and Blood is known for its tactical combat system and immersive fantasy world, offering a refreshing alternative to the standard TCG fare. If you’ve been hearing about Flesh and Blood but aren’t quite sure if it’s for you, this episode gives you a sneak peek into what the game offers and why it’s worth exploring.
Tony and Bigjohn discuss how this game compares to Magic the Gathering, the unique aspects of its gameplay, and what makes it a standout in today’s crowded TCG market.
Why You Should Tune In
This episode is a must-listen for both card game veterans and those new to the hobby. Here’s why:
- Comprehensive Insights into MTG Alters: Whether you’re an artist or a player, the discussion will inspire you to see your deck in a new light.
- Real Talk About Small Business: Learn from the challenges and victories of Tony and Bigjohn as they navigate the complexities of running a small card shop.
- Exploring New TCGs: Get an introduction to Flesh and Blood, and decide for yourself if this game deserves a spot in your collection.
- Personalized and Relatable Conversations: Tony and Bigjohn’s chemistry as hosts make the episode engaging and informative without feeling overwhelming.
Stay Connected with Appalachia TCG
Be sure to visit Appalachia TCG’s official website at AppalachiaTCG.com, where you can find more content, updates on future episodes, and resources for trading card game enthusiasts.
Want to stay in the loop? Follow Tony Carty and Bigjohn on Twitter for the latest discussions and podcast episodes: @TheSmango and @JustTake3. You can also join the Appalachia TCG Discord community to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and dive deeper into card games: Join Discord.
Final Thoughts
Episode 15 of Appalachia TCG is packed with valuable insights on Magic the Gathering alters, entrepreneurial lessons from opening a small card shop, and a deep dive into the rising game Flesh and Blood. Whether you’re a seasoned player, an artist in the TCG space, or a future small business owner, there’s something in this episode for you.
Don’t miss out on this engaging discussion! Watch the full episode here and immerse yourself in the world of card gaming, business, and creativity.