The Most Popular Planes in Magic: The Gathering

Magic: The Gathering (MTG) is trading card game that offers a fantastic multiverse of settings referred to as planes. Each one has its own aesthetic, unique culture, and stories. There are a select few that really stand out as the most popular as a result of their stunning artwork, rich lore, and engaging themes. If you are still new to Magic: The Gathering check out “How to play Magic: The Gathering” to get started. Otherwise, read on for a look at three of the most popular MTG planes.

Dominaria – The Heart of the Multiverse

The quintessential MTG plane, Dominaria holds a special place both in lore and the hearts of the players. As one of the first planes introduced into the game it is steeped in history and very much central to much of the narrative of the game. As such, it is often regarded as the heart of the multiverse.

One of the most appealing aspects of this plane is its diversity. From arid deserts to lush forests, volcanic peaks to icy tundras, the geographic variety is a reflection of the narrative richness you will find here. There is individual character and significance to each region making Dominaria a vibrant, living world. Whether you consider Benalia, the land of noble knights, or the volcanic island of Shiv, populated by goblins and dragons, these areas add a real depth to the plane and endless inspiration to players.

The lore of this plane is very compelling with many of the most significant events and sagas of MTG unfolding here. The Weatherlight saga is one such iconic storyline, following a band of heroes as they quest to save their world, blending sci-fi elements with high fantasy.

Dominaria evokes a sense of nostalgia for long term fans of the game, having been the backdrop for pivotal moments in its history. Whether this is the rise and fall of empires, or battles against the Phyrexians, Dominaria remains a cornerstone to the identity of MTG.

Innistrad – The Plane of Gothic Horror

For those players craving dark, atmospheric settings, Innistrad is an unrivalled favourite. This plane draws its inspiration from gothic horror, blending elements of mystery, fear, and tragedy to create an experience that is uniquely immersive.

Innistrad’s aesthetic is inspired by that of 19th-century gothic literature, with moonlit forests, eerie graveyards, and shadowy mansions. The plane is home to a number of horror-themed creatures, including vampires, zombies, werewolves and spirits, this plane is not just about monsters—it is also a plane dedicated to humanity’s resilience in the face of overwhelming darkness.

The storyline of Innistrad is equally haunting. Avacyn, a divine protector created by Sorin Markov in order to shield humanity from the horrors associated with the night, is one of the most memorable arcs. Succumbing to madness Avacyn becomes a destructive force, plunging the plane into chaos. The storyline explores the themes of despair, faith and redemption creating a lasting impression for players.

This plane offers some of the most evocative mechanics. The artwork of all the cards enhances the gothic atmosphere and there is a story behind every card.

Ravnica – The City of Guilds

Ravnica is a bustling metropolis spanning an entire plane, it is one of the most unique settings in MTG. Known as the “City of Guilds,” Ravnica has ten guilds which define it. Each of these represents a two-colour combination and has a distinct ideology.

This plane is popular because of its intricate interplay between guilds. Each guild plays its own role in the ecosystem of the city from the law-enforcing Azorius Senate to the chaos-worshiping Rakdos Cult. The philosophies and conflicts of the guild create an engaging and dynamic narrative. This draws players into a world full of power struggles and political intrigue.

The appeal of this plane is not limited to its storyline; but also influences gameplay in exciting ways. The guilds serve as archetypes for deckbuilding, providing players with clear themes and mechanics they can explore.

Beyond the guilds, Ravnica is something of a visual marvel. It offers sprawling architecture, vibrant districts, and a range of diverse inhabitants who truly help to bring the plane to life. The city is full of character and there are plenty of secrets just waiting to be uncovered.

The widespread appeal of Ravnica has led to its frequent inclusion in MTG sets, ensuring its status as one of the most beloved planes in the game. It is a setting that has something for everyone, whether you prefer lore, mechanics, or aesthetic.