August 2, 2023

Approach of the Second Sun

Approach of the Second Sun: A Glimmer of Hope or Harbinger of Doom?

In the vast and ever-evolving world of Magic: the Gathering (MTG), certain cards hold a special place. They spark debate, inspire awe-inspiring strategies, and leave a lasting impression on players. One such card is the enigmatic Approach of the Second Sun from the Amonkhet expansion.

This mythic rare enchantment boasts a unique ability that can turn the tide of battle in an instant. But understanding its power requires delving into its mechanics and the lore behind its creation.

Mechanics: A Win Condition Unlike Any Other

Approach of the Second Sun breaks the mold of traditional win conditions in MTG. Unlike most cards that require you to reduce your opponent’s life points to zero, Approach of the Second Sun offers an alternative path to victory.

Here’s how it works: If you cast Approach of the Second Sun from your hand and you’ve previously cast another copy of the same card during that game, you win the game. However, if this is the first time you’re casting Approach of the Second Sun, it gets shuffled into your library seventh from the top, and you gain 7 life – a consolation prize for not achieving the immediate win condition.

This “cast twice to win” mechanic forces players to build their decks around Approach of the Second Sun. Strategies often involve utilizing card retrieval effects and graveyard manipulation to ensure you can cast the card twice before your opponent can disrupt your plan.

Thematic Significance: A Duality of Hope and Destruction

The lore surrounding Approach of the Second Sun is steeped in the mysteries of Amonkhet, a plane ruled by the tyrannical God-Pharaoh Nicholas Bolas. Amonkhet revolved around trials and eternal servitude, with the promise of an afterlife known as the “Second Sun.”

The card’s artwork depicts a majestic phoenix rising from the ashes, symbolizing both the promise of renewal and the potential for destruction. This duality reflects the nature of the Second Sun itself. For some, it represents a long-awaited escape from Bolas’ tyranny. For others, it heralds a cataclysmic event that will reshape the plane.