Magic: The Gathering (Magic) was first introduced to the market by Wizards of the Coast back in 1993. The game is designed for two or more players each using a deck of printed cards - although in more modern times the game has added the option of virtual cards which can be played over the Internet. The new 2014 Core Set series focuses on five guilds; Lightforce; Psychic Labyrinth; Death Reaper; Fire Surge; and Bestial Strength - each having its own intro pack...

We received the Death Reaper pack for review. This deck includes aggressive creatures that will quickly put your opponent's back to the wall. Your goal in the early turns of the game is to play as many creatures as you can and keep turning them sideways to attack. Instants like Wring Flesh and Thunder Strike let you continue the attack even if the opponent plays a blocker. Make sure to use your spells to clear a path for the devastating Liliana's Reaver whenever possible.

Heavy hitters like Sengir Vampire and Vampire Warlord are in this deck to finish things off in the late game, but this deck is also capable of finishing things off outside of combat. Gnawing Zombie and Barrage of Expendables let you turn each of your creatures into additional damage.

Once again fans are given some lavish cards to add to their collection - the illustrations, as ever, are beautifully detailed, and will take pride of place in your growing collection.

The pack contains a ready to play 60-card deck featuring a foil premium Liliana's Reaver, two sealed 15-card booster packs, a strategy insert and a Magic "learn to play" guide.

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Nick Smithson