1. Arena by William R. Forstchen
Arena is the first novel set in the Magic: The Gathering universe. It was written by William R. Forstchen and published by Harper Prism in 1994. The story follows an inexperienced wizard called Garth who is transported to the magical arena of the Planeswalker. Here, he must learn to use his powers to battle against other wizards in a series of dangerous contests. This action-packed book has been a favorite of Magic: The Gathering fans for years.
2. The Brothers’ War by Jeff Grubb
The Brothers’ War is a novel by Jeff Grubb that was published by Harper Prism in 1999. It tells the story of the early days of the world of Dominaria, where two brothers are driven to war by their competing visions of the future. The book is written as a series of flashbacks narrated by the surviving brother, Urza, as he reflects on the events that led to the catastrophic conflict.
3. Time Streams by J. Robert King
Time Streams, written by J. Robert King, followed the story of Urza as he travels through the time rifts, trying to find a way to defeat the Phyrexians. The book was published by Harper Prism in 1999 and received positive reviews from critics.
4. Rath and Storm by Peter Archer
Rath and Storm is another Magic: The Gathering novel that gained a lot of popularity. It was written by Peter Archer and published by Harper Prism in 2000. The story follows an assassin called Pieter who is sent to the mysterious island of Rath to investigate strange happenings. Meanwhile, other characters, including the planeswalker Gerrard Capashen, are having their own adventures. The book is a gripping tale of intrigue, betrayal, and magic.
5. The Thran by J. Robert King
The Thran is a prequel to the Invasion Cycle and was also written by J. Robert King. The book traces the history of the Thran, an ancient civilization that created some of the most powerful and enduring artifacts in the Magic: The Gathering universe. The Thran received high praise from fans and critics alike for its masterful storytelling and attention to detail.
6. Planeswalker by Lynn Abbey
Planeswalker is a novel by Lynn Abbey that explores the origins of Magic: The Gathering’s most famous planeswalker, Urza. The book takes place long before the events of the game, and follows Urza as he battles a powerful demon called Gix who is attempting to seize control of the multiverse. Published in 1998, Planeswalker is a classic in the Magic: The Gathering canon.
7. Apocalypse by J. Robert King
Apocalypse is the final chapter in J. Robert King’s Invasion Cycle. Published in 2001, it wraps up the epic storyline that has been unfolding throughout the entire series. The book features climactic battles between the forces of good and the Phyrexians, and ties up loose ends from previous novels.
In conclusion, a great way for a Magic: The Gathering fan to immerse themselves in the game’s rich mythology is through its many novels. From classic tales of magic and adventure to sweeping epics of war and betrayal, there is something for everyone in the Magic: The Gathering literary universe. The novels on this list are a great place to start for anyone looking to dive deeper into the lore of this beloved game.