The Fate Reforged set, announced at PAX Prime in 2014, is a fascinating installment in Magic: The Gathering’s Tarkir block. With 185 cards, it stands out for its unique blend of story and mechanics, bridging the worlds of Khans of Tarkir and Dragons of Tarkir. Each card symbolizes the set’s core theme: an alternative timeline where players experience Tarkir’s past, flavored by the Dragon and Khans dynamics.

Mechanically, Fate Reforged had to harmonize with both large sets in the block, balancing mechanics to flow seamlessly between Khans and Dragons. Designed for draft play, Fate Reforged adds one pack of itself, followed by two packs of Khans of Tarkir, which adds layers of strategy when deck-building.

Unlike other sets in the block, Fate Reforged features fewer multicolor cards, relying more on allied and enemy colors within certain cycles. This subtle limitation lets drafters flexibly build around two-color combinations rather than focusing on the three-color wedges typical in Khans. Cards like Yasova Dragonclaw—which leverages a hybrid color mechanic—showcase the set's clever design. Meanwhile, dual watermarks for clans and their respective dragon broods are a nice touch for those tracking Tarkir’s shifting allegiances.

Interestingly, Fate Reforged swaps out basic lands in boosters for nonbasic Khans taplands, providing mana flexibility for multicolor decks. There’s even a slim chance of pulling a Khans fetch land—a thrilling possibility for drafters! However, if you’re seeking basic lands, you’ll find them in Ugin’s Fate boosters and special product packs instead.

The centerpiece of the set is undoubtedly Ugin, the Spirit Dragon, a powerful, colorless planeswalker who adds immense value in-game and represents the legendary spirit of Tarkir’s past. His presence alone solidifies Fate Reforged as an unforgettable set for MTG players.