Hey Magic: The Gathering aficionados! Ever feel like your collection could use a bit more sparkle? No, I’m not talking about foil cards—although those are pretty sweet, too. I’m talking about those unique, off-the-beaten-path Magic sets that not everyone has in their deck. You know, the ones that make your opponents go, “Whoa, where’d you get that?” If you’re nodding your head, you’re in the right place.

Sometimes, the best treasures are the ones less sought after. We all know the allure of owning a Black Lotus or a set of the original dual lands, but what about those sets that fly under the radar? The ones that, for whatever reason, didn’t get the mainstream love but are packed with incredible art, unique mechanics, and storylines that could rival any fantasy novel.

So, grab your deck box and maybe a brew (I’m partial to a nice cuppa myself), and let’s delve into some of the most distinctive MTG sets you should consider adding to your repertoire.

Arabian Nights and Antiquities

We’re taking it way back with these two. Released in 1993 and 1994, respectively, Arabian Nights and Antiquities are two of the earliest Magic sets. Not only do they hold historical significance, but they also bring a touch of old-school charm that’s hard to resist.

Arabian Nights was the first-ever expansion set for Magic, and it brought a Middle Eastern flair to the game. Think genies, flying carpets, and Ali Baba. Similarly, Antiquities focused on the Brothers’ War, a cornerstone in Magic’s lore. The set is filled with artifacts, as you might expect, and is a must-have for those looking to deepen their understanding of the game’s history.

Baldur’s Gate and Japanese Exclusives

Fast forward to the here and now, and let’s talk about one of the latest buzzes in the MTG community—Baldur’s Gate. The set’s collaboration with the Dungeons & Dragons universe has everyone talking, and not just because of the novelty. The Baldur’s Gate name has spiralled into popular culture due to the hit Baldur’s Gate 3 videogame that was recently released. The cards in this set are as functional as they are fascinating, allowing new deck-building strategies that are shaking up the meta. If you’re a fan of D&D, the videogame, or just enjoy the rich storytelling that comes with it, this set is a no-brainer.

And hey, speaking of unique finds, if you’re in the UK and looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, check out Red Sun Collectables. They offer Japanese Magic: The Gathering cards that are hard to come by in this part of the world. Imagine the look on your mates’ faces when you slam down a Japanese-exclusive card during your next game night. Priceless, right?

Unhinged and Unstable

Sure, Magic is about strategy, but let’s not forget the art—the breathtaking illustrations that bring each card to life. For those who appreciate the aesthetic side of the game, sets like Unhinged and Unstable offer a feast for the eyes, along with a hearty side of humour.

Unhinged, released in 2004, is well-known for its silver-bordered cards and satirical take on Magic mechanics. The art is whimsical, and the cards often break the fourth wall, making you chuckle as you play. Following in its footsteps, Unstable came out in 2017 and continued the tradition of bending or outright breaking the rules. With cards like “Infinity Elemental” (it literally has infinite power) and “Sword of Dungeons & Dragons” (yes, another D&D crossover), these sets offer a unique blend of form and function.