Your Ultimate Guide to MTG Aetherdrift Insights

As the release of MTG Aetherdrift draws near, excitement is building for this racing-themed set. What makes it different from previous Magic: The Gathering expansions, and should you get in on the action?

We’re here to share all the essential details about this thrilling multiversal race, covering everything from the release date to the new gameplay mechanics introduced with MTG Aetherdrift. We’ll also provide a complete list of available products and tips on where to score the best deals (our price-matching tool is constantly searching for discounts, which will be displayed below).

This page serves as your go-to resource for everything related to Aetherdrift. We’ll keep updating it with insights from our experts as we approach the launch, perfect for anyone looking to excel in one of the top card games.

What is MTG Aetherdrift?

• First major set of 2025
• Racing-inspired
• Explores several MTG worlds

Aetherdrift is the inaugural main set of 2025, featuring two Commander decks, a Bundle, and the usual range of Play and Collector Boosters.

This set is centered around racing, incorporating elements from pop culture such as Mario Kart and Mad Max. Players can expect to see competitors from various familiar MTG worlds, along with some new faces. Iconic characters like Chandra and Loot are among those returning to the racing scene.

MTG Aetherdrift Release Date

The wait for MTG Aetherdrift is almost over; it officially launches on Valentine’s Day. Talk about a romantic surprise!

Here’s a detailed release schedule, including the dates for MTG Arena:

• Story: January 14, 2025
• Debut: January 21, 2025
• Card previews: January 21 – 31, 2025
• Pre-release: February 7 – 13, 2025
• MTG Arena release: February 11, 2025
• Tabletop release: February 14, 2025

Notably, the digital version for MTG Arena will be available a bit earlier than the tabletop release, hitting mobile and PC platforms on February 11.

MTG Aetherdrift Products

• Two Commander decks
• Play & Collector boosters
• Bundle & Pre-release

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aetherdrift is packed with all the features Wizards of the Coast could offer, including Play Boosters, Collector Boosters, Commander decks, a Bundle, and more.

Want more information? Here’s what you need to know:

Commander Decks

As is tradition, MTG Aetherdrift includes Commander decks, but uniquely, it features two instead of the usual four. The reasoning behind this decision remains a mystery, although it might prevent one deck from overshadowing the others and becoming excessively priced.

Interestingly, neither of these decks particularly emphasizes racing or drivers.

Play Boosters

As always, Play Boosters will be available with this MTG set. They’re intended for Limited formats like Draft and Sealed but can also be used for deck-building.

Collector Boosters

Collector Boosters are designed for collectors, featuring exclusive cards not found in regular packs. However, they come at a higher price.

Bundles & Prerelease

If you’re looking for the best way to kick off Aetherdrift or need a gift for a Magic enthusiast, consider these options:

MTG Aetherdrift Mechanics

The first main set of 2025, MTG Aetherdrift adds new and returning mechanics that enrich gameplay, all inspired by the racing theme. Here’s a quick summary:

• Speed: The primary mechanic for Aetherdrift. You gain Speed points whenever an opponent loses life on your turn, and reaching Max Speed (a total of 4) triggers specific abilities. For example, ‘Streaking Oilgorger’ activates lifelink at Max Speed.
• Start Your Engines: This ability helps you start accumulating Speed early on.
• Exhaust: This provides a boost in gameplay, symbolizing the phrase “pedal to the metal”. It can only be activated once per card.
• Vehicle: This mechanic of vehicles adds an exciting twist to the racing concept, allowing other cards to “crew” them for added effects.
• Mount & Saddle: These returning mechanics fit perfectly within the high-speed theme, with saddling typically granting a creature a bonus when cards are tapped.
• Cycling: This mechanic lets players discard a card in exchange for drawing another, reminiscent of racing while in pursuit of new strategies.

MTG Aetherdrift Story

• Story set in Kaladesh, now known as Avishkar
• Features a thrilling death race across the multiverse
• The grand prize is an Aetherspark, granting the winner Planeswalker powers

As the first significant set of 2025, Aetherdrift has an accompanying narrative that sets the stage for the upcoming adventures.

The story begins in Avishkar (a steampunk realm formerly known as Kaladesh) after a revolution dismantles the old corrupt regime. To celebrate this new beginning, the new leaders are hosting the Ghirapur Grand Prix—a revamped legal version of a once-outlawed street race. The winner receives the “Aetherspark,” a powerful artifact capable of transforming the bearer into a Planeswalker (a being capable of traversing the multiverse).

Classic Magic: The Gathering characters—including Chandra Nalaar and an interdimensional creature named Loot—are gearing up for the race, each driven by their own motives. Only one can claim the Aetherspark and its incredible powers. For the full story, check out the official plot here.

Best MTG Aetherdrift Deals

If you’re looking to grab Aetherdrift at a lower price, we’ve got you covered. Our price-matching tool is always searching for the best deals, which will be showcased below.