Magic Format Without Universes Beyond Celebrates One Year
Planar Standard has reached its first year as a Magic: The Gathering format that mirrors Standard but excludes Universes Beyond cards and rotates more quickly. It appeals to players who prefer the game's in-universe sets and a feel closer to older Standard. The format continues to grow despite Universes Beyond bringing in new players.
Planar Standard began as a community-driven alternative to Magic's main competitive format. It keeps Standard's structure but removes Universes Beyond cards and rotates faster, using two years of in-universe sets plus Foundations, which stands in for older yearly Core Sets.
The legal pool also includes Aetherdrift, Tarkir: Dragonstorm, Edge of Eternities, Lorwyn Eclipsed, Secrets of Strixhaven, and Reality Fracture. Cori-Steel Cutter is the sole banned card, with bans decided by community vote. Events are hosted on MTG Arena.
Planar Standard's growth may show demand for fan-led formats that let players shape rules and ban lists. It could affect Magic players who prefer in-universe settings, especially those worried about cost and rapid releases, by offering a lower-pressure way to stay involved. It may also influence how publishers view crossover-heavy products, though Universes Beyond still draws newcomers. As a community-run option, its impact likely remains within hobby gaming rather than broader society.