Posted on

Building Tournament Confidence Through Focused Practice And Preparation

Summary:
Discover how structured testing, matchup preparation, and thoughtful review can help players approach competitive events with greater confidence.

Content

Competitive Magic: The Gathering rewards players who prepare carefully before entering an event. A powerful deck can provide opportunities, but disciplined practice often determines how effectively those opportunities are converted into wins. Players who understand their cards, matchups, and sideboard plans can make decisions more confidently under pressure. Using mtg proxies during preparation allows competitors to test different configurations before investing in authentic cards. With Mtgreplica, players can explore possible changes while developing a practical tournament routine.

Effective preparation begins with identifying the strategies most likely to appear. Players should test against aggressive, control, combo, and midrange approaches whenever possible. Each archetype creates different challenges, and repeated exposure helps competitors recognize important patterns more quickly during actual matches.

Mulligan decisions deserve special attention during practice. Keeping a weak opening hand can create problems before the game properly begins, while overly aggressive mulligans may leave players without enough resources. Testing different hands repeatedly helps players understand which combinations provide reliable starts.

Sideboard planning is equally important. Competitive matches often change significantly after the first game, making post-board decisions essential. Players should test sideboard cards against specific threats and record which substitutions consistently improve difficult matchups.

Reviewing practice games provides another valuable advantage. Instead of focusing only on wins and losses, players can examine sequencing, resource management, missed opportunities, and alternative lines of play. Honest review turns mistakes into useful lessons that can improve future performance.

Maintaining organized notes makes preparation more productive. Recording matchup results, recurring weaknesses, successful plays, and card performance creates a reference that can guide final deck adjustments. Written information also prevents players from relying entirely on memory when evaluating their preparation.

Testing with different partners adds another dimension to practice. Every opponent approaches games differently, and unfamiliar playstyles can expose weaknesses that predictable practice partners may not reveal. Variety encourages adaptability and prepares players for unexpected tournament situations.

Proxies make experimentation more flexible because competitors can compare several deck versions without immediately purchasing every card under consideration. This reduces financial pressure while encouraging thorough preparation and strategic experimentation.

FAQs

Q1: Why is focused tournament practice important?
It improves decision-making and prepares players for different matchups.

Q2: Why test sideboard plans before an event?
It helps players make faster, more confident adjustments.

Q3: Can proxies be used during official tournaments?
No, sanctioned tournaments require authentic cards.

Posted on

Discovering Stronger Strategies Through Creative Deck Building Experiments

Summary:
Explore how experimenting with different strategies encourages better deck construction, stronger gameplay decisions, and continuous improvement.

Content :

Magic: The Gathering offers countless opportunities for creativity, making every deck a chance to explore new ideas and strategies. While proven deck lists provide valuable guidance, many players improve their understanding of the game by experimenting with original concepts and unexpected card combinations. Trying fresh approaches often reveals interactions that established lists overlook. Many players choose mtg proxies during this process because they provide the flexibility to test multiple ideas before investing in authentic cards. Through Mtgreplica, players can experiment confidently while building stronger strategies through practical experience.

Every successful experiment begins with a clear purpose. Instead of changing several cards randomly, players should identify one specific aspect of their deck they wish to improve. This may involve strengthening early-game consistency, improving late-game performance, or creating better synergy between important cards. Focused experimentation produces meaningful results that are easier to evaluate.

Testing multiple versions of the same deck is another valuable habit. Comparing two similar lists under identical conditions helps players determine which card choices consistently perform better. Even small adjustments may significantly improve reliability over many games, especially when evaluated across different matchups.

Creative experimentation also develops problem-solving skills. Every deck has weaknesses, and testing alternative solutions encourages players to think critically instead of relying entirely on popular deck lists. This process builds confidence because players learn why certain decisions improve performance rather than simply copying successful strategies.

Facing a wide variety of opponents further strengthens deck development. Different archetypes create unique challenges that expose hidden weaknesses and encourage additional refinements. Players who regularly test against aggressive, control, combo, and midrange strategies develop more adaptable game plans and become better prepared for future competition.

Maintaining organized testing notes is equally important. Recording matchup results, successful interactions, difficult decisions, and card performance creates valuable information that supports future improvements. Written observations allow players to recognize trends that may not be obvious after only a few games.

Proxies provide valuable flexibility throughout this learning process because they allow players to compare multiple deck configurations without immediately purchasing every card under consideration. This encourages creativity while helping players avoid unnecessary expenses during experimentation.

FAQs

Q1: Why experiment with different deck versions?
  A: It helps identify stronger and more consistent strategies.

Q2: How do proxies support experimentation?
  A: They allow testing before purchasing authentic cards.

Q3: Are proxies allowed in sanctioned tournaments?
  A: No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Unlocking Better Gameplay Through Smarter Deck Building Decisions

Summary:
Discover how thoughtful planning, structured testing, and regular refinement help players build stronger and more reliable Magic: The Gathering decks.

Content :

Success in Magic: The Gathering depends on far more than collecting powerful cards. Every successful deck is the result of careful planning, repeated testing, and thoughtful adjustments based on real gameplay experience. Players who continually evaluate their strategies often discover improvements that make their decks more reliable and enjoyable to play. Many enthusiasts use mtg proxies during this process because they can explore different ideas without immediately investing in authentic cards. Through Mtgreplica, players have the flexibility to experiment while developing strategies supported by practical testing rather than guesswork.

Every deck should begin with a clearly defined objective. Whether the strategy focuses on aggressive attacks, controlling the battlefield, or assembling powerful combinations, each card should contribute to the overall plan. Cards that fail to support the primary objective often reduce consistency and create unnecessary complications during important games.

Regular testing is essential because theoretical ideas do not always perform as expected. Some cards appear excellent during deck construction but contribute very little in actual matches. Playing multiple games against different opponents provides valuable insight into which cards consistently improve performance and which should be replaced.

Matchup diversity also plays an important role. Testing only against familiar opponents may create unrealistic expectations about a deck’s overall strength. Facing aggressive, control, combo, and midrange strategies exposes weaknesses while helping players develop more adaptable game plans for future matches.

Keeping detailed notes after each session improves long-term progress. Recording important decisions, successful interactions, difficult matchups, and recurring problems creates a valuable resource for future refinement. Organized observations often reveal patterns that would otherwise be forgotten after several games.

Another effective habit is making gradual adjustments instead of rebuilding an entire deck after every loss. Replacing one or two cards at a time allows players to identify exactly which changes improve performance. Small, consistent refinements usually produce better results than dramatic revisions based on limited experience.

Proxies make this process much more practical by allowing players to compare different deck versions before purchasing original cards. This flexibility encourages creativity while helping players avoid unnecessary expenses during deck development.

FAQs

Q1: Why test multiple deck versions?
It helps identify the most consistent strategy.

Q2: How do proxies benefit deck development?
They allow experimentation before purchasing authentic cards.

Q3: Can proxies be used in sanctioned tournaments?
No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Expanding Strategic Knowledge By Testing Diverse Deck Archetypes

Summary:
This blog explains why exploring different deck archetypes helps players become more versatile and confident competitors.

Content:

One of the best ways to improve at Magic: The Gathering is to experience the game from multiple perspectives. Many players become comfortable using a single favorite strategy, but limiting practice to one deck can slow long-term development. Exploring different archetypes teaches valuable lessons about resource management, timing, and decision-making that apply across every format. Many players rely on mtg proxies when experimenting because they provide the flexibility to test unfamiliar strategies before collecting every required card. Through Mtgreplica, players can explore a wider range of deck concepts while developing stronger overall gameplay skills.

Every archetype approaches victory differently. Aggressive decks reward efficient sequencing and early pressure, while control decks emphasize patience, planning, and careful resource management. Combo strategies require precision and timing, whereas midrange decks focus on adaptability and consistent value. Learning each approach expands a player’s understanding of the game.

Testing multiple strategies also improves matchup awareness. Players who understand how different decks function can better anticipate an opponent’s decisions during competitive and casual games. This broader perspective often leads to stronger planning and more effective in-game choices.

Another advantage is increased adaptability. Magic constantly evolves as new expansions introduce mechanics, archetypes, and strategic possibilities. Players who regularly experiment with different styles adjust more comfortably to changing formats because they already understand a wide variety of gameplay approaches.

Experimentation also strengthens deck-building skills. Testing different archetypes teaches players how mana curves, card ratios, and synergies influence overall performance. These lessons remain valuable regardless of which strategy becomes a player’s long-term favorite.

Proxies make experimentation significantly easier by allowing players to compare multiple deck concepts without immediately purchasing every card. This flexibility encourages creativity while reducing financial pressure during the learning process.

Playing against different opponents further improves strategic development. Every match introduces new decision-making challenges and opportunities to refine gameplay. Exposure to diverse playstyles helps players recognize recurring situations and respond with greater confidence.

Keeping detailed notes throughout testing sessions supports continuous improvement. Recording matchup results, successful interactions, and difficult decisions creates valuable reference material for future deck refinement and strategic planning.

Experimentation should remain purposeful rather than random. Setting clear goals before testing helps players evaluate changes objectively and identify which adjustments genuinely improve performance over time.

It is important to remember that proxies are intended only for testing and casual gameplay. Official sanctioned tournaments require authentic cards, and players must use genuine versions during organized competitive events.

By encouraging diverse experimentation and structured learning, Mtgreplica helps players expand their strategic knowledge. Exploring different archetypes develops adaptability, strengthens deck-building skills, and creates a deeper appreciation for the many possibilities within Magic: The Gathering.

FAQs

Q1: Why test different deck archetypes?
They improve strategic knowledge and adaptability.

Q2: How do proxies support experimentation?
They allow testing before purchasing authentic cards.

Q3: Are proxies permitted in official tournaments?
No, only authentic cards are allowed.

Posted on

Exploring New Deck Concepts Through Creative Strategic Experimentation

Summary:
This blog explains why experimenting with fresh ideas helps players expand their strategic knowledge and become better deck builders.

Content:

One of the greatest strengths of Magic: The Gathering is the freedom it gives players to create unique strategies. With thousands of cards available across multiple formats, there is rarely only one correct way to build a successful deck. While proven archetypes provide useful guidance, many players improve their skills by exploring original concepts and testing creative combinations. Using mtg proxies makes this process much easier because players can experiment with different ideas before investing in authentic cards. Through Mtgreplica, players gain the flexibility needed to innovate while continuing to develop stronger deck-building skills.

Creative experimentation starts with curiosity. Instead of copying existing deck lists exactly, players can ask how different cards might improve a strategy or solve recurring weaknesses. Even a small adjustment may create unexpected interactions that strengthen overall performance.

Testing unusual combinations also improves strategic understanding. When players evaluate cards outside their normal choices, they gain a better appreciation for card roles, resource management, and synergy. This knowledge becomes valuable even when returning to more traditional deck designs.

Experimentation encourages adaptability as well. Every new Magic release changes the competitive environment, introducing mechanics and strategies that reshape popular decks. Players who regularly explore fresh ideas become more comfortable adjusting to these changes instead of relying on outdated approaches.

Another important benefit is learning through comparison. Testing several versions of the same deck allows players to identify which cards consistently contribute to success. Practical experience often produces different conclusions than theory alone, making direct comparison an essential part of effective deck development.

Proxies provide significant flexibility throughout this learning process. Players can build multiple experimental versions of a deck, replace individual cards, and evaluate different strategies without purchasing every option immediately. This encourages creativity while reducing unnecessary expenses.

Keeping detailed testing records further improves experimentation. Notes about successful combinations, challenging matchups, and important gameplay decisions help players recognize patterns over time. Organized observations support smarter refinements and more confident decision-making.

Playing against a variety of opponents also expands strategic knowledge. Different playstyles expose weaknesses that may not appear during familiar matchups, encouraging further improvements and helping players prepare for a wider range of situations.

Experimentation should always remain purposeful. Random changes rarely produce lasting improvements, but thoughtful testing guided by clear objectives often leads to stronger decks and greater confidence.

It is important to remember that proxies are intended only for testing and casual gameplay. Official tournaments require authentic cards, and players must replace proxies before participating in sanctioned events.

By encouraging creative exploration and structured experimentation, Mtgreplica helps players discover new strategies while improving their understanding of Magic: The Gathering. Continuous learning, careful testing, and innovative thinking create stronger decks and more rewarding gameplay experiences.

FAQs

Q1: Why experiment with different deck concepts?
It improves creativity and strategic knowledge.

Q2: How do proxies support experimentation?
They allow testing before collecting every card.

Q3: Are proxies allowed in official tournaments?
No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Finding Creative Solutions Through Continuous Deck Innovation

Summary:
This blog explains how experimenting with new ideas encourages creativity, adaptability, and stronger deck-building skills.

Content:

Magic: The Gathering continues to captivate players because every game presents fresh opportunities for creativity. New card releases, evolving formats, and changing strategies encourage players to think beyond familiar deck lists and explore original ideas. While established decks offer a reliable starting point, innovation often leads to exciting discoveries and personal growth. Many players use mtg proxies while experimenting because they provide the flexibility to test creative concepts before collecting every required card. Through Mtgreplica, players can explore unique strategies with confidence while expanding their understanding of the game.

Innovation begins with questioning familiar choices. Instead of automatically selecting the most popular cards, players can evaluate alternative options that support similar roles. Sometimes an overlooked card creates stronger synergy or provides unexpected advantages against common matchups.

Creative deck building also develops problem-solving skills. Every strategy has weaknesses, and experimenting with different card combinations encourages players to find practical solutions rather than simply copying existing lists. This approach leads to greater confidence and a deeper understanding of deck construction.

Another advantage of innovation is improved adaptability. Formats constantly evolve as new cards enter the game and popular strategies change. Players who regularly experiment become more comfortable adjusting their decks to meet these evolving challenges. Flexibility often becomes a competitive advantage over time.

Testing original ideas against different opponents provides valuable experience. Some combinations may perform exceptionally well against aggressive strategies but struggle against control decks. Regular testing helps players understand these differences and refine their ideas based on practical results instead of assumptions.

Proxies make creative experimentation much easier because they remove the pressure to purchase every card before testing. Players can compare multiple versions of a deck, replace underperforming cards, and evaluate entirely new strategies without significant financial commitment.

Keeping records throughout the innovation process improves long-term development. Notes about successful combinations, challenging matchups, and unexpected interactions help players identify patterns that support future improvements. Organized testing transforms experimentation into meaningful progress.

Innovation also encourages players to appreciate the depth of Magic: The Gathering. Exploring unusual mechanics and lesser-known cards often reveals exciting interactions that make gameplay more enjoyable while strengthening overall strategic knowledge.

It is important to remember that proxies are intended for testing and casual gameplay only. Official tournaments require authentic cards, and players must replace proxies before participating in sanctioned competition.

Open communication remains important whenever proxies are used. Informing opponents beforehand ensures transparency and creates a positive environment where everyone understands the purpose of testing.

By encouraging creativity and continuous experimentation, Mtgreplica helps players discover new possibilities within Magic: The Gathering. Innovative deck building strengthens strategic thinking, improves adaptability, and creates a more rewarding experience for players seeking long-term growth.

FAQs

Q1: Why experiment with original deck ideas?
It improves creativity and strategic understanding.

Q2: How do proxies encourage innovation?
They allow flexible testing before buying cards.

Q3: Are proxies legal in sanctioned tournaments?
No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Discovering Better Gameplay Through Flexible Deck Building Approaches

Summary:
This blog explains how experimenting with different deck-building methods helps players develop stronger skills and better strategies.

Content:

Magic: The Gathering offers players nearly endless possibilities when building decks. Every expansion introduces new mechanics, card interactions, and strategic opportunities that encourage creativity. While many players enjoy following established deck lists, experimenting with different construction methods often leads to valuable lessons and improved gameplay. Many players choose mtg proxies to explore these ideas because they allow new strategies to be tested before original cards are collected. Through Mtgreplica, players can experiment confidently while continuing to expand their understanding of the game.

Flexible deck building begins with keeping an open mind. Instead of assuming there is only one correct way to build a strategy, players benefit from exploring different card combinations, mana distributions, and support packages. Small adjustments often reveal improvements that would otherwise remain unnoticed.

Experimentation also strengthens adaptability. Players who regularly modify their decks become more comfortable responding to changing game environments. When new sets are released or popular strategies shift, they can adjust more quickly because they already have experience evaluating alternatives.

Another important advantage is improved understanding of card roles. Testing multiple versions of a deck helps players recognize which cards consistently contribute to victories and which create unnecessary complications. This knowledge leads to more efficient deck construction over time.

Trying different archetypes also expands strategic knowledge. Aggressive decks teach players how to apply pressure effectively, while control strategies encourage patience and careful resource management. Midrange and combo decks introduce additional lessons about flexibility and sequencing. Every style contributes valuable experience.

Proxies make this learning process more accessible by allowing players to test ideas without immediately investing in every card. This flexibility encourages creativity and helps players compare several strategies before deciding which direction to pursue.

By supporting creative experimentation and structured learning, Mtgreplica helps players build stronger decks and expand their strategic abilities. Flexible deck building creates opportunities for growth, confidence, and lasting enjoyment in Magic: The Gathering.

FAQs

Q1: Why try different deck-building methods?
They improve adaptability and strategic understanding.

Q2: How do proxies support experimentation?
They allow testing before collecting every card.

Q3: Are proxies tournament legal?
No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Learning Advanced Strategies Through Diverse Deck Experimentation

Summary:
This blog explains how experimenting with different deck styles helps players expand strategic knowledge and become more versatile competitors.

Content:

Magic: The Gathering is a game where learning never truly stops. Every new set, mechanic, and deck archetype introduces opportunities for players to expand their understanding of strategy. While mastering a favorite deck is valuable, exploring different approaches often provides even greater long-term benefits. Many players rely on mtg proxies when experimenting because they allow access to a wider variety of cards and strategies without immediate investment. Through Mtgreplica, players can test new concepts freely and continue developing their skills.

One of the biggest advantages of deck experimentation is gaining a broader understanding of how the game functions. Every archetype approaches victory differently. Aggressive decks focus on speed and pressure, control decks emphasize patience and resource management, while combo decks rely on carefully assembled interactions. Playing each style teaches unique lessons that improve overall strategic awareness.

Experimentation also strengthens adaptability. Players who regularly explore different strategies become more comfortable adjusting to unfamiliar situations. Rather than relying on a single approach, they learn how to evaluate changing conditions and respond effectively during matches.

Another important benefit is improved matchup knowledge. Understanding how various decks operate makes it easier to predict opponents’ decisions and identify weaknesses. This knowledge often becomes a major advantage during competitive and casual games alike.

Proxies make experimentation significantly easier. Instead of collecting every card before testing a strategy, players can focus on learning how a deck functions first. This flexibility encourages exploration and helps players discover which strategies align best with their interests and playstyle.

Creative thinking also grows through experimentation. Testing different cards and combinations often reveals unexpected interactions that may not be obvious during deck construction. These discoveries can lead to innovative strategies and more enjoyable gameplay experiences.

Experimentation supports better deck-building skills as well. Players learn how card ratios, mana curves, and synergies affect performance. By comparing different deck versions, they gain practical experience that improves future construction decisions.

By encouraging exploration and strategic experimentation, Mtgreplica helps players expand their knowledge and improve their skills. Diverse deck testing creates opportunities for growth, creativity, and a deeper appreciation of Magic: The Gathering.

FAQs

Q1: Why experiment with different decks?
It improves adaptability and strategic knowledge.

Q2: How do proxies support experimentation?
They allow testing without immediate investment.

Q3: Are proxies allowed in tournaments?
No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Exploring New Card Combinations For Better Strategic Growth

Summary:
This blog explains how experimenting with different card combinations helps players develop stronger strategies and gameplay skills.

Content:

Magic: The Gathering is a game that rewards creativity as much as technical skill. While many players enjoy using proven deck lists, others find success by exploring new card combinations and discovering unique interactions. Experimentation is one of the best ways to improve strategic thinking because it encourages players to evaluate cards from different perspectives. Many players use mtg proxies to support this process, allowing them to test ideas before collecting every card involved. Through Mtgreplica, players can experiment more freely and expand their understanding of the game.

Exploring new card combinations helps players learn how different mechanics work together. A card that appears average on its own may become much stronger when paired with the right supporting pieces. Testing these interactions provides valuable insight into deck construction and strategic planning.

Another benefit of experimentation is adaptability. Players who regularly test new ideas become more comfortable adjusting their strategies when faced with unfamiliar situations. This flexibility often leads to better decision making during competitive and casual games alike.

Creative testing also encourages innovation. Some of the most memorable decks in Magic history were built around unusual combinations that other players initially overlooked. Exploring new possibilities helps players discover strategies that suit their personal style and interests.

Proxies make experimentation significantly easier because players can test multiple ideas without purchasing every card immediately. This flexibility allows them to compare different approaches, evaluate performance, and refine strategies based on actual gameplay results.

Another advantage is improved matchup awareness. Testing different combinations against a variety of opponents helps players understand both strengths and weaknesses. This knowledge makes future deck adjustments more effective and improves overall preparation.

Experimentation also helps players understand resource management. By testing different card ratios and strategic approaches, they learn how to balance mana, card advantage, and tempo more effectively. These lessons apply across many deck styles and game situations.

For beginners, exploring new combinations is an excellent learning tool. It encourages curiosity and helps develop a deeper appreciation for the game’s complexity. Experienced players benefit as well because experimentation often reveals opportunities for improvement that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Maintaining notes during testing can improve results. Recording successful combinations and gameplay observations helps players identify patterns and make more informed adjustments in the future.

It is important to remember that proxies are intended for testing and casual play. Official tournaments require authentic cards, and players must use genuine versions in sanctioned events.

By supporting creativity and structured experimentation, Mtgreplica helps players strengthen strategic growth. Exploring new card combinations leads to better deck building, stronger gameplay skills, and a more rewarding Magic: The Gathering experience.

FAQs

Q1: Why explore new card combinations?
They can reveal stronger strategies and interactions.

Q2: How do proxies support experimentation?
They allow testing without immediate purchases.

Q3: Are proxies tournament legal?
No, only authentic cards are permitted.

Posted on

Why Exploring Different Deck Styles Improves Gameplay Skills

Summary:
This blog explains how trying different deck styles helps players become more versatile and develop stronger Magic: The Gathering skills.

Content:

Magic: The Gathering offers countless ways to play, making it one of the most diverse strategy games available. Some players enjoy aggressive tactics that aim to end games quickly, while others prefer control strategies that focus on long-term planning. Exploring different deck styles helps players gain a deeper understanding of the game and improve their overall skills. Many players use mtg proxies during this process because they provide flexibility without requiring immediate access to every card. Through Mtgreplica, players can experiment with confidence and broaden their gameplay experience.

One of the biggest benefits of exploring different deck styles is learning adaptability. Players who only use one type of strategy often struggle when facing unfamiliar situations. By testing multiple approaches, they become more comfortable adjusting to changing game conditions and making better decisions under pressure.

Different deck styles also teach different skills. Aggressive decks emphasize speed and efficient resource management, while control decks reward patience and long-term planning. Combo strategies require careful sequencing and timing. By experiencing each style, players develop a more complete understanding of the game.

Another advantage is improved matchup knowledge. Players who have experience using different strategies understand how those decks function and what their weaknesses may be. This insight makes it easier to anticipate opponents’ plans and respond effectively during matches.

Proxies make experimentation easier because players can build and test multiple deck types without collecting every card first. This allows players to focus on learning and strategy development rather than worrying about availability or cost.

Creative thinking also improves through experimentation. Players often discover unexpected card interactions and unique combinations while testing different styles. These discoveries can lead to innovative strategies and more enjoyable gameplay experiences.

For beginners, trying multiple deck styles helps identify personal preferences. Some players naturally enjoy aggressive gameplay, while others prefer slower and more methodical approaches. Understanding these preferences helps players build decks that suit their strengths and interests.

Experienced players benefit as well because diverse testing improves strategic flexibility. The more styles a player understands, the easier it becomes to adapt to different opponents and game environments.

It is important to remember that proxies are not allowed in official tournaments. Players must use authentic cards during sanctioned events. Proxies are intended only for testing, practice, and casual play.

Communication remains important whenever proxies are used. Players should explain their purpose before games begin to maintain transparency and fairness.

By encouraging experimentation and strategic exploration, Mtgreplica helps players become more versatile and knowledgeable. Testing different deck styles strengthens gameplay skills, improves adaptability, and makes Magic: The Gathering an even more rewarding experience.

FAQs

Q1: Why try different deck styles?
It improves adaptability and strategic understanding.

Q2: How do proxies help experimentation?
They allow testing multiple strategies easily.

Q3: Are proxies tournament legal?
No, only authentic cards are allowed.