MTG’s highly anticipated Duskmourn set stays true to its 80s horror theme by bringing back a shocking sequel to a previously banned card.
The debut of The Meathook Massacre in Innistrad: Midnight Hunt caused quite a stir. This recent return to Magic’s beloved gothic plane is still vivid in the memories of many players, with The Meathook Massacre playing a significant role in that.
Recently, the customary list of early, context-free spoilers for the next MTG set, Duskmourn: House of Horror, was released by MTG’s Lead Designer Mark Rosewater. One particular card title, Meathook Massacre 2, has already piqued the interest of players.
What justifies the creation of a direct sequel for Meathook Massacre, aside from Duskmourn’s deliberate incorporation of horror movie cliches from the 80s and beyond?
This Enchantment is among MTG’s best cards for mono-black
Although its adjustable board-wipe effect may initially make opponents mistake this card for a Sorcery, Meathook’s true power lies in its classification as an Enchantment.
This card has a significant impact upon entering the game and can greatly hinder opponents who were nearing victory. Furthermore, it remains on the field and continuously benefits its player by increasing their life points and draining their opponents’ points each turn.
The Meathook Massacre was once the sole card banned in the Standard format. While its board wipe ability is undeniably strong, it’s the lifegain and drain capabilities that truly make it a powerhouse. These effects not only serve as a way to secure a victory, but also provide consistent value.
Ever since Sheoldred, the Apocalypse became a staple in Dominaria United’s standard format, it caused major issues. Its overwhelming strength and usefulness led to a skyrocketing price.
In addition to The Meathook Massacre, the introduction of Sheoldred, the Apocalypse enabled mono-black decks to swiftly rise to dominance in the format.
The extent to which The Meathook Massacre 2 will be less intense in order to minimize potential mono-black synergies, or if it will match the strength and usefulness of its predecessor, is yet to be determined.
Despite the continued strength of Sheoldred, the Apocalypse, mono-black is now facing competition in Standard that it did not have following the release of Dominaria United, and is no longer overwhelmingly dominant.
Despite this, Wizards will need to carefully consider printing a follow-up to Meathook Massacre that closely mimics its predecessor’s abilities, as Dominaria United will continue to be in Standard rotation until late 2025.
Sheoldred, the Apocalypse, and The Meathook Massacre are a deadly duo
The phenomenon of Power Creep continues to advance in MTG design, as evidenced by the inclusion of powerful cards in sets such as Modern Horizons 3.
It is to be expected that Meathook Massacre 2 will come as an enhanced sequel that slightly deviates from its original design.
Despite this, Duskmourn has the opportunity to fully embrace its 80s-movie aesthetic by recognizing that most horror franchise sequels are inferior to the original.
Whether it appears in physical or digital form, Meathook Massacre 2 will undoubtedly be one of the most coveted cards in Duskmourn: House of Horror.
If Massacre becomes a hit among players, it could potentially lead to a series of Massacre movies. Perhaps Massacre Girl from Ravnica could even transition into a role as a slasher exclusively for the screen.
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