San Diego Comic-Con 2013 Magic: the Gathering collection

The San Diego Comic-Con 2013 expansion represents one of the most iconic and visually striking promotional releases in the history of Magic: the Gathering. Often referred to by collectors as the blackout set, these cards were exclusively available at the 2013 San Diego Comic-Con. They feature five planeswalkers from the Magic 2014 Core Set, reimagined with unique, monochromatic artwork by artist Eric Deschamps. This distinct aesthetic, characterized by dark figures against deep black backgrounds, set a new standard for high-end promotional collectibles and remains a favorite among fans of the game.

Iconic blackout planeswalkers and collectibles

This collection is centered around five specific characters, each available as individual Singles. The set includes Ajani, Caller of the Pride, Jace, Memory Adept, Liliana of the Dark Realms, Chandra, Pyromaster, and Garruk, Caller of Beasts. Because these cards were printed in limited quantities for a single event, they are highly sought after by those looking to upgrade their decks with premium versions or to complete a high-value collection of Magic: the Gathering history.

Beyond individual cards, enthusiasts often search for the original Boxed Sets. These sets contain all five planeswalkers in their original blackout glory, preserved in the commemorative packaging released at the convention. Finding these intact is a priority for serious investors and collectors who value the original presentation of these rare items.

Guide to choosing San Diego Comic-Con 2013 products

When purchasing items from the San Diego Comic-Con 2013 expansion, the primary factor to consider is the condition of the cards. Due to the dark borders and heavy ink coverage, these cards are particularly susceptible to showing edge wear and whitening. Collectors looking for investment-grade pieces should prioritize cards in Near Mint or Mint condition. If you are a player looking to add flair to your Commander or Legacy deck, a Slightly Played copy might offer a more accessible entry point while still maintaining the incredible visual impact of the Eric Deschamps art.

For those intending to display the set, the complete boxed set is the ideal choice. However, if you only have a favorite character or color alignment, purchasing individual singles allows you to focus your budget on the specific planeswalker that fits your needs. CardTrader provides a global marketplace where you can compare offers from sellers around the world, ensuring you find the right balance between price and condition.

Frequently asked questions

Are San Diego Comic-Con 2013 cards legal for tournament play?

Yes, these cards are tournament legal in any format where the original Magic 2014 versions of the planeswalkers are allowed, such as Legacy, Vintage, and Commander.

What is the difference between these and regular Magic 2014 cards?

The only differences are the exclusive monochromatic blackout artwork and the black-on-black aesthetic; the mana costs, abilities, and names remain identical to the standard versions.

How can I save on shipping when buying multiple SDCC 2013 cards?

You can use the CardTrader Zero service to combine multiple purchases from different sellers into a single shipment, significantly reducing your total delivery costs.