With an initial print run of 2.6 million cards, Magic: The Gathering was released in August 1993. The card game continually built momentum over the years and still has an avid follower base that picks up new players every year. The computer Arena version of the game has since been released, and if you are skilled enough at the game, you may be able to earn from your hobby.
Magic: The Gathering Arena requires both knowledge of the game and a good head for strategy. Hiring a coach to help you refine your game could potentially be an investment in your future as the starting point to get into the esports industry. Not only will you be able to improve and rise higher in the ranks, but you may also get the opportunity to network with others who are doing the same.
Best Magic: the Gathering Coaches
Fiverr Magic: The Gathering Coach
Fiverr is an online platform for freelancers that offer services in a variety of fields, including game coaching. Every Magic: The Gathering coach on Fiverr will have their own level of experience and price. Look through each listing to find an affordable trainer that fits within your budget and will give you the training you need.
You will want to read through what they typically offer as part of their service as well as any reviews from other customers before you make your selection to ensure that you find the perfect coach that can help take you to the next level of your gameplay.
GamerSensei Coaching Services
GamerSensei is a coaching platform that hosts skilled game teachers of all skill levels. Many of the coaches are past esports pros with detailed bios on the site that show their past teams and those that they have coached. You can also see how long they have coached other people in the game. GamerSensei puts their coaches through a 5-stage application process to ensure that they are quality gamers and teachers.
GamerSensei provides the following experiences:
You can search through dozens of different choices, though the platform already ranks their top coaches in order. The platform also lists each coach’s qualifications so you know that you can expect great results.
Spikes Academy
Spikes Academy offers several free courses for people who wish to learn to play the game well. Additionally, you are able to book coaching sessions with the six different gamers that are featured in the courses. The platform uploads a new course each month that you can view on their home page.
When Should You Get a Magic: the Gathering Coach?
There are several reasons why you may want to get a coach while you’re playing Magic: The Gathering Arena:
Magic the Gathering Coaching for Free
If you can’t afford to purchase personalized coaching, but still want to learn to improve your game, you can watch YouTube tutorials or skilled streamers. Here are a few that we recommend:
Useful YouTube Channels
Pro Streamers to Watch
Our Coaching Ranking Process
When we reviewed our list of coaches and platforms, we looked for programs that would meet our reader’s needs and created a ranking process. We kept several qualifications in mind as we created this list and will share what we looked for in coaches with you. Here’s the process:
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Credentials
You will want to find someone that has achieved a lot in Magic: The Gathering, both in personal gameplay and in coaching.
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Esports Experience
Look for a coach who has experience in the esports industry, especially if you are hoping to eventually join the pros. They will bring a different perspective than someone who is merely a high-ranking player-turned-coach.
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Coaching Experience
Just being a great player doesn’t necessarily mean someone will be a good teacher. You will want to find someone who has coaching experience so that your time with them will be maximized.
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Price
We understand that price is an important factor for many gamers. While the more experienced pros will charge more per hour, we will provide options that are affordable for most Magic: The Gathering fans.
Conclusion
As a game, Magic: The Gathering has been both popular and inclusive. We believe it will remain popular and understanding the concepts and refining your strategy could potentially land you a gig with a team or help you grow a channel on Twitch, YouTube Gaming, or Facebook Gaming.