The 2024 Pro Tour season kicked off in Chicago with the highly anticipated Pro Tour Murders at Karlov Manor. MagicCon: Chicago was abuzz with excitement as players from around the world gathered to witness the highest level of competitive play in the Magic community.
The tournament began with six rounds of draft and ten rounds of Pioneer, putting Magic to the test against the best players in the world. Spectators were treated to a thrilling show, with first-time Pro Tour qualifiers making deep runs, legendary players showcasing their mastery of the game on camera, and an impressive Top 8 that included the winner of the Strixhaven Championship.
One standout player was Pardee, who secured his spot in the Sunday qualifiers after an impressive 12-2 start. Joining him in the Top 8 were players who had taken their own unique paths to the Pro Tour, each with their eyes set on the coveted Pro Tour trophy. Pardee’s success was attributed to his exceptional deck choice, which would be discussed later.
Day Two of Pro Tour Murders at Karlov Manor saw teams showcasing their weeks of Limited preparation. The importance of Draft cannot be overstated in Pro Tour success, as it not only determines individual event outcomes but also plays a significant role in accumulating points for future events. The Murders at Karlov Manor Draft had a profound impact on tiebreakers, adding to the intensity of the tournament. Facing highly decorated Magic players in every round was a daunting task for all participants.
The gauntlet of opponents included renowned players such as Willy Edel, Christian Calcano, and Shuhei Nakamura, all of whom had Hall of Fame status, multiple Pro Tour titles, and numerous top finishes. However, it was Alex Hayne, a former Pro Tour Avacyn Restored champion, who faced this formidable challenge. Despite a 1-2 start in the draft, Hayne displayed exceptional skill and resilience, progressing into Day Two.
Only five players managed to maintain an undefeated record in the six Draft rounds. Adam Edelson, James Larsen-Scott, Tyler Hatchel, Luis Scott-Vargas, and Marcio Cárvalho showcased their prowess and were in contention for a Top 8 finish. Edelson, in particular, expressed his excitement after securing a Top 8 berth, emphasizing the importance of staying aggressive in Limited play. He highlighted the advantage of having strong two-drops and emphasized the significance of finding the right multicolor pair in drafting.
The Pioneer format, known to most players before Pro Tour Murders at Karlov Manor, saw a surprising twist. One team managed to break the format or, at the very least, construct the most formidable deck for the weekend. While Rakdos Midrange has always been a popular choice, it was a unique Rakdos build that delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament.
As the first Pro Tour of the year came to a close, MagicCon: Chicago had witnessed incredible displays of skill, strategic deck choices, and unexpected breakthroughs. The stage was set for an exhilarating season ahead, with players hungry for victory and eager to leave their mark on the Magic community. Pro Tour Murders at Karlov Manor had set the bar high, and fans eagerly awaited the next chapter in the 2024 Pro Tour season.