271: Game State IQ and Dealing with Loss with Isaac Sears

271: Game State IQ and Dealing with Loss with Isaac Sears

Author: Shaun Penrod talks tips and stories with professional Magic: The Gathering February 9, 2018 Duration: 51:01

Isaac Sears has worked in the casino industry for a decade and his Magic accomplishments include 1 Grand Prix top 8, 1 team Grand Prix top 4, and a top 75 at Pro Tour DC. He also has 1 SCG top 8, 2 SCG top 16s, and was a semifinalist at the World Magic Cup. Isaac lives in Santa Rosa, CA.

Click to Tweet: I got a ton of value from Isaac Sears when he shared his story on #MTGProTutor! Listen here: http://bit.ly/mtgprotutor-ep271

First Set

Invasion

Favorite Set

Mirrodin / Kamigawa

Favorite Card

Upheaval
Balance

Early Challenge

Dealing with loss and tilting has been hard for Isaac.

Worst Magic Moment

Isaac was banned for a time early in his career. It was rough because he didn't know the rule that the broke existed.
Always call a judge if you're unsure about anything.

Proudest Magic Moment

Tie between winning a WMCQ and making Top 4 at a team GP in Santa Clara.

Advice for Early Players

If it's cute it's probably wrong. Beware of interactions that are fleshy but don't actually win.
Always play test.

Applied to Life

Resource Management. Learning how to manage time and other resources in life.

Daily Habits

Check MTG Top 8, Read everyday

Biggest Mistake Players Make

Players get too comfortable and forget to check the little things. Be aware of the board state, including the graveyard.

Parting Guidance

If you're tilting, it's okay to walk away.

Magic Resource

CFB, Twitch, MTG Top 8

Connect With Isaac Sears

Twitter:@vonducky ‏

Check Out Magic Story

Magic Story brings the lore of the Multiverse to life in an audio presentation never before heard in the Magic community.

Listen to Episode 1 here or on www.magicthestory.com

 

Sponsors

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Every Tuesday and Friday, MTG Pro Tutor-Insights, Tips & Advice from Magic: The Gathering Pros brings you straight into the minds of the game's top competitors. Host Shaun Penrod sits down with professional players and respected community figures, moving beyond simple decklists to explore the real journeys that shaped them. These conversations uncover the habits, mental frameworks, and often-overlooked practical advice that separate good players from great ones. You'll hear specific, actionable strategies you can apply in your very next match, distilled from countless hours of practice and competition. This isn't just about theory; it's about translating the hard-won experience of pros into tangible improvements for your own game. Whether you're aiming to sharpen your technical play, better understand complex interactions, or simply enjoy the personal stories behind the cards, this podcast serves as a consistent resource. The focus remains on genuine insight over hype, offering a clear path to leveling up your skills. Tune in for a direct line to the collective wisdom of the Magic community, all designed to help you play smarter and with more confidence.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

MTG Pro Tutor - Insights, Tips & Advice from Magic: The Gathering Pros
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