701 Topic by HikingStick

(4 replies, posted in Decks and Deckbuilding)

Well, I tried out my Krenko's Elves deck at FNM, and it did not do so well.  One of the better players in the state was there, and, after killing me on T3 and T4 with a sick Infect deck for 2-0 in under five minutes, he agreed to review my deck for me.  The result was getting rid of all Green except that necessary to get out Garruk Relentless and Huntmaster of the Fells.  I scrambled to make the changes on Saturday after helping many others in our family get ready for Saturday Magic.  The end result, which I've named Krenko's Dance Party 68 (http://deckbox.org/sets/217812) took third place on Saturday (losing to a T1 zombie/artifact deck while I sat mana stowed one hand, and mana rich the next).

I named it Krenko's Dance Party 68 because it has a good pace, with many, many Goblins invited to the party, and a total of 68 cards.  Yes, that's high, but it worked well--the balance is there.  The original main deck/sideboard configuration was different, but this is what worked out to be best by the end of the day.  The only change I've made since was to swap in two Cavern of Souls in place of two Mountains, to protect my Goblins from counterspells.

Huntmaster sits in the sideboard because I had little success playing him on Saturday.  I'm not sure if I'll try him again if I have more copies.

As always, your feedback and comments are much appreciated.

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702 Reply by HikingStick

(5 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

ksoldier62 wrote:

My local shop will only give me like $5 for it which is crazy.

I understand they need to make something off the turnaround, but I, too, have been a bit surprised by how out of touch many game stores seem to be.  Numerous stores about an hour from my home sell commons and uncommons for $1 each.  Thankfully, the nearest store still sells them for a dime.

All the stores, however, tend to give only between10% and 30% the sale value of a card when one is turned in for cash.  Again, I realize they need to make money, but I'm guessing they have better profit centers. It's the same model most comic and pawn shops use, though, when they take in items--they buy on the extreme low end, and sell it for as much as the market will accept.

I find I get better prices selling directly to other players before and after events.  The store may only be paying $10 for Bonfire of the Damned, and it is over $40 online, but you likely can find a player who will offer you $30 or even $35 cash for it.

When I do transact with the nearest store, I tend to trade for product.  I recently traded a foil Liliana of the Dark Realms for a Fat Pack. I got much more value from the store that way, compared to buying the Fat Pack at its retail price, and the store got a better deal, too, since they traded the Fat Pack at their cost and will recoup their profits by selling the foil Lili.

Even better, however, have been my trades here.  When card values are close to even, I get 1:1 trade value.  I'm also able to move some of the commons and uncommons that otherwise would sit in my boxes.

This site is great.  I'm glad you had so many eager trading partners.

Go to forum: Reddit MTG Trades

703 Topic by HikingStick

(4 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

I just had a local trading partner bail on a trade.  We agreed more than a week before on the cards to be exchanged.  It was not our first trade.  For the first two, I drove to his hometown to complete the trades.  For the third, I asked him to take a turn driving to my town (<10 minutes from where he works).  Each time I contacted him for a status, he had some other reason for not coming yet, or stated that he was planning to stop by later that day.

He backed out more than a week after agreeing.  Were it a mail trade, I could have left feedback.  As the trade type was local, I cannot. [I won't name him here, because it is not my intent to shame anyone.]

There really needs to be a feedback feature for local trades. It need not calculate into the mail trade rating, but it should be available for other potential trading partners to review.

Go to forum: Site Discussion

704 Reply by HikingStick

(6 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

CloudAran wrote:

Bug observed: Drop-down menu registered wrong feedback.

Users involved: CloudAran (me) and Zenthelm

Browsers: I've been using Chrome mostly, but I believe I experienced the issue in Safari. I have not asked Zenthelm what browser he was using.

Affected Trade: http://deckbox.org/trades/21360?s=19017

Detail:

While trading with Zenthelm, I experienced some trouble with the drop-down box for trade feedback not properly displaying the selection I had clicked in the menu. I finagled this a bit until I got the +1 I was trying to select, but it seems Zenthelm had a similar issue and did not catch it before submission (confirmed with him via messages). We've also looked for a way to correct this mistake, but it doesn't appear that you can edit feedback after it is initially submitted. That additionally seems like it could use a built in method for correction (IE if a claim was disputed or later resolved and both parties agreed to change either or both feedbacks).

I've noticed this recently, too.  When the feedback drop-down first appears, you can try to select +1, but it stays as Neutral when you move off the field.  The workaround I've found is to first  select Neutral from the drop-down menu, then click the drop-down arrow again and select +1.  Making +1 your second selection makes it stick, and then you can apply your feedback.

Go to forum: Site Discussion

705 Reply by HikingStick

(14 replies, posted in General Discussion)

shifty4690 wrote:

This sort of thing doesn't seem like it you will be able to come up with a perfect system. I think you might be able to establish a scale for trade ups/down based on card value, but their are simply too many variables to consider.

Agreed.  I'm not looking for a perfect system, but want to present a set of general rules or guidelines regarding such trades with me.  TyWooOneTime also hit on the complexity.  I think a general set of rules establishes a baseline, and the negotiations may progress from there.

I plan to do as best I can, and still welcome further discussion and feedback.

Go to forum: General Discussion

706 Reply by HikingStick

(8 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

anubomb wrote:

Show and Tell is the name of a magic card.


Doh! [Facepalm]

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707 Reply by HikingStick

(8 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

For those of us unfamiliar with the lingo, would you clarify what you mean by "show and tell"? Are you looking for any specific cards, or cards from specific sets?

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708 Topic by HikingStick

(0 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

I started a thread in General Discussions about trade downs, with the goal of developing some general guidelines for the practice.  If the topic interests you, please feel free to chime in there:

http://deckbox.org/forum/viewtopic.php?id=2999

Go to forum: Reddit MTG Trades

709 Reply by HikingStick

(7 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

I did start a thread on the topic, if anyone here would like to join in:

http://deckbox.org/forum/viewtopic.php?id=2999

Go to forum: Reddit MTG Trades

710 Topic by HikingStick

(14 replies, posted in General Discussion)

I realize there are many opinions out there regarding trade downs (accepting many low value cards for a high value card), from those who get offended at the thought to those who are open to it when the value proposition is right.  My question for today assumes you might consider trade downs.  If that's not you, I thank you for your time--you may move on now.

If you are willing to accept trade downs, or would like to offer some, my question is for you: Is there a specific value proposition that makes trade downs worthwhile?

When cards on both sides of a trade are nearly similar in value, 1:1 is the rule of the day.  Sometimes I might sweeten the deal if trying to get a specific card, but those still typically end up very near 1:1.

What about trading a $20 card for multiple cards in the $4 range? I've done it. Would you? Would you keep it at 1:1, or would you expect a little more.  For example, would you expect $24 of $4 cards in exchange for your $20 card? How would that ratio change if the other party were offering $2 cards. Bulk commons/uncommons?

I got to thinking about this at length when I saw another trader noting that he'd give double or triple value from his inventory if he could get a card he wanted.  It was a very tempting offer, but I couldn't find enough stuff that overlapped his tradelist and my wishlist to make it happen.

What I'd like to do is this: using your input, develop a table of general guidelines for trade downs that I can post to my profile. That way, anyone interested in one of my high value cards knows they have the option of offering a trade down at a set premium.  The devil, however, is in the details--developing that table.

Help me out by posting any rules of thumb you use for trade downs.  If aware of a thread on another discussion board that has already dissected this issue, please feel free to link to it here.

At a first pass, I see a few main categories for trade downs, based on the average value of the offered cards in relation to the value of the desired high value card: 90% / 70% / 50% / 40% / 30 % / 25% / <25%.

Of course, if a trading partner is offering a mix of card values, one would need to decide what level should be used.  I figure I'd look at the average value of the cards in a trade (perhaps by eyeball, but might calculate it out).

Anyway, your input on the topic will be greatly appreciated.

Your fellow trader,

Andrew

Go to forum: General Discussion

711 Reply by HikingStick

(6 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

laslen wrote:

If this forum isn't the way to get cards added to the database -- how are we supposed to contact the developers?

There are MTG cards missing from your database.


Here's the link to the card IN the Deckbox database:

http://deckbox.org/mtg/Jace%20Beleren

Isn't that the one?

Go to forum: Site Discussion

712 Reply by HikingStick

(7 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

imsully2 wrote:

I'd also offer above value given that you'd probably be trading down

I'm thinking about making that a policy of mine, perhaps adding it to my profile: will accept trades of low value cards for high value cards at a premium of 'X'.  I just don't know what value 'X' should have.  Perhaps that's a seed for another thread...

Go to forum: Reddit MTG Trades

713 Reply by HikingStick

(5 replies, posted in Decks and Deckbuilding)

I have a deck that includes Krenko's Command, Krenko, Mob Boss, and Goblin Chieftan. It was Red-Green with mana ramping elves.  It does great in casual play, but barely held its own in FNM last night.  Taking some suggestions from the best player in the house, I stripped out most of the Green, leaving only two Garruk Relentless and Huntmaster of the Fells. I put plenty of burn in there, Goblin Arsonist, Mogg Flunkies, Arms Dealer, and Goblin Fireslinger. Chandra, the Firebrandturned out to be a great addition, too.

It may only have two months left of play, but it took me to third place in today's four-round Saturday Magic tournament (beaten only by a true Tier 1 Zombie/Artifact deck), so I'm very happy with it.  I'll post the config as soon as I have a chance to sort the cards.

Update: I did post the configuration, and a thread looking for opinions.  Perhaps, between the two of us, we can tweak these decks into serious Tier 1 contenders.

Go to forum: Decks and Deckbuilding

714 Topic by HikingStick

(0 replies, posted in General Discussion)

Fellow Traders,

I've noticed some of you have stated (in profiles or posts) that you don't believe it is worth it to pay for shipping for low value trades.  Some of you are fortunate enough to live close to one or more card shops, so you can get cards quickly and easily.  Others of us live a distance outside major metropolitan areas, and have to drive everywhere for everything.  For example, I just got back from FNM in a town that is nearly a half hour from my home.

Well, if a card shop is not conveniently close, then is the expense for postage really unreasonable, even for smaller trades? I burn 1.5 gallons every time I run to the card shop--that's $5.40 at today's fuel price.  Most of my "local" trades also involve towns 15+ miles distant from my home or workplace.

You also may not realize that you can get postage (with delivery confirmation) for less than what it costs at the USPS office near you.  PayPal lets you buy postage (first class, or other services) with delivery confirmation.  For three ounces, shipping is only $1.64--far less than the gas I'd burn getting to the shop or for most local trade.

You don't need to sell the item through eBay or PayPal to buy postage there.  You may access the link directly at http://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_ship-now.

Just keep it in mind.  If you are close to a store, it might not make sense to you, but for those of us in out of the way places, those trades may be our best option.  If really a sticking point for you, just suggest tipping the balance of the trade a bit in your favor.  I'd be open to that in most instances (for low value trades), and expect others might be, too.

Respectfully yours,

Andrew

Go to forum: General Discussion

715 Topic by HikingStick

(2 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

This one came up out of a thread in the RedditMTG trades community here.  Currently, if you are away for any period of time or any reason, there's nothing to flag another trader, unless you specifically note it in your profile and they specifically look (which is always a good idea).

When I played chess on Chess.com, you have a vacation feature that let you set your status to "Away".  While away, pending games could not time out, and you had the option to not accept any new games.  I think a similar feature would be great here.

Put a checkbox on our profile that sets our status to "Away".  Then, if anyone tries to initiate a trade, they will get warned that we are away.  That should eliminate some frustration on both sides. If you get ambitious, you could add a calendar feature, to set a returning date, but that's likely another project.

An additional option that would go hand-in-glove with this one would be the ability to flag your account for "No new trades".  You could have that on only while away, or could have it on at some other time (e.g., when reviewing inventory, after taking in a bulk purchase).  If that flag is set, that caption could appear by the user name in the trade panel (e.g., "This user is not accepting new trades") and you could either A) hide that user from the various trade windows (e.g., showing which users have a specific card in the tradelist), or simply B) prevent any new trade records from being written (i.e., return a warning that the user is not accepting new trades and return the user to their all trades window).

Go to forum: Site Discussion

716 Reply by HikingStick

(9 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

Coyote1023 wrote:
Farodsbro wrote:

The flip side of this is an issue as well. Nothing annoys me more than when I go on vacation or I'm away for the weekend and I come back to find people angry I never responded to their trade.

Not everybody logs onto deckbox.org every day. People don't have any obligation to respond to your trade immediately. It is fully possible that their Grandma just died and they don't want to think about Magic or, God forbid, they're just too darn busy to trade cards right now. Maybe they're just mulling over the trade!

People have the right to remain silent in real life, they damn well better have it on the freakin' internet.

Yep, I'll agree with you there, as long as you let the people you've already responded and talked to know that you'll be gone for a week or something. You could also edit it into your profile like many people do "I'm on vacation, please no trades." Now the grandmother one, I completely understand. If you get a chance, let your current traders know, if not, explain it to them afterwards.

I used to play a lot of chess on Chess.com, and they had a vacation feature that let you check a box in your profile if you were going to be away.  That's probably a worthwhile feature request here.  Check the box, and all potential trading partners will get an alert that advises them you are on vacation or away.  I will write up a feature request.  Feel free to chime in once it is posted.

Go to forum: Reddit MTG Trades

717 Reply by HikingStick

(3 replies, posted in General Discussion)

Dakkon4444 wrote:

Yes you can. You can get a policy that covers just collectibles to cover the lost or damage of your cards. I do believe that the minimum threshold is 10,000, but im almost certain that as long as you have a VERY detailed listing of each card in your collection that most if not all insurance companies will cut you a policy. Deductibles will vary as well so just have all your questions ready with your agent (I have one through State Farm).

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the information.  What valuation do you use to cover your cards? The Average listed here, or something else?

Go to forum: General Discussion

718 Reply by HikingStick

(12 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

Dakkon4444 wrote:

...and yes people will actually pay MORE

Agreed.  It just depends on how much someone wants something.  I just paid $4 for 4 Fiend Hunter (avg. price: $0.35/e) because I wanted to try a new deck config before this week's FNM.

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719 Reply by HikingStick

(2 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

BTW--I added another bullet regarding the trading partner's score.

Go to forum: Site Discussion

720 Topic by HikingStick

(2 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

Once both side agree to a local trade, the trade moves to the completed area, and it is flagged to ask if we want the changes made to our inventory.  What if the trade falls through (e.g., the person never shows up, the cards are not in the promised condition)? I would like to see an "Abort Trade" button that would basically cancel the trade and undo any changes to my library.

I have one local trade in a similar status right now (no offense intended to my local trading partner, who may end up seeing this).  We agreed to the trade configuration a week ago.  It is our third local trade.  I drove to his place the first two times, so arranged for him to drive to me this time.  We've not been able to connect yet, so I'm sitting on cards and have had to decline other trade opportunities because those cards are committed to the current trade.

I'm certainly hoping he and I will get things squared away soon, but would like the ability to abort (cancel) in the future if things do not go well.

Would anyone else find this useful?

Go to forum: Site Discussion

721 Reply by HikingStick

(5 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

NullParameter wrote:

I thought of another idea to add to the trade interface.

Some additional fields that allow for general agreed shipping type and other such things.  For instance, if I'm doing a $50+ trade, I'd really like to make sure that the other person is going to send their cards properly packaged and with Delivery Confirmation/Tracking.  A checkbox could be added that would specify that both sides are going to supply a tracking number. 

And then, once both people have shipped their cards, an additional textbox could show up that would allow them to supply that tracking number so the currently data for the package can be displayed right there in the page.  This would make things much more simple compared to having to track down the DC# in the chat history and then copy/pasting it over to the USPS website, especially because I know a lot of people like to do stuff on their phones.


I like those ideas, too.

Go to forum: Site Discussion

722 Topic by HikingStick

(2 replies, posted in Site Discussion)

Please consider adding the ability to leave a reason for cancelled trades.  The list might need to change over time, but here are some options I can see listing from day one:

  • No response to offer

  • Got a better offer

  • Could not agree

  • Disparate value (downtrade)

  • Decided to keep card(s)

  • Cards never shipped/received

  • Duplicate trade

  • Starting new trade with same partner

  • Didn't read my bio/guidelines

  • Partner's rating/feedback score

  • Had problems shipping to partner's country before

Go to forum: Site Discussion

723 Reply by HikingStick

(4 replies, posted in Decks and Deckbuilding)

imsully2 wrote:

In my opinion any mill deck should have some sort of annoying wall, and we currently have Fog Bank in standard, unless your opponent draws spot removal or has tramply creatures this will stop them dead in their tracks. It would also let you attack with the Ooze more easily without concern of not having enough blockers.

Also there's no excuse not to have at least 1 Jace, Memory Adept in here, some decks I'd say he's expensive and you don't want to drop the cash/trade but you've got a playset of Hinterlands, as such you need a jace or two.


I just added a Jace last night for play testing.  smile  I do like the Fog Bank idea.  Some more tweaking will commence...

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724 Reply by HikingStick

(16 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

cbwebber wrote:

I stand corrected, it IS the full-art lands...

http://www.wizards.com/magic/magazine/a … arcana/263

I still don't think I'd spend $150 on it though.

Thanks to the great feedback I got here, neither do I.

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725 Reply by HikingStick

(16 replies, posted in Reddit MTG Trades)

cbwebber wrote:

the pack of additional lands in the fat pack are NOT the full-art lands, they are basic lands...you'll only get the ones from the packs, nothing else.

That doesn't align with everything I've read on the Zendikar Fat Packs.  Can anyone else clarify this?

Go to forum: Reddit MTG Trades