For those curious: the Dimir occupy all spaces in the city, and their architecture feels like a blend of many of the elements I discussed in this video. Their role is to be fluid and move between all spaces, and so their guildgates feel like the hidden passageways between the structures. Every district belongs, in part, to those sneaky spies and assassins. For a more in-depth look at the Dimir, I highly recommend Groucho Marco's video on the aesthetics of film noir found here. you'll enjoy it! ruclips.net/video/Ai7wQNk7dO4/видео.html
I thought you intentionally skipped the Dimir as a nod to the fact that the average Ravnican citizen often isn't even aware that the Dimir exist, with many of them under the impression that there are only, and have only ever been, nine guilds.
In a place where there is no room, in a structure that was never built, meets the guild that wasn’t mentioned in the video. I feel it’s purposeful though. Dimir architecture is probably best described as the architecture of Ravnica as a whole, right there in front of your face, but blending seamlessly into the background. That and I can’t think of many examples outside of Duskmantle or Aqueduct...
The Dimir either co-opt other guilds' architecture, or design their structures in such a way that you don't notice them. A Dimir architect might put a great deal of work into making a passage that can only be accessed by secret doors or other hidden ways, that is never meant to be admired save by Dimir agents. Or that same Dimir architect creates a visible structure that apes other styles, while hiding a whole assortment of hidden doors, peep holes, high vantage points, walls that could be easily climbed, blind corners, and secret hazards that can be exploited by those who know how. Obviously, a good Dimir architect isn't _known_ as a Dimir architect at all. They're the one who works as an Azorius, Boros, or Orzhov architect, so they can better sneak in features that make spying, escape, and assassination easier on their agents. And who controls the archives where blueprints are kept, and keeps all the "real" versions in the back room? Why, the Dimir, of course.
@@Bluecho4 100%, check out Dimir Charm! From ground level, that could be a Rakdos dungeon, a Simic water feature or a Golgari sewerage system. But looking up from the meeting spot under the full moon? Hidden in plain sight, fantastic work Mr. Zoltan Boros (if that is your real name, I don't trust it).
Rhystic Studies is such a pleasing channel that it inspires people’s desires the way above mentioned architecture inspired Ravnica’s design team. When I started my channel just recently it was my goal to try and achieve something as beautiful right on the opening, as lofty as that aspiration was (now I await to be judged).
@DM Table, it's funny that your name is what it is. I am watching this video because I am planning on running a Guildmaster's Guide to Ravnica game. By the way, that book it great. Probably the best setting book for 5th ed. It is full of all the helpful things that help you actually run a game in a setting, things like random things people might see passing by while in a given district. While adventure paths are hard to adapt because it is hard to figure out whether a change you make now will be incongruous with someth in ng later, the book instead focuses on the setting and gives you adventure ideas for you to flesh out the story for and focuses on providing you anything you might need but have trouble improvising to make the setting feel real.
@@Warriormon87 Hi, I do have a video on DMing factions coming up exactly today at 6 p.m. GMT. If you or someone else wants to take a peek I’ll be all too glad. Thank you for the reply, good luck in your campaign!
Seconded, I never realized just how distinct each guild's architecture and style were beyond their creatures and items, but now can't wait to describe a confined struggle in narrow Azorious halls, or the almost dream like quality of a Simic lab. Thanks alot!
I don't think I can overstate how much I love your videos. I'm an art history major too, and it gives me so much joy to have someone like you as a member of our community. I've even been able to share your videos with my friends who don't play Magic and they come back telling me how much they like your work. You are an inspiration to me and I'll always be looking forward to your next installment. Cheers!
the handprints on the guild symbol on gruul guildgate really grabbed me, and evocated a lot of emotion and callbacks to cave paintings. they say ‘we are many, we are here, and you will recognize us’
I can never find the quote again, but my favourite flavour about the Gruul was something like "The stories say that it was the when the last orchard was paved, the last mountain mined, that the spark of rage began." The gruul are not just the rage of some mindless Luddite, preaching for a return to the pastoral. They are the rage of a land and a people so profoundly disrespected and degraded, until there is nothing left but hate.
Calvino is my favourite writer. It honestly make me happy to hear him referenced outside of Italy. Even in my country, his books are severely underrated.
I remember looking out the window of the biology lab in uni to behold a similar sky as Titus Lunter's plane from Ravnica. It fills me with some sort of serenity, whilst also being a form of melancholy. A sight or sky you'll never reach, because the act of escaping into it utterly changes or destroys that specific scene. Therefor you'll never be able to join it in it's beauty but you're still hopeful that one day you can be a part of it. And yet the gentle breeze of a wandering gust around you remains, taking your troubles away to leave you behind as you are, not as you percieve yourself to be. Breathing. I thank that gust. I thank that sky, that sunset filling my life with it's warm colours of light. I thank the fact that I can have this feeling whenever I can look at this work or going into the world. (sorry for the weird stuff and poor spelling. I know it has nothing to do with Ravnica and the video, but I had to get this off of my chest... Happy streaming!)
The Professor of Tolarian community college is the Professor for the freshmen kids in college taking the lower division course. Rudy is the iconoclastic economic teacher. Ryan Gomez of Magic Arcanum is the literature instructor. You sir is the philosopher/art historian of this theoretical school I love the magic youtube community that produces these contents.
Listening to his videos are like a podcast. The video just provides another viewpoint on everything, on the art and the stories, the messages being conveyed by the artist, but he doesn’t outright tell you. He teases your brain, shows how it can be seen and what to pay attention to, and then let’s you figure the rest out.
Ravnica is my favourite plane. Because I love architecture and I want to become an architect. I love the guilds to death and the buildings inspire me. My favourite block. My favourite guild is golgari. But when it comes to guilds with the coolest architecture. I choose selesnya. It is the perfect balance between nature and buildings. They also capture the philosophy and colours of the guild very well. It is also the first set I did a draft with. I build a selesnya deck, but it wasn't the best deck. I put to many ironshell beetles in it, 5 I think (which is allowed in draft) and I kept drawing them. I got a beast whisperer in my first pack! Ironshell beetle, beast whisperer and ravnica will always have a special place in my heart. Tldr Ravnica is good.
I have only watched a few videos from this channel but I absolutely love what I’ve seen so far. A far cry from gameplay channels and spoiler videos, Rhystic Studies examines Magic the Gathering and it’s history, design, inspiration, and atmosphere in a way seldom replicated by other channels. From the moment I hit play I am captivated, engrossed in your writing and the journey it takes me on. Honestly, exceptional content.
please never stop talking about ravnica i love mtg art, i love ravnica, i love two color combinations, i love the ravnica abilities, i love architecture, i love your videos and at the same time i am not into art in general at all
Tobitak3 yeah just like interpreting the color, shape and consistency of your morning stool can be considered art if you need a house, you build a house. if you want it to be a good house, you hire an architect or study architecture yourself, or you might suffer leaks, crumbling walls and rooves etc this has nothing to do with art, it is purely practical. same as with eg tall colored windows in cathedrals as soon as technology allowed them to happen. you need architecture for that, not art. a priest wants his fellow christians to see in the dark. he wants to save on building resources. maybe he just wants a bigger clock tower as a phallus symbol without even knowing it due to him not being allowed to have a wife, to have any sexual relationships or to masturbate. so in these ways architecture is even more psychological than it is artful. many parts of buildings that an art student might consider to be artistic has actually purely practical reasons, eg like literally any part/detail of medieval castles.
Architecture is most certainly an art. If you want a fuctioning block house with only fuctional features, you hire an engineer. Houses are often designed with asthetics in mind, and that is the job of an architect. To design beautiful buildings to surround us.
Oona, queen of the FiremindΦ an engineer? where in a house does your engineer have to build an engine? the architect is the right person for the job. the engineer might be able to do it aswell, but it‘s definitely not his strength, unlike an architect‘s. i met my fair share of architects and none of them ever learned specifically of how to build houses
The amount of work and thought you guys put in those videos never ceases to amaze me. As a very big fan of Magic lore, it's really enjoyable to see such a detailed and serious (sometimes nearly philosophical and poetic) approach on Magic lore and overall design. You guys don't stop at the stories of the characters, you explain us how the world works in these planes, how things are structured and interact with each other. And gosh, Magic is very good at building awesome and fantastic, yet believable, worlds. Keep up the great work, it's always a pleasure to watch these videos!
Saddened by the fire of Notre Dame, the quote shared at the end really hit me hard, and it really pertains to the essence of architecture and the effect it has not just on fantasy culture, but to the world's culture as a whole. "on the rules that decreed how they rise, take shape and prosper, adapting themselves to the seasons, and then how they sadden and fall in ruins"
Sam thank you for this. I first played magic in undergrad when my intellectual idealism was at its peak and Magic was the intellectual game my friends and I played while debating philosophy (both were done poorly). Now some ten years later I have returned to the game and your content not only sparks my imagination, providing a savory mental jerky for me to ruminate on for days, but also gives me that comforting feeling of nostalgia remembering sitting in the florescent glow of the dorm room light studying literature and philosophy. A greater gift could not be given.
Just started DM'ing a Guildmaster's to Ravnica campaign. This video has just given some amazing insight and inspiration to try and portray such an awsome, diverse world. Much thanks!
1) Skipping Dimir was fitting as hell. 2) I don't use mugs for anything. I just like glasses of water or whatever is there. But I'm going to get one of those mugs if I can.
It's a shame, that we can't have full art lands from Guilds of Ravnica/ War of the Spark & Ravnica Alligiance. I like this lands from all sets that were on Ravnica with this urban style
Fascinating video, as always! It astounding how much detail goes into this sort of thing. It's the kind of thing that you don't notice usually, unless someone says something, but it influences so much about the way you see the plane. Thanks, Sam, for being our tour guide for Ravnica and for all of Magic!
Wanted to tell you that your content is completely breathtaking amazing, they are so peaceful to watch and very thoughtful. Thank you for all the work you do
Oh nice, a new Rhystic Studies video! My brain was in need of glorious stimulation and fun fact learning. Step 1: Turn off other distractions, like Facebook and my cell phone. Step 2: Sit down with a yummy snack ready. Step 3: Watch the video 2 or 3 times, in attempts to take in all the information/ message. Absolutely one of the best MTG channels out there. Your research, attention to detail, and video presentation always shines through. (Thank you!)
For a guild usually hidden, i am both pleased and pissed by the fact that you didn't talk about the Dimir guild. Pissed, because i love hearing all your analysis and delving into the topics. Pleased, because from an essence perspective, the dimir is hidden, and is an integrated part of Ravnica as a whole. Well done, and i love your videos.
I am using your essay, right now, to remember specific wording on how I wish to describe nature. Dude. I love your videos. Genuinely some of the most thought provoking and inspiring analysis content I've ever seen. Please keep up the good work!
I just started a Ravnica D&D campaign, and your videos are an inspiration to me as a DM. Detail in description is essential for visualization, and your attention to detail is impeccable. Thank you!
You’re the best content creator for MTG on all of RUclips. You bring intelligent observations and find deeper meaning where most people can’t. I really enjoy your work.
I barely even play MTG and your videos are some of the best out there for anyone interested in painting and design. You give great pointers to aspiring artists and I'm really thankful for that. Keep up the good work mate.
Your quiet and thoughtful studies of what makes fantasy worlds engrossing are truly a treasure. You really keep outdoing yourself each time. Sei davvero fortissimo.
As an intersection of Architecture and Game Design, two of my most favorite things, I cannot stress how thrilled I am to see a video dissecting the aesthetic basis of Magic's beloved ecumenopolis. It was illuminating to have different architectural styles ascribed to the guilds. I had not consciously considered the temporal nature of city development as it pertains to factions and color philosophy. It seems obvious in hindsight especially with the context of how old Ravnica is stated to be. Amazing work, as was the Colors of Ravnica, and I am eager to see more.
I enjoyed your use of the transition from grayscale to color in order to draw attention to differences in architecture just after the 20-minute mark. Clever and subtle. It worked perfectly for me, my eyes drawn from building to building as it faded into coloration, and then eventually to the scene at large as the sky filled with blue. Kudos!
Every time you post something, I truly remember why I subscribed and why it is absolutely worth supporting your work. This is quality content and, please, really take your time to make those videos. Much of RUclips content is now so standardised and repetitive that it is hard to find something decent - what you are doing on the other hand is just exemplary, and not just for MTG enthusiasts.
Not usually our italian classics are used as a model to explain aspects of contemporary pop culture such as the design of Ravnica in Magic the Gathering. But you managed very well. Complimenti!
I have to say as a professional illustrator and amateur world builder, I love your analysis and breakdown of the art of Ravnica. Very well thought out, researched, and clearly explained. Makes me want to produce more art every time!
As a Czech and a man living in Prague, a lover of art, fantasy and architecture, the MTG player has started the original Ravnica... I wept with happiness. Brilliant work. I can't describe properly how much it emotionally affected me.
Every once in a while i come back here to watch this video. Your narration and presentation of the Ludonarrative of Magic's Ecumenopolis is fascinating and lovely, I generally pair it with your other Ravnica video "The Colors of Ravnica". I have the Ravnica books for D&D and use your video as a inspiration to immerse myself in this fascinating world. Everytime, as i am about to like this video, I realize it is already liked, and i wish i could drop one more to show my love for your work.
This.... this is exactly what I needed on a Saturday morning. Once again you deliver a thought provoking video essay. Your voice, editing, and presentation style, is wholesome, calming, and relaxing. Keep doing what you’re doing!
Beautiful documentary again, showing how different architecture styles link to the guilds and gets translated through the art is amazing. Traveling through European cities such as Tallin, Budapest and Brashov will now remind me of Ravnican city scapes.
Genuinely floored by how well done this one is, Sam. This might be your best work yet. I thought it wouldn't be possible for you to top the Frames video, but this was absolutely wonderful. I remember when you were still Magic Man Sam and you've really been a treasure to the Magic community all along.
Great work as always, Sam! I've appreciated how the buildings and architecture of Ravnica reflected the ideals of the guilds, and you spoke to this eloquently.
I wasn´t sure what to expect when RUclips recommended me this video but oh boy this 30 min went by fast! Makes you appreciate the art of these cards so much more and finally take a minute to just look at them.
Seeing the world of Ravnica transplanted into another medium, such as a movie or video game, would be wonderful. I've a feeling the setting would be a very creatively productive starting point.
I don't play Magic any more, and I get an impression that you may not either, but I appreciate the quality of your videos so much, I'm always so excited to see an upload, keep it up man.
I absolutely love these mini docs on magic the gathering, I myself a long time player, since the beginning of it's inception. Your mini docs are like little magical art pieces that a nice form of escapism into a world that has been so special to me since I can remember opening my very first pack of magic as a kid, and viewing the artwork for the very first time and being blown away, these videos give me that exact same feeling I had 25 year's ago! Thank you 😊👌👍🍻
Yep, thats a like, a sub and a huge thank you. This video gave me a beautiful view on how to explain the aesthetic of each guild for a Ravnica campaign. A general basis of what it should be explained and how to story tell. Thank you for your effort on this video.
i am a pretty recent subscriber/ viewer, but i must say. the production, presentation, and research on the videos you do is absolutely phenomenal. very well polished and interesting videos.
Absolutely incredible video Sam! Having missed the first two Ravnica blocks Im so glad to have played through this one and its been a great excuse to look to the past and see how much thought and design went into this plane.
![Limits of a [CARDNAME] | The Story of Asmoranomardicadaistinaculdacar](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pukpaxSBeAE/mqdefault.jpg)
For those curious: the Dimir occupy all spaces in the city, and their architecture feels like a blend of many of the elements I discussed in this video. Their role is to be fluid and move between all spaces, and so their guildgates feel like the hidden passageways between the structures. Every district belongs, in part, to those sneaky spies and assassins. For a more in-depth look at the Dimir, I highly recommend Groucho Marco's video on the aesthetics of film noir found here. you'll enjoy it! ruclips.net/video/Ai7wQNk7dO4/видео.html
Like the John Wick hotel.
I thought you intentionally skipped the Dimir as a nod to the fact that the average Ravnican citizen often isn't even aware that the Dimir exist, with many of them under the impression that there are only, and have only ever been, nine guilds.
I absolutely love the fact that you never mentioned the Dimir's arhitecture art style because THAT GUILD DOES NOT EXIST.
FLAVOR FUCKEN WIN.
Dimir's just an urban legend. Come on, man.
@@nathannicar3071 ikr lol wth is he crazy
Other Guilds: "You NEED a Guildgate!"
the Gruul: "There. A Gate"
SuiCaedere *sighs and checks off box on the clipboard and walks away dejectedly*
@@Xenothios Gruul: *smash the stones on which the guild inspector stood*
Like we need a gate
@@tygonmaster Smash the guild inspector, he knew where he was.
Gate too modern. Gruul need only door.
In a place where there is no room, in a structure that was never built, meets the guild that wasn’t mentioned in the video.
I feel it’s purposeful though. Dimir architecture is probably best described as the architecture of Ravnica as a whole, right there in front of your face, but blending seamlessly into the background. That and I can’t think of many examples outside of Duskmantle or Aqueduct...
The Dimir either co-opt other guilds' architecture, or design their structures in such a way that you don't notice them. A Dimir architect might put a great deal of work into making a passage that can only be accessed by secret doors or other hidden ways, that is never meant to be admired save by Dimir agents. Or that same Dimir architect creates a visible structure that apes other styles, while hiding a whole assortment of hidden doors, peep holes, high vantage points, walls that could be easily climbed, blind corners, and secret hazards that can be exploited by those who know how.
Obviously, a good Dimir architect isn't _known_ as a Dimir architect at all. They're the one who works as an Azorius, Boros, or Orzhov architect, so they can better sneak in features that make spying, escape, and assassination easier on their agents. And who controls the archives where blueprints are kept, and keeps all the "real" versions in the back room? Why, the Dimir, of course.
Who is Dimir? I've never heared of them...
@@torysaccount5753 just some totally normal and not at all dangerous or nefarious librarians. *I say nervously while my eyes dart to from the shadows*
@@Bluecho4 100%, check out Dimir Charm! From ground level, that could be a Rakdos dungeon, a Simic water feature or a Golgari sewerage system. But looking up from the meeting spot under the full moon? Hidden in plain sight, fantastic work Mr. Zoltan Boros (if that is your real name, I don't trust it).
Reminds me of Orciny from Mieville’s The City and the City. It’s the city that exists in the spaces in between the other cities, lost in the cracks.
The single best marketing for Magic is Rhystic Studies. I don't even play Magic, but these videos keep me coming back!
Great game. Should try it some time
If you didn't play magic before, then you started watching this channel, and now you still don't play magic, how in the hell is it good marketing.
Rhystic Studies is such a pleasing channel that it inspires people’s desires the way above mentioned architecture inspired Ravnica’s design team. When I started my channel just recently it was my goal to try and achieve something as beautiful right on the opening, as lofty as that aspiration was (now I await to be judged).
@DM Table, it's funny that your name is what it is. I am watching this video because I am planning on running a Guildmaster's Guide to Ravnica game.
By the way, that book it great. Probably the best setting book for 5th ed.
It is full of all the helpful things that help you actually run a game in a setting, things like random things people might see passing by while in a given district.
While adventure paths are hard to adapt because it is hard to figure out whether a change you make now will be incongruous with someth in ng later, the book instead focuses on the setting and gives you adventure ideas for you to flesh out the story for and focuses on providing you anything you might need but have trouble improvising to make the setting feel real.
@@Warriormon87 Hi, I do have a video on DMing factions coming up exactly today at 6 p.m. GMT. If you or someone else wants to take a peek I’ll be all too glad. Thank you for the reply, good luck in your campaign!
This continues to be my favorite channel on RUclips. :)
So glad to see you on this video. My two favourite video essay creators
It’s Ahhhhstin!!!
Ayyyyyye it’s Austin good to see your appreciation of quality content.
You both are some of my favorite essays youtubers thank you for teaching us.
AustinMcConnell litttt
This really makes describing the city to players in a Ravnica based D&D campaign so much easier. Awesome.
Seconded, I never realized just how distinct each guild's architecture and style were beyond their creatures and items, but now can't wait to describe a confined struggle in narrow Azorious halls, or the almost dream like quality of a Simic lab. Thanks alot!
Yes. All 9 guilds are represented. Azorius, Boros, Orzhov, Rakdos, Simic, Golgari, Selesnya, Izzet, and Gruul. No one is missing
Absolutely nobody
8 guilds. We don't associate with _those_ savages anymore.
@@0th_Law 7 guilds, leave those pencil pushers out of this.
@@NA-AN I was more referring to how the Gruul have been essentially excised from Ravnican society and written out of the guildpact.
@@0th_Law Oh, I thought you were doing a gag
Architecture: exists
The Gruul: 😠
Gruul no understood big word, GRUUL SMASH
Lmao this is beyond accurate. WRECK!
Guy: puts rock on top of another rock
Gruul: …and I took that personally
as a Dimir, I'm happy our guild wasn't mention at all. It adds to the mystery that is Dimir.
💙 What’s a Dimir? That doesn’t exist. 🖤
@@a.strain2786 💙💙ah yes, what silly words he speaks! 💙💙
put the history books away old man, the dimir haven’t existed for years
Sir, are you ok? Dimir doesn't exist
Wow, that was quite clever and enjoyable that you transitioned into Ravnica through Marco Polo's colorful descriptions of Venice.
Agreed, good writing / story-telling on the part of the producer
I don't think I can overstate how much I love your videos. I'm an art history major too, and it gives me so much joy to have someone like you as a member of our community. I've even been able to share your videos with my friends who don't play Magic and they come back telling me how much they like your work. You are an inspiration to me and I'll always be looking forward to your next installment. Cheers!
Lovely!
the handprints on the guild symbol on gruul guildgate really grabbed me, and evocated a lot of emotion and callbacks to cave paintings. they say ‘we are many, we are here, and you will recognize us’
I really like how each time we return to Ravnica it feels more sure of it's identity
Except for the detective set but we don't talk about that one
I can never find the quote again, but my favourite flavour about the Gruul was something like "The stories say that it was the when the last orchard was paved, the last mountain mined, that the spark of rage began." The gruul are not just the rage of some mindless Luddite, preaching for a return to the pastoral. They are the rage of a land and a people so profoundly disrespected and degraded, until there is nothing left but hate.
Sam coming in with the Rhystic Studies video just in time for the climax of spoiler season!
Love the content!
Calvino is my favourite writer. It honestly make me happy to hear him referenced outside of Italy. Even in my country, his books are severely underrated.
As an Italian I'm in love with your bookshelf full of pieces of Italian literature
Nobody:
Izzet league: Guys what if we made a steampunk lizard flying a skateboard.
Also Nobody:
Simic: Did somebody say frog lizard?
@@PaulGaither Frog lizard crab
Nobody:
Rakdos: but what if it was in fire
@@Vanessa_exe that would be hilarious!
Entertain me.
@@kerolokerokerolo a steampunk frog lizard crab that flies on a skateboard that's on fire.
I remember looking out the window of the biology lab in uni to behold a similar sky as Titus Lunter's plane from Ravnica. It fills me with some sort of serenity, whilst also being a form of melancholy. A sight or sky you'll never reach, because the act of escaping into it utterly changes or destroys that specific scene. Therefor you'll never be able to join it in it's beauty but you're still hopeful that one day you can be a part of it. And yet the gentle breeze of a wandering gust around you remains, taking your troubles away to leave you behind as you are, not as you percieve yourself to be. Breathing.
I thank that gust. I thank that sky, that sunset filling my life with it's warm colours of light. I thank the fact that I can have this feeling whenever I can look at this work or going into the world.
(sorry for the weird stuff and poor spelling. I know it has nothing to do with Ravnica and the video, but I had to get this off of my chest... Happy streaming!)
The Professor of Tolarian community college is the Professor for the freshmen kids in college taking the lower division course.
Rudy is the iconoclastic economic teacher.
Ryan Gomez of Magic Arcanum is the literature instructor.
You sir is the philosopher/art historian of this theoretical school
I love the magic youtube community that produces these contents.
Dude I was just wondering when you'd upload and this popped up, I'm so happy rn
Just made my morning.
Thanks for all the hard work and the 110% quality content.
Listening to his videos are like a podcast. The video just provides another viewpoint on everything, on the art and the stories, the messages being conveyed by the artist, but he doesn’t outright tell you. He teases your brain, shows how it can be seen and what to pay attention to, and then let’s you figure the rest out.
A world you can fall in love with. I wish I had dreams in Ravnica, each time I'm in a different guild.
Ravnica is my favourite plane. Because I love architecture and I want to become an architect. I love the guilds to death and the buildings inspire me.
My favourite block. My favourite guild is golgari. But when it comes to guilds with the coolest architecture. I choose selesnya. It is the perfect balance between nature and buildings. They also capture the philosophy and colours of the guild very well. It is also the first set I did a draft with. I build a selesnya deck, but it wasn't the best deck. I put to many ironshell beetles in it, 5 I think (which is allowed in draft) and I kept drawing them. I got a beast whisperer in my first pack! Ironshell beetle, beast whisperer and ravnica will always have a special place in my heart.
Tldr Ravnica is good.
I have only watched a few videos from this channel but I absolutely love what I’ve seen so far. A far cry from gameplay channels and spoiler videos, Rhystic Studies examines Magic the Gathering and it’s history, design, inspiration, and atmosphere in a way seldom replicated by other channels. From the moment I hit play I am captivated, engrossed in your writing and the journey it takes me on. Honestly, exceptional content.
Ha, that was strange when you showed the Cologne basilica of the apostles, I live like 20 meters from it.
please never stop talking about ravnica
i love mtg art, i love ravnica, i love two color combinations, i love the ravnica abilities, i love architecture, i love your videos
and at the same time i am not into art in general at all
"i love architecture"
well architecture is an art
Tobitak3 yeah just like interpreting the color, shape and consistency of your morning stool can be considered art
if you need a house, you build a house. if you want it to be a good house, you hire an architect or study architecture yourself, or you might suffer leaks, crumbling walls and rooves etc
this has nothing to do with art, it is purely practical. same as with eg tall colored windows in cathedrals as soon as technology allowed them to happen. you need architecture for that, not art. a priest wants his fellow christians to see in the dark. he wants to save on building resources. maybe he just wants a bigger clock tower as a phallus symbol without even knowing it due to him not being allowed to have a wife, to have any sexual relationships or to masturbate. so in these ways architecture is even more psychological than it is artful. many parts of buildings that an art student might consider to be artistic has actually purely practical reasons, eg like literally any part/detail of medieval castles.
Please STOP talking about ravnica, these are the most boring videos and I only watch them as a chore, unlike the others.
Architecture is most certainly an art. If you want a fuctioning block house with only fuctional features, you hire an engineer. Houses are often designed with asthetics in mind, and that is the job of an architect. To design beautiful buildings to surround us.
Oona, queen of the FiremindΦ an engineer? where in a house does your engineer have to build an engine? the architect is the right person for the job. the engineer might be able to do it aswell, but it‘s definitely not his strength, unlike an architect‘s. i met my fair share of architects and none of them ever learned specifically of how to build houses
Cheers from Italy
Love your work!
The amount of work and thought you guys put in those videos never ceases to amaze me.
As a very big fan of Magic lore, it's really enjoyable to see such a detailed and serious (sometimes nearly philosophical and poetic) approach on Magic lore and overall design.
You guys don't stop at the stories of the characters, you explain us how the world works in these planes, how things are structured and interact with each other. And gosh, Magic is very good at building awesome and fantastic, yet believable, worlds.
Keep up the great work, it's always a pleasure to watch these videos!
Saddened by the fire of Notre Dame, the quote shared at the end really hit me hard, and it really pertains to the essence of architecture and the effect it has not just on fantasy culture, but to the world's culture as a whole.
"on the rules that decreed how they rise, take shape and prosper, adapting themselves to the seasons, and then how they sadden and fall in ruins"
Sam thank you for this. I first played magic in undergrad when my intellectual idealism was at its peak and Magic was the intellectual game my friends and I played while debating philosophy (both were done poorly). Now some ten years later I have returned to the game and your content not only sparks my imagination, providing a savory mental jerky for me to ruminate on for days, but also gives me that comforting feeling of nostalgia remembering sitting in the florescent glow of the dorm room light studying literature and philosophy. A greater gift could not be given.
Just started DM'ing a Guildmaster's to Ravnica campaign. This video has just given some amazing insight and inspiration to try and portray such an awsome, diverse world. Much thanks!
Calvino's work resonates perfectly with Ravnica and starting from that on your analisis was genious. Great video, and thanks for making it.
1) Skipping Dimir was fitting as hell.
2) I don't use mugs for anything. I just like glasses of water or whatever is there. But I'm going to get one of those mugs if I can.
It's a shame, that we can't have full art lands from Guilds of Ravnica/ War of the Spark & Ravnica Alligiance. I like this lands from all sets that were on Ravnica with this urban style
"no two encounters with this world are alike"
Everyone plays the same 3 decks in Arena.
Yeah, if only it was still 3...
You are the most compelling story teller I've come across on youtube much less the story tellers of MTG. Very cool videos
Fascinating video, as always! It astounding how much detail goes into this sort of thing. It's the kind of thing that you don't notice usually, unless someone says something, but it influences so much about the way you see the plane. Thanks, Sam, for being our tour guide for Ravnica and for all of Magic!
Wanted to tell you that your content is completely breathtaking amazing, they are so peaceful to watch and very thoughtful. Thank you for all the work you do
Time and again, I am amazed by the worlds and wonders that exist in the mind of the artist. The painter, the poet, the sculptor - and the architect.
Your videos on Ravnica have actually made it my favorite plane. Great work man.
Oh nice, a new Rhystic Studies video! My brain was in need of glorious stimulation and fun fact learning.
Step 1: Turn off other distractions, like Facebook and my cell phone.
Step 2: Sit down with a yummy snack ready.
Step 3: Watch the video 2 or 3 times, in attempts to take in all the information/ message.
Absolutely one of the best MTG channels out there. Your research, attention to detail, and video presentation always shines through. (Thank you!)
For a guild usually hidden, i am both pleased and pissed by the fact that you didn't talk about the Dimir guild. Pissed, because i love hearing all your analysis and delving into the topics. Pleased, because from an essence perspective, the dimir is hidden, and is an integrated part of Ravnica as a whole. Well done, and i love your videos.
I am using your essay, right now, to remember specific wording on how I wish to describe nature. Dude. I love your videos. Genuinely some of the most thought provoking and inspiring analysis content I've ever seen. Please keep up the good work!
The beauty in all of this made me cry. Thank you.
I just started a Ravnica D&D campaign, and your videos are an inspiration to me as a DM. Detail in description is essential for visualization, and your attention to detail is impeccable. Thank you!
You’re the best content creator for MTG on all of RUclips. You bring intelligent observations and find deeper meaning where most people can’t. I really enjoy your work.
I barely even play MTG and your videos are some of the best out there for anyone interested in painting and design. You give great pointers to aspiring artists and I'm really thankful for that.
Keep up the good work mate.
Absolute FAVORITE channel on this platform!
I could watch these videos again and again. Such an amazing atmosphere. Beautiful.
Your quiet and thoughtful studies of what makes fantasy worlds engrossing are truly a treasure. You really keep outdoing yourself each time. Sei davvero fortissimo.
As an intersection of Architecture and Game Design, two of my most favorite things, I cannot stress how thrilled I am to see a video dissecting the aesthetic basis of Magic's beloved ecumenopolis. It was illuminating to have different architectural styles ascribed to the guilds. I had not consciously considered the temporal nature of city development as it pertains to factions and color philosophy. It seems obvious in hindsight especially with the context of how old Ravnica is stated to be. Amazing work, as was the Colors of Ravnica, and I am eager to see more.
honestly this channel is so far above and beyond any other mtg related channel i'm a subscriber to.
I love the production experience you develope in these videos. They really are like love letters to the topic you discuss about
learning a lot. As someone with multiple Mucca pieces hung up within my space, the visual appeal of the Simic absolutely clicks for me
I enjoyed your use of the transition from grayscale to color in order to draw attention to differences in architecture just after the 20-minute mark. Clever and subtle. It worked perfectly for me, my eyes drawn from building to building as it faded into coloration, and then eventually to the scene at large as the sky filled with blue.
Kudos!
Every time you post something, I truly remember why I subscribed and why it is absolutely worth supporting your work. This is quality content and, please, really take your time to make those videos. Much of RUclips content is now so standardised and repetitive that it is hard to find something decent - what you are doing on the other hand is just exemplary, and not just for MTG enthusiasts.
Not usually our italian classics are used as a model to explain aspects of contemporary pop culture such as the design of Ravnica in Magic the Gathering. But you managed very well.
Complimenti!
I have to say as a professional illustrator and amateur world builder, I love your analysis and breakdown of the art of Ravnica. Very well thought out, researched, and clearly explained.
Makes me want to produce more art every time!
As a Czech and a man living in Prague, a lover of art, fantasy and architecture, the MTG player has started the original Ravnica... I wept with happiness. Brilliant work. I can't describe properly how much it emotionally affected me.
"Architecture is just art you live in" -- The Librarians (2016)
Every once in a while i come back here to watch this video. Your narration and presentation of the Ludonarrative of Magic's Ecumenopolis is fascinating and lovely, I generally pair it with your other Ravnica video "The Colors of Ravnica".
I have the Ravnica books for D&D and use your video as a inspiration to immerse myself in this fascinating world.
Everytime, as i am about to like this video, I realize it is already liked, and i wish i could drop one more to show my love for your work.
This.... this is exactly what I needed on a Saturday morning. Once again you deliver a thought provoking video essay. Your voice, editing, and presentation style, is wholesome, calming, and relaxing. Keep doing what you’re doing!
Have to admit this is an amazing in depth look and dive into the nine Ravnica guild architecture styles
Beautiful documentary again, showing how different architecture styles link to the guilds and gets translated through the art is amazing. Traveling through European cities such as Tallin, Budapest and Brashov will now remind me of Ravnican city scapes.
So glad to hear from you again!
Genuinely floored by how well done this one is, Sam. This might be your best work yet. I thought it wouldn't be possible for you to top the Frames video, but this was absolutely wonderful. I remember when you were still Magic Man Sam and you've really been a treasure to the Magic community all along.
Thank you for not missing my favorite guild. I learned a lot more about it!
As always the Production Value just blows me away. The choice of music, the Images and your Voice just Work perfectly. Thanks for your work!
These videos are a love letter to MTG. You did a superb job covering lore, art, design of our favorite fantasy city-world. Thanks for posting!
You truly are an outstanding creator, I cannot stress this enough.
I never even thought that the architecture of a Plane could have so much deep meaning and consideration behind it. You've just blown my mind
All of this art is so beautiful. This lore is so awesome and amazing
As a long time MtG player, art and architecture lover and Prague citizen, I want to express my liking to this great video of yours.
Your video essays are the highest quality Magic content on RUclips bar none. Keep up the great work!
Great work as always, Sam! I've appreciated how the buildings and architecture of Ravnica reflected the ideals of the guilds, and you spoke to this eloquently.
Such high-quality content. Truly amazing videos.
Thank you for making a video about what I’ve been thinking about since the Guilds prerelease
I have to say that this is my favorite video of yours so far. Thank you.
I will never tire of your magnificent voice and the passion you express through these videos.
I eagerly await your next artist profile.
I wasn´t sure what to expect when RUclips recommended me this video but oh boy this 30 min went by fast! Makes you appreciate the art of these cards so much more and finally take a minute to just look at them.
Seeing the world of Ravnica transplanted into another medium, such as a movie or video game, would be wonderful. I've a feeling the setting would be a very creatively productive starting point.
I don't play Magic any more, and I get an impression that you may not either, but I appreciate the quality of your videos so much, I'm always so excited to see an upload, keep it up man.
This is honeslty the coolest channel I’ve seen in so long
I absolutely love these mini docs on magic the gathering, I myself a long time player, since the beginning of it's inception. Your mini docs are like little magical art pieces that a nice form of escapism into a world that has been so special to me since I can remember opening my very first pack of magic as a kid, and viewing the artwork for the very first time and being blown away, these videos give me that exact same feeling I had 25 year's ago! Thank you 😊👌👍🍻
A 30 minute video essay on the architecture and design of a fantasy city? FUCK YES.
I'm really glad to see someone talk about the gruul guildgate
Yep, thats a like, a sub and a huge thank you. This video gave me a beautiful view on how to explain the aesthetic of each guild for a Ravnica campaign. A general basis of what it should be explained and how to story tell. Thank you for your effort on this video.
Oooh! I loved invisible cities, this is gonna be a fun half hour
Can't wait for the TV show!
Absolutely masterful. Every new video is your best yet. The true sign of growth and sustainability as an artist. Thank you.
i am a pretty recent subscriber/ viewer, but i must say. the production, presentation, and research on the videos you do is absolutely phenomenal. very well polished and interesting videos.
The quality of this channel is amazing. I don't know anything about magic but your videos as a delicacy i found myself watching again and again
I clicked this video while saying outloud "omg yes". Always so excited for a new video.
Absolutely incredible video Sam! Having missed the first two Ravnica blocks Im so glad to have played through this one and its been a great excuse to look to the past and see how much thought and design went into this plane.
Jesus these are the best quality videos on RUclips
HE LIVES! Great to hear more from you!
Your videos are amazing. You put so much time into these productions and it feels like you make these because you want to. Thanks magic man.
amazing video, as always. the wait is always worth it