MTG Preorder Guide: Secure Best Prices on Avatar, TMNT & Sets
Magic: The Gathering’s release schedule is more packed than ever, with major crossovers and long-awaited returns to classic planes filling out the calendar for the next year. For dedicated players and collectors, securing preorders is a critical strategy to guarantee product on release day, often at the best possible price. As we look ahead, massive upcoming sets like Universes Beyond: Avatar: The Last Airbender, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collaboration, and the nostalgic Lorwyn Eclipsed are already commanding significant attention.
Navigating the market for these future releases and finding value on current sealed products requires a keen eye. Our latest market analysis reveals where the best value lies and how you can make the most of your budget for the world’s most popular trading card game.
Upcoming Blockbusters: Avatar and TMNT Preorders Open
The Universes Beyond product line, which brings iconic external properties into the Magic multiverse, has two colossal releases on the horizon that are already shaping up to be fan favorites.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Perhaps one of the most anticipated crossovers in Magic's history, the full set treatment for Avatar: The Last Airbender is poised to be a landmark release. Scheduled for a Q4 2025 release, this set will allow players to bend the elements and battle alongside Aang, Katara, Zuko, and the rest of the beloved cast.
Given the immense global popularity of the Avatar franchise, demand is expected to be exceptionally high. Early preorder listings are beginning to appear, and while prices may seem steep, locking in an order now could protect you from the inevitable price spikes that often occur closer to release, especially for highly sought-after Collector Boosters and themed Commander Decks.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Before we enter the world of benders, we're heading to the sewers of New York City. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are officially joining Magic through a special collaboration. Unlike a full booster set, this release is expected to follow the "Secret Lair" model, offering highly stylized, collectible cards featuring Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael, along with their allies and nemeses. These drops are typically limited in nature, making preorders or immediate purchases upon release the only surefire way to acquire them without paying a premium on the secondary market later.
A Highly Anticipated Return: Lorwyn Eclipsed
For long-time Magic players, the announcement of Lorwyn Eclipsed was a dream come true. Scheduled for a Q3 2025 release, this set marks our first return to the enchanting, storybook plane of Lorwyn-Shadowmoor in over 15 years. Known for its unique tribal themes (Kithkin, Faeries, Merfolk, Goblins) and the innovative day/night mechanic that transformed the world, Lorwyn holds a special place in the hearts of the community.
Lorwyn Eclipsed is expected to be a full, draftable set, complete with Play Boosters, Collector Boosters, Bundles, and Commander Decks. The nostalgia factor is a powerful market driver, and we anticipate strong, sustained interest in this product. Preordering booster boxes of this set is a wise move for players who want to draft with friends on release weekend or simply crack packs of a beloved plane reimagined.
How to Find the Best Deals on Sealed MTG Products
While preordering high-profile sets is a forward-looking strategy, there is still significant value to be found in recently released and currently available sealed products. Major online retail platforms often list new products at or above the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) due to high initial demand. However, a little diligence can uncover prices well below the market average.
Here are some proven strategies for securing the best prices:
- Look Beyond the Giants: While convenient, the largest online marketplaces aren't always the cheapest. Dedicated online card game retailers and even your local game store often run competitive presale campaigns and promotions to earn your business.
- Watch for Price Settling: For massive, print-to-demand sets like the recent Modern Horizons 3, prices can be volatile. After the initial release rush, prices often cool down and settle. Patient buyers who wait a few weeks after launch can sometimes find booster boxes for 10-15% less than their preorder peak.
- Bundle and Save: Many retailers offer bundle deals, combining a booster box with a set of Commander Decks or a bundle package. These deals often provide a better per-item price than purchasing each product individually.
- Leverage Holiday Sales: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other major holiday sales events are prime times to purchase sealed Magic products. Retailers frequently offer sitewide discounts that can apply to even newer releases.
Is Preordering MTG Sets Always the Right Move?
Deciding whether to preorder comes down to your personal goals and risk tolerance. There are clear advantages and disadvantages to weigh.
The Pros of Preordering:
- Price Lock: You secure the product at a set price, protecting you from potential market spikes caused by high demand or card spoilers that reveal powerful new staples.
- Guaranteed Availability: For limited-run products or highly anticipated sets, preordering ensures you'll get your items on release day without having to worry about them selling out.
- Release Day Fun: There’s nothing quite like having your booster box or Commander Decks arrive on launch day, ready for a weekend of play.
The Cons of Preordering:
- Market Drops: If a set turns out to be less popular or powerful than anticipated, its market price could drop below what you paid for your preorder.
- Paying Upfront: You are committing funds months in advance for a product you have yet to see in its entirety.
Ultimately, for can't-miss sets with massive appeal like Avatar: The Last Airbender or deep nostalgic value like Lorwyn Eclipsed, preordering is often the safest bet. For standard sets, a "wait-and-see" approach can sometimes lead to better long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the release date for MTG: Avatar: The Last Airbender?
A: The Magic: The Gathering - Universes Beyond: Avatar: The Last Airbender set is currently scheduled for release in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025, with specific dates pointing toward late November.
Q: What kind of set is Lorwyn Eclipsed?
A: Lorwyn Eclipsed is a full, premier Magic set that marks a return to the plane of Lorwyn. It is expected to feature Play Boosters for drafting, Collector Boosters for premium card versions, and pre-constructed Commander Decks. It is scheduled for the third quarter (Q3) of 2025.
Q: What's the best way to get a good price on new MTG cards?
A: The best strategy is a combination of tactics. Compare prices between major online marketplaces and specialized, independent card game retailers. Consider preordering high-demand sets to lock in a price, but for standard releases, consider waiting a few weeks for the initial hype to die down, which may lead to lower prices.