MTG Final Fantasy Crossover: Release Date, Cards, and More!
Last Updated: November 6, 2025
The worlds of Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy are set to collide in 2025, and the excitement within the tabletop and video game communities is reaching a fever pitch. What was once a dream match-up for fans is now a reality, as Wizards of the Coast prepares to launch Magic: The Gathering—Final Fantasy as a premier Universes Beyond set.
This landmark collaboration with Square Enix will bring nearly four decades of iconic characters, summons, and stories to the MTG multiverse. For players who have eagerly awaited the chance to tap mana for a Bahamut or see Cloud Strife face down a Planeswalker, this set is the ultimate fusion of two fantasy giants, complete with a full range of products from booster packs to stunningly illustrated playmats.
A Crossover for the Ages Arrives on Your Tabletop
The collaboration represents a watershed moment for Wizards of the Coast's 'Universes Beyond' initiative. This series has successfully brought diverse worlds like Warhammer 40,000, Doctor Who, and The Lord of the Rings into the MTG multiverse, but the fusion with Square Enix's flagship RPG series feels like a particularly natural fit. Both franchises are cornerstones of the fantasy genre, built on epic storytelling, complex magic systems, and a pantheon of unforgettable heroes and villains. For decades, players have debated whether a Black Mage is more powerful than a pyromancer or if Ifrit could stand against a Shivan Dragon. This crossover will finally bring those theoretical battles to the card table.
The accompanying merchandise, especially the playmats, will be a crucial part of the celebration. These accessories are more than just optional flair; they are tangible pieces of the crossover event. They serve as the literal battleground where heroes and villains from every main installment, from the original Final Fantasy to Final Fantasy XVI, can clash. The art featured on these products is often a key selling point, showcasing beloved characters rendered in stunning new detail by renowned MTG and guest artists, making them must-have items for collectors and players alike.
More Than a Mat: The Importance of the Playmat
For those outside the trading card game community, a playmat might seem like a simple mousepad. For dedicated players, however, it's an essential piece of equipment. On a practical level, a high-quality playmat protects valuable cards from dirt, scratches, and spills on gaming tables. The smooth fabric surface allows for easy handling and movement of cards, preventing wear and tear on sleeves and ensuring a clean gameplay experience. It also clearly delineates a player's space in a crowded game store or tournament hall.
Beyond its utility, the playmat is a powerful form of self-expression. It's a canvas for players to display their allegiances, favorite characters, or preferred art styles. Choosing a playmat is akin to choosing a character skin in a video game; it personalizes the experience and says something about the player. A player using a mat featuring the enigmatic Sephiroth might be signaling a preference for control or villainous archetypes, while one with the entire party from Final Fantasy VII might express a love for teamwork and classic JRPG nostalgia. These playmats allow players to fully immerse themselves in this unique blend of worlds.
Iconic Heroes and Villains Take Center Stage
The allure of the Final Fantasy set lies in its vast and celebrated roster of characters. Wizards of the Coast has confirmed that the set will encompass every main title in the series, from the original 1987 classic to the modern epic Final Fantasy XVI. This ensures an incredible breadth of representation, with legendary protagonists like the Warrior of Light, Cecil Harvey, Terra Branford, Cloud Strife, Squall Leonhart, and Clive Rosfield all expected to appear. They will be joined by formidable antagonists such as Garland, Kefka, Sephiroth, and Emet-Selch.
This massive scope allows players to align their physical play space with their in-game strategy. A player running a deck built around a specific Final Fantasy legend can now have a matching playmat, creating a cohesive and immersive thematic experience. This synergy between the cards and accessories deepens the connection to the game and enhances the fantasy of leading these legendary characters into battle. For collectors, it presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of art representing their favorite entry in the venerated franchise.
Release Date and Confirmed Products
Mark your calendars: the full Magic: The Gathering—Final Fantasy booster set is slated for release in 2025. While fans eagerly await the first card spoilers, Wizards has already given us a glimpse of the product lineup. The release will be a "tentpole" booster set, meaning it will be draftable and will feature a full range of products, including Play Boosters, Collector Boosters, and Commander Decks.
Additionally, a Magic: The Gathering - Final Fantasy Starter Kit has been announced, providing a perfect on-ramp for Final Fantasy fans who may be new to Magic. For collectors and enthusiasts of specific story moments, unique "Scene Boxes" are also scheduled for release, which will contain several borderless cards that form a larger, iconic scene from the game series. This comprehensive product suite ensures there will be something for every type of fan, from the competitive tournament grinder to the casual collector.
Conclusion: A Landmark Event for Two Worlds
The Magic: The Gathering—Final Fantasy crossover is shaping up to be one of the most significant and ambitious releases in the history of the game. It bridges the gap between two of the most beloved fantasy IPs in the world, promising a rich, nostalgic, and strategically deep experience. For dedicated MTG players, it’s a chance to wield new and incredibly popular characters. For Final Fantasy fans, it’s an inviting entry point into the world's premier trading card game, allowing them to engage with their favorite universe in a brand-new way. As the 2025 release date approaches, the community will be watching closely for new card reveals and art previews. This isn't just another set; it's a celebration of gaming history, and it's an event no fan of either franchise will want to miss.