What the data shows
The recent MTG banned and restricted announcement raises the question: why was Food Chain banned in Historic? The answer lies in its ability to create an infinite combo that could close out games too quickly, leading to concerns about game balance. Wizards of the Coast acknowledged this issue, stating that releasing Food Chain into Historic was ‘a mistake.’
Food Chain’s ban is part of a broader effort to address problems with MTG formats, which have been under scrutiny since 2025. The ban was announced on March 23, 2026, and will take effect immediately, with the next MTG bans scheduled for May 18, 2026. This marks one of the seven ban windows planned throughout the year.
In addition to the ban, the announcement included the unbanning of Scepter of Pain and Rootbound Carapace in Classic Constructed, effective March 24, 2026. These changes reflect an ongoing effort by Wizards of the Coast to refine the gameplay experience and ensure that formats remain engaging and balanced.
Wizards of the Coast has indicated that there is still room for improvement in the Historic format, noting that it is currently a touch too fast. This sentiment echoes the concerns raised by players who have experienced games that can conclude in as little as three turns. The developers are keen to monitor the situation closely and make adjustments as necessary.
Looking ahead, there are potential candidates for future bans, including Channel Lightning Valley, Electromagnetic Somersault, Phantom Tidemaw, Reaping Blade, Skyward Serenade, and Volzar, the Lightning Rod. These cards have been highlighted as possible targets for the upcoming May 18 announcement, indicating that the developers are prepared to take further action if the game’s balance continues to be threatened.
Moreover, Utrom Monitor has been specifically mentioned as a card to watch, with the possibility of it becoming a ban target if gameplay issues persist. This proactive approach by Wizards of the Coast aims to maintain a healthy competitive environment for players.
As the MTG community processes these changes, players will be eager to see how the unbanning of certain cards and the banning of Food Chain will impact gameplay dynamics. The next few months will be crucial as the developers assess the effects of these adjustments and prepare for the next round of potential bans.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact impact of these changes on the competitive scene, but the ongoing dialogue between Wizards of the Coast and the player community suggests a commitment to improving the game experience for all.
