In recent years, Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) has been making waves with its growing reliance on Amazon as a primary sales channel for Magic: The Gathering (MTG) products. While Amazon offers an easy and accessible way to purchase MTG products, this shift has raised concerns for traditional brick-and-mortar stores, who are seeing their allocations dwindle year after year.
Take the release of MTG Final Fantasy as an example. Compared to previous standard sets, its product allocations were reduced by as much as 30-50%. This marked a significant drop in availability for local stores, leaving many unable to keep up with the demand for the new sets. But perhaps even more concerning is the expected trend for Edge of Eternities, the upcoming release. Early estimates suggest that its product allocations will be a mere 50% of what was allocated for MTG Final Fantasy, signaling an even greater shift away from in-store stock.
While Amazon’s reach is undeniable, providing a vast marketplace for players around the globe, this growing trend has sparked frustration among independent game stores. Many argue that WOTC’s preference for e-commerce channels like Amazon cuts into the experience of the local game shop, where players gather for in-person events, community building, and hands-on product exploration. Brick-and-mortar stores depend on these allocations not just to sell products, but to foster a dedicated community around the game.
'
'
'
'
'