Magic: The Gathering Introduces Jace Tokens and 'Empower Jace' Mechanic in Reality Fracture

Magic: The Gathering's final in-universe expansion of the year, Reality Fracture, is set to introduce a novel mechanic focused on the iconic Planeswalker Jace Beleren. This expansion marks the conclusion of a story arc where Jace has transitioned into a villainous role, making his presence central to the new set's gameplay.

The new mechanic, announced during the Reality Fracture reveal stream, is the "Jace Token." This unique token type allows players to interact with Planeswalker abilities in a new way. Cards within Reality Fracture will feature the keyword "Empower Jace," followed by a numerical value. For example, the sorcery spell Protege's Awakening, costing four mana, includes "Empower Jace 6." When such a card is played or an ability is activated, players add loyalty counters to a Jace Token equal to the number specified. If a Jace Token does not already exist on the battlefield, one is created and then augmented with the loyalty counters.

The Jace Token itself is a Planeswalker with two distinct abilities. Players can expend one loyalty counter to perform a "surveil 1" action, allowing them to look at the top card of their library and decide whether to return it to the top or place it in their graveyard. Alternatively, expending three loyalty counters enables the player to draw a card.

While these mechanics are designed to function within the context of Reality Fracture, there is an intriguing technicality that extends their utility to other Jace Planeswalker cards. If a player manages to create a copy of another Jace Planeswalker card, they can choose to direct the loyalty counters from an "Empower Jace" ability onto that copied Planeswalker instead of the Jace Token. This interaction allows for unique strategic plays, though efficient execution may prove challenging for players to master.

Reality Fracture is scheduled for release on October 2 in local game stores and major retailers. Prerelease events are slated to begin in local game stores on September 25, offering players an early opportunity to experience the new mechanics.