About This Activity
In this hands-on workshop for youth ages 11–14, participants will learn to play Magic: The Gathering while investigating the strategy, systems, and creative thinking of the game. Game Designer and Master of Magic Sasha Jelten will mentor hands-on matches and play-based learning, helping participants learn core mechanics like casting spells, summoning creatures, managing resources, and navigating turns while building confidence as emerging players. Participants will also dive into deck building by analyzing cards, testing ideas, and refining strategies to create effective, personalized decks. Along the way, Magic becomes a tool for design thinking as players plan, prototype, playtest, and iterate, learning how intentional choices shape big outcomes. Along the way, players strengthen real-world skills woven into gameplay: strategic thinking, collaboration, resilience, and sportsmanship. Friendly matches encourage communication, empathy, and emotional awareness as players celebrate wins, learn from losses, and support one another. This fun, imaginative workshop invites young players to think like designers, play like strategists, and take home the cards and skills to keep their Magic: The Gathering adventures going strong. Participants are welcome to bring their own MTG cards, but no supplies are needed. With the support of our partners at The Portland Game Store and the non-profit MagiKids, we’ll have cards and game resources for participants to use and take home.
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