Away From Keyboard - Lorcana: Whispers in the Well
Feature
This new expansion delves into a darker, more intriguing narrative, introducing spectral "Whisper" glimmers and new mechanics that reward thoughtful strategy and resource management. With a strong focus on synergy, Whispers in the Well is set to shift the competitive landscape and provide exciting new deckbuilding challenges.
Mechanics
Whispers in the Well introduces one major new keyword ability, Boost, along with a new card classification, adding layers of strategy that utilize cards already in play or in the deck.
The Boost Mechanic
Boost is the centerpiece of the new set, allowing a player to pay ink to place the top card of their deck face-down underneath a specific character—usually one of the new Whisper glimmers. The character that is "Boosted" gains additional, powerful effects or advantages.
● Function: It serves as a cost that "feeds" a character, granting them persistent buffs, new abilities, or triggering powerful effects. For instance, some cards may let you play the Boosted card for free if certain conditions are met, creating high-risk, high-reward plays.
● Strategy: This mechanic forces players to manage their deck and hand carefully, as Boost uses deck consistency as a resource, creating a unique tension between drawing cards for ink/play and using them to empower a character already on the board.
New Card Classifications
The set also introduces two key classifications to support the central mystery theme:
Whispers: These are a new type of spectral character—often half-formed or distorted versions of familiar Disney faces. Many Whisper characters are specifically designed to interact with and benefit from the Boost mechanic.
Detective: This new character classification emphasizes internal synergy, with cards gaining bonuses when other Detective characters are played or are present on the board. This archetype is focused on card filtering (looking at the top of the deck) and often incorporates defensive keywords like Resist to control the board while solving the mystery.
The Cards
Whispers in the Well comprises a base set of 204 unique cards, expanding the roster with long-awaited characters and fan-favorite deep cuts. The set continues to feature the high-end collectible rarities, including Enchanted, Epic, and the ultra-rare Iconic cards.
The set significantly broadens the Disney library with the introduction of three major new franchises:
Gargoyles: The beloved 90s animated series makes its debut, with characters like Goliath, Demona, and David Xanatos bringing new strategies, often centered around hand manipulation to force opponents into tough choices.
The Black Cauldron: Eilonwy, Gurgi, and other characters from the darker fantasy film join the card game, tying into the eerie, mysterious theme of the set.
Zootopia: Characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde lead the charge for the new Detective archetype, specializing in coordinated plays and drawing power.
Product Types
Whispers in the Well offers a complete product line for both new Illumineers and seasoned collectors:
● Booster Packs: Each pack contains 12 random cards, including 6 common cards, 3 uncommon cards, 2 rare (or higher rarity) cards, and 1 foil card of a random rarity.
● Booster Box: Contains 24 individual Booster Packs, ideal for players looking to quickly expand their collection.
● Starter Decks: Two ready-to-play decks are available to introduce players to the set's themes:
Amber/Emerald: Focused on the new Boost mechanic, featuring Simba and Megara.
Sapphire/Steel: Focused on the new Detective synergy, featuring Judy Hopps and Robin Hood.
● Illumineer's Trove: The premium bundle returns, containing 8 Booster Packs, a card storage box, 6 card dividers, 6 glow-in-the-dark damage-counter dice, and 1 lore counter.
● Accessories: Themed playmats (featuring artwork like Mickey Mouse – Brave Little Prince and Jasmine – Steady Strategist), deck boxes, and card sleeves are available.
Whispers in the Well is a pivotal set for Disney Lorcana, not only for introducing powerful new mechanics like Boost and the Detective classification but also for its commitment to bringing in classic Disney franchises that are perfect for solving the enduring mysteries of the Inkwell. For more information on the Whispers in the Well set, visit the official Lorcana site. The Fabled set is now available.
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