[Discussion] Mana Curve.

[DragoFireheart]

I would like to think that I have a decent understanding and grasp on how to mana curve my deck(s), though I still have doubts at times. I try and do dry runs of my deck and while it helps give me an idea of potential hands it doesn't seem to help me as much as I think it should.

Here's an example:

>>Smashy<<

1 Iwamori of the Open Fist
2 Burning-Tree Shaman
4 Kird Ape
4 Llanowar Elves
4 Tarmogoyf
4 Troll Ascetic

Spells
4 Call of the Herd
3 Earthquake
4 Lightning Bolt
4 Sudden Shock

Enchantments
4 Rancor

Artifacts
2 Umezawa's Jitte

Lands
6 Forest
6 Mountain
4 Taiga
4 Wooded Foothills

See, if I get an elf or an ape drop I already develop board advantage. If I don't get either than I run the risk o having to wait 3 turns for anything or playing a second turn Goyf with [normally] a weak P/T.

I want to take out creatures for mana accels, but then they would be a weak top deck.

I would like to have some help in mastering mana curve not only for this deck but any deck.

[Bardo]

I haven't read it in a while, but I like rakso's piece on the topic:

http://www.starcitygames.com/php/news/article/4758.html

It's an oldie but covers some good basics.

[frogboy]

Go find the evolution of Zilla Stompy in the archives from the old format. If you can't find the thread, PM Nightmare and he'll retrieve it for you.