Picked up the Final Fantasy Starter Decks in Magic: The Gathering and don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. This video is for you!

In this video, a 30-year MTG veteran, Nick Smith, and I (Professor Noctis) are going to dive into the Cloud (Red/White Aggro) and Sephiroth (Blue/Black Control) Starter Decks. We’ll walk you through:

-How to play these decks with key strategies for each
-When to mulligan and what to look for
-How to use "mana dorks," equipment synergy, and sweepers
-Lore-rich commentary on iconic Final Fantasy characters
-The surprising power of cards like Freya and Sephiroth’s Intervention

Whether you’re building your first deck or trying to figure out why your Dwarven Castle Guard keeps dying (and that's a good thing!), this guide blends beginner-friendly MTG strategy with all the Final Fantasy you expect from this channel!

0:00 -- Intro
1:36 -- Cloud Deck
44:00 -- Special Edition Tutorial Playmat (Buy here: www.profnoctis.com/playmat)
44:30 -- Sephiroth Deck

#finalfantasy #finalfantasyx #tidus #yuna #squareenix #profnoctis
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Final Fantasy X / X-2: https://amzn.to/4kIBKiE
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RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)

It was my first Summer Game Fest 2025 and it blew me away. In this episode of The ProfNoctis Weekly Show, we're breaking down everything I played at the event!

From Capcom’s incredible showcase to surprise indie gems, I’ll walk you through 12 hands-on demos—featuring deep dives into all the games I played. Plus, I'll discuss Death Stranding 2 and Capcom's big three: Pragmata, Resident Evil 9: Requiem, and Onimusha: Way of the Sword.

0:00 — Prof went to Summer Game Fest!
6:16 — Mistfall Hunter
10:24- Lego Party
13:49 - Nectarmancer
16:31 — Voyagers of Nera
20:36 — Codevein 2
23:51 - Demon Slayer 2
28:13 - Spine
30:55 — Norse: Oath of Blood
34:20 — Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
38:39 — Pragmata
44:35 — Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
50:33 — Resident Evil: Requiem
58:02 — Onimusha: Way of the Sword
1:02:28 — Final Thoughts on SGF / Word to the Devs

Huge thanks to ​⁠the devs and publishers that allowed us access to see and experience their games at Summer Game Fest. Give them a sub! :
Bellring Games(Mistfall), ‪@CapcomUSA‬ ​⁠‪@505games‬ ‪@thebeautycult‬
‪@officialtreehousegames‬ ‪@playspine‬ ‪@tripwireinteractive‬ ‪@BandaiNamcoAmerica‬ ‪@SEGA‬ ‪@fictionsinc‬ ‪@KOJIMAPRODUCTIONS‬

#SGF #summergamefest #capcom #residentevil #onimusha #pragmata #mistfallhunter #legoparty #demonslayer2 #wuchang #spine #deathstranding #voyagersofnera #nectarmancer #norseoathofblood
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New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
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Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

Also connect with us on BlueSky now!
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______________________________

CLASS SUPPLIES and EXTRA CREDIT
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Final Fantasy X / X-2: https://amzn.to/4kIBKiE
-------------------------------------------------

Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)

Join Professor Noctis as he dives into the world of Magic: the Gathering's Final Fantasy Commander Decks. In this educational video, we'll be unlocking the lore and strategies in the four FF-inspired Commander Decks. Whether you're a seasoned Final Fantasy fanatic or a lifelong Magic fan, this video is perfect for anyone interested in learning more about the collaboration. In the video, we'll discuss all four commander decks:

0:00 -- Commander Deck Overview
24:21 -- TERRA: Revival Trance (FINAL FANTASY VI)
42:31 -- CLOUD: Limit Break (FINAL FANTASY VII)
1:15:28 -- TIDUS: Counter Blitz (FINAL FANTASY X)
1:35:08 -- Y'SHTOLA: Scions & Spellcraft (FINAL FANTASY XIV)

So, get ready to unleash your inner commander and discover the magic that happens when Final Fantasy meets MTG Commander Decks!

-To learn how to play regular Arena-style Magic, watch our tutorial here: • Learn Magic: The Gathering from the FF Prof!

-Also grab our EXCLUSIVE tutorial playmat, with art from ‪@tylorhepner‬ here! https://www.profnoctis.com/playmat

Massive thanks to Nick Smith (at "Grave Robber") for the designs and animations. Find him at https://graverobber.co

#MagicTheGathering #FinalFantasy #MTGTutorial #ProfNoctis #LearnToPlayMTG #MTGxFinalFantasy #mtgcards

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New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
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Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

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______________________________

CLASS SUPPLIES and EXTRA CREDIT
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Final Fantasy X / X-2: https://amzn.to/4kIBKiE
-------------------------------------------------

Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)

Final Fantasy isn’t just a game—it’s a gateway to deep conversations about philosophy, religion, grief, and identity. At the University of Alabama, I’ve built entire classes around titles like Final Fantasy XV, XVI, and VII Rebirth, and I’m sharing how games can transform the college classroom.

In this panel from PAX East 2025, we’ll explore how story-driven games can boost memory retention, promote empathy, and give students new tools for learning. From teaching through trauma with The Last of Us to exploring theology with Clive Rosfield, this is for educators, gamers, and lifelong learners alike.

Topics include:
-The science behind "Gamification of the Classroom"
-Using modern Final Fantasy games (XV XVI and 7 Remake/Rebirth) to explore history religion and philosophy
-Using The Last of Us to examine morality and human behavior

Discover how gaming blends storytelling with education to create dynamic learning experiences-- perfect for educators gamers and anyone curious about the intersection of gaming and academia.

📍 Presented live at PAX East 2025 | Boston, MA

#FinalFantasy #HigherEducation #Gamification #FFXVI #FF7Rebirth #TheLastOfUs #VideoGamesInSchool #PAXEast #ProfNoctis #GamingInEducation

-------------------------------------------------
New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
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Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

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Wade/Prof - https://bsky.app/profile/profnoctis.b...
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______________________________

Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)
Explore the podcast

The Last of Us Season 2 just ended… and Mama Noctis summed it up best: “Are they all dead?” In this final recap of the season, Prof Noctis and Evan reflect on the biggest risks and missed opportunities of Episode 7—and whether this season finale truly delivered.

We talk about:
• Why the game’s most powerful moment doesn’t work on screen (yet)
• What the split-season structure sacrifices in narrative tension
• Jesse, Dina, and the passing of legacy… or lack thereof
• Whether new viewers will ever care about Abby’s story
• The critical leadership themes hidden beneath the gunfire

This isn’t just another recap—it’s a serious reflection on the art of storytelling, gaming memory, and what we owe each other as creators and fans.

Let us know: Did Season 2 stick the landing for you—or did it leave you frustrated?

Subscribe for more deep-dive gaming and story analysis, including our upcoming Final Fantasy X Lecture Play series and content exploring the Final Fantasy x Magic: The Gathering crossover!

#TheLastOfUs #Season2Finale #ProfNoctis #Ellie #Abby #HBO

-------------------------------------------------
New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
/ profnoctis
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Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

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______________________________

CLASS SUPPLIES and EXTRA CREDIT
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Playstation 5 Console: https://amzn.to/46GNBb6

The Last of Us: Part 1 for PS5: https://amzn.to/4hf5YIK

The Last of Us: Part 2 for PS5: https://amzn.to/40IJjxj

The Last of Us and Philosophy by Charles Joshua Horn: https://amzn.to/4hDKvsF

Psychology and The Last of Us by Anthony Bean: https://amzn.to/4hDOm9i
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Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)

Is this the best episode of the entire series? Wade (aka ProfNoctis) and Evan break down everything from The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 6 — an emotional, beautifully written journey through Joel and Ellie's shared memories. From the astronaut scene to the slow-burning truth behind their fallout, this episode delivers some of the most poignant moments in the show’s history.

We explore:

The emotional payoff and story structure

Joel’s flashbacks and what they reveal about legacy, love, and loss

The evolution of Ellie’s character and Bella Ramsey’s performance

Themes of generational growth, reconciliation, and the power of presence

How Future Days reframes the entire season

Directed by Neil Druckmann himself, this might just be the high point of the series.

New videos every week.
Subscribe for more recaps, game playthroughs, and deep dives into the games and themes behind The Last of Us.

-------------------------------------------------
New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
/ profnoctis
/ profnoctis
/ profnoctis
Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

Also connect with us on BlueSky now!
Wade/Prof - https://bsky.app/profile/profnoctis.b...
Evan - https://bsky.app/profile/whiskerss.bs...

______________________________

CLASS SUPPLIES and EXTRA CREDIT
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Playstation 5 Console: https://amzn.to/46GNBb6

The Last of Us: Part 1 for PS5: https://amzn.to/4hf5YIK

The Last of Us: Part 2 for PS5: https://amzn.to/40IJjxj

The Last of Us and Philosophy by Charles Joshua Horn: https://amzn.to/4hDKvsF

Psychology and The Last of Us by Anthony Bean: https://amzn.to/4hDOm9i
-------------------------------------------------

Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)

In this week’s episode of The Last of Us Season 2, Prof Noctis and Evan tackle one of the most debated questions of the series so far: Does Ellie feel flat this season? Or is something deeper going on under the surface?

We break down Episode 5, Feel Her Love, from its cold open to the brutal basement finale—covering:

Why Ellie’s stoic performance may be intentional
The introduction of spores and what they say about immunity as power
Dina’s growing presence and what it means for Ellie’s future
A gut-wrenching new revenge narrative
The ethical weight of torture in storytelling
Why fans feel conflicted—and what that reveals about us
All that, plus theological depth, gameplay comparisons, and yes… the red lights.

🎮 Subscribe for more weekly breakdowns as we continue our Last of Us Lecture Series
🧠 Because gaming should make you think and feel.

#TheLastOfUs #TLOU2 #GamingAnalysis #ProfNoctis #FeelHerLove

https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/torture/

-------------------------------------------------
New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
/ profnoctis
/ @profnoctis

Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

Also connect with us on BlueSky now!
Wade/Prof - https://bsky.app/profile/profnoctis.b...
Evan - https://bsky.app/profile/whiskerss.bs...

______________________________

CLASS SUPPLIES and EXTRA CREDIT
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Playstation 5 Console: https://amzn.to/46GNBb6

The Last of Us: Part 1 for PS5: https://amzn.to/4hf5YIK

The Last of Us: Part 2 for PS5: https://amzn.to/40IJjxj

The Last of Us and Philosophy by Charles Joshua Horn: https://amzn.to/4hDKvsF

Psychology and The Last of Us by Anthony Bean: https://amzn.to/4hDOm9i
-------------------------------------------------

Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)

What does it mean to trust someone in a world falling apart?

Join Prof Noctis and Evan as they dive deep into Episode 4 of The Last of Us Season 2 — “Day One.” From Isaac’s cold open and the introduction of the Scars to Ellie and Dina’s rooftop moment, we explore the layered themes of grief, intimacy, loyalty, and the human cost of survival.

🔍 Topics this episode:

Isaac’s explosive debut and Jeffrey Wright’s chilling performance

Dina and Ellie’s long-awaited emotional (and physical) connection

That unforgettable guitar scene: “Take On Me” reimagined

Religious zeal, rebellion, and the morality of war

Turnstiles, trust, and terrible fears (spaghetti anyone?)

What The Last of Us teaches us about second thoughts and second chances

🎙️ Thoughtful, funny, and heartfelt — this one’s packed with insight and a few terrible puns. Stick around to hear how Wade’s family is coping with Joel’s fate, why kale trivia might save your life, and whether or not Josh Peck is in this episode (?!).

📌 Like, comment, and subscribe for more recaps, lecture plays, and video game storytelling analysis every week.

#TheLastOfUs #TLOU2 #GamingLectureSeries #ProfNoctis #HBO
-------------------------------------------------
New episodes of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show release every Monday! / @profnoctis
Check out my Livestream! / profnoctis
/ profnoctis
/ profnoctis
/ profnoctis
Join Prof's Classroom discussions: / discord

Also connect with us on BlueSky now!
Wade/Prof - https://bsky.app/profile/profnoctis.b...
Evan - https://bsky.app/profile/whiskerss.bs...

______________________________

CLASS SUPPLIES and EXTRA CREDIT
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Playstation 5 Console: https://amzn.to/46GNBb6

The Last of Us: Part 1 for PS5: https://amzn.to/4hf5YIK

The Last of Us: Part 2 for PS5: https://amzn.to/40IJjxj

The Last of Us and Philosophy by Charles Joshua Horn: https://amzn.to/4hDKvsF

Psychology and The Last of Us by Anthony Bean: https://amzn.to/4hDOm9i
-------------------------------------------------

Want to listen to the ProfNoctis Show on-the-go? Check out our audio-only version wherever you get your podcasts!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1A9WZpJ...

______________________________

RIVERSIDE FM: The Preferred Podcast Program of ProfNoctis
Also, we're excited to use the BEST Video Podcasting program around: Riverside FM! Check out and see if this program is for you. https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaig... (As a Riverside Affiliate, we receive a commission on all new subscriptions through this link)