Sphere of Influence: January 23, 2026

Voice of Resurgence | Illustrated by Winona Nelson

Welcome to Sphere of Influence, a pre-FNM look at some potential movers and shakers that are worth picking up before their prices increase.

Nestled comfortably between Standard and Modern, Pioneer continues to chug along despite staying off-camera during the Pro Tour. It's a wonderful format where Vivi Ornitier remains legal and the top deck, UR Aggro, occupies a staggering 29% of the metagame (fewer choices to make!). On the eve of Lorwyn Eclipsed's arrival, it's time to look at a few Pioneer cards that will likely remain relevant and can be picked up for a song:

Heroes' Hangout - $0.35

While Hangout is only an uncommon, its novelty and strength is undeniable. For a single mana, we've received the closest thing to Preordain in red that we've ever had, albeit one that can also mess with opponents' combat math if so required. Considering it's part of a Universes Beyond Spiderman set, we're not likely to receive a reprint anytime soon.

Thalia, Guardian of Thraben - $1

Wherever noncreature spells hang their hats, Thalia is lying in waiting to thwart the plans of spellslingers. Wizards of the Coast hasn't yet printed a card as straightforward and cheap (mana value-wise) as this wonderful white weenie. Any Death and Taxes strategy will rest atop a Thalia foundation for the foreseeable future.

Voice of Resurgence - $2

This one is more nostalgia-laced than mainlining pure power, but I was heartened to see my favorite Selesnya dork popping up in Collected Company lists. Pick a few up before the rest of us old fogies decide to give the card another whirl.

Teferi, Hero of Dominaria - $6

Modern has gotten so fast that this iteration of Teferi sees virtually zero play, but oh, lord, it felt great to catch opponents in a lock by activating Teferi every turn to draw a card and untap two mana for counter magic. Pioneer doesn't allow Counterspell to be played, but it offers plenty of other options to make Teferi feel some of the muscle it once held.

Form-fitting

How do you feel about Pioneer these days? If you're not a fan, what changes would need to be made to attract you back? Let me know!