The laughing scene from Final Fantasy X is now a Magic: The Gathering card

A previously iconic scene from Final Fantasy X has been immortalized as a Magic: The Gathering card, merging favorite elements of gaming history.

: Wizards of the Coast announced a crossover set between Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy, which will feature a card capturing the beloved laughing scene from Final Fantasy X with characters Yuna and Tidus. The expansion includes four preconstructed Commander Decks, each themed after different Final Fantasy games, including Final Fantasy VI, VII, X, and XIV. Particularly notable is the Counter Blitz deck, where the card Inspiring Call serves as a re-flavored version of an earlier Magic card, now honoring the infamous laugh. This iconic laugh scene has lived for decades as a meme and is now ingrained in Magic: The Gathering, interweaving the stories of both games.

The crossover between Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy aims to blend the history and storytelling of two beloved franchises. Wizards of the Coast, the creator of Magic: The Gathering, has unveiled a new set that pays homage to Final Fantasy, infusing the popular card game with elements from the acclaimed video game series. This crossover taps into nostalgic moments by transforming them into playing cards. Among the notable additions is the recreation of Final Fantasy X's renowned laughing scene, featuring characters Tidus and Yuna, into a card itself. This moment is often remembered for its awkwardness yet underlying charm, which has lived on through memes for years.

The Final Fantasy X laughing scene, a symbol of vulnerability and humor, occurs when Yuna tries to lift Tidus's spirits against a backdrop of existential dread. Within Final Fantasy's narrative, this is a poignant moment reflecting the characters' struggle against dark fate while trying to live with joy. In the context of Magic: The Gathering, the card dubbed 'Inspiring Call' brings this moment to life, providing a unique mechanical twist familiar to fans of both games. As a green mana instant, newly adorned with Final Fantasy X imagery and flavor text, it grants protection and card draws, encapsulating the original scene’s essence perfectly.

Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts will recognize this card as an altered version of one initially released in the set 'Dragons of Tarkir,' now revived with a focus on recontextualizing Final Fantasy moments. Counter Blitz, one of four preconstructed decks, focuses on Final Fantasy X themes and is constructed with 100 cards, offering players new ways to engage with longstanding gaming traditions. The deck sits alongside themes from Final Fantasy VI, VII, and XIV, each portraying corresponding iconic storylines.

The decision by Wizards of the Coast to include this moment showcases a playful and respectful integration of storytelling and game mechanics. Fans frequently celebrate these crossovers for their ability to offer humorous and heartfelt tributes, as well as to preserve gaming culture across different media. The nostalgic value and meme status of the Final Fantasy X scene highlight Magic's dedication to embracing gaming history in its various forms.

Finally, the crossover set is scheduled for release on June 13, 2025. Enthusiasts eager to explore more can view the additional cards through Wizards’ online card image gallery. With references spanning the Final Fantasy series, players can anticipate a collection rich in narrative depth and entertainment value.

Sources: James Whitbrook, io9, Wizards of the Coast

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