Cube Engineers

We are back on the rails again for another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

In this episode, TrainmasterGT reviews the new By God Alone expansion for Crusader Kings III from a game-design standpoint, through the lens of two full campaigns he completed. By God Alone reworks the religion system in CK3, allowing faiths to evolve dynamically over time. Characters can also cultivate a personal relationship with their respective faiths through the new personal tenets system, creating new opportunities for roleplay and historically inspired gameplay. Learn how this expansion successfully executes the new religion system, and what lessons game designers can learn from its implementation!

All Aboard!

Did you know First Class ticket holders on Patreon can now get a signed card from TrainmasterGT on their birthday? Follow this link to find out more and support the show!

Show Notes

Crusader Kings III on Steam

By God Alone DLC on Steam

Crusader Kings III Chapter V Expansion Pass

Special thanks to Paradox Interactive for providing an advance review copy of By God Alone for this episode.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again for another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

In this episode, TrainmasterGT once again invites the legendary Usman Jamil to review the Reality Fracture Set for Cube! Together, the pair traverse the planar chaos brought about by the creation of Jace’s echoverse. Find out what mirror-universe cards are hot, and which are not! Will this new reality empower Jace and fracture the way we view Cube, or will we fail to overwrite the multiverse in favor of more enlightened pursuits? These questions and more, answered today!

All Aboard!

Did you know First Class ticket holders on Patreon can now get a signed card from TrainmasterGT on their birthday? Follow this link to find out more and support the show!

Show Notes

Off the Rails: Reality Fracture Live Review

https://usmantherad.com/

Usman’s Reality Fracture Review

St. Louis Cube Event: STL3!

Abdul El-Sayed for Senate

Peggy Flannagan for Senate

Expunge Article

American Movie

The Mendoza Line

Dum dum dee dee song

Tunak Tunak Tun Song (1998)

Tunak Tunak Tun History

Kaizen Cube Article

All Tomorrows Lore Video by Alt Shift X

All Tomorrows Cube

Fear and Hunger

Cards Discussed

Vraska’s Final Mercy

Grim Bauble

Virtue of Persistence

Expunge

Bitter Triumph

Lich’s Relic

Way of the Pyromancer

Thundertrap Trainer

Orcish Bowmasters

Sheoldred, the Apocalypse

Mind Stone

Avatar of Burgeoning

No Admittance

Sinister Sabotage

Stingcaster Mage

Snapcaster Mage

Counterspell

Fiery Confluence

Lava Axe

Samut, Hazoret’s Champion

Marwyn, the Clearcutter

Marwyn, the Preserver

Groundskeeper

Kellan, Planar Trailblazer

Carnivorous Cultivator

Deeproot Wayfinder

Jund Landscape

Wooded Foothills

Taiga

Geist of Saint Thalia

Storm Crow

Baral, Chief of Compliance

Goblin Electromancer

Retrofitter Foundry

Squire

Sanctum Lurker

Liliana of the Veil

Elspeth, Sun’s Nemesis

Garruk, Curse Breaker

Overrun

Uldaros Theorix

Ultros, Obnoxious Octopus

Aerid Konstrari

North Wind Avatar

Denzilore Fatehold

Witherbloom Charm

Prismari Charm

Sphinx of False Conclusions

Stoic Sphinx

High Fae Trickster

Pompous Battlemage

Pyre Rhymer

Ajani Unrelenting

Garruk, Veiled Butcher

Liliana the Faultless

Mother of Runes

Giver of Runes

Variable Chaser

Extrapolate the Impossible

Assemble the Team

Demonic Tutor

Vampiric Tutor

Worldly Tutor

Restoration Angel

Flametongue Kavu

Sneak Attack

Griselbrand

Archon of Cruelty

Apex Altisaur

Xander’s Wake

Living Wish

Guiding Hydra

Mikaeus, the Lunarch

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with the season 2 finale of Cube Engineers!

What if we could combine science and game design theory to build a scientifically proven ultimate Cube? It’s more achievable than you might think! In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites the creator of the Data Generated Vintage Cube, Daniel Smith (also known as l0gr1thm1k), to attempt to build the ultimate Cube using data science. The pair discuss the origins and function of the Cube generation algorithm, then use it to create a Cube using designs previously discussed on Cube Engineers! Finally, TrainmasterGT takes the data-generated artifact and updates the list in an attempt to create something which could truly be considered The Ultimate Cube. Will this attempt at science-driven Cube design succeed, or will it be relegated to the dustbins of failed experiments?

All Aboard!

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to support the show!

Show Notes

The Data Generated Vintage Cube

Scientifically Generated Cube Engineers Cube (2026)

The Scientifically Proven Ultimate Cube

The Little Red Book

Cube Dataset Cubecobra IDs

Highball4K

unstablecubicorns

LittleRedBook

D%26TMirrorMicrocube

campoutcube

UsmanCube

UsmanPremiere

2010

100dollarcube

75281992-cbb7-43e4-92e2-901790678bfe

plusone

heritage

andymangold

neoclassical

degenerate-micro-cube

​​sacred-geometry

turbo

regular

thepaupercube

stickerv3

pulpnouveau

fairnuff

goblingame

ModularCore

companion

atomic

131313

dastro

joescube

bourbon

althistoryvintage

AugurOfBolas

BarCube

penrose

ho4k

1t3q2

ABQ

Boompile

sd4

PartyAtTheOwlHouse

Boudica

DMC420

Joe Cubes

44f3de0c-a5bc-4e85-b59f-4153a24932cbScrapyard

CardsILike.cube

SagasCubeGoldBorderCube0f52912c-38e3-4f9a-9f3c-96edb33732e2

DSK%20Expanded

StarField

Depths

FoodChain

4f45acfd-d750-4563-8a19-f1bc02363352

Kamigawa-TSPKamiWar

IPARemastered

Cards Discussed

The Power 9

Sol Ring

Mana Crypt

Force of Negation

Lightning Bolt

Skred

Guttersnipe

Shock

Reckless Charge

Outnumber

Mugging

Chain Lightning

Firebolt

Flame Slash

Lush Portico

Temple Garden

Windswept Heath

Mother of Runes

Giver of Runes

Sylvan Safekeeper

Marang River Regent

Stock Up

Mardu Siegebreaker

Taiga

Stomping Ground

Commercial District

Gruul Turf

Bribery

Orcish Bowmasters

Craterhoof Behemoth

Atraxa, Grand Unifier

Grave Titan

Time Vault

Manifold Key

Voltaic Key

Thoughtseize

Woodfall Primus

Whisper Squadron

Vault Skirge

Carrion Feeder

Bloodghast

Bloodsoaked Champion

Bloodbraid Elf

Merfolk Looter

Man o’ War

Steel Overseer

Wheel of Fortune

Fireblast

Magmatic Sinkhole

Goblin Guide

Molten Gatekeeper

Mulldrifter

Dig Through Time

Entomb

Necromancy

Archon of Cruelty

The Rail Lines

Golos, Tireless Pilgrim

Skirmish Rhino

Balance

Staff of the Storyteller

Cecil, Dark Knight

Myr Retriever

Perilous Myr

Hallowed Fountain

The Wandering Emperor

Phlage, Titan of Fire’s Fury

Balduvian Trading Post

Sephiroth, Fabled SOLDIER

Mantis Rider

Mantis Engine

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites Nico Heini, Publishing Manager for Urban Games, to discuss the upcoming title Transport Fever 3. This game promises to offer more player agency than practically any other game in the genre and can serve as a tool for teaching game designers how to build higher-agency games. Learn how the new Node-Based Map Generation, Traffic Management, Light Rail, and Cargo Distribution Systems all provide players with a wealth of interesting gameplay decisions without overloading comprehension complexity. Additionally, discover how the Curated Mods Program allows community members to customize to a greater extent than previous titles in the Transport Fever series.

All Aboard!

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to support the show!

Show Notes

Transport Fever 3 Official Website

Transport Fever 3 on Steam

Transport Fever 3 on Epic Games

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers! In the episode, TrainmasterGT invites Lincoln (aka Kapernaumov), the creator of the world-famous Penrose Cube, to discuss the intricacies of designing Cubes without Counters or Tokens. Together, they explore the design constraints, power balancing, and mechanical workarounds necessary to build a compelling Cube without relying on external game objects. How does eschewing counters and tokens impact Cube design? Stay tuned to find out!

All Aboard!

REMINDER: Today is the final day to have your Cube included in the Ultimate Cube Project! If you are interested in being included in the project, please become a member on Patreon today! Free members will be able to have their Cubes included in the project!

Show Notes

Penrose Cube

Unstable Cubicorns

Little Red Book

Capitol Cube Champs

The Ultimate Masters Plus Cube (The Cubecobra Link doesn’t seem to exist for this one, so please enjoy this article instead!)

Derek’s Bar Cube Video

Sacred Geometry

Cards Mentioned

Third Path Iconoclast

Nettlecyst

Trumpet Blast

Goblin Bombardment

Flametongue Kavu

Glistener Elf

Vanguard Seraph

Haliya, Guided by Light

Adanto Vanguard

Dimir Spybug

Krenko’s Command

Judith, the Scourge Diva

Cranial Plating

Teshar, Ancestor’s Apostle

Varloz, the Scar-Striped

Cultivate

Kodama’s Reach

Inspiring Overseer

Pardic Arsonist

Centaur Chieftain

Goblin Tomb Raider

Ardent Recruit

Bomat Courier

Rabbit Battery

Goldhound

Reinforced Ronin

Queen Kayla Bin-Kroog

Goblin Engineer

Kor Skyfisher

Stonecloaker

Spirited Companion

Circuit Mender

Anthem of Champions

Siege Wurm

Thranduil, Sindarin Liege

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again for another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites Dr. Nick Longrich, Visiting Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Biology and Biochemistry at the University of Bath and founder of the Deep Time Foundation to discuss the philosophy of scientific discourse and evolutionary biology. Dr. Longrich has made many cool discoveries and played a role in resolving major controversies in the field of paleontology, including the description of Titanoceratops and the confirmation of Nanotyrannus as a distinct species. Find out how newly uncovered species of extinct animals are described and when unique creatures can be hiding in plain sight. Learn why clear communication and intellectual humility are essential for thinking like a true scientist.

All Aboard!

Show Notes

Nick Longrich Evolution and Paleontology on YouTube

Dr. Longrich’s Website

The Deep Time Foundation

Hatchling Tyrannosaurs Video

Nanotyrannus Lives! Taxonomic Status ofNanotyrannus lancensisPaper

The Great Nanotyrannus Mystery Video

Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis:A giant tyrannosaur from the Campanian–Maastrichtian of southern North America and the evolution of tyrannosaurid gigantism Paper

Tyrannosaurus mcraeensisVideo

SierraceratopsPaper

The Giant Horned DinosaurTitanoceratops ouranos, or, How to Hide a Dinosaur in Plain Sight Video

Titanoceratops ouranos, a giant horned dinosaur from the late Campanian of New Mexico

A new dromaeosaurid dinosaur from the Wessex Formation (Lower Cretaceous, Barremian) of the Isle of Wight, and implications for European palaeobiogeography Paper

The Vicious Vectiraptor Blog Post

Cool Video about Hatzegopteryx by ExtinctZoo

Special thanks to Dr. Nick Longrich for being the guest for this episode!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again for another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

In the episode, TrainmasterGT once again invites the legendary Usman Jamil to review the new Hobbit Magic: The Gathering Set for Cube! Together, the pair go there and back again to discuss all of the coolest cards in The Hobbit. Are there any new cards that we can call our precious, or will this set be relegated to the dustbins of history like the lost cities of the Second Age? Can Middle-earth manage to draw our attention away from Minnesota and Clacton? These questions and more, answered today!

All Aboard!

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to support the show!

Timestamps

Nightly Phone Call: 00:00:10

Introduction to your Mom’s Favorite Cube Podcast: 00:01:18

Set Overview: 00:02:51

The Queen of Dale: 00:16:55

Smaug the Magnificent: 00:27:30

Bilbo, Thief in the Night: 00:34:44

Most Decrepit Old Bird: 00:40:53

Bard, Heir of Girion: 00:50:41

Dwarven Mauler: 00:55:07

Necklace of Girion: 01:03:55

Gandalf, Goblin’s Bane: 01:08:14

Bothersome Noisemaker: 01:15:50

My Precious: 01:22:34

Final Takeaways: 01:27:22

Clacton, Sigma 9, and the Minnesota Senate Primaries: 01:33:34

Show Notes

Peggy Flannagan for Senate

https://usmantherad.com/

Folding Ideas Ralph Bakshi

Desire Paths Article

St. Louis Cube Event: STL3!

Count Binface

Binface Shop

Abdul El-Sayed for Senate

Cards Discussed

The Queen of Dale

Little Bear

Large Bear

Gigantic Big Bear

Fact or Fiction

Riddles in the DarkSauron’s Ransom

Orcish Bowmaster

Bard’s Company

Great Gilded Boat

Ajani, Nacatl Pariah

Young Pyromancer

Third Path Iconoclast

Smaug the Magnificent

Thunderbreak Regent

Decadent Dragon

Chandra, Flamecaller

Chandra, Awakened Inferno

Chandra, Hope’s Beacon

Lightning Bolt

Smuggler’s Copter

Hellrider

Rampaging Raptor

Oketra’s Monument

Currency Converter

Bilbo, Thief in the Night

Dreadhorde Arcanist

Reckless Charge

Misthollow Griffin

Bilbo, Luckwearer

Switcharoo

Looter Il-Kor

Most Decrepit Old Bird

Delver of Secrets

Picklock Prankster

Brazen Borrower

Vendillion Clique

Grim Bauble

Virtue of Persistence

Debtor’s Knell

Disfigure

Flow State

Lonely Mountain

Bard, Heir of Girion

Teferi, Time Raveler

Aang, Swift Savior

King T’Challa

Fable of the Mirror-Breaker

Remand

Mana Leak

Dwarven Mauler

Warship Scout

Foot Chopper

Jackal Pup

Dain Ironfoot

Astrologian’s Planisphere

Blue Mage’s Cane

Stoneforge Mystic

Bladehold Cleaver

Samurai’s Blade

Necklace of Girion

Bristly Bill, Spine Sower

Cursed Scythecat

Gandalf, Friend of the Shire

Gandalf the Grey

Gandalf, Goblin’s Bane

Firebrand Archer

Dark Confidant

Tersa Lightshatter

Sylvan Safekeeper

Vivi Ornitier

Nadu, Winged Wisdom

Flame of Anor

Archmage’s Charm

Broadside Bombardiers

Gut, True-Soul Zealot

Death Greeter Champion

Slickshot Showoff

Bothersome Noisemaker

Ensoul Artifact

Diamond Pickaxe

Young Pyromancer

Third Path Iconoclast

My Precious

The Arkenstone

Glamdring

Goblin Bombardment

Sephiroph, One-Winged Angel

Greater Gargadon

Dragon’s Rage Channeler

Deadly Dispute

Front-Porch Sentries

Special thanks to Usman for being the guest on this episode and for putting up with my antics for another set review this year!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers! In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites the legendary Dr. Karl Self from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry to discuss his contributions to the field of dentistry and dental education in the state of Minnesota. As the former Director of the Division of Dental Therapy and Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Dr. Self has helped educate thousands of dentists who now practice around the world! Learn about Dr. Self’s role in the introduction of Dental Therapy in the state of Minnesota, and how his leadership helped to set the standard to which dental therapists are educated nationwide. Likewise, discover the University of Minnesota’s new Dental Career Tracks Program, and the positive impact it is set to have on students!

All Aboard!

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to support the show!

Show Notes

Dr. Karl Self at the University of Minnesota

University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Dental Career Tracks Program

Apply to be a Dental Career Tracks Mentor!

Special thanks to Dr. Karl Self for being the guest for this episode!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

Grab a seat at the bar and order another round of your favorite deck; we’re in for a real treat! In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites Derek Gallen to discuss the origins and evolution of Bar Cube! Discover how one man’s quest to design a Cube that could fit in his pocket sparked a community movement that popularized an entire subgenre of Cubes. See what lessons Derek learned in order to facilitate his design goals and desired play patterns, and how it impacted his views on Magic as a social experience.

All Aboard!

Show Notes

Derek’s Bar Cube

Derek’s Hipsters of the Coast Articles

Derek’s YouTube Bar Cube Video

Chill MTG on Bar Cube

The Penrose Cube

Prohibition Cube

A Study in Harmony

Cards Mentioned

Cataclysm

Empyrial Armor

Necropotence

Survival of the Fittest

Savage Ventmaw

Savage Knuckleblade

Siege Rhino

Divine Gambit

Mark of the Vampire

Fierce Witchstalker

Professor of Symbology

Wurmcoil Engine

Threefold Thunderhulk

Swords to Plowshares

Lightning Bolt

Counterspell

Tinker

Mana Drain

Gravedigger

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

Priiiiiiide and Glor-ay!

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers! In this edition, TrainmasterGT invites Trevor Lombardi, Railroad Operations Manager at the Colorado Railroad Museum and co-author of Pride and Glory: The Cimarron and Northwestern Railway Company, to discuss railway preservation and historiography. We discuss how Trevor’s origins as a camp director at Philmont Scout Ranch led to a career as a real railroader! Learn how railroad preservationists and historians conduct research, maintain track, and even restore locomotives!

All Aboard!

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to support the show!

Show Notes

Pride and Glory: The Cimmaron and Northwestern Railway Company Book

Colorado Railroad Museum

Trevor Lombardi (@Trevlom) on Instagram

Century of Steam Game

Moffat Road Sandwiches

Locomotives Discussed

Full Colorado Railroad Museum Roster

Denver and Rio Grande Western 315

Denver and Rio Grande Western 5771

Galloping Goose Railcars

Rio Grande Southern #20

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

In this episode, TrainmasterGT is once again joined by Usman Jamil to uncover the Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything. In this case, it is the Bourbon Cube by Noah (Islandponder)! Learn about this wonderful Cube, and why TrainmasterGT and Usman decided to pick it for the main event of Cubecon 2026! Along the way, learn about the history of the Magic community in Madison, Wisconsin, and how local Cube communities can fit into the wider tapestry of the Cubiverse.

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to find out how to support the show!

All Aboard!

Show Notes

The Bourbon Cube

Cubecon 2026 (Madison, Wisconsin, August 26th–30th, 2026)

https://usmantherad.com/

The Magic Show Morningtide Set Review (Yes, I found it in all of its 240p glory!)

The Magic Show Eventide Cube Update

The Esper Cube

Alternate History Powered Cube

Fritz’s Good Old Days and Cube Save America!

The Atomic Cube

The Bun Magic Cube

The Bodleian Cube

Cards Mentioned

Goblin Guide

Snapcaster Mage

Mother of Runes

Minsc and Boo, Timeless Heroes

PyroclasmInfest

Firey Cannonade

Thing in the Ice

Dauntless Bodyguard

“Pay 3” MDFC lands

Valgavoth’s Onslaught

Green Sun’s Zenith

Craterhoof Behemoth

Whisperwood Elemental

Six

Elite Spellbinder

Anointed Peacekeeper

Rishadin Port

Wasteland

Lingering Souls

Lightning Bolt

Rancor

Replenish

Exalted Angel

Call of the Herd

Cori-Steel Cutter

Legion Extruder

Malevolent Rumble

Quantum Riddler

Malevolent Rumble

Booster Tutor

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with Season 2 of Cube Engineers!Most conversations around custom cards tout the benefits of the medium, but fail to adequately address the drawbacks of their implementation. In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites Chris Taylor back again to examine the potential pitfalls of utilizing custom cards in a Cube, and whether or not these issues can be minimized. Along the way, the two explore some of their own custom designs which have proven problematic in the past, and what lessons they learned as a result. Should custom cards be a tool in every Cuber’s arsenal, or should card design be left to the professionals?

Cube Engineers is now on Patreon! Follow this link to find out how to support the show!

All Aboard!

Show Notes

The Dandy Cube

Cube Engineers Episode 11: A Materialst History of Tarkir featuring Safra!

Cube Engineers on Patreon

Custom Cards Mentioned

Motherland Calls

Stalin’s Mustache

Chad Mountie

Jinu, Demonic Idol

Old Growth

Karn, the Corrupted

Vantasaur’s Journey

Trading Caravan

Experiment Two

Clanking Skeleton

Diamondhide Hedgehog

Bull Moose

Good News

The Nutcracker Suite

Profane Relic

Stromkirk Diabolist

Police Brutality

Official Cards Mentioned

Nadu, Winged Wisdom

Grim Lavamancer

The Scarab God

Mother of Runes

God Pharaoh’s Gift

Fire Imp

Wild Mongrel

Flametongue Yearling

Liliana of the Veil

Oko, Thief of Crowns

Chandra Ablaze

Chandra Flame’s Fury

Chandra, Heart of Fire

Rampant Growth

Urza’s Saga

Proft’s Eidetic Memory

Fable of the Mirror Breaker

Vivi Ornitier

Emperor of Bones

Fleshwrither

Karn, Scion of Urza

Urza, Lord High Artificer

Oni Cult Anvil

Swords to Plowshares

Path to Exile

Erase (Not the Urza’s Legacy One)

Erode

Erase

Volcanic Hammer

Knight Watch

Falling Star

Shower of Coals

Badgermole Cub

Jeska, Thrice Reborn

Tevesh Szat, Doom of Fools

Thank you again to Chris Taylor for being the guest on this episode, and to Bella for being a part of the “500 Custom Cards” intro!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

In this episode, TrainmasterGT and Usman Assemble to discuss Earth’s Mightiest Magic Cards. Together, they discuss the set’s biggest standouts, misses, and build-around cards for Cube designers. Is Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes a triumph of game design, or did the design team Go Nuts when they pitched this one? Stay tuned to find out!

Show Notes

Usman’s New Website: Usmantherad.com!

Usman’s Bluesky!

Jund with Sarkhan the Mad

Marvel vs. Capcom 2

Captain America and the Avengers for the SNES

The Pack One Slick Ones Alchemy Episode

Rush (the Band)

“Yes and”

“The Soup Problem”

Cards Mentioned

Sarkhan the MadBloodbraid ElfMaelstrom PulseBituminous BlastSprouting Thranax Eldrazi ConscriptionJace, the Mind SculptorElspeth, Knight-Errant Spider-Man, New ChampionStature, Young Avenger Hit-Monkey Swallowed by LeviathanOnion KnightY'shtolaWe Say Thee Nay!Namora, Sea QueenThe Unbeatable Squirrel GirlSquirrel DealerNinja BladeSnake of the Golden GroveKingpin of Crime Captain Marvel, Earth's ProtectorThundertrap TrainerKing T'ChallaFaerie MastermindLightning Bolt Fire//Ice Mox Amber Merry, Esquire of RohanFlowering of the White TreeAgent Maria Hill Happy Hogan, Dauntless Driver Nick Fury, Agent of SHIELD Whiplash, Vengeful EngineerWinter Soldier, Bucky BarnesQuicksilver, Brash BlurCampsite CuisineIron Man ArmorMaul of the Skyclaves The Thanos-CopterCosmic Cube The Cube (Planar Bridge)Delif's CubeDoubling Cube Mana Vault Monument to Endurance Batroc, The Leaper PyrogoyfFTK (Flametongue Kavu) Flametongue Yearling Hawkeye, the 2-mana one The Vision The Fantasticar Togglodyte Emeritus of ConflictPhilosophy of Fire Dwarf Fortress Glorious EndMighty Thor, Jane Foster Ichor Wellspring My Precious Midnight Angel Armor Brago, King EternalMole Man, Moloid MasterRamunap Excavator Carrot Cake

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers! What happens when a long-time Magic: The Gathering player becomes the lead designer for a Grand Strategy game? Awesome things! In this episode, TrainmasterGT invites Lino Claudius, Lead Designer for Victoria 3, to discuss how he and his team set and implement their design goals. Learn how professional game designers conceptualize and realize design goals to create an awesome experience for players through the lens of the all-new The Great Wave expansion pack! All Aboard!

Show Notes

Victoria 3 on Steam

The Great Wave Expansion and Volume 3 Expansion Pass on Steam

Victoria 3 Official Discord Server

Victoria 3 on YouTube and Bluesky

MTG Cube Talk Discord

Cards Mentioned

Sherman’s March

Disclaimer

This episode was not sponsored by Paradox Interactive.

Special thanks to Lino for being the guest for the episode, and to Troy and Pelly for working with me to set up the interview!

Thanks for reading Cube Engineers! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support the podcast!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!Back for another shift? In this episode, TrainmasterGT and Usman return to help you navigate your third draft as a proud Cube designer at Oko Fazfae’s Pizza with a piping hot Secrets of Strixhaven review! We will prepare you to deal with an influx of students visiting our establishment from Strixhaven University. Learn which cards can be your Cube’s new opus, which cards to avoid in any increment, and how to keep those dang iPad Kid Frat Boys from further damaging The Dawning Archaic.

All Aboard!

Show Notes

Usman’s Substack

The Pack One Slick Ones Podcast

MTG Cube Talk Discord

Cards Mentioned

Triceraton Commander

The Dawning Archaic

Abundant Harvest

Enduring Curiosity

Skycoach Conductor

Restoration Angel

Seal of Cleansing

Mulldrifter

Emeritus of Ideation

Elite Interceptor

Monastery Mentor

Emeritus of Conflict

Lightning Bolt

Sea Gate Stormcaller

Mercurial Spelldancer

Snapcaster Mage

Counterspell

Grapeshot

Arclight Phoenix

Waterfront Bouncer

Crystal Shard

Inferno Titan

Emeritus of Abundance

Vastlands Scavenger

Baneslayer Angel

Mulldrifter

Erode

Swords to Plowshares

Path to Exile

Solitude

Intermediate Chirography

fetchlands, painlands

Boulder Dash

Boomerang Basics

This Town Ain’t Big Enough

Ceaseless Conflict

Sunfall

Thundertrap Trainer

Thraben Inspector

Flametongue Kavu

Anoint with Affliction

Death in the Family

Plateau

Tidehollow Sculler

Sheoldred, the Apocalypse

Traumatic Critique

Galazeth Prismari

Morlun, Devourer of Spiders

Choco-Comet

Kavu Titan

Grizzly Bears

North Wind Avatar

Prismari Command

Electrolyze

Flashback

Recoup

Pithing Needle

Flow State

Prismari Charm

Witherbloom Charm

Silverquill Charm

Quandrix Charm

Lorehold Charm

Quench

It’ll Quench Ya!

Abrupt Decay

Broadside Bombardiers

Feed the Clan

Lava Spike

Maestros Charm

Riveteers Charm

Helping Hand

Unearth

Young Pyromancer

Ambitious Augmenter

Experiment One

Pelt Collector

Pawpatch Recruit

Remand

Foot Chopper

Grief

Abigale (hybrid)

Guide of Souls

Qarsi Revenant

Kheru Goldkeeper

Wing It

Salvation Swan

Call a Surprise Witness

Informed Inkwright

Sedgemoor Witch

Lingering Souls

Alpine Watchdog

Monstrous Rage

Berserk

Royal Treatment

Enter the Avatar State

Firebolt

Channeled Dragonfire

Galvanic Discharge

Unholy Heat

Sear

Lightning Strike

Snuff Out

Stirring Hopesinger

Clarion Spirit

Cori-Steel Cutter

Heartfire Hero

Tormented Hero

The Ooze

The Wandering Emperor

Bonesplitter

Reckless Charge

Wild Ride

Vivi Ornitier

Street Wraith

Patrician’s Scorn

Kinetic Ooze

Ranger-Captain of Eos

Disenchant

Reclamation Sage

Ainok Survivalist

Foundation Breaker

Crumble

Grim Bauble

Virtue of Persistence

Sword of Fire and Ice

Doom Whisperer

Lorien Revealed

Boon of the Wish Giver

Reach through Mists

Pest Control

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another episode of Cube Engineers!TrainmasterGT and Usman return to help you navigate your second draft as a proud Cube designer at Oko Fazfae’s Pizza. This time, we venture deep into the back rooms of the establishment to determine what is to be done with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle cards in the bulk bins. Can this set be salvaged to the benefit of Cube designers? Does the card file contain anything that might be of interest to people who don’t like Ninja Turtles? The answer might surprise you!All Aboard!

Show Notes

Usman’s Substack

Video Essay about the history and artistry of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Comic

Epic Rap Battles of History: Ninjas Vs. Artists

2004-5 NHL Lockout

Derrick Green Sepultura Interview

Reddit Thread about White One Drops

The Ball Pit Cube

Casey Jones and his Commemorative Stamp

Highball 4K Cube

Price Chopper

Time Stamps and Major Cards

1:41: Episode Begins

21:06: Prehistoric Pet

33:33: Sneak Cards

54:40: Ravenous Robots

1:01:55: Splinter and Leo, Father and Son

1:07:32: Casey Jones, Jury-Rig Justicar

1:14:50: Raph and Leo, Sibling Rivals

1:22:29: Death in the Family

1:26:11: The Ooze

1:34:01: North Wind Avatar

1:41:36: Triceraton Commander

1:52:14: Finale

1:54:43 Outro and Post Credits Scene (Foot Elite in Battle Box)

Cards Discussed

Electric Seaweed

Eliminate (M21)

Prehistoric Pet

Raphael, the Nightwatcher

Dark Leo and Shredder

Leonardo, Leader in Blue

Kytheon, Hero of Akros

Descendant of Storms

Karakas

Mox Amber

Flowering of the White Tree

Ravenous Robots

Young Pyromancer

Myr Battlesphere

Nettlecyst

Chromatic Sphere

Signal Pest

Splinter and Leo, Father and Son

Orcish Bowmasters

United Front

Blade Splicer

April O’Neil, Kunoichi Trainee

Casey Jones, Jury-Rig Justicar

Raph and Leo, Sibling Rivals

Combat Celebrant

Fear of Missing Out

Bebop and Rocksteady

Tokka and Rahzar, Terrible Twos

Eidolon of the Great Revel

Sulfuric Vortex

Death in the Family

Anoint with Affliction

The Ooze

Tormod’s Crypt

Ghost Vacuum

North Wind Avatar

Burning Wish

Cunning Wish

Living Wish

Baloth Prime

Generous Ent

Wilderness Reclamation

Swords to Plowshares

Vivi Ornitier

Expressive Iteration

Inzerva, Master of Insights

Abrade

Triceraton Commander

Lorehold, the Historian

Foot Elite

Foot Chopper

Special thanks to Usman Jamil for co-hosting and editing this episode!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

Usman and I wanted to record a podcast for you, to help you get settled in on your first Lorwyn Eclipsed Cube night! We actually Cubed with the set before you, we’re finishing up our last draft now as a matter of fact! So, we know it can be a bit overwhelming, but we’re here to tell you there’s nothing to worry about, and there are indeed some cool cards in this set. You’ll do fine! So, let’s just focus on getting you through your first draft, okay?

The Cube Engineers Podcast is not responsible for damage to property or person. Upon discovering that damage or death has occurred, a missing person report will be filed within 90 days, or as soon as any and all evidence of wrongdoing has been converted into a 3/3 Green Elk creature.

All Aboard!

Show Notes

Usman’s Substack, home of the Pack One Slick Ones Podcast

Usman’s Bluesky

Blue Öyster Cult

Chapters

7:00 - Vivid

8:22 - Blight

21:19 - Moonshadow

32:25 - Wistfulness and the other Evoke Elementals

45:37 - Abundant Countryside

55:04 - Ajani, Outland Chaperone

1:02:31 - The Reaper, King No More

1:08:55 - Wanderbrine Trapper

1:21:27 - Figure of Fable

1:28:18 - Glamer Gifter

1:31:42 - Oko, Lorwyn Liege

1:41:45 - Sapling Nursery

1:51:30 - Cube Testing and Inclusions

Cards Mentioned

Bloom Tender

Bad River

Scuzzback Scrounger

Vivid lands

Scarscale Ritual

Sear

Moonshadow

Stalactite Stalker

Fallen Shinobi

Psychic Frog

Wild Mongrel

Noose Constrictor

Wistfulness

Grim Bauble

Virtue of Persistence

Cruel Ultimatum

Obliterating Bolt

Hieroglyphic Illumination

Fact or Fiction

Field of the Dead

Thespian’s Stage

Dark Depths

Monastery Mentor

Helping Hand

Abundant Countryside

Ancient Ziggurat

Gwen Stacy

Flame of Anor

Thalia, Guardian of Thraben

Dark Confidant (Bob)

Headliner Scarlett

Crib Swap

Realmwalker

Ajani, Outland Chaperone

Liliana of the Veil

Liliana, the Last Hope

Grist, the Hunger Tide

Nissa, Voice of Zendikar

Daretti, Ingenious Iconoclast

Chandra, Acolyte of Flame

Saheeli, Sublime Artisan

SOLDIER Military Program

Wedding Announcement

Adeline, Resplendant Cathar

Cosmogrand Zenith

Enduring Inn

Flickerwisp

Monastery Mentor

Ranger Captain of Eos

Skyclave Apparition

Suki, Corageous Rescuer

Abandoned Air Temple:

The Reaper, King No More

Necroskitter

Skinrender

Gran-Gran

Wanderbrine Rootcutters

Barrenton Cragtreads (Crackheads)

Tibor and Lumia

Gideon’s Lawkeeper

Law-Rune Enforcer

Goldmeadow Harrier

Zurgo Bellstriker

Lightstall Inquisitor:

Figure of Fable

Figure of Destiny

Warden of the First Tree

Ascendant Spirit

Frodo, Sauron’s Bane

Ajani, Nacatl Pariah

Evolved Sleeper

Kellan, Planar Trailblazer

Glamer Gifter

Circuitous Route

Sygg, Wanderbrine Wisdom

Oko, Lorwyn Liege

Majestic Metamorphosis

Mu Yanling Sky Dancer:

Sapling Nursery

Sigil of the Empty Throne

Reach of Branches

Rhys, the Evermore

Kinscaer Sentry

Kinbinding

Flitterwing Nuisance

Glen Elendra Whatever

Loch Mare

Disrupter of Currents

Bitterbloom Bearer

Twilight Diviner

Iron-Shield Elf

Dawnhand Dissident

Hexing Squelcher

Formidable Speaker

Bristlebane Battler

Eirdu

Tam, Mindful First-Year

Abigale

Personify

Thirst for Identity

Unwelcome Sprite

Auntie’s Sentence

Requiting Hex

Chomping Changeling

Midnight Tilling

Mutable Explorer

Eclipsed Kithkin

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

IT’S ALL JOEVER NOW.

For the final episode of the Cube Engineers Winter Arc, TrainmasterGT invites one of the most prolific Cube players of all time, Joe Anderson, to share his expertise regarding Vintage Cubes. Together, they trace the history and evolution of Vintage Cube, unpack how “powermaxxing” has shaped players' perceptions of these designs, and explore practical ways to maximize fun without sacrificing depth or replayability. Along the way, Joe offers advice on customizing a Vintage Cube, so it feels unique and tuned to one’s personal tastes. By the end, you’ll be ready to bring a Vintage Cube to your table that not only plays great, but feels unmistakably yours.

All Aboard!

Show Notes

Cali Cube Champs

Joe’s Week in Magic Podcast

The Anarchy Cube

Aquaone’s Vintage Cube

The MTG Cube Talk Discord

Cards Mentioned

Cogwork Librarian

Gaea’s Skyfolk

White Knight

Rite of Flame

Manamorphose

Dark Ritual

Lightning Bolt

Opposition

Murktide Regent

Abhorrent Occulus

Three Steps Ahead

Timetwister

High Tide

Fastbond

HullbreacherMinsc and Boo, Timeless Heroes

Elspeth Tirel

Goblin Guide

Kavaron Harrier

Nadu, Winged Wisdom

Ketramose, the New Dawn

Phelia, Exuberant Shepherd

Overlord of the Balemurk

Ghost Vacuum

Nihil Spellbomb

Mirage Mirror

Time Vault

Dark Depths

Channel

Emrakul, the Aeons Torn

Noble Heirarch

Sol Ring

Comet, Stellar Pup

White-Plume Adventurer

Forth Eorlingas!

Otharri, Sun’s Glory

Tendrils of Agony

Smokestack

Teferi, Hero of Dominaria

Upheval

Generous Plunderer

Gau, Feral Youth

Abbot of Keral Keep

Ajani Vengant

Lightning Helix

Sentinel of the Nameless City

Dryad of the Ilysian Grove

Valakut, the Molten Pinnacle

Field of the Dead

Knight of the Reliquary

Thespian’s Stage

Tinker

Zurgo Bellstriker

Ragavan, Nimble Pilferer

Ignoble Heirarch

Professor Oak’s HintPot of Greed

Innovate

Mind Goblin

Seething Song

Stormscale Scion

Thassa’s Oracle

Lightning Strike

Evolving Wilds

Scalding Tarn

Llanowar Elves

Elvish Mystic

Joraga Treespeaker

Lore Seeker

Thought Seize

Tarmogoyf

Grist, the Hunger Tide

Doom Blade

Mana Crypt

Black Lotus

Time Walk

Contract from Below

Ancestral Recall

Cogwork Librarian

Time Spiral

Brain Freeze

Price of Progress

Invasion of Ikoria

Goblin Sharpshooter

Special thanks to Joe Anderson for appearing as a guest on this episode!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

In this episode, TrainmasterGT and Usman Jamil reflect on the year 2025! They discuss the design and mechanics of the new sets, cover the coolest cards, and share what developments influenced their thoughts and feelings the most. Did any sets prove themselves to be a cut above the rest? Which sets are destined for the dustbins of history? Was 2025 even a good year for Magic? Stay tuned to find out! All Aboard!

Timestamps

3:19:00 Aetherdrift: The First Set of 2025!

22:46:00 Tarkir: Dragonstorm

39:34:00 Final Fantasy

56:18:00 Edge of Eternities

1:07:06:00 Spooder Man

1:18:48:00 ATLA

1:21:46:00 Hits and Misses for the Year

1:26:53:00 Cards of the Year

1:30:40:00 Magic in 2026

1:38:25:00 Conclusion

Show Notes

Usman’s 2025 Cube Cards: Set Overview Article

Hej Hej from Sweden!

Shoebox 2026 (Also Listen: Interview with Shoebox Organizer Dinrovahorror!)

Usman’s Substack

Usmantherad on Bluesky

Cards Discussed

Locust Spray

Marauding Mako

Monument to Endurance

Vanilla and Vanilla Matters in Aetherdrift

Spikeshell Harrier

Stock Up

Thunderous Velocipede

Vigean Hydropod

Marketback Walker

Hangarback Walker

Walking Ballista

The “Behold a Dragon” Cards

Statute of Denial

Troll Scavenger (Legends of Runeterra)

Sagu Wildling

The Siege Cycle

Boulder Dragon

Dragonstorm Globe

Embermouth Sentinel

Dragon’s Play

Cori-Steel Cutter

Frostcliff Siege

Quantum Riddler

Elspeth, Storm Slayer

Twinmaw Stormbrood

Roast

The Spirit Dragons

The Dragonlords

Summon: Primal Odin

Summon: Brynhildr

Hraesvelgr of the First Brood

Commune with the Beavers

Clive, Ifrit’s Dominant

Buster Sword

Garland, Knight of Cornelia

Yuna’s Whistle

Cecil, Dark Knight

Gran-Gran

Death’s Shadow

Mulldrifter

Bonecrusher Giant

Smuggler’s Copter

Kavaron, Memorial World

Bygone Colossus

Monoist Sentry

Consult the Star Charts

Icetill Explorer

Crucible of Worlds

Anticausal Vestige

Siege Rhino

Spider-Man UK

Ultimate Green Goblin

Scarlet Spider, Ben Reilly

Badgermole Cub

City Pigeon

Momo, Playful Pet

Spectacular Save

Secret Identity

Fire Nation Occupation

Abandoned Air Temple

Mai, Scornful Striker

Zhao, the Moon Slayer

Marang River Regent

Casey Jones, Jury-Rig Justicar

Thank you for listening, and for an excellent 2025!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com

We are back on the rails again with another exciting episode of Cube Engineers!

In this episode, TrainmasterGT is once again joined by Usman Jamil to discuss their favorite cards in the Avatar: The Last Airbender Magic Set. Find out what cards are destined to save the world, and which cards have a lot to learn before they can save anyone…

All Aboard!

Show Notes

The Pack One Slick Ones on Usman’s Revamped Substack

Usman’s Article: Avatar: The Last Airbender for Cube

A photo of Big Mac the Cat

Cards Mentioned

Main Discussion Cards Bolded with Timestamps!

Badgermole Cub

Aang, Swift Savior

Llanowar Elves

Sylvan Caryatid

Anzrag, the Quake Mole

Pothole Mole

5:55: Fire Nation Occupation

Heirloom Blade

Mistbind Clique

Pyrogoyf

Wan Shi Tong, Librarian

Lazotep Quarry

Brazen Borrower

Snuff Out

Parallax Wave

Emperor of Bones

Stormchaser’s Talent

Force of Will

Subtlty

Endurance

Consider

17:54: Katara, Waterbending Master

Wilderness Reclamation

Spell Peirce

Dispel

Kitsa, Otterball Elite

Meren of Clan Nel Toth

Otharri, Suns’ Glory

Plagon, Lord of the Beach

26:25: Aang’s Iceberg

Oblivion Ring

Banishing Light

Swords to Plowshares

Stormplain Detainment

March of Otherworldly Light

Prismatic Ending

Unexpectedly Absent

32:02 True Ancestry

Stern Scolding

Starting Town

Divide by Zero

Professor of Symbology

Eyetwitch

Poet’s Quill

Gnarled Professor

Academic Dispute

Pop Quiz

Sparring Regimen

Origin of Spider-Man

Spectacular Spider-Man

Spider-Woman, Stunning Savior

Peter Parker

Redirect Lightning

Cori-Steel Cutter

Think Twice

Nature’s Spiral

Regrowth

It’ll Quench Ya!

43:04: Suki, Courageous Rescuer

Glorious Anthem

Crusade

Honor of the Pure

Orcish Oriflame

Savannah Lions

Ephemerate

Soulherder

46:30: Mai, Scornful Striker

Siege Rhino

Thalia, Guardian of Thraben

Eidolon of the Great Revel

51:32: Ba Sing Se

The Modern Horizons 2 Bridges

Ensoul Artifact

The Restless Lands

Restless Cottage

Restless Prairie

Restless Reef

Restless Vinestalk

The Hideouts

Sandbender’s Storm

Earthshape

58:14: Zhao, the Moon Slayer

Price of Progress

1:03:45: Raven Eagle

Graveyard Trespasser

Lingering Souls

1:09:09: Firebending Student

Heartfire Hero

Ouroboroid

Monstrous Rage

Chainsaw

Bonesplitter

Burst Lightning

The Legend of Roku

Showdown of the Skalds

1:16:12: Conclusion

Firebender Ascension

Sunset Sabotuer

Unlucky Cabbage Merchant

Tough Cookie

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit https://cubeengineers.substack.com