What is Esper Rack?
Coming from an archetype most commonly known as 8 rack due to having The Rack as Rack effect 1-4 and Shrieking Affliction as Rack effect 5-8, The Rack is a deck built around resource denial, but primarily discard to not only crush your opponents spirit, but their hand as well and punish them for it in the process. This deck is an adaptation of said archetype built in Esper colors, meaning we are splashing not one- but two colors off of the classic mono black build. This is going to become a pet project of mine and I will update this list as it improves, or gets tested. I will soon be adding a semi-frequently updated sideboard guide.
Why Esper?
As a long time player of 8 rack, I may play a lot of mono black but that doesn't stop me from brewing with spice. I asked myself: "what are some of the most splash worthy cards in the Modern format that aren't really played that much in 8 rack?" The answer was Wrenn and Six and Teferi, Time Raveler.
Wrenn and six because it synergizes with Smallpox and Raven's Crime so well, can ping down a low toughness creature like a Glitstner Elf:, and the ult can just win games. It's a busted card and only costs RG to make it even more busted. So why not build around that? Well that's because the streamer Pufftrees and others on the 8 rack discord are already on top of that with their deck they call W-R-A-K-S (Wrenn, Rack, Affliction/and, Kroxa, Smallpox). If that has your interest go check it out: https://www.mtggoldfish.com/deck/2831451#paper
So back to esper: I decided that sometimes it's best to branch out and test the waters. This idea has probably been tried and tested, but just in case I'm here to see how good- or how bad it really can be. Suggestions are always welcome. Teferi, Time Raveler is so good because his +1 lets you cast your discard spells at instant speed? Ever wanted to Thoughtseize someone on their drawstep before their main phase? Well now you can! His -3 bounces a problematic permanent like a Chalice of the Void on 1 counter, or sends a Leyline of Sanctity flying back to their hand ready to be discarded. But we can't disregard another huge part: he shuts down all instant speed interaction your opponent may be able to do in response. Sorry, no Lightning Bolting us in response to this Inquisition of Kozilek!
Go forth and mine the salt (now at instant speed)
