Coldsnap came out on July 21, 2006: a great 10 years after its 2 original sets, ice age and alliances, which remains to be the longest time between the first and last set of a block being released. Although it was called part of the ice age set, it is clear that it was more of a 'tribute,' going largely unnoticed and had little impact on the actual game. Very few coldsnap cards have found their way into core-sets, or been reprinted. Even the central mechanics in coldsnap remain exclusive, as opposed to other powers like kicker and flashback that at least popped up for one more block.
But that's ok. Coldsnap is certainly no more than that: a tribute. It is a memory of one of the greatest sets ever printed in Magic, so who cares about whether or not it left an impact, or was any good. But this is where you're wrong. Coldsnap was good. Very good. And although I cannot say I have been around to play it, looking over is cards and finding a few packs at the back of some stores, I can say that is one of the most under appreciated sets ever printed.
So, lets first talk about the theme in coldsnap. We are transported into a harsh, dangerous climate, complete with huge beasties, and dangerous Balduvian barbarians. However, it is also the contrast: a beautiful, celestial plane, home to griffins, beautiful glaciers and mystical elves. The art in Coldsnap is some of the best ever, with beautiful colour-choices and design (especially in the lands), transporting you instantly to the both difficult and fun plane. And that is exactly how the cards play-out: difficult and fun.
Coldsnap is two things at once: the most challenging freezing-hike you will ever go on, and the largest and strangest snowball fight you will ever have. Cards actually force you to think, something that seems to be quickly fading in the game, but if you can pull it off, you will have some of the most satisfying games of Magic the Gathering that you possibly can: especially in draft or limited formats.
If you wish to take a look at what coldsnap has to offer, click the snowflakes.
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