WhileHearthstonehas just released itsForged in the Barrens Expansion, the Year of the Gryphon brings a slew of other changes to the popular trading card game. Though most of these adjustments are aimed at standard mode, the new classic format gives players a chance to go back and experienceHearthstonein 2014. With many cards returned to their original state, older veterans once again have a chance to play memorable decks including the iconic miracle rogue.
Discovered soon after release, Miracle Rogue would become one of the most versatile decks in the game’s history. Combining the ability to draw most of the deck and set up ridiculous one-turn KOs, this deck won many tournaments in the hands of players such asForsen. However, asHearthstonecontinued to evolve, powercreep and nerfing many key cards meant Miracle Rogue could barely keep up with competition before falling out of the meta. Fortunately, the return of classic means Miracle Rogue’s full potential has finally returned.
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Deck List
Compared to other popular classic decks, most of the Miracle Rogue components can be obtained for free or relatively cheap.
Starting Hand
Miracle Rogue players should attempt to get Backstab, SI:7 Agent, or Gadgetzan Auctioneer in their starting hands. Backstab and SI:7 both give invaluable board control against low healthminionsearly on while the latter is also a 3/3 minion. On the other hand, Gadgetzan Auctioneer is the keystone for Miracle Rogue to draw its entire deck, and getting it too late means the match will likely end in defeat.
Early Game
Use the Dagger Mastery Hero Power along with Backstab, Deadly Poison, and other spells to keep the enemy board clear of minions. Putting downHearthstoneminions like Earthern Ring Farseer, SI:7 Agent, or even Bloodmage Thalnos will also force the other player to spend time removing them. Alternatively, getting an early Edwin Vancleef buffed to 4/4 or even 6/6 through the right combo should be enough of a distraction for several turns.
Win Conditions
The most infamous and well-known finisher from Miracle Rogue revolves around combiningLeeroy Jenkinsand both Shadowsteps to deal at least 18 damage to the enemy player in one turn. However, the deck’s namesake comes from using Gadgetzan Auctioneer’s ability to draw a card each time a spell is cast.
Players must be looking to play Gadgetzan Auctioneer with Conceal on turn 5 if they have the Coin or turn 6 otherwise. If the Auctioneer survives, use remaining lower cost spells such as Backstab and Deadly Poison first followed by Preparation and higher cost spells. On the next turn, the concealed Auctioneer and other minions along with Leeroy as well as any remaining spells should be enough to push for lethal.
Hearthstoneis available on PC and Mobile.
