by Michael Sacco

The World of Warcraft TCG has a huge cast of characters, from original heroes and allies to major lore characters and faction leaders. With all those cards to fill, though, Cryptozoic makes a point to honor friends of the company with cards named after them. It's their own special form of immortalization! One of the latest recipients of this honor is volunteer judge Simon Key, or as Throne of the Tides players will know him, Master Sniper Simon McKey.

I sat down with Simon to talk about his work with the TCG and his sweet new card!

Where do you hail from and what's your local game store?

McKinney, TX. My local shop is Madness Games in Denton.

What functions do you perform at World of Warcraft TCG events?

I judge. Head judging is basically managing all of the judges and making sure events run as smoothly as possible. Floor judging is helping the head judge and making single calls! Being a good resource for the players.

When not at events, I'm part of the team that helps figure out rulings for upcoming cards to help make judging easier at events.

How do you feel about the hero in Throne of the Tides that was named after you?

I am ecstatic. He's amazing...if you have a pet! I had a pet in the sneak preview event, thankfully. I had Clamps, the crab pet. Two of the preview games I went turn 6, Clamps, flip my hero, kill whatever I want! He was unstoppable. I didn't crack the Empower Hunter card, but that would've been really nice! I still went 3-2, so not bad. Not bad at all.

What did you enjoy about playing Throne of the Tides?

It's nice to see all the new cards and their interactions. I get to see the cards beforehand so I can make advance rulings, but I don't get to sit down and see their interactions in person. So that was good. I love Delve, and I love Enrage. One of the games I played, the guy was playing the one-drop quest to look for a monster, and he whiffed every single time. But every Enrage ally he played, there was an ally. Nooooo!

How do you like working with Cryptozoic?

It is phenomenal. I'm very humbled and lucky to be able to help them out.

What are your general thoughts on the World of Warcraft TCG community?

I think the community is doing really well right now and I'm glad it's growing. The changes to the game that have been made have been very well-received and I think they should really help the game take off even more. And I'll be happy to be there!