The Different Types of Banlist Discussions

With the next list fast approaching in the midst of a format both widely liked and widely disliked, everybody left and right is talking about banlists in a variety of different ways. But when you're either writing your own post or reading someone else's, it's extremely helpful to keep in mind the different types of banlist discussions.

1. THE WISHLIST.
These posts are merely what the writer wants to see happen to the game. They are not necessarily game changers or predictions, but will typically have elements of both mixed in. Most list discussions have at least ONE wishful change in them, because we as humans can't help but imagine our beloved hobby bending to our will. But a startling amount of banlist talk often is not labeled as a wishlist even when it clearly is, because we humans also tend to be lazy and stupid. Some people literally completely lack the self-reflection to tell where their own motives come from, and as such will parade a list around as a "prediction" when it's more than clear that this is just what they ordered from Wendy's. You can tell if someone's list is primarily a wishlist if there are multiple changes that have no relevance to the current format and that have no logical prediction backing them up. Examples for this point in time include things like "Gale the Whirlwind -> Unlimited", "XX-Saber Darksoul -> Banned", etc.

2. THE GAME CHANGER.
These types of lists are what the writer believes will fix the current format. They are not necessarily wishes or predictions, but will typically have elements of both mixed in. Most list discussions have at least ONE game changer in them, since the goal of fixing the format is the entire point of the banlist in the first place. You can tell if someone's list is primarily a game changer because the vast majority of the logic for the proposed changes comes from the events of the current format. Examples for this point in time include things like "Number 11: Big Eye -> Limited", "Spellbook of Judgment -> Banned", etc.

3. THE PREDICTION.
These types of lists are an attempt to guess at some of the changes Konami will make on the upcoming list. They are not necessarily wishes or game changers, but will typically have elements of both mixed in. Most list discussions will have at least ONE prediction in them, because most people can't resist guessing at Konami's actions. As human beings, we're all impatient and want input on what Konami will do before they actually do it. You can tell if someone's list is primarily a prediction because they will attempt to rationalize the changes from the standpoint of a business, since it is well-known by now that Konami often makes changes that benefit their business model and profit margin, even if this benefit is perceived to be only marginal itself. Examples for this point in time include things like "Fire Formation - Tenki = Unlimited", "Evilswarm Ophion -> Banned", etc.

Thanks for reading and I hope this post helps you guys. As always, try to keep a clear head when discussing these matters and have a nice day.