Hey Vanguard fans! Let's dive deep into the history of one of the most iconic cards in the Royal Paladin deck: Alfred. We're going to explore the early versions of Alfred, how they shaped the game, and why they remain so memorable.

The Genesis of Alfred

Alfred isn't just a card; it's a legacy. When Cardfight Vanguard first hit the scene, Alfred was one of the cornerstone cards for the Royal Paladin clan. The initial Alfred cards were designed to embody the spirit of the Royal Paladins: noble, powerful, and focused on uniting allies to achieve victory. These early iterations set the stage for future Alfred incarnations and greatly influenced the clan's playstyle.

The very first Alfred card, King of Knights, Alfred, was a game-changer. As a grade 3 unit, Alfred boasted a respectable power of 10000, which was significant at the time. What truly set him apart was his skill. Alfred allowed players to call a grade 0, 1, or 2 Royal Paladin unit from their hand to the field. This ability provided unparalleled flexibility, enabling players to quickly establish a strong board presence. Whether you needed a booster, an attacker, or a defensive unit, Alfred had you covered. His impact was immediate, and he quickly became a must-have for any serious Royal Paladin player. The strategic depth he added to the game was revolutionary.

But it wasn't just about raw power or strategic advantage. King of Knights, Alfred also had a thematic resonance that captured players' imaginations. He represented the idea of a leader uniting his knights, a concept deeply ingrained in the Royal Paladin lore. This combination of gameplay utility and thematic appeal contributed to Alfred's enduring popularity. He wasn't just a card; he was the embodiment of the Royal Paladin ideal. For many players, Alfred was the card that defined their early Vanguard experience. He was the key to victory, the symbol of their clan, and a reminder of the game's exciting possibilities.

Key Early Alfred Cards

Delving into the specific early Alfred cards helps us appreciate their individual strengths and how they synergized within the Royal Paladin decks of the time. Each card brought something unique, contributing to the overall versatility and power of the clan.

King of Knights, Alfred

As mentioned earlier, King of Knights, Alfred was the original game-changer. His ability to call units from the hand was revolutionary, providing flexibility and board control that few other cards could match. This card quickly became the backbone of Royal Paladin decks, enabling players to adapt to various situations and maintain a strong presence on the field. The impact of King of Knights, Alfred cannot be overstated. He defined the Royal Paladin playstyle for years to come and paved the way for future Alfred iterations. His legacy as one of the most influential cards in Vanguard history is secure.

Blaster Blade

While not directly an "Alfred" card, Blaster Blade is intrinsically linked to Alfred. Many early Alfred decks revolved around using Blaster Blade as a key attacker and enabler. Cards like King of Knights, Alfred often facilitated getting Blaster Blade onto the field, maximizing his impact. Blaster Blade's synergy with Alfred was undeniable, and together they formed a formidable force. His ability to retire opposing rear-guards added another layer of control to the Royal Paladin strategy, making him an invaluable asset.

Knight of Conviction, Bors

Knight of Conviction, Bors was another important support card in early Alfred decks. His ability to boost the power of other Royal Paladin units helped to create powerful attacks and overwhelm opponents. Bors provided the necessary power boost to make Alfred's calls even more threatening. He exemplified the Royal Paladin's focus on teamwork and coordinated attacks, further solidifying the clan's identity.

Wingal

Wingal was a vital grade 0 starter in many early Royal Paladin decks. His skill allowed players to search their deck for Blaster Blade, ensuring that they had access to this key card early in the game. Wingal's consistency was crucial, helping players to set up their strategy and maintain momentum. He may have been a small unit, but his impact on the game was significant. He provided the necessary consistency to make the Royal Paladin strategy reliable and effective.

Impact on the Meta

The introduction of Alfred and his associated cards had a significant impact on the Cardfight Vanguard metagame. Royal Paladins quickly rose to prominence as one of the top-tier clans, thanks to their versatility, board control, and powerful attackers.

Royal Paladins became known for their ability to adapt to different matchups. Alfred's ability to call units from the hand allowed players to respond to their opponent's moves and maintain a strong field presence. This adaptability made them a difficult opponent to predict and counter. Their consistent access to key cards like Blaster Blade further enhanced their competitive edge. They were a force to be reckoned with, shaping the metagame and influencing deck-building strategies across all clans.

Moreover, the popularity of Alfred and Royal Paladins spurred innovation in other clans as players sought to develop strategies to counter them. This led to a more diverse and dynamic metagame, with new decks and tactics constantly emerging. Alfred's influence extended beyond his own clan, shaping the overall landscape of Cardfight Vanguard.

Why the Early Alfred Cards are Still Remembered

Even with numerous new expansions and power creep over the years, the early Alfred cards hold a special place in the hearts of many Vanguard players. Several factors contribute to their enduring appeal.

Nostalgia is a powerful force. For many players, the early Alfred cards represent their first experiences with Cardfight Vanguard. They evoke memories of learning the game, building their first decks, and battling against friends. These nostalgic connections make the early Alfred cards more than just pieces of cardboard; they are symbols of a shared history and a beloved game.

Furthermore, the simple yet effective design of the early Alfred cards is also a major draw. They were easy to understand and use, making them accessible to new players. Their straightforward abilities allowed players to focus on strategy and tactics, rather than being bogged down by complex mechanics. This simplicity made them both powerful and enjoyable to play.

Lastly, the iconic status of Alfred as a character within the Royal Paladin lore cannot be overlooked. He represents the ideals of knighthood, leadership, and courage. This thematic resonance adds another layer of appreciation for the Alfred cards. He's not just a card; he's a symbol of hope and inspiration. For many players, Alfred embodies the spirit of Cardfight Vanguard itself.

Conclusion

The early Alfred cards were instrumental in shaping Cardfight Vanguard and defining the Royal Paladin clan. Their impact on the metagame, their enduring appeal, and their thematic resonance have cemented their place in Vanguard history. Whether you're a long-time player or new to the game, understanding the legacy of Alfred is essential for appreciating the rich history and strategic depth of Cardfight Vanguard. So, next time you're building a Royal Paladin deck, take a moment to remember the King of Knights and his contribution to the game we all love!