The main advantage of this faction is its ability to increase the efficiency and strength of each Board tile with the use of a new mechanic called Mana. Each of the Academics Order tiles generate Mana, and it’s critical for the player to decide which Champion or Rune should be charged with it first. That won’t be an easy decision to make, especially with a couple of new effects like Healing Hands or Mesmerization. With an even number of Melee and Ranged Champions, there is plenty of flexibility, and it’s up to the player whether to charge Ranged or Melee champions to push forward either of those strategies.