Changes ranging from a vastly increased Grand Prix schedule, looking at roughly 40 events in 2012, to the removal of regional pre-releases, as well as Wizards moving to make Pro Tours exclusive and private events rather than pursuing the Magic Weekend Paris model. Today's announcement contains many interesting nuggets about the future of competitive Magic.

Read the original announcement.

Here are the main bullet points based on our reading of the announcement:

1. A large increase in the number of GPs happening in 2012 with their target number being 40.
2. The Grand Prixes become the real marquee event for the general Magic playing public, the increased number means more locations which haven't held GPs before.
3. With this increase in GPs it means an increase in support and training for the judge program.
4. They won't be announcing a full year's schedule anymore, rather releasing in waves.
5. Regional pre-releases are cancelled after the Magic 2012 set pre-release instead letting stores handle them, Grand Prixes will become the main events for regions.
6. Expect more in-store leagues and play opportunities.
7. Read this Friday's "The Week that Was" for more info.