So, I cracked 18 prize packs just now. I pulled two high value mythics in All is Dust and Vengevine. I was lucky to get two mythic that good in my half box.

With all of my rares and mythics combined I'm looking at a total value of around $66.20. Retails for 18 packs is $76.13 (with tax). If I had bought those packs in a store like Meijer, I'd have lost money.

Sure, if I'd have split a $90 box with someone, it would be okay. My half is $45, and my cards are worth more.

What I'm wondering though is with most of the money shifting into mythics if it is still worth opening packs in a lesser quantity. Do I have to open a case to feel like I'm making my money? Overall am I going to be disappointed if I just pick up a pack every other time I go to Meijer?

It seem like you're better off just buying rares, even if you have to pay elevated prices. I may pay $40 for a Baneslayer, but odds are I'm not going to find one in the 9 packs I bought at Meijer.