What is the principle behind this deck, and why play it?

• Kill your opponent with Desert Hand, Desert Meteor, and Desert Wave.
• Learn advanced mana management with Sand/Desert interactions.
• Learn and use the Protector keyword wisely.

Why the Crow?

• To get the game off to a good start, because Sand is a theme that depends heavily on its opening moves.
• To bring in an additional source of damage thanks to its signature spell.
• To draw cards, because this deck will require significant and situational setup.

The Scarab and the Cat are also two valid choices, each bringing their own specificities. However, the Crow is easier to use. What cards could be suggested?

• Defense: Antimatter, Calcination, Dazzle, Pulverize, Stunning Thunder. Iron Will would have a particular use here (try it to understand why).
• Damage: There are few Desert spells, so increasing damage spells would mean looking for bridge alternatives such as Zephyr and Air Blade thanks to Sirocco, various Trees thanks to Seed of the Sands, Wave Echo and Surging Wave thanks to Drop and Wave. Consider Equipment or other offensive Animals. Finally, Crumbling Rock.
• Draw: Brilliant Inspiration with Flash of Inspiration, Sirocco. As an extreme bridge, even Floral Infusion could be considered.
• Utility: Echo and Stellar Fractal to reuse Desert spells, Ecdysis Ritual for the most daring ones (even looking for Bastion with Wall of Ice?), Desert Rose depending on the orientation.