/AR

Alternate Reality monsters, also called "/AR Monsters" due to the addition on the end of the name, are similar to Malefic monsters due to the fact that they are newer versions of classic and iconic Duel Monsters. The /AR Monsters appear to be more realistic and stylized than their anime versions. These monsters count as their original counterparts, but they are also treated as Synchro Monsters. They also require a few extra requirements for Tribute Summoning. Furthermore, they can be Synchro Summoned from your Deck instead of your Extra Deck, and they do not count towards your 15-card Extra Deck limit. They also have upgraded versions of their effects or attacks, like Blue-Eyes White Dragon/AR has Burst Stream of Destruction built in, or Stardust Dragon/AR's signature effect, "Victim Sanctuary", cannot be stopped by your opponent's card effects. Because they count as Synchro Monsters, they gain the advantages and disadvantages of the type. However, they have the advantage and disadvantage of being in your Deck. Fortunately, they do have several support cards. They also have a pair of related monsters: Hope Dragon and Solace Dragon, Itsu's true ace cards. Hope Dragon is a rare Fusion Tuner Monster that makes Winged Kuriboh look like Thousand-Eyes Idol in comparison in terms of defense and protection. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Solace Dragon combines aspect of its parents, Stardust Dragon and Black Rose Dragon. Solace Dragon can Special Summon herself from Itsu's Graveyard if Itsu doesn't control any monsters, and whenever she is Special Summoned, she removes a card from play. Combine that with 3700 ATK and 3300 DEF, and you have a powerhouse of a Synchro Monster. However, Solace requires a Fusion Tuner an a Level 7 or higher Dragon-Type monster to be Synchro Summoned, though, since a good portion of the "/AR" monsters fulfill that qualification, it isn't too hard. Overall, The "/AR" monsters can easily give even the most experiences duelist a run for their money, especially when combined with the shock value of having to fight legendary monsters, which is exactly the way Itsu likes to play.