Crag Saurian MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Type | Creature — Lizard |
| Released | 1999-10-04 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Mercadian Masques |
| Set code | MMQ |
| Power | 4 |
| Toughness | 4 |
| Number | 185 |
| Frame | 1997 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Matthew D. Wilson |
Text of card
Whenever Crag Saurian is dealt damage, the controller of that damage's source gains control of Crag Saurian.
It follows the strongest leader—the one with the longest whip.
Cards like Crag Saurian
Crag Saurian maintains a unique position among creatures in Magic: The Gathering with its unusual damage redirect ability. When compared to counterparts like Silverclad Ferocidons, which forces a player to sacrifice a permanent when it’s dealt damage, Crag Saurian’s condition of controlling no other creatures to redirect damage seems less disruptive to a player’s board state.
Likewise, Boros Reckoner shares the trait of dealing damage to a player or creature when it’s harmed, creating potential for substantial impact in a game. However, this ability is inherently different from Crag Saurian’s, which doesn’t require it to be damaged, merely for you to control no other creatures. Lastly, Stuffy Doll presents a similar damage redirect effect but with a narrower focus, targeting a chosen opponent once and only when it’s dealt damage.
Each card provides its player with unique strategic advantages, yet Crag Saurian offers a more defensive tactic to Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts, distinguishing it within this dynamic group of damage redirecting creatures. Players looking for a card that can protect their life total in a creature-light deck might find Crag Saurian a valuable addition to their collection.
Cards similar to Crag Saurian by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: The impactful presence of Crag Saurian in your hand can be a game-changer. With its ability to return to your hand from the battlefield if damaged by a source without precision, it often offers a repeating blocker that makes your opponent think twice before attacking, thereby preserving your card advantage.
Resource Acceleration: Crag Saurian’s unique mechanics don’t directly accelerate resources. However, its survivability indirectly allows players to invest resources into other spells and permanents confidently, knowing that Crag Saurian can hold the line and prevent resource-draining damage.
Instant Speed: While not an instant itself, Crag Saurian flexes its strength in decks that operate at instant speed. When combined with other instant speed interactions, you keep the pace and unpredictability of play in your favor. Combine this with protective instants or surprise damage spells for maximum effect, and watch your Crag Saurian deter attackers turn after turn.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: When deploying Crag Saurian, one of the drawbacks is its discard condition that comes into play. You’re compelled to let go of another card, a move that could put you at a disadvantage, especially when hand size is crucial for your strategy’s success.
Specific Mana Cost: This creature card demands a specific combination of mana, one that includes both red and green. This can be restrictive and often results in the card being overlooked in favor of more versatile options that can easily fit into a variety of mana bases.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: Crag Saurian’s mana cost is on the higher side, considering its overall impact in the game. With several alternatives available, players may lean towards options that either provide greater immediate board presence or offer additional value at a lower mana investment.
Reasons to Include Crag Saurian in Your Collection
Versatility: Crag Saurian offers flexibility to decks that capitalize on creatures that can persist on the battlefield. Tailored for environments where damage is frequently dealt, it can thrive in multiple game situations.
Combo Potential: Pairing well with damage amplification and enablers, this card can create synergies that turn occasional damage into significant threats. Utilize it in strategies that benefit from consistent damage output.
Meta-Relevance: In a meta dominated by creatures and combat, Crag Saurian can deter opponents from targeting it, making it a potential staple in creature-heavy decks. Its ability to recover from damage makes it worth considering for inclusion.
How to beat
Overcoming Crag Saurian in MTG is all about understanding its strengths and finding ways to maneuver around them. This robust creature card can prove challenging with its potential to quickly turn the tides of combat. With Crag Saurian’s ability to gain life points equal to its power when it is targeted by a spell or ability your opponent controls, it can often bounce back from setbacks that might cripple other creatures.
However, the key lies in its specificity — it’s triggered only by your opponent’s spells or abilities. Therefore, to effectively contend with Crag Saurian, it’s advisable to utilize global effects that don’t target, like board wipe spells or damage that affects all creatures. This could mean opting for cards like Wrath of God or Blasphemous Act, allowing you to clear the board without giving your adversary an advantage. Another strategy could be to apply pressure with creatures that have death-touch or using spells that force the opponent to sacrifice creatures, thereby circumventing Crag Saurian’s beneficial trigger. By strategically using these methods, players can mitigate the impact of facing this formidable adversary on the battlefield.
It’s also prudent to manage the pace of your gameplay, as a proactive approach can prevent your opponent from amassing the necessary resources to fully leverage Crag Saurian’s abilities, steering the game in your favor.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Crag Saurian MTG card by a specific set like Mercadian Masques, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.
For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.
Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.
Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Crag Saurian and other MTG cards:
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- eBay
- Card Kingdom
- Card Market
- Star City Games
- CoolStuffInc
- MTG Mint Card
- Hareruya
- Troll and Toad
- ABU Games
- Card Hoarder Magic Online
- MTGO Traders Magic Online
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Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Crag Saurian has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |