Cryptbreaker MTG Card


Zombies present a dynamic strategy, with Cryptbreaker offering both token creation and critical card draw. Effective in multiple deck types, Cryptbreaker can accelerate board presence and maintain hand resources. Understanding its limitations is key to integrating Cryptbreaker into your MTG deck building tactics.
Card setsReleased in 3 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost1
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Zombie
Power 1
Toughness 1

Text of card

, , Discard a card: Put a 2/2 black Zombie creature token onto the battlefield. Tap three untapped Zombies you control: You draw a card and you lose 1 life.


Cards like Cryptbreaker

Cryptbreaker carves a niche within Magic: The Gathering as a compelling option for zombie tribal strategies. Its resemblance to other cards, such as Gravecrawler, is not lost on players who value creature recursion. While Gravecrawler allows you to cast it from the graveyard if you control a Zombie, Cryptbreaker brings versatility with the ability to create Zombie tokens and draw cards.

Another card worth comparing is Diregraf Colossus which offers a ramp in Zombie presence on the battlefield each time you cast a Zombie spell. Although it doesn’t grant the card advantage that Cryptbreaker provides, it compensates with increased zombie production without the need for tapping other Zombies or sacrificing life points. Additionally, Lord of the Accursed can amplify your zombie horde with a menacing boost, yet it lacks the utility of drawing and pitching cards that Cryptbreaker offers.

Ultimately, choosing Cryptbreaker situates players into a strategic position, balancing Zombie token generation and incremental card advantage. Such dual functionality stands out amongst single-focus cards in zombie decks, confirming Cryptbreaker’s valued spot in MTG.

Gravecrawler - MTG Card versions
Diregraf Colossus - MTG Card versions
Lord of the Accursed - MTG Card versions
Gravecrawler - MTG Card versions
Diregraf Colossus - MTG Card versions
Lord of the Accursed - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Cryptbreaker by color, type and mana cost

Stone-Throwing Devils - MTG Card versions
Will-o'-the-Wisp - MTG Card versions
Vampire Bats - MTG Card versions
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Vebulid - MTG Card versions
Zodiac Rat - MTG Card versions
Urborg Skeleton - MTG Card versions
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Foulmire Knight // Profane Insight - MTG Card versions
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Plague Beetle - MTG Card versions
Festering Goblin - MTG Card versions
Sleeper Agent - MTG Card versions
Knucklebone Witch - MTG Card versions
Nightshade Stinger - MTG Card versions
Smolder Initiate - MTG Card versions
Stone-Throwing Devils - MTG Card versions
Will-o'-the-Wisp - MTG Card versions
Vampire Bats - MTG Card versions
Bog Rats - MTG Card versions
Sewer Rats - MTG Card versions
Muck Rats - MTG Card versions
Vebulid - MTG Card versions
Zodiac Rat - MTG Card versions
Urborg Skeleton - MTG Card versions
Carrion Rats - MTG Card versions
Foulmire Knight // Profane Insight - MTG Card versions
Dark Supplicant - MTG Card versions
Bile Urchin - MTG Card versions
Rimebound Dead - MTG Card versions
Plague Beetle - MTG Card versions
Festering Goblin - MTG Card versions
Sleeper Agent - MTG Card versions
Knucklebone Witch - MTG Card versions
Nightshade Stinger - MTG Card versions
Smolder Initiate - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Cryptbreaker. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Dimir ZombiesDimir Zombies ModernDimir ZombiesModern Preliminary 2024-04-17
UBGUBG ModernModern League 2024-03-30
DecklistDecklist Free formHoliday Night Magic
ZombiesZombies LegacyEternal Challenge 23

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Cryptbreaker enables players to capitalize on card advantage by drawing a card for each tapped Zombie at the cost of one black mana and tapping three untapped Zombies. This card’s ability is a steady engine that keeps a player’s hand stocked and could potentially lead to overwhelming the opposition with options.

Resource Acceleration: Cryptbreaker excels at resource acceleration by allowing players to tap only two mana (one of which is black) to create a 2/2 black Zombie creature token. This action can be executed at any time you could cast a sorcery, paving the way for a formidable army of Zombies in no time.

Instant Speed: The draw ability of Cryptbreaker, while contingent on the tapping of three Zombies, does not require sorcery speed and can be utilized at instant speed. This allows savvy players to end their turn without taking any visible actions and then, should the right moment arise during an opponent’s turn, they can quickly tap their Zombies to draw, all without missing a beat.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Cryptbreaker necessitates the discarding of a card to activate its zombie-creating ability. This can put players in a precarious position, particularly when hand size is running thin, potentially depleting valuable resources needed for later in the game.

Specific Mana Cost: Having a mana cost that requires black mana may restrict Cryptbreaker’s integration into multicolor decks. This limitation can be particularly problematic in formats that value mana base flexibility.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: While not exorbitant, Cryptbreaker’s initial investment, and subsequent activation costs, demand a solid mana foundation. In scenarios where speed is of the essence, the mana spent on utilizing Cryptbreaker’s abilities may surpass what other cards in the same mana range could offer, making it a less than optimal choice in certain deck builds.


Reasons to Include Cryptbreaker in Your Collection

Versatility: Cryptbreaker demonstrates flexibility by fitting seamlessly into zombie-themed decks and various black-based control or midrange decks. Its ability to create tokens and draw cards makes it a valuable asset in multiple scenarios.

Combo Potential: The synergy with other zombie-type cards is impressive as it can create a wide network of interactions. When paired with cards that benefit from creatures entering the battlefield or dying, Cryptbreaker amplifies the potential for powerful combos.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta where creature strategies are prevalent, Cryptbreaker’s consistent zombie token generation can serve as a formidable defense while its card drawing ability ensures you maintain card advantage against opponents.


How to beat

Cryptbreaker is an intriguing card in MTG, offering players the ability to efficiently create zombie tokens and draw cards. These abilities make it a valuable asset in decks focusing on zombie synergy and incremental advantages. To effectively counter Cryptbreaker, it is crucial to disrupt the cycle of token generation and card draw it facilitates.

Removal spells are a straightforward method to handle Cryptbreaker. Quick action is key; eliminating it before tokens are created is ideal. In metas heavy with creatures, board wipes can reset the state of play, negating the accumulated advantage. Enchantment-based disruption, like Rest in Peace, can also hinder graveyard strategies that Cryptbreaker might be a part of.

Spot removal spells like Fatal Push or Path to Exile can be especially efficient against Cryptbreaker due to their low mana cost. Another effective tactic is to use cards with exile effects, preventing it from returning to play from graveyard recursion. Always consider the cost of leaving Cryptbreaker unchecked, as it can quickly outpace your strategies if not dealt with promptly.


BurnMana Recommendations

Magic the Gathering enthusiasts know that a powerful deck is much more than a collection of cards; it’s a carefully assembled arsenal designed for victory. With Cryptbreaker, you’re not just playing with creatures; you’re orchestrating an undead symphony that brings relentless pressure and card advantage to the table. For those keen on delving deeper into zombie strategies or refining their black-based decks, Cryptbreaker serves as a pivotal force. Embrace the savvy use of mana, and manipulate the battlefield to your advantage. Discover more ways to harness the full potential of Cryptbreaker and other synergistic cards. Enhance your deck, refine your strategy, and thrive in the MTG arena.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Cryptbreaker MTG card by a specific set like Eldritch Moon and Eldritch Moon Promos, 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 Cryptbreaker and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Cryptbreaker Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2016-07-22 and 2019-11-21. Illustrated by Darek Zabrocki.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12016-07-22Eldritch MoonEMN 862015NormalBlackDarek Zabrocki
22016-07-22Eldritch Moon PromosPEMN 86s2015NormalBlackDarek Zabrocki
32019-11-21Historic Anthology 1HA1 62015NormalBlackDarek Zabrocki

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Cryptbreaker has restrictions

FormatLegality
HistoricbrawlLegal
CommanderLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
GladiatorLegal
PioneerLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Cryptbreaker card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date Text
2016-07-13 You can tap any three untapped Zombies you control, including ones you haven’t controlled continuously since the beginning of your most recent turn, to pay the cost of Cryptbreaker’s second activated ability. This includes Cryptbreaker itself.