Dark Maze MTG Card
1995-10-01 - Number 25b
1995-10-01 - Number 25a
1997-03-24 - Number 80
| Card sets | Released in 3 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 5 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Wall |
| Abilities | Defender |
| Power | 4 |
| Toughness | 5 |
Text of card
: Dark Maze can attack this turn. At end of turn, remove Dark Maze from the game. Dark Maze cannot attack the turn it comes under your control.
"Stray not into the path of darkness, or be lost forever." —Baki, Wizard Attendant
Cards like Dark Maze
In the realm of Magic: The Gathering, Dark Maze presents a unique dynamic as a massive wall creature, but it isn’t alone in its characteristics. When compared to other cards, Phyrexian Hulk stands out as another formidable creature, though it lacks the maze-like ability to become unblockable like Dark Maze. While Phyrexian Hulk offers solid stats, Dark Maze provides strategic flexibility, giving players the option to bypass enemy defenders at a pivotal moment in the game.
Mnemonic Wall is another card that shares some similarities with Dark Maze. While both serve defensive roles excellently, Mnemonic Wall has an additional function of returning an instant or sorcery card from your graveyard to your hand. This provides a recurring tactical advantage, albeit without the combat potential of Dark Maze. Additionally, Wall of Frost is worthy of mention; it not only defends but also partially neutralizes attacking creatures by freezing them for a turn.
Evaluating the various features of these walls, Dark Maze distinguishes itself as a versatile defender that can turn the tides by sneaking past the opponent’s lines, making it a notable card in MTG for its surprise offense within a defensive archetype.
Cards similar to Dark Maze by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Navigating your way through the twists and turns, Dark Maze allows you to draw additional cards, ensuring you keep your hand stocked with options.
Resource Acceleration: Dark Maze can unearth resources at a moment’s notice, quickening the pace at which you can deploy your threats and strategies.
Instant Speed: The capability to cast Dark Maze at instant speed affords you the flexibility to respond to the evolving battlefield, making strategic decisions on the fly.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: To fully deploy Dark Maze’s potential, you may have to discard another card which could deplete your hand when you might be needing all the resources you can get.
Specific Mana Cost: The mana cost for Dark Maze is quite specific, demanding a certain combination of mana types that may not seamlessly fit into multicolor decks, often necessitating a deck that is tailored to accommodate such requirements.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: When you consider what Dark Maze brings to the table, its mana cost is on the higher side. For the investment, players might expect a more immediate or impactful presence on the game, which other cards could provide at a lower cost or with more versatile effects.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Dark Maze offers a flexible solution within decks that thrive on maneuvering through complex board states. Its ability to navigate tight spots makes it a must-have for players who enjoy strategic depth and unexpected play twists.
Combo Potential: With Dark Maze, the opportunities to initiate or complement various combos are plentiful. Its unique mechanics can serve as a catalyst for powerful plays that can turn the tide of a game in your favor.
Meta-Relevance: In a game environment where being one step ahead can make all the difference, Dark Maze’s relevance becomes evident. It can adapt to the shifting landscapes of competitive play, providing an edge against a wide range of opposing tactics.
How to beat
Dark Maze is a unique card in the MTG realm known for its defensive capabilities, challenging opponents who might rely on combat strategies. One effective tactic to outmaneuver Dark Maze is through the use of removal spells. Spells like Doom Blade or Path to Exile can bypass Dark Maze’s defensive presence, allowing for a more direct route to your opponent’s life total.
Another strategy involves cards that prevent the Dark Maze from blocking. Cards such as Seize the Day or Rogue’s Passage can render the maze ineffective, offering a clear path for your attackers. Alternatively, utilizing abilities that tap creatures also proves fruitful, ensuring Dark Maze is out of commission when it’s time to declare attackers.
Lastly, considering that Dark Maze can potentially consume a player’s mana resources, focusing on an aggressive early game plan can pressure opponents before Dark Maze even becomes a factor. In sum, while Dark Maze can create a complex battlefield scenario, a well-prepared deck with targeted removal, evasion abilities, or swift aggression can navigate through its walls and secure victory.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Dark Maze MTG card by a specific set like Homelands and Homelands, 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 Dark Maze 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
See MTG Products
Printings
The Dark Maze Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 1995-10-01 and 1997-03-24. Illustrated by 2 different artists.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1995-10-01 | Homelands | HML | 25b | 1993 | Normal | Black | Rob Alexander | |
| 2 | 1995-10-01 | Homelands | HML | 25a | 1993 | Normal | Black | Rob Alexander | |
| 3 | 1997-03-24 | Fifth Edition | 5ED | 80 | 1997 | Normal | White | David Seeley |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Dark Maze has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |