Pyromantic Pilgrim MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Human Wizard |
| Abilities | Haste |
| Released | 2018-04-27 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Dominaria |
| Set code | DOM |
| Power | 3 |
| Toughness | 1 |
| Number | 278 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Magali Villeneuve |
Key Takeaways
- The haste trait of Pyromantic Pilgrim supports aggressive strategies by allowing immediate action upon entering the battlefield.
- While having a specific mana cost, its early game presence can curve out plays for tempo advantages in MTG.
- Despite a moderate casting cost, the Pilgrim’s quick strike ability maintains relevance in fast-paced match scenarios.
Text of card
Haste (This creature can attack and as soon as it comes under your control.)
"From the volcanoes of Shiv to the Balduvian steppes, I have sought a worthy teacher. At last, I have found one."
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Pyromantic Pilgrim doesn’t directly provide card draw, but it does offer a form of virtual card advantage. By presenting a threat that must be dealt with, it can force the opponent to use their removal spells, thereby preserving your other, potentially more valuable, creatures on the board.
Resource Acceleration: While the Pyromantic Pilgrim itself doesn’t accelerate resources in the traditional sense of providing extra mana, its moderate casting cost of three mana enables it to hit the battlefield relatively early, aiding in curving out your plays and maintaining a tempo advantage.
Instant Speed: Although Pyromantic Pilgrim is a creature that you cast at sorcery speed, its impact on the game can be immediate, especially if played on curve. In formats that favor quick burst plays or ones that require immediate board presence, the Pilgrim’s ability to come down early and start applying pressure can be beneficial. It’s also worth mentioning that its Haste ability allows it to swing in right away, which can catch an opponent off guard.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: This card lacks a discard mechanic which may limit synergy opportunities with decks designed to utilize discard strategies to their advantage.
Specific Mana Cost: Pyromantic Pilgrim’s mana cost demands a complete commitment to red mana sources, which can be restrictive and not as fluid in multicolored decks.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: The Pilgrim comes with a moderate mana cost, yet its overall impact on the game may not justify the investment, especially when compared to other creatures in the same mana range.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Pyromantic Pilgrim offers a solid choice for decks needing a quick and impactful creature. With haste, it’s ready to attack or provide defense as soon as it hits the battlefield.
Combo Potential: This card works well in synergy with spells that capitalize on dealing damage or spells that benefit from creatures entering the field quickly.
Meta-Relevance: Given its ability to immediately pressure an opponent, Pyromantic Pilgrim remains relevant in fast-paced games where tempo plays a crucial role.
How to beat
Pyromantic Pilgrim is a unique card in the MTG landscape, known for its ability to grant haste to your creatures. It shines in decks that aim to deliver quick, aggressive strikes. Yet, this early game advantage can be turned on its head with a few strategic plays. Tackling this card effectively involves thwarting that initial rush and stabilizing the board.
Control decks employing board wipes like Wrath of God or spot removal such as Path to Exile can efficiently remove Pyromantic Pilgrim from play. Another strategy is to put up early blockers that can withstand or trade with the 3/1 body of the Pilgrim. It’s also a non-legendary creature, making it vulnerable to cards like Essence Scatter when cast or Ravenous Trap if employed in multiples.
The key is to anticipate the tempo and to use your resources wisely, as removing the Pilgrim mitigates the threat of haymakers landing too early in the game. Adapt your playstyle to respect the haste but remember that it’s just one piece in your opponent’s strategy. Keep cool, manage the board, and Pyromantic Pilgrim’s impact will be no more than a fleeting spark.
Cards like Pyromantic Pilgrim
Pyromantic Pilgrim is a capable and aggressive creature card within Magic the Gathering. Standing alongside cards such as Raging Goblin, the Pilgrim holds its ground by offering haste to sprint into action immediately. Raging Goblin provides similar rapid board presence due to its haste ability but comes at a lesser power stat.
Another noteworthy comparison is to Lava Runner, which shares the same haste trait but also demands a bit more setup to increase its power. Whereas Lava Runner requires two instant or sorcery cards in the graveyard to boost its potency, Pyromantic Pilgrim demands no such buildup, allowing it to exert pressure right away.
Ash Zealot also falls into the same category, with haste and a potent ability that punishes opponents for graveyard interactions. While Ash Zealot has a built-in tool for disrupting strategies, Pyromantic Pilgrim’s straightforward, uncomplicated playstyle serves well in a fast-pace deck that aims to overwhelm players early in the game.
Though each card excels in different scenarios, Pyromantic Pilgrim’s immediate playability and substantial power make it a solid choice for any player looking to apply quick pressure in Magic the Gathering.
Cards similar to Pyromantic Pilgrim by color, type and mana cost
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Pyromantic Pilgrim MTG card by a specific set like Dominaria, 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 Pyromantic Pilgrim and other MTG cards:
- eBay
- TCG Player
- 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
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Pyromantic Pilgrim has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |
