Dwarven Nomad MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Dwarf Nomad |
| Released | 1996-10-08 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Mirage |
| Set code | MIR |
| Power | 1 |
| Toughness | 1 |
| Number | 170 |
| Frame | 1997 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Mike Kimble |
Text of card
oc T: Target creature with power 2 or less is unblockable this turn.
A dwarf's life belongs as much to the land as to the dwarf. —Creed of the Stonethrow Clan
Cards like Dwarven Nomad
Dwarven Nomad brings a unique twist to the roster of red creature spells in MTG. Its ability to gain Mountainwalk can be likened to creatures like Zo-Zu the Punisher, who also boasts a relationship with lands but opts instead to punish players for land plays. The nomad differs by allowing evasion treading the mountains unblockable.
Compared to other creatures with landwalk abilities, Dwarven Nomad stands out because of its simplicity and direct approach to combat. A card like Tunnel, while not a creature, shares the thematic resonance by making target walls unblockable, underpinning the dwarven ability to bypass obstacles. However, Tunnel is a one-shot effect, while the Nomad continues to provide value each turn it remains on the field.
Through comparing Dwarven Nomad to these similar MTG cards, it’s clear that while it may not have the punishing effects of Zo-Zu or the instant utility of Tunnel, its consistent potential to remain unblockable as long as there are mountains to tread on provides steady advantage, particularly in mountain-heavy decks.
Cards similar to Dwarven Nomad by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: The Dwarven Nomad allows players to potentially bypass blockers and keep pivotal attackers ready for consecutive turns. This ability can translate into drawing extra cards if paired with card-drawing engines that are reliant on combat damage.
Resource Acceleration: By untapping your own creatures, the Dwarven Nomad can be used to effectively “renew” resources, particularly in decks that have tap abilities tied to mana generation or other valuable effects.
Instant Speed: The Nomad’s ability can be activated at instant speed, providing flexibility and surprise tactics during combat. This allows for strategic shifts in the middle of battle, potentially turning the tide by saving key creatures from unfavorable blocks or by enabling surprise blockades.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: The Dwarven Nomad card requires a card discard to activate its ability. This cost can be counterproductive when you’re trying to maintain hand advantage or when you’re holding onto key cards necessary for your game plan.
Specific Mana Cost: Dwarven Nomad can only be played with red mana. This specificity might restrict the card to monored or two-color decks that can support red mana, potentially excluding it from being a viable option in multicolor decks that don’t include red.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: Investment in casting Dwarven Nomad can be substantial compared to other cards with similar or more powerful effects. With a significant portion of your mana tied up to cast this one creature, it may not offer the same level of impact as other cards at a lower cost, leading to inefficiencies within your overall strategy.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: The Dwarven Nomad card offers flexibility as it can be incorporated into various deck types that leverage creature abilities to outmaneuver opponents.
Combo Potential: This particular nomad is known for its synergy with cards that capitalize on tap and untap mechanics, potentially unlocking numerous combinations to gain a competitive edge.
Meta-Relevance: With the shifting landscape of the game’s competitive environment, having Dwarven Nomad can adapt your strategy to the widespread tactics, possibly granting you a significant advantage over decks that are unprepared for your innovative tactics.
How to beat
Overcoming a Dwarven Nomad in MTG requires understanding its potential and limitations. This card has the ability to shift the balance of a match with its evasive maneuvers. To effectively counteract it, one could focus on removal spells that can bypass the card’s activation cost and effects. Board wipes or spot removal cards like Doom Blade and Path to Exile can be invaluable as they can eliminate the Dwarven Nomad regardless of its current position on the battlefield.
Moreover, ensuring a strong defense is key. Deploy creatures with reach or those that can block multiple attackers, fortifying your line against the Nomad’s onslaught. Lastly, use strategies that limit your opponent’s abilities to untap their creatures or that lock down potential threats preemptively. Cards such as Frost Breath or Imposing Sovereign can disrupt your opponent’s rhythm and give you an edge, neutralizing the advantages that Dwarven Nomad might otherwise confer.
With the appropriate tactics and responses ready, you’ll find that the Dwarven Nomad, while formidable, can be outmaneuvered and rendered less effective in the grand scheme of your game plan.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Dwarven Nomad MTG card by a specific set like Mirage, 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 Dwarven Nomad 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
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Dwarven Nomad has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |