Galepowder Mage MTG Card


Galepowder Mage excels in re-triggering enter-the-battlefield effects for strategic advantages. The Mage may disrupt synergy by returning creatures to hand and has a specific mana cost. Comparable cards offer similar effects, with differences in activation and immediacy.
Card setsReleased in 3 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Kithkin Wizard
Abilities Flying
Power 3
Toughness 3

Text of card

Flying Whenever Galepowder Mage attacks, remove another target creature from the game. Return that card to play under its owner's control at end of turn.


Cards like Galepowder Mage

Galepowder Mage stands out for its unique ability to control the battlefield. It shares some similarities with creatures like Mistmeadow Witch, which also offers the capability to blink other creatures. However, the Mage doesn’t require mana investment each time you want to activate its effect, unlike the Witch that demands consistent mana payment for its ability. This one-time trigger on attack enables a more mana-efficient strategy.

Another card in this comparison is Flickerwisp, which offers a similar effect of exiling another permanent. Flickerwisp, however, has a more immediate impact upon entering the battlefield, providing instant utility, whereas Galepowder Mage requires an attack phase to trigger its ability. Yet, in a game plan that includes multiple combat phases, the Mage can prove to be more versatile.

When evaluating utility and adaptability in creature control, Galepowder Mage introduces players to a dynamic form of interaction in the game. Its distinctive attack-triggered mechanism brings a strategic depth to the battlefield, establishing it as a formidable choice for decks emphasizing on flicker or blink effects within Magic: The Gathering.

Mistmeadow Witch - MTG Card versions
Flickerwisp - MTG Card versions
Mistmeadow Witch - MTG Card versions
Flickerwisp - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Galepowder Mage by color, type and mana cost

Northern Paladin - MTG Card versions
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Witch Hunter - MTG Card versions
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Kami of Old Stone - MTG Card versions
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Blinking Spirit - MTG Card versions
Seht's Tiger - MTG Card versions
Valor - MTG Card versions
Veteran of the Depths - MTG Card versions
Guardian Seraph - MTG Card versions
Lightkeeper of Emeria - MTG Card versions
Cho-Manno, Revolutionary - MTG Card versions
Northern Paladin - MTG Card versions
Moorish Cavalry - MTG Card versions
Witch Hunter - MTG Card versions
Carrier Pigeons - MTG Card versions
Tormented Angel - MTG Card versions
Seasoned Marshal - MTG Card versions
Coalition Honor Guard - MTG Card versions
Teroh's Vanguard - MTG Card versions
Mangara, the Diplomat - MTG Card versions
Akroma's Devoted - MTG Card versions
Leonin Abunas - MTG Card versions
Kami of Old Stone - MTG Card versions
Aven Cloudchaser - MTG Card versions
Blinking Spirit - MTG Card versions
Seht's Tiger - MTG Card versions
Valor - MTG Card versions
Veteran of the Depths - MTG Card versions
Guardian Seraph - MTG Card versions
Lightkeeper of Emeria - MTG Card versions
Cho-Manno, Revolutionary - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Galepowder Mage’s unique ability to exile another creature you control and return that card to the battlefield at the beginning step of the next end phase can be instrumental in triggering enter-the-battlefield abilities multiple times, providing a consistent advantage.

Resource Acceleration: By utilizing its ability to recurrently bounce creatures like mana dorks or permanents with land-fetching effects, the Galepowder Mage can indirectly contribute to resource ramp, setting you ahead in mana availability and board presence.

Instant Speed: Although the Mage itself does not operate at instant speed, it can be used in conjunction with flash creatures to create surprise blockers or to retrigger those creatures’ effects during the end step in a versatile and responsive manner, mirroring the tactical benefits of instant speed actions.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: While Galepowder Mage doesn’t require a card to be discarded, its blink ability necessitates a creature to be returned to your hand. This can be disadvantageous if your battlefield setup relies on synergistic creature combinations that you do not wish to disrupt.

Specific Mana Cost: Galepowder Mage has a specific mana cost that includes two white mana symbols. This cost structure can pose a challenge in multicolored decks, requiring a consistent source of white mana to play the card effectively.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Sitting at a four mana value, two of which are color-specific, Galepowder Mage’s casting cost is considerable, especially since it only has 2/2 stats. When evaluating the mana investment versus its onboard impact, some players might opt for lower cost creatures with similar or greater board influence.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Galepowder Mage brings a flexible approach to deck-building, enabling seamless integration into various playstyles. Its unique ability to exile and return creatures to the battlefield makes it an asset in decks that capitalize on enter-the-battlefield (ETB) effects.

Combo Potential: This card can set off a cascade of reactions when paired with creatures that have powerful ETB triggers. By repeatedly using Galepowder Mage’s ability in combination with these creatures, you can generate recurring value each turn.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta where creatures with strong ETB effects are prevalent, Galepowder Mage’s ability to reuse those effects can turn the tide of the game. Its relevance increases further in matchups that focus on creature-based strategies or when controlling the timing of creature abilities is crucial.


How to beat Galepowder Mage

Galepowder Mage is a unique creature known for its ability to shift the tides of a match in Magic: The Gathering. Known for its blink effect, Galepowder Mage can create significant advantage by temporarily removing creatures from the game and bringing them back with potent enter-the-battlefield effects. To outmaneuver this strategic play, it’s crucial to limit the Mage’s opportunities or remove it from play altogether.

One effective strategy is to employ instant-speed removal spells when Galepowder Mage attempts to activate its ability. This timing disrupts the blink combo, often leaving the opponent without the creature they sought to re-use. Counterspells are also effective, preventing the mage from entering the battlefield in the first place. Moreover, understanding the tempo of your opponent’s deck is crucial. If you apply pressure and force them to defend rather than utilizing Galepowder Mage’s ability offensively, you can maintain control. Cards that grant hexproof to your creatures or abilities that prevent targeting can also impede the effectiveness of Galepowder Mage.

In essence, beating Galepowder Mage hinges on smart play and disruption. A combination of removal, counterspells, and protective measures can ensure that this card doesn’t dominate the board and swing the game in your opponent’s favor.


BurnMana Recommendations

Dive deeper into the tactical play of MTG with cards like Galepowder Mage. Mastering its ability to multiply enter-the-battlefield advantages, resource acceleration strategies, and creating unexpected blockers can sharpen your competitive edge. Despite its costs, consider the mage’s potential to fundamentally alter game dynamics through its blink effect. Whether in mono-white builds or alongside other flicker-friendly cards, Galepowder Mage may just be the wildcard that propels your deck to victory. Ready for an in-depth analysis and strategic tips that could transform your gameplay? Join us to enhance your MTG prowess and discover the full potential of Galepowder Mage in your deck.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Galepowder Mage MTG card by a specific set like Lorwyn and Duel Decks: Venser vs. Koth, 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 Galepowder Mage and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Galepowder Mage Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2007-10-12 and 2022-06-10. Illustrated by Jeremy Jarvis.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12007-10-12LorwynLRW 152003NormalBlackJeremy Jarvis
22012-03-30Duel Decks: Venser vs. KothDDI 122003NormalBlackJeremy Jarvis
32022-06-10Commander Legends: Battle for Baldur's GateCLB 6942015NormalBlackJeremy Jarvis

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Galepowder Mage has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2007-10-01 Galepowder Mage's ability can target a creature controlled by any player. It's not optional.
2007-10-01 If Galepowder Mage is the only creature on the battlefield when it attacks, its ability has no effect.
2007-10-01 The exiled card will be returned to the battlefield at the beginning of the end step even if Galepowder Mage is no longer on the battlefield at that time.