Game-Trail Changeling MTG Card
2008-02-01 - Number 123
2020-03-08 - Number 67
2020-09-26 - Number MOR-123
| Card sets | Released in 3 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 5 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Shapeshifter |
| Abilities | Changeling,Trample |
| Power | 4 |
| Toughness | 4 |
Text of card
Changeling (This card is every creature type at all times.) Trample
"I pity them, never knowing the pleasures of a single familiar form, but at least they find a noble shape at times." —Desmera, perfect of Wren's Run
Cards like Game-Trail Changeling
Game-Trail Changeling makes its mark within the vast library of creatures in Magic: The Gathering. This card shares traits with the changeling archetype, like Woodland Changeling, but holds an edge with its generous 4/4 stats. Both cards possess the chameleon-like ability to fit into any tribal-themed deck, yet Game-Trail Changeling stands out with its size, being more of a force on the battlefield.
Morph creatures like Exalted Angel also tout versatility, allowing you to surprise opponents by unveiling a different creature mid-game. However, while the morph ability adds an element of mystery, the changeling ability of Game-Trail Changeling is a consistent asset, readily matching the types of other creatures you control or spells you cast. Amoeboid Changeling offers a similar changeling utility but is more focused on manipulating creature types rather than presenting a robust combat presence.
Therefore, Game-Trail Changeling demonstrates its value as a flexible and formidable creature. Its utility in tribal decks and significant power level are factors that make it a considerable option for players who appreciate the adaptability of changelings with the added benefit of a strong board presence.
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Game-Trail Changeling offers a noticeable advantage by contributing towards your creature count, which can be pivotal for mechanics that rely on creature numbers or types such as tribal synergies. This effect essentially broadens your onboard presence without the need to draw multiple creatures.
Resource Acceleration: As a Changeling, this card can unexpectedly accelerate your resource management by fitting into virtually any tribal-themed deck. It thus enables an increased range of interactions, potentially unlocking tribal-specific ramp or cost reductions sooner than anticipated.
Instant Speed: With many creatures in MTG being sorcery speed reliant, an ability to act with instant speed is not directly associated with Game-Trail Changeling. However, its implications for decks that require quick adaptive strategies are implicit. Being a Changeling, it can receive instant-speed buffs or benefits from cards that affect specific creature types, making it a versatile tool during either player’s turn.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Game-Trail Changeling requires no discard when played, however, its utility may suffer in decks that synergize with discard mechanics and benefit from cards leaving the hand.
Specific Mana Cost: While the Game-Trail Changeling’s cost is not color-specific, thus not restricting it to a particular mana pool, its five-mana cost can be a setback when attempting to maintain a tempo or cast multiple spells in a turn.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: Costing five mana to summon, Game-Trail Changeling’s impact on the board may not justify its cost, particularly when compared to other changelings or tribal-enhancing creatures that could be played for less.
Reasons to Include Game-Trail Changeling in Your Collection
Versatility: Game-Trail Changeling has the changeling ability, meaning it is every creature type at all times. This makes it a highly adaptable card that can be slotted into various tribal decks, enhancing synergies across board states.
Combo Potential: Being a shape-shifter, it pairs well with cards that search for specific creature types or those that trigger effects when a certain type of creature enters the battlefield. It can be the missing piece in many combos due to its universal compatibility with tribal-focused mechanics.
Meta-Relevance: Given that the landscape of the game often shifts with new releases and deck adaptations, a creature like Game-Trail Changeling maintains relevance. It can be a strategic inclusion against decks that target specific creature types, as it morphs seamlessly into what’s needed when facing an ever-changing competitive environment.
How to beat
Game-Trail Changeling is a unique creature card with a twist in its tribal versatility, as it can blend into any creature type, which makes it a handy tool in various MTG tribal decks. Despite this chameleon-like ability, defeating it requires a straightforward approach. Recognize that it is a shapeshifter with no inherent protection, so removal spells are particularly effective against it.
Targeted removal such as Doom Blade or Path to Exile can expel the changeling from the battlefield before it can be utilized for tribal synergies. Moreover, since it doesn’t have hexproof or indestructible, board wipes like Wrath of God or Damnation will sweep it away with no fuss. Despite its adaptability, Game-Trail Changeling doesn’t boast a high toughness, making it susceptible to damage-based removal like Shock or Lightning Bolt too.
Ultimately, its strength lies in its tribal role, not in combat durability. By prioritizing its removal or thwarting tribal effects, players can mitigate the benefits it grants to the opponent. It’s essential to act swiftly before the opponent can capitalize on tribal combos that could turn the tide of the game.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Game-Trail Changeling MTG card by a specific set like Morningtide and Mystery Booster Retail Edition Foils, 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 Game-Trail Changeling 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 Game-Trail Changeling Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2008-02-01 and 2020-03-08. Illustrated by Martina Pilcerova.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2008-02-01 | Morningtide | MOR | 123 | 2003 | Normal | Black | Martina Pilcerova | |
| 2 | 2020-03-08 | Mystery Booster Retail Edition Foils | FMB1 | 67 | 2003 | Normal | Black | Martina Pilcerova | |
| 3 | The List | PLST | MOR-123 | 2003 | Normal | Black | Martina Pilcerova |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Game-Trail Changeling has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |