Gandalf the Grey MTG Card


Gandalf the Grey enhances strategic depth through resource acceleration and card advantage. Instant speed and versatile response make Gandalf a formidable presence during gameplay. High mana cost and specific mana requirements represent potential deck-building challenges.
Card setsReleased in 6 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost5
RarityRare
TypeLegendary Creature — Avatar Wizard
Power 3
Toughness 4

Text of card

Whenever you cast an instant or sorcery spell, choose one that hasn't been chosen — • You may tap or untap target permanent. • Gandalf the Grey deals 3 damage to each opponent. • Copy target instant or sorcery spell you control. You may choose new targets for the copy. • Put Gandalf on top of its owner's library.


Cards like Gandalf the Grey

Gandalf the Grey is a character that resonates deeply with fantasy enthusiasts, stirring excitement for his interpreted card form in the MTG realm. While not an official MTG card, fans have creatively imagined what Gandalf the Grey’s attributes might be, often aligning him with spellcasting versatility and wisdom. Comparable to Gandalf’s conceptual abilities are MTG’s archmages, such as Azami, Lady of Scrolls who accelerates card advantage by tapping wizards. Both figures serve as keystones for their respective decks, providing consistent card draw, albeit through different mechanics.

Another MTG character exhibiting Gandalf-like qualities is Narset, Parter of Veils. Narset limits opponents’ card draws while simultaneously digging into the library for noncreature spells, mirroring Gandalf’s strategic guidance and knowledge. However, Gandalf’s imagined role often encompasses a broader scope of spell mastery and manipulation. In the realm of magical guidance, Jace, Vryn’s Prodigy stands out as a transformative card, becoming a planeswalker with the potential for diverse spell recasting, a trait one could envision for a Gandalf-influenced card.

Gandalf the Grey, as a conceptual MTG card, shines with magical command and deck guidance. Though not officially in play, it’s clear that his essence echoes through existing characters, reflecting the versatility and influence one would expect from Middle-earth’s iconic wizard.

Azami, Lady of Scrolls - MTG Card versions
Narset, Parter of Veils - MTG Card versions
Azami, Lady of Scrolls - MTG Card versions
Narset, Parter of Veils - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Gandalf the Grey by color, type and mana cost

Minotaur Illusionist - MTG Card versions
Kraum, Ludevic's Opus - MTG Card versions
Hypersonic Dragon - MTG Card versions
Uvilda, Dean of Perfection // Nassari, Dean of Expression - MTG Card versions
Ogre Savant - MTG Card versions
Izzet Chronarch - MTG Card versions
Stormcloud Djinn - MTG Card versions
Dominus of Fealty - MTG Card versions
Talonrend - MTG Card versions
Spellbound Dragon - MTG Card versions
Mercurial Chemister - MTG Card versions
Maverick Thopterist - MTG Card versions
Thundering Djinn - MTG Card versions
Zara, Renegade Recruiter - MTG Card versions
Oggyar Battle-Seer - MTG Card versions
Storm Skreelix - MTG Card versions
Lozhan, Dragons' Legacy - MTG Card versions
Firkraag, Cunning Instigator - MTG Card versions
Alora, Cheerful Swashbuckler - MTG Card versions
Najal, the Storm Runner - MTG Card versions
Minotaur Illusionist - MTG Card versions
Kraum, Ludevic's Opus - MTG Card versions
Hypersonic Dragon - MTG Card versions
Uvilda, Dean of Perfection // Nassari, Dean of Expression - MTG Card versions
Ogre Savant - MTG Card versions
Izzet Chronarch - MTG Card versions
Stormcloud Djinn - MTG Card versions
Dominus of Fealty - MTG Card versions
Talonrend - MTG Card versions
Spellbound Dragon - MTG Card versions
Mercurial Chemister - MTG Card versions
Maverick Thopterist - MTG Card versions
Thundering Djinn - MTG Card versions
Zara, Renegade Recruiter - MTG Card versions
Oggyar Battle-Seer - MTG Card versions
Storm Skreelix - MTG Card versions
Lozhan, Dragons' Legacy - MTG Card versions
Firkraag, Cunning Instigator - MTG Card versions
Alora, Cheerful Swashbuckler - MTG Card versions
Najal, the Storm Runner - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Drawing upon the wisdom of the Istari, the Gandalf the Grey card ensures a steady flow of resources into your hand, allowing for strategic planning and the outmaneuvering of opponents.

Resource Acceleration: Channeling the power of Middle-Earth, this card offers a unique form of resource acceleration that can potentially unlock powerful plays earlier than usual, giving a significant edge in the race for board dominance.

Instant Speed: With the ability to act at instant speed, Gandalf the Grey reflects the character’s readiness and adaptability, providing a versatile response to unfolding threats and opportunities during the heat of battle.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Gandalf the Grey may necessitate parting with another card from your hand, potentially setting you back if your hand is already depleted or you’re clinging to key pieces of your strategy.

Specific Mana Cost: Wielding Gandalf’s magic might require a precise combination of mana types which can be a hurdle for decks that thrive on a broader color spectrum or those operating on a tight mana curve.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Adding Gandalf the Grey to the battleground demands a substantial mana investment. There are cards with lower casting costs that might summon creatures with comparable abilities or create immediate impact on the game state.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Gandalf the Grey can seamlessly adapt to various deck archetypes, serving as a robust utility player that can provide essential support regardless of your deck’s primary strategy.

Combo Potential: Combining Gandalf the Grey with cards that benefit from spell casting or legendary synergies can unlock powerful interactions on the battlefield, amplifying your deck’s overall potency.

Meta-Relevance: With a shifting MTG landscape, Gandalf the Grey’s ability to mesh with current trends makes it a staple card that can hold its ground in various competitive environments.


How to beat

Gandalf the Grey is an iconic figure that has leaped from literary fame to Magic: The Gathering decks around the globe. This card, much like the character, commands respect on the battlefield with abilities that add considerable strategic depth to any game. Gandalf’s potent magic can sway the direction of play, providing a singular mix of wisdom and power that opponents have to prepare for.

To counteract Gandalf, players would do well to focus on direct disruption strategies. Employing instant-speed removal can effectively neutralize Gandalf before his abilities can be activated. Keeping countermagic in hand is also a prudent way to prevent Gandalf from hitting the board at all. In addition, because Gandalf the Grey thrives in a stable and developed board state, applying pressure early and maintaining it can prevent an opponent from leveraging Gandalf’s full potential. Utilizing aggressive creatures or swarming tactics can also divert Gandalf’s influence and lead you to victory.

Ultimately, while Gandalf the Grey presents a formidable challenge, understanding his strengths and devising a tailored approach to mitigate them can shift the tide of any duel. Remember, in Magic: The Gathering, even the mightiest cards have their Achilles’ heel.


BurnMana Recommendations

Embrace the magic and wisdom of Gandalf the Grey to enhance your MTG deck. His imagined abilities can transform your strategy, offering card advantage, resource acceleration, and the versatility to adapt to the evolving battlefield. While he comes with challenges like specific mana costs and high investment, the potential payoffs of having Gandalf in your collection are immense. Whether you’re looking for new synergies or maintaining relevance in the competitive scene, he’s a card to consider. Dive into the realm of MTG with us, discover Gandalf’s might, and refine your deck building skills for your next victorious match.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Gandalf the Grey MTG card by a specific set like The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth and The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth, 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 Gandalf the Grey and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Gandalf the Grey Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2023-06-23 and 2023-06-23. Illustrated by 2 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12023-06-23The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earthLTR 8142015NormalBorderlessAnato Finnstark
22023-06-23The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earthLTR 3222015NormalBorderlessAnato Finnstark
32023-06-23The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earthLTR 6582015NormalBlackAaron Miller
42023-06-23Tales of Middle-earth PromosPLTR 207s2015NormalBlackAaron Miller
52023-06-23Tales of Middle-earth Art SeriesALTR 492015Art seriesBorderless
62023-06-23The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earthLTR 2072015NormalBlackAaron Miller

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Gandalf the Grey has restrictions

FormatLegality
HistoricbrawlLegal
CommanderLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
GladiatorLegal
AlchemyLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2023-06-16 If the ability doesn't resolve (either for having its target become illegal or because a spell or ability counters it), the mode chosen for that instance of the ability still counts as being chosen.
2023-06-16 It doesn't matter who has chosen any particular mode. For example, say you control Gandalf the Grey and have chosen the first two modes. If an opponent gains control of Gandalf the Grey, that player can choose only the third or fourth mode.
2023-06-16 The phrase "that hasn't been chosen" refers only to that specific Gandalf the Grey. If Gandalf the Grey leaves the battlefield (possibly because of the fourth mode of its ability) and then returns to the battlefield later, it will be a new object with no memory of the modes chosen when it was last on the battlefield.
2023-06-16 You choose the mode as the triggered ability goes on the stack. You can choose a mode that requires targets only if there are legal targets available.