Gilt-Leaf Ambush MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Tribal Instant — Elf |
| Abilities | Clash |
| Released | 2007-10-12 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Lorwyn |
| Set code | LRW |
| Number | 214 |
| Frame | 2003 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Steve Prescott |
Text of card
Put two 1/1 green Elf Warrior creature tokens into play. Clash with an opponent. If you win, those creatures gain deathtouch until end of turn. (Each clashing player reveals the top card of his or her library, then puts that card on the top or bottom. A player wins if his or her card had a higher converted mana cost. Whenever a creature with deathtouch deals damage to a creature, destroy that creature.)
Understanding Gilt-Leaf Ambush
Gilt-Leaf Ambush has a unique spot in the pantheon of Magic: The Gathering creature creation cards. Positioned as an instant, this card facilitates players to create two 1/1 green Elf Warrior creature tokens and potentially turn the tide with its clash mechanic, possibly allowing for a surprise maneuver since it can be played on either player’s turn. Its ability to not only place creatures on the board but also potentially arrange the top of your library distinguishes Gilt-Leaf Ambush from straightforward token generators.
Cards like Gilt-Leaf Ambush
Gilt-Leaf Ambush often draws parallels to other token-generating cards like Raise the Alarm. Similarly timed, Raise the Alarm allows for an immediate deployment of two 1/1 white Soldier creature tokens at instant speed. It doesn’t offer the library manipulation that Gilt-Leaf Ambush does, but it does come at a lower mana cost. Looking at Saproling Migration, players find another instant creating two 1/1 green Saproling creature tokens, which can be kicked for late-game scaling, unlike Gilt-Leaf Ambush which remains consistent throughout the game.
Hunter’s Ambush, on the other hand, serves a different role; while not generating creatures, it offers a form of creature protection that can swing combat phases in your favor. Each card shines in different scenarios, but Gilt-Leaf Ambush stands out for its dual role in token generation and deck interaction, making it a versatile choice in Elf-centric decks. Its synergistic value in specific strategies often tips the scales when considering its utility in MTG formats like Commander or Modern, particularly amongst Elf tribal enthusiasts.
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Gilt-Leaf Ambush creates two 1/1 green Elf Warrior creature tokens, providing you with additional board presence and potential card advantage over your opponent. The more creatures you have, the more options at your disposal for attacks and blocks.
Resource Acceleration: Those Elf Warrior tokens can be critical in decks built around synergies with elf-type creatures or tribal strategies. They can contribute to resource acceleration by enabling convoke mechanics or enhancing the effectiveness of cards that rely on the number of creatures you control.
Instant Speed: The fact that Gilt-Leaf Ambush can be cast at instant speed offers strategic flexibility. It allows you to disrupt your opponent’s plans during their turn, whether that’s by surprising them with unexpected blockers or by simply bolstering your defense. Additionally, you can wait until the most opportune moment to decide whether to use the ambush or perhaps another spell in your hand.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Gilt-Leaf Ambush does not necessitate discarding as part of its casting, which is a plus for those who want to maintain card advantage.
Specific Mana Cost: This card requires two green mana for activation. This specific mana demand confines it primarily to mono-green or green-centric decks, potentially excluding it from a wider array of multicolored strategies.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost of two and a green mana, Gilt-Leaf Ambush may be seen as a costly choice for the effect it provides. Players might opt for lower-cost cards that offer similar utility or evasion tactics at a more economic mana expenditure.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Gilt-Leaf Ambush is a flexible addition to decks that capitalize on Elf synergies or those that focus on creature strategies. Its ability to create two Elf Warrior tokens at instant speed allows for surprise defenses and the enhancement of tribal dynamics.
Combo Potential: This card pairs well with strategies that utilize creature tokens, enabling combos with cards that benefit from creatures entering the battlefield or dying. The clash mechanic can also provide an added layer of deck manipulation for you or disruption for your opponent.
Meta-Relevance: In metas where aggressive creature-based decks are prevalent, Gilt-Leaf Ambush can serve as a tactical divergence, offering both board presence and clash victories which may lead to card advantage and tempo swings in your favor.
How to beat
Gilt-Leaf Ambush is an intriguing card that can surprise opponents in Magic: The Gathering with an instant speed deployment of Elf Warrior tokens. This card allows players to create two elf tokens and comes with a clash ability that could potentially draw a card if you win. To counter this, it is essential to manage your removal spells effectively, reserving them for key moments. Cards like Pyroclasm or Electrickery, which can deal damage to multiple creatures at once, are particularly useful for clearing out the tokens without using up too many resources.
Strategic planning is also crucial; knowing when to hold back or when to go all out can make all the difference. Counter spells that can negate Gilt-Leaf Ambush can prevent the surprise elf onslaught before it even begins. Having a well-timed Negate or Essence Scatter can maintain control of the game. Furthermore, flying creatures are usually a strong match against the elf tokens, as they can bypass them and pressure the opponent directly. So, outmaneuving Gilt-Leaf Ambush is all about preparation, timing, and utilizing the right cards at the right time.
Understanding the strength of cards like Gilt-Leaf Ambush allows players to anticipate and disrupt opponents’ strategies. By being mindful of the battlefield and your own deck’s capabilities, you can ensure that such ambush tactics don’t throw you off your game plan.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Gilt-Leaf Ambush MTG card by a specific set like Lorwyn, 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 Gilt-Leaf Ambush 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
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Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Gilt-Leaf Ambush has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |