Goblin Locksmith MTG Card
2018-10-05 - Number 104
2019-11-07 - Number 955
2020-09-26 - Number GRN-104
| Card sets | Released in 3 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 2 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Goblin Rogue |
| Power | 2 |
| Toughness | 1 |
Text of card
Whenever Goblin Locksmith attacks, creatures with defender can't block this turn.
"He's got more finesse than most goblins. He smashes windows with his fist rather than his forehead." —Arrester Polgar
Cards like Goblin Locksmith
Goblin Locksmith is a neat creature card that finds its place in decks looking to dismantle defenders. It stands in line with creatures like Torch Courier for its focus on immediate impact, though the Locksmith targets walls directly to pave the way for attackers. In contrast, Torch Courier grants haste, accelerating the speed of your assault without specifically targeting defenders.
Another interesting comparison is with cards like Break Through the Line. This card doesn’t share the creature type but offers a similar ability to make creatures unblockable. Break Through the Line requires a mana investment to grant unblockability, unlike Goblin Locksmith which passively negates wall abilities. Yet, Goblin War Drums, a classic, provides a broader aggressive push by forcing each creature your opponents control to block two attackers, effectively nullifying single blocker defenses, a principle the Locksmith embraces but in a more targeted manner.
When evaluating utility and deck synergy, Goblin Locksmith fits into strategies that capitalize on unimpeded attacks, especially when facing off against decks with heavy wall usage. Its niche effect makes it a go-to option for players seeking specific tactical advantages on the battlefield.
Cards similar to Goblin Locksmith by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Whilst Goblin Locksmith might not directly put cards into your hand, it embodies card advantage through its potential to disrupt opponents. By hindering an opponent’s defenses, it offers a tactical edge, possibly allowing you to trample over otherwise solid barriers and push damage through to maintain pressure on your foe.
Resource Acceleration: In terms of mana curve, Goblin Locksmith excels. A low-cost creature at two mana makes it an early play that can fit comfortably into an aggressive red deck, enhancing your resource curve. Its presence on the battlefield can pave the way for bigger threats without the need for additional mana investment.
Instant Speed: While Goblin Locksmith operates at sorcery speed, its ability can complement plays made at instant speed. Being able to decide which walls are negligible during your attack phase can be a game-changer, giving you the tactical flexibility to react to your opponent’s defenses with precision and immediacy during combat.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: While Goblin Locksmith has its merits, its necessity to discard a card can deplete your hand quickly, potentially leaving you at a strategic disadvantage if you need options on subsequent turns.
Specific Mana Cost: This MTG card requires a specific mana to cast. As such, it’s geared primarily towards red decks, which may not align with the versatility that multicolor or other deck themes seek.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: Considering the mana cost associated with Goblin Locksmith, players may find that the card is less efficient when compared to other creatures or spells at similar mana points. This can lead to suboptimal deck pacing, especially in highly competitive games where every resource counts.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Goblin Locksmith has the ability to disrupt defensive barriers. It can seamlessly integrate into aggressive red decks that aim to deal damage quickly, avoiding walls and similar obstacles.
Combo Potential: This creature can pair well with cards that benefit from having a large number of attackers or when combined with other goblin-centric synergies and buffs that escalate its impact on the game.
Meta-Relevance: Should the environment lean towards defensive playstyles using numerous walls, Goblin Locksmith’s ability to render those defenses less effective makes it a particularly strategic inclusion in the current climate.
How to beat
Goblin Locksmith is known in the MTG community for its unique ability to tamper with defender strategies. As a card that can render walls obsolete, it presents a challenge for any player relying on defensive structures. The key to outmaneuvering Goblin Locksmith lies in not overinvesting in those strategies. Instead, diversify your defensive game plan with creatures that possess reach or those with the ability to block multiple attackers.
Moving forward, prepare your deck with removal spells that can target Goblin Locksmith before it can become a substantial threat at your board. Consider instant-speed removals like Shock or Lightning Bolt that can take out the Goblin Locksmith swiftly, negating its effects entirely. Additionally, using cards with flexible damage assignment such as Arc Lightning may prove effective in maintaining board control against multiple goblins.
Ultimately, understanding the dynamics of your opponent’s goblin-centered assault, including cards like Goblin Locksmith, can lead to easier mitigation. Keep an eye out for the versatile and quick responses available within your colors, and you’ll strengthen your deck’s resilience against such strategies.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Goblin Locksmith MTG card by a specific set like Guilds of Ravnica and Mystery Booster, 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 Goblin Locksmith 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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Printings
The Goblin Locksmith Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2018-10-05 and 2019-11-07. Illustrated by Mark Behm.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2018-10-05 | Guilds of Ravnica | GRN | 104 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Mark Behm | |
| 2 | 2019-11-07 | Mystery Booster | MB1 | 955 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Mark Behm | |
| 3 | The List | PLST | GRN-104 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Mark Behm |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Goblin Locksmith has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |