Goblin Tomb Raider MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 1 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Goblin Pirate |
| Released | 2023-11-17 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | The Lost Caverns of Ixalan |
| Set code | LCI |
| Power | 1 |
| Toughness | 2 |
| Number | 151 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Kevin Sidharta |
Text of card
As long as you control an artifact, Goblin Tomb Raider gets +1/+0 and has haste.
Enterprising goblins can extract their body weight in loot. Ambitious ones have a big meal first.
Cards like Goblin Tomb Raider
Goblin Tomb Raider carves out a unique position in the pantheon of goblin-themed cards available in Magic: The Gathering. Echoing the aggressive and game-tempo influencing nature of its kin, this red creature offers a blend of utility and threat. It fits neatly into the category of small, mana-efficient goblins like Goblin Bushwhacker, which similarly accelerates the pace of play with its power-boosting kick ability.
However, Goblin Tomb Raider also brings to the table an ability that encourages strategic graveyard play, reminiscent of the prowess found in Goblin Arsonist, which affects the board by dealing damage upon death. Yet, it provides its own twist on this archetype, potentially offering more sustained benefits to long-term strategy. Meanwhile, Goblin Heelcutter shares the disruptive theme but through a different mechanic, deterring blockers to clear the way for its fellows.
Considering the multifaceted roles goblins can occupy within an MTG deck, Goblin Tomb Raider represents a solid option that blends aggressive board presence with a nuance that can influence prolonged play. Its comparison with other goblins solidifies its place as a contender for those seeking both early game impact and strategic depth in their goblin tribal decks.
Cards similar to Goblin Tomb Raider by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Goblin Tomb Raider ups your game by ensuring a steady flow of card advantage. This nimble creature allows for decisive draw manipulation that keeps your hand stocked with goblins ready to storm the battlefield.
Resource Acceleration: This card embodies the goblin ingeniousness by offering additional resources, aiding in a swift build-up of your mana base. Resource acceleration is a fundamental aspect that can propel you ahead of your opponent, cementing your board presence rapidly.
Instant Speed: Operating at instant speed, the raider demonstrates its versatility and tactical prowess. This intrinsic trait permits you to adapt to the evolving game state, making strategic moves on the fly and utilizing your mana efficiently when the moment is just right.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Goblin Tomb Raider’s ability demands a card to be discarded as part of its activation. This can backfire, particularly when your hand is already depleted or each card is crucial for your strategy.
Specific Mana Cost: The casting cost of Goblin Tomb Raider requires a precise mixture of mana types which could pose a challenge in multicolor decks not heavy on those particular mana sources.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a mana value that’s on the upper end for its respective effects, Goblin Tomb Raider might not be the most mana-efficient choice when other options could provide similar or better outcomes at a lower cost.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Goblin Tomb Raider is a dynamic addition to any deck seeking a robust creature presence. Its flexible mana cost and inherent abilities make it a seamless fit for various strategy implementations, enhancing both aggressive and midrange decks.
Combo Potential: With this card’s ability to disrupt opponent’s plays, it pairs well with strategies that capitalize on opponents being off-balance. In the right combo, Goblin Tomb Raider can be the lynchpin that swings the game in your favor.
Meta-Relevance: Given its potential to adapt to a fluctuating competitive scene, having Goblin Tomb Raider on hand means you are prepared to tweak your deck to harness the prevailing meta trends, making it an invaluable asset for keeping your gameplay sharp and current.
How to beat
Goblin Tomb Raider can be a tricky card to contend with on the battlefield. Its ability not only disrupts your strategy by sending your cherished cards to the graveyard but also can accrue value for the opponent if they have ways to utilize those cards from the graveyard. It’s a card that requires a specific approach to handle effectively.
Dealing with Goblin Tomb Raider involves a keen understanding of removal timing and resource management. While targeted removal spells, such as Path to Exile or Doom Blade, can swiftly take care of this pesky Goblin, it’s the instant-speed interaction that provides the upper hand. Being able to respond to its triggered ability or remove it before it can attack is crucial. Alternatively, graveyard hate cards like Relic of Progenitus can nullify the benefits an opponent might obtain from cards discarded through Goblin Tomb Raider’s ability.
Finally, cards that grant hexproof to the cards in your own deck or prevent targeting from your opponent can strip Goblin Tomb Raider of its power. With proper planning and the right cards, this raider can be sent packing, allowing you to continue formulating your victory undisturbed.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Goblin Tomb Raider MTG card by a specific set like The Lost Caverns of Ixalan, 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 Tomb Raider 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 Goblin Tomb Raider has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Standard | Legal |
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Alchemy | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Brawl | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |
Rules and information
The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Goblin Tomb Raider card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.
| Date | Text |
|---|---|
| 2023-11-10 | Once Goblin Tomb Raider has been declared as an attacker, causing it to lose haste by removing all of your artifacts won't cause it to stop attacking, even if it entered the battlefield or came under your control that turn. |