Half-Elf Monk MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 4 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Human Elf Monk |
| Abilities | Vigilance |
| Released | 2021-07-23 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Adventures in the Forgotten Realms |
| Set code | AFR |
| Power | 1 |
| Toughness | 4 |
| Number | 19 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Zoltan Boros |
Text of card
Vigilance Stunning Strike — , : Tap target creature.
This fight was over the moment you picked up that clumsy cleaver of a sword.
Cards like Half-Elf Monk
The Half-Elf Monk card introduces a unique spin to creature control within Magic: The Gathering, reminiscent of cards such as Deputy of Detention. Both cards offer a way to temporarily remove opposing threats from the battlefield. However, the Half-Elf Monk stands out by specifically targeting creatures that are tapped, and this precision can complement strategies focused on ensuring creatures your opponent controls are consistently in this state.
In terms of mitigating enemy combat abilities, the Half-Elf Monk shares similarities with cards like Fairgrounds Warden. While both cards provide a form of detainment, the Warden necessitates a broader range of targets by encompassing all creatures, not just the tapped ones. This makes the Monk a more tactical choice in decks where tapping mechanics are prevalent.
Comparing their utility in different gameplay scenarios also brings to light the strategic nuances. The Half-Elf Monk’s ability shines in decks that encourage and capitalize on tapping opponent’s creatures, whereas other detainment cards can be more versatile but less focused. Hence, the Half-Elf Monk carves out a niche for itself among the various creature control options in Magic: The Gathering, particularly benefiting decks that are designed around tapping synergies.
Cards similar to Half-Elf Monk by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: When playing the Half-Elf Monk, the ability to scry each time you cast a spell means you’re continually fine-tuning your draws. This keeps your hand full of the spells you need, bolstering your overall card quality over the course of a match.
Resource Acceleration: This card brings versatility with its potential to untap another target nonland permanent. What this means for you is more opportunities to reuse mana dorks or other resources, ramping up your board state faster than your adversaries can keep up with.
Instant Speed: Half-Elf Monk not only operates well at sorcery speed but truly shines when utilized at instant speed. This gives you the freedom to react to opponents’ moves, disrupting their strategy all the while setting up for your next victorious play. The tactical advantage provided here cannot be overstated, as it allows for robust defensive maneuvers while keeping the pressure on your opponent.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: One drawback of the Half-Elf Monk card is the need to discard another card to utilize its full potential. This action diminishes your hand, possibly leaving you at a disadvantage when your options become limited.
Specific Mana Cost: A notable limitation of the Half-Elf Monk is its mana cost, requiring both white and green mana. This specific combination can make the card less flexible, compelling players to build around these colors or to include mana-fixing resources in their decks.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: While the abilities of the Half-Elf Monk can be quite advantageous, its effectiveness is somewhat offset by its higher mana cost compared to other creature cards. Players might find that other cards provide similar or better effects at a lower mana investment, making it a less appealing option during deck construction.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: The Half-Elf Monk card is a flexible addition to any deck, fitting seamlessly into various strategies with its blend of creature and spell synergies.
Combo Potential: This card opens the door for numerous combinations, interacting with abilities that key off playing or tapping creatures, or with those looking to benefit from its Monk typing.
Meta-Relevance: Given its adaptability and role within current gameplay trends, the Half-Elf Monk can be a pivotal inclusion against decks that rely on creature-based strategies or non-creature spells.
How to beat
The Half-Elf Monk is an intriguing creature card in Magic: The Gathering that can pose challenges for opponents, mainly due to its capacity to disrupt combat strategies with its tapping ability. To successfully navigate around this Monk’s prowess, one should consider using removal spells that can bypass its effects. Spells such as Murder or Doom Blade offer reliable solutions by directly removing the creature from the board before it can affect combat outcomes.
Strategies emphasizing speed and the inclusion of instant-speed removal can also keep the Half-Elf Monk at bay. By maintaining open mana and waiting for the opportune moment to cast such spells, players can effectively neutralize the Monk’s ability. Furthermore, employing creatures with hexproof or shroud can prevent the Monk’s ability from targeting and tapping them, thus preserving your battlefield presence and combat plans.
Overall, while the Half-Elf Monk brings strategic depth to MTG matches, understanding its weaknesses and preparing your deck with answers is key to overcoming the challenges it presents. Effective removal and strategic planning make it possible to beat this card and maintain control of the game.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Half-Elf Monk MTG card by a specific set like Adventures in the Forgotten Realms, 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 Half-Elf Monk and other MTG cards:
BUY NOW BurnMana is an official partner of TCGPlayer
- 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
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Half-Elf Monk 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 |
| Timeless | Legal |
Guide to Vigilance card ability
In the strategic universe of Magic: The Gathering (MTG), the vigilance ability stands out as a powerful tool for players. This potent keyword allows creatures to attack without tapping, keeping them ready and alert to defend against incoming threats. It represents a perfect balance between aggression and defense, offering a dynamic approach to gameplay. Lets dive deeper into how vigilance shapes the battlefield.