Harmattan Efreet MTG Card
1996-10-08 - Number 69
1999-04-21 - Number 73
| Card sets | Released in 2 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 4 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Creature — Efreet |
| Abilities | Flying |
| Power | 2 |
| Toughness | 2 |
Text of card
Flying o1o Uoo U Target creature gains flying until end of turn.
"One moment I was walking along the beach, and the next I was high in the air, staring into a hideous smiling face." —Tarub, Suq'Ata sailor
Cards like Harmattan Efreet
Harmattan Efreet is an interesting creature card with a distinct place in MTG. When evaluating this card, one might look at similar creatures like Merfolk Trickster. Both share the same mana cost, but the Efreet offers flying, giving it an evasive edge in gameplay. Still, Merfolk Trickster doesn’t cease to impress with its ability to tap another creature and negate its abilities, which can be pivotal during critical turns.
Another card to consider is Somberwald Stag, reflecting a different approach to creature control. The Stag doesn’t have flying but brings a powerful fight ability to the table, potentially removing an opponent’s threatening creature upon entry. This can be seen as a trade-off compared to the aerial advantage of Harmattan Efreet, yet it situates the Stag favorably in mid-range combat strategies.
Lastly, Aven Fleetwing stands out with both flying and hexproof, ensuring it remains untouchable by targeted spells and abilities, unlike Harmattan Efreet. This could sway players towards the Fleetwing for more protective gameplay. In the end, Harmattan Efreet remains a viable choice for manipulating the skies while posing a threat that demands an answer from opponents on the battlefield.
Cards similar to Harmattan Efreet by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: While Harmattan Efreet may not offer direct card draw, its flying ability makes it a persistent threat that can consistently apply pressure, sidestep ground defenses, and potentially yield a card advantage by removing an opponent’s aerial or weaker blockers over time.
Resource Acceleration: Although Harmattan Efreet itself doesn’t accelerate resources in the traditional sense, its relatively low casting cost can free up mana for casting other spells sooner than more expensive creatures might allow, helping you maintain a lean and effective spell curve.
Instant Speed: The versatility of Harmattan Efreet lies not in instant speed per se, but in its activated ability to gain flying until end of turn. This can unexpectedly turn the tide of combat, as it can be activated any time you have mana available, making it a tricky card for opponents to plan against during the course of a game.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Harmattan Efreet requires a consistent sacrifice of cards to maintain its fleeting presence on the battlefield, which whittles down your hand and can place you at a disadvantage, especially in the later stages of the game.
Specific Mana Cost: This creature demands a very specific mana alignment which is blue, potentially limiting its inclusion in decks that cannot consistently produce the necessary color or adapt to its mana requirements.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a mana cost that can seem steep for the impact it brings to the game, one might consider alternative creatures or spells that provide more value and versatility for the same, or even less, mana investment.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Harmattan Efreet stands out due to its ability to be a strategic fit in various deck builds. Its evasion, thanks to flying, allows it to be a reliable contributor in both aggressive and control-oriented strategies.
Combo Potential: Thanks to its flanking ability, this card creates opportunities for synergy with other cards that benefit when creatures attack and are not blocked or when combat tricks are employed.
Meta-Relevance: In environments where smaller ground creatures dominate, Harmattan Efreet’s flying and flanking provide an edge, enabling it to serve as both an offensive and defensive asset.
How to beat Harmattan Efreet
Harmattan Efreet is a unique creature card that can prove to be a tricky opponent on the battlefield. This blue card hailing from the Mirage set has been known to dodge many removal spells with its ability to phase out. Understanding its weaknesses is key to developing a strategy against it.
To effectively counter Harmattan Efreet, consider using spells that don’t target a single creature but instead affect each creature on the board. Board wipe spells like Wrath of God or Damnation can sweep the Efreet away regardless of its phasing status. Another tactic is to employ spells that restrict the Efreet’s abilities. Linvala, Keeper of Silence can prevent the activation of its phasing ability, keeping it on the field and susceptible to traditional removal techniques.
Timing is also essential. The Efreet phases out only during the untap step, so instant removal spells cast in the upkeep or at the end of your opponent’s turn can catch the creature before it vanishes again. Adapting your strategy and keeping these tips in mind will lead to mastery over the elusive Harmattan Efreet in your next MTG session.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Harmattan Efreet MTG card by a specific set like Mirage and Classic Sixth Edition, 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 Harmattan Efreet 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 Harmattan Efreet Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 1996-10-08 and 1999-04-21. Illustrated by Drew Tucker.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1996-10-08 | Mirage | MIR | 69 | 1997 | Normal | Black | Drew Tucker | |
| 2 | 1999-04-21 | Classic Sixth Edition | 6ED | 73 | 1997 | Normal | White | Drew Tucker |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Harmattan Efreet has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Restricted |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |