Harmless Assault MTG Card

Protects creatures in combat, maintaining a strong board and enabling future strategic plays. Instant-speed flexibility allows surprise plays, changing the pace of the game. Playable in various scenarios, its versatility makes it a valuable addition to collections.

Mana cost
Converted mana cost	4
Rarity	Common
Type	Instant
Released	2010-04-23
Set symbol
Set name	Rise of the Eldrazi
Set code	ROE
Number	24
Frame	2003
Layout	Normal
Border	Black
Illustred by	Chippy

Text of card

Prevent all combat damage that would be dealt this turn by attacking creatures.

After encasing it in a paralyzing beam of light, the angel studied the Eldrazi as a child would study a bug, curiously and without fear.

Cards like Harmless Assault

Harmless Assault is an intriguing defensive spell in Magic: The Gathering, echoing the intention of cards like Holy Day and Ethereal Haze. These cards also provide a safeguard against damage, effectively turning enemy strikes into futile efforts for a turn. Where Harmless Assault distinguishes itself is in its broader scope – prevention of all damage to players from creatures this turn, adding a layer of protection not just to you but to teammates in multiplayer formats.

Comparing it further to something like Fog, which is the quintessential combat trick for avoiding damage from creatures for a turn, we see a similarity in effect but a distinction in versatility. Fog is at its best in a one-on-one scenario while Harmless Assault benefits groups. In multiplayer engagements, where multiple attackers can threaten, Harmless Assault stands out as a more encompassing shield.

To wrap up, when we explore the utility and strategic advantages between similar cards, Harmless Assault presents itself as a robust option for those seeking to fortify their defenses across all fronts, making it a noteworthy presence in the pantheon of MTG damage prevention cards.

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Harmless Assault comes into play giving the player an upper hand by ensuring their creatures remain unscathed during combat, possibly ensuring their board presence stays strong for future turns.

Resource Acceleration: Although not directly contributing to mana resources, the card can indirectly lead to acceleration by preserving the player’s creatures, which could be vital for strategies that rely on tapping creatures for mana or other effects.

Instant Speed: As an instant, Harmless Assault offers great flexibility. Players can surprise their opponents during the heat of battle, potentially turning the tides and preserving their own forces for a counterattack or future strategic moves.

Card Cons

Discard Requirement: To cast Harmless Assault, players may need to comply with a specific discard condition that is part of its effect or strategy. Having to throw away valuable cards can be detrimental, especially in tight situations where hand size matters.

Specific Mana Cost: With a requirement for white mana to cast, Harmless Assault integrates seamlessly into mono-white or certain multicolored decks but could be challenging to include in others. This specific mana necessity may restrict its utility across a broader range of deck types.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Harmless Assault’s mana cost might be considered steep when compared to alternative cards that could fulfill a similar role but at a lower cost. Players often assess the mana expenditure vs. benefit ratio, and in some cases, they might opt for more cost-effective choices to preserve mana efficiency within their decks.

Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Harmless Assault can be a silver bullet in decks that aim to mitigate combat damage. As it prevents all damage that would be dealt in a turn, this card is excellent for strategies involving damage redirection or delay tactics, making it versatile across various playstyles.

Combo Potential: By cleverly integrating Harmless Assault into your combos, you can orchestrate turns where you’re virtually untouchable. It synergizes with cards that activate during a combat phase or when damage is prevented, unlocking new avenues in combo-centric decks.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta where aggressive creature-based strategies are prevalent, Harmless Assault can act as a critical defensive tool. Its ability to nullify a turn’s worth of onslaught can swing games in your favor, making it relevant across multiple matchups.

How to beat

Harmless Assault is a unique card in the world of Magic: The Gathering, presenting a magical twist to the typical combat encounter. This enchanting card has the power to nullify all damage dealt by non-Human creatures. While this might seem daunting at first glance, overcoming Harmless Assault’s influence in the game is about strategic creature selection and incorporating a dash of removal magic into your deck.

To maneuver around this protective spell, players can pivot towards employing a roster of Human creatures, as Harmless Assault doesn’t thwart these characters. By focusing on this subset, you can ensure your army remains potent on the battlefield. Additionally, integrating versatile removal spells and abilities that can neutralize enchantments or exile cards can help reclaim control. This might involve adapting your play style to include enchantment-cleansing cards like Disenchant or Universal Solvent. By pinpointing Harmless Assault directly, you sweep aside the protective veil it casts over your opponent’s creatures, leaving them vulnerable once more.

Ultimately, the challenge Harmless Assault brings to MTG is an invitation to think creatively and build a deck prepared for such defenses. With the right combination of Humans and enchantment disruption, Harmless Assault’s spell can be dispelled, reshaping the tides of battle in your favor.

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Harmless Assault MTG card by a specific set like Rise of the Eldrazi, 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 Harmless Assault and other MTG cards:

BUY NOW
BurnMana is an official partner of TCGPlayer

Continue exploring other sealed products in Amazon
See MTG Products

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Harmless Assault has restrictions

Format	Legality
Commander	Legal
Legacy	Legal
Paupercommander	Legal
Modern	Legal
Oathbreaker	Legal
Pauper	Legal
Vintage	Legal
Duel	Legal
Predh	Legal
Penny	Legal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Harmless Assault card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date	Text
2010-06-15	Combat damage dealt by blocking creatures isn’t prevented.