Imperial Blademaster MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Type | Creature — Human Samurai |
| Abilities | Double strike |
| Released | 2022-03-17 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Alchemy: Kamigawa |
| Set code | YNEO |
| Power | 2 |
| Toughness | 3 |
| Number | 30 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Miguel Mercado |
Text of card
Double strike Whenever a Samurai or Warrior you control attacks alone, draft a card from Imperial Blademaster's spellbook.
Cards like Imperial Blademaster
Imperial Blademaster is a noteworthy entry into the battalion of creature cards with double strike ability in Magic: The Gathering. It can be compared to Swiftblade Vindicator, which also boasts the double strike feature. Yet, Imperial Blademaster distinctively shines by giving another creature double strike upon entering the battlefield, which Swiftblade Vindicator does not offer.
Analogously, Silverblade Paladin is often considered when discussing double strike enablers. The Paladin shares the ability to confer double strike to another creature but does so with a soulbond mechanic, meaning the benefit is only maintained as long as both creatures remain on the battlefield. This contrasts with Imperial Blademaster’s persisting effect once triggered.
Within the context of creature cards, Adorned Pouncer is another comparable card but it forwards the double strike capability innately and with eternalize, potentially making a significant comeback in the late game. However, it lacks the immediate support to other creatures that the Imperial Blademaster presents. Hence, players looking to build a synergistic and interdependent board state might lean towards the dynamic playstyle that Imperial Blademaster can initiate.
Cards similar to Imperial Blademaster by color, type and mana cost
Decks using this card
MTG decks using Imperial Blademaster. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.
| # | Name | Format | Archetype | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Boros Midrange | Gladiator | Gladiator Team Unified League |
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Imperial Blademaster enhances your card efficacy with its ability to equip creatures you control with an immediate benefit, setting you up for sustained dominance on the battlefield.
Resource Acceleration: By empowering your creatures, Imperial Blademaster effectively speeds up your resource utilization, propelling you toward overwhelming your adversary swiftly.
Instant Speed: The swift nature of this card serves as a tactical advantage, allowing you to alter the state of play instantaneously and react to threats with precision and efficiency.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: When playing the Imperial Blademaster, it’s important to note that it requires the player to discard a card as part of its effect. This can be particularly disadvantageous during late-game scenarios where maintaining card advantage is crucial.
Specific Mana Cost: The Imperial Blademaster comes with a mana cost that includes two white mana symbols. This commitment to white mana can be restrictive, making it less flexible for multicolor decks that may prioritize a wider range of mana options.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a cost that might be considered steep for its provided stats and abilities, the Imperial Blademaster can be a heavy investment in the earlier turns of the game. Players may find that other creatures or spells offer more impactful board presence or effects for the same, or even lower, mana investment.
Reasons to Include Imperial Blademaster in Your Collection
Versatility: Imperial Blademaster is a flexible card capable of slotting into a variety of deck types. Its prowess in bolstering creatures makes it a valuable asset in decks that focus on combat strategies and synergizes well with equipment and aura spells to enhance its impact on the battlefield.
Combo Potential: This card has strong synergy with other cards that benefit from having equipped creatures, potentially leading to powerful combos. When paired with cards that allow for multiple equipment attachments, Imperial Blademaster can become a formidable force that can turn the tides of the game in your favor.
Meta-Relevance: In a meta where creature-based strategies are prevalent, Imperial Blademaster can be a crucial inclusion. Its ability to buff your creatures gives you the edge you need to outmaneuver your opponents’ defenses and maintain board presence, making it a relevant choice for competitive play.
How to beat
The Imperial Blademaster is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield in Magic: The Gathering. This formidable card can turn the tides with its prowess by bolstering not only itself but other creatures as well. To effectively counter the Blademaster, one strategy is to neutralize it before its abilities become a serious threat. Removal spells that can target creatures, regardless of their power or abilities, can be an efficient way to do so. Consider using instant-speed removals such as Fatal Push or Path to Exile to dispatch the Blademaster promptly.
Another tactic is to focus on cards that prevent the Imperial Blademaster from being declared as an attacker or blocker. Enchantments like Pacifism impose such limitations and can effectively render the card useless in combat. Alternatively, board wipes like Wrath of God can reset the playing field, eliminating the Blademaster along with all other creatures, ensuring that its impact is cut short. Strategic gameplay combined with the right cards can turn your defense into a winning offense.
Remember, timing and anticipation are key in overcoming powerful cards like the Imperial Blademaster. By wisely managing your resources and keeping these strategies in mind, you can ensure that your opponent’s Blademaster doesn’t claim victory on the battleground.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Imperial Blademaster MTG card by a specific set like Alchemy: Kamigawa, 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 Imperial Blademaster 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
See MTG Products
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Imperial Blademaster has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |