Instill Infection MTG Card
2010-10-01 - Number 68
2015-05-22 - Number 85
2019-11-07 - Number 695
2020-09-26 - Number MM2-85
| Card sets | Released in 4 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 4 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Instant |
Text of card
Put a -1/-1 counter on target creature. Draw a card.
"The results of our ninth inoculation were the same. The specimen was, of course, euthanized before the contagion could spread." —Vedalken research notes
Cards like Instill Infection
Instill Infection is an intriguing card within the pantheon of creature removal spells in Magic: The Gathering. In the same realm, we find Grasp of Darkness as a noteworthy parallel. Both cards decreases a creature’s power and toughness, though Grasp of Darkness offers a more potent reduction. Yet, Instill Infection pulls ahead by allowing the player to draw a card, adding a layer of card advantage not granted by Grasp of Darkness.
Another kindred spell is Dead Weight. This enchantment permanently weakens a creature but lacks the immediate impact and card draw provided by Instill Infection. Pharika’s Cure also shares similarities, delivering life gain in addition to targeting a creature’s toughness. However, it doesn’t offer the new card like Instill Infection does.
Ultimately, while each of these spells has its own place in deck strategies, Instill Infection offers a combination of creature weakening and card drawing that is unique to its design, making it a versatile option for players who seek to maintain their hand while dealing with opposing threats.
Cards similar to Instill Infection by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Instill Infection provides an edge through its ability to draw a card after resolving its effect. This not only removes a target creature but also replaces itself in your hand, helping to maintain or pull ahead in the resource battle.
Resource Acceleration: Although Instill Infection does not directly accelerate resources in the form of mana or tokens, its inclusion in a deck can free up other card slots that may focus on creature removal, thus indirectly contributing to more efficient deck functioning.
Instant Speed: The capacity to utilize Instill Infection at instant speed is a tactical advantage, allowing players to respond effectively to opponents’ actions during their turn. This can disrupt their strategy and give you the element of surprise, often swinging the momentum of the game in your favor.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Instill Infection demands you to part with another card from your hand, which can deplete your resources and potentially leave you at a disadvantage, especially in tight situations where every card counts.
Specific Mana Cost: This card necessitates a precise combination of mana types, making it less flexible and requiring a dedicated spot in decks that can accommodate its black mana cost. This limitation may deter it from being a staple in more versatile or multi-colored deck strategies.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: When evaluated against other options in the game, Instill Infection’s mana investment might be seen as steep for its effect. Players might find themselves weighing its benefit against other cards that could offer a similar impact for a lower cost or provide additional advantages, affect the board state more significantly, or align better with their overarching game plan.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Instill Infection offers a multi-faceted approach to gameplay, suitable for decks that strive for board control. Its ability to deal damage and generate card advantage makes it a useful tool in various situations.
Combo Potential: This card can enhance strategies centered around -1/-1 counters, synergizing with other cards that benefit from or proliferate these counters.
Meta-Relevance: In a meta teeming with creature-based strategies, Instill Infection can be a key player, efficiently removing creatures while keeping your hand replenished, maintaining both board presence and momentum.
How to beat
Instill Infection is a specialized card within the black mana sphere of Magic: The Gathering. Renowned for its dual-purpose ability, this card not only causes damage by giving a creature -1/-1 until end of turn, but it also allows the player to draw a card. Despite its benefits, like disrupting opposing creature strategies and replenishing your hand, Instill Infection can be countered effectively.
For those facing Instill Infection across the table, the key is to shield your creatures or invalidate the spell. Counterspells, hexproof, or indestructible abilities are your best friends in this confrontation. Alternatively, instant-speed creature buffs can surprise an opponent, turning a lethal spell into a dud. Cards like Gods Willing can provide protection to a targeted creature, while blossoming defense adds a layer of power and resilience. Swift strategies can neutralize the impact of Instill Infection and maintain your board presence.
By anticipating possible removal actions and preparing countermeasures, you can stand your ground against Instill Infection’s attempt to disrupt play. It’s a delicate dance of action and reaction, but with a well-prepared counter-strategy, you restrain the infection from spreading and maintain the integrity of your game plan.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Instill Infection MTG card by a specific set like Scars of Mirrodin and Modern Masters 2015, 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 Instill Infection 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 Instill Infection Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2010-10-01 and 2019-11-07. Illustrated by Chris Rahn.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2010-10-01 | Scars of Mirrodin | SOM | 68 | 2003 | Normal | Black | Chris Rahn | |
| 2 | 2015-05-22 | Modern Masters 2015 | MM2 | 85 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Chris Rahn | |
| 3 | 2019-11-07 | Mystery Booster | MB1 | 695 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Chris Rahn | |
| 4 | The List | PLST | MM2-85 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Chris Rahn |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Instill Infection has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |