Magmatic Channeler MTG Card


Magmatic Channeler excels at card selection, enhancing your ability to respond to in-game scenarios. Instant speed activation allows for tactical flexibility, adapting to the ever-changing game state. Transforming into a formidable 4/4 creature, it provides early game pressure and resource acceleration.
Card setsReleased in 6 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost2
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Human Wizard
Power 1
Toughness 3

Text of card

As long as there are four or more instant and/or sorcery cards in your graveyard, Magmatic Channeler gets +3/+1. , Discard a card: Exile the top two cards of your library, then choose one of them. You may play that card this turn.


Cards like Magmatic Channeler

Magmatic Channeler has quickly carved a niche for itself among the pantheon of creature spells in Magic: The Gathering. When we look at the landscape of two-mana value creatures, it’s hard not to draw parallels to Robber of the Rich. Both cards offer significant value beyond their immediate attack and defense, but Magmatic Channeler stands out with its ability to convert extra lands or unneeded spells into potential new answers or threats.

Another relative in terms of card filtering is Merfolk Looter. Though it doesn’t pack the same power punch as Magmatic Channeler, it offers consistency in its loot effect. Seasoned Pyromancer further expands this idea by providing a way to turn excess cards into both creatures and new card draw, albeit at a higher mana cost. This exemplifies the flexibility and adaptability that Red’s creature suite can offer to players.

Ultimately, Magmatic Channeler provides a unique blend of early aggression and late-game utility. It can swing games in your favor with its stat line and card selection ability, making it an asset for decks that can capitalize on both.

Robber of the Rich - MTG Card versions
Merfolk Looter - MTG Card versions
Seasoned Pyromancer - MTG Card versions
Robber of the Rich - MTG Card versions
Merfolk Looter - MTG Card versions
Seasoned Pyromancer - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Magmatic Channeler by color, type and mana cost

Rock Hydra - MTG Card versions
Ironclaw Orcs - MTG Card versions
Dwarven Weaponsmith - MTG Card versions
Goblin Rock Sled - MTG Card versions
Dwarven Lieutenant - MTG Card versions
Goblin Recruiter - MTG Card versions
Heart Sliver - MTG Card versions
Mogg Flunkies - MTG Card versions
Goblin Elite Infantry - MTG Card versions
Fireslinger - MTG Card versions
Skittish Kavu - MTG Card versions
Rage Weaver - MTG Card versions
Minotaur Explorer - MTG Card versions
Sparksmith - MTG Card versions
Goblin Lookout - MTG Card versions
Skirk Marauder - MTG Card versions
Goblin Raider - MTG Card versions
Hellspark Elemental - MTG Card versions
Utvara Scalper - MTG Card versions
Storm Entity - MTG Card versions
Rock Hydra - MTG Card versions
Ironclaw Orcs - MTG Card versions
Dwarven Weaponsmith - MTG Card versions
Goblin Rock Sled - MTG Card versions
Dwarven Lieutenant - MTG Card versions
Goblin Recruiter - MTG Card versions
Heart Sliver - MTG Card versions
Mogg Flunkies - MTG Card versions
Goblin Elite Infantry - MTG Card versions
Fireslinger - MTG Card versions
Skittish Kavu - MTG Card versions
Rage Weaver - MTG Card versions
Minotaur Explorer - MTG Card versions
Sparksmith - MTG Card versions
Goblin Lookout - MTG Card versions
Skirk Marauder - MTG Card versions
Goblin Raider - MTG Card versions
Hellspark Elemental - MTG Card versions
Utvara Scalper - MTG Card versions
Storm Entity - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Magmatic Channeler. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Rakdos MidrangeRakdos Midrange ModernRakdos MidrangeModern League 2024-04-07
Rakdos AggroRakdos Aggro LegacyWeekly Mont
Izzet ControlIzzet Control ModernBlue-Red ControlModern League 2024-03-31
Boros PiaBoros Pia PioneerBoros PiaPioneer League 2023-12-21

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Magmatic Channeler offers a repeatable source of card selection, enabling you to discard a card to exile the top two cards of your library, then choose one of them to play. This ability significantly increases your chances of finding the right answers or threats at the right time, making it a valuable asset for maintaining a lead in card quality over your opponent.

Resource Acceleration: While not directly providing mana, Magmatic Channeler accelerates your resource availability by filtering through your deck more efficiently. This can lead to a pseudo-acceleration as you reach key spells quicker. Additionally, transforming Magmatic Channeler into a 4/4 creature can apply pressure early on, effectively speeding up your game plan.

Instant Speed: The flexibility of activating Magmatic Channeler’s ability at instant speed is a tactical advantage. It allows you to wait until the most opportune moment during your opponent’s turn to improve your hand, thereby maximizing your potential plays and keeping your strategy adaptable.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: The Magmatic Channeler requires discarding a card to activate its ability. This can be a steep price, especially when your hand is already drained of options or when every card counts.

Specific Mana Cost: Necessitating both red mana in its cost, the Channeler may not fit seamlessly into multicolored decks that need to maintain a delicate mana balance. This can sometimes lead to a bottleneck in gameplay.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: While two mana for a 1/3 creature might seem reasonable, the Magmatic Channeler’s full potential is locked behind specific deck conditions. It competes with other two-mana spells or creatures that could have an immediate board impact without the need for a setup.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Magmatic Channeler offers adaptability by effortlessly fitting into various red-aligned decks. Its ability to rummage through your deck by discarding a card not only refills your hand but can also strategically place key cards into your graveyard for retrieval or synergy purposes.

Combo Potential: With its prowess in transforming into a potent beater, the Channeler works well in combination with spells-centric strategies, magnifying the effects of your instants and sorceries while also providing an aggressive board presence.

Meta-Relevance: In a fast-paced game environment where responses need to be swift and impactful, Magmatic Channeler stands out by keeping your hand fueled with options, proving to be a formidable force against a multitude of deck archetypes.


How to beat

Magmatic Channeler is a potent force in MTG red decks, known for transforming hand clutters into meaningful plays by discarding cards to dig for more useful options. Rising against this 1/3 creature that can quickly become a dominant 4/4 force requires a calculated approach. Removing it before it escalates in power is critical. Consider spells like Fatal Push or Path to Exile, which can handle the Channeler efficiently. Engaging it in combat without proper backup could be a losing battle, especially when faced with its potential power spike.

Adapting your play at instant speed to counter Magmatic Channeler’s activated ability is the key. Spells like Brainstorm or Opt allow you to react swiftly, maintaining pressure while keeping vital resources for the perfect timing. Preventing it from accessing the graveyard as a resource pool with cards like Scavenging Ooze or Rest in Peace can shut down its effectiveness. This disruption to the graveyard synergy not only weakens the Channeler’s impact but also hampers your opponent’s strategy, often relying on graveyard manipulation.

Contesting Magmatic Channeler successfully in MTG lies in preemptive removal, graveyard control, and maintaining instant-speed interaction. An early disruption can knock your opponent off their rhythm, tipping the scales in your favor.


BurnMana Recommendations

The allure of Magmatic Channeler in MTG is undeniable—its potent mix of board presence and deck manipulation is a boon for any red deck enthusiast. As you dissect your opponent’s defenses, the Channeler works tirelessly to refine your hand, ultimately sculpting the path to victory. Whether you’re an experienced player looking to optimize your red strategy or a newcomer eager to make an impact, integrating this card could be your next power move. Seeking to complement your gameplay with versatility and raw power? Enrich your MTG journey and embrace the strategic potential of Magmatic Channeler by visiting us for more insights.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Magmatic Channeler MTG card by a specific set like Magic Online Promos and Zendikar Rising, 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 Magmatic Channeler and other MTG cards:

TCGPlayerBUY NOW
BurnMana is an official partner of TCGPlayer
Continue exploring other sealed products in Amazon
See MTG Products

Printings

The Magmatic Channeler Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2020-09-25 and 2022-12-02. Illustrated by Bryan Sola.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 837662015NormalBlackBryan Sola
22020-09-25Zendikar RisingZNR 3492015NormalBlackBryan Sola
32020-09-25Zendikar Rising PromosPZNR 148p2015NormalBlackBryan Sola
42020-09-25Zendikar Rising PromosPZNR 148s2015NormalBlackBryan Sola
52020-09-25Zendikar RisingZNR 1482015NormalBlackBryan Sola
62022-12-02Jumpstart 2022J22 5712015NormalBlackBryan Sola

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Magmatic Channeler has restrictions

FormatLegality
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
PioneerLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2020-09-25 If you don’t play the exiled card you chose, it remains exiled. The card you didn’t choose remains exiled whether you play the chosen card or not.
2020-09-25 Magmatic Channeler gets just +3/+1 from its first ability, no matter how many instant and sorcery cards are in your graveyard beyond the fourth.
2020-09-25 You choose which card you’ll be allowed to play this turn while Magmatic Channeler’s ability is resolving, but you must follow the normal timing permissions and restrictions for the card when you play it. If it’s a land, you can’t play it unless you have land plays available.
2020-09-25 You’ll still pay all costs for a spell cast this way, including additional costs. You may also pay alternative costs if any are available.