Merfolk Observer MTG Card

Offers the chance to peek at the top card, crucial for planning strategic plays throughout the game. Works best in decks that benefit from library and draw manipulation to accelerate resource access. Though useful, comes with downsides like specific mana costs and potential hand depletion.
Merfolk Observer - Rise of the Eldrazi
Mana cost
Converted mana cost2
RarityCommon
TypeCreature — Merfolk Rogue
Released2010-04-23
Set symbol
Set nameRise of the Eldrazi
Set codeROE
Power 2
Toughness 1
Number76
Frame2003
LayoutNormal
BorderBlack
Illustred byAnthony Francisco

Text of card

When Merfolk Observer enters the battlefield, look at the top card of target player's library.

"The structure gets bigger every hour, with hedrons coalescing even deep under the surface. If I could only get inside . . . ."

Cards like Merfolk Observer

The Merfolk Observer card stands as an insightful addition to creature decks in Magic: The Gathering, aligning with the tradition of merfolk roles in the game. It bears resemblance to cards like Silvergill Adept, as both are relatively low-cost merfolk creatures providing card advantage. Merfolk Observer diverges slightly, offering a peek at the top card of your library which can be vital for setting up your plays.

In addition, Merfolk Branchwalker can be likened to Merfolk Observer due to its ability to manipulate the library similarly. The Branchwalker, however, confers a bit more flexibility with its explore mechanic, potentially allowing you to land an additional land drop or buffing itself if a nonland card is revealed. Though not as straightforward as the Observer, the Branchwalker presents a more multifaceted approach.

Another kin in merfolk synergy is Tidebinder Mage, which leans more towards control by tapping down opposing creatures. While the Mage doesn’t offer the predictive element of Merfolk Observer, it compensates by potentially disrupting your opponent’s board and tempo. Assessing each merfolk’s contributions, Merfolk Observer garners attention for offering strategic foresight into upcoming draws within the MTG realm.

Silvergill Adept - MTG Card versions
Merfolk Branchwalker - MTG Card versions
Tidebinder Mage - MTG Card versions
Silvergill Adept - MTG Card versions
Merfolk Branchwalker - MTG Card versions
Tidebinder Mage - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: The Merfolk Observer allows you to peek at the top card of your library upon entering the battlefield, an ability that provides strategic insight, increasing the potential for card advantage over the course of the game.

Resource Acceleration: In decks that synergize with Merfolk or library manipulation, this card can work in tandem with other effects that arrange the top of your library, effectively accelerating access to key resources when they’re most needed.

Instant Speed: Though the Merfolk Observer itself is not an instant, its ability can complement instant-speed plays. Knowing the next draw lets you make more informed decisions on whether to cast spells or hold back resources during critical moments of play.

Card Cons

Discard Requirement: In using the Merfolk Observer, you may find yourself at a strategic disadvantage due to the requirement to discard another card. This can deplete your hand in critical moments, especially in gameplay where maintaining card advantage is key.

Specific Mana Cost: The Merfolk Observer comes with a mana cost that requires a specific type of mana. This can pose deck-building constraints and reduce the flexibility of including it in a multi-colored deck that may not have consistent access to the required mana type.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: While the Merfolk Observer has its benefits, its mana cost is considered high for its abilities when compared to other cards within the same mana range. Players may opt for alternative cards that provide more value or versatility for the same, or even a lower, mana investment.

Reasons to Include Merfolk Observer in Your Collection

Versatility: Merfolk Observer is a flexible addition to your deck, adapting well to strategies that thrive on information asymmetry. Its ability to peek at the next card helps tailor your plays for upcoming turns.

Combo Potential: Knowing your next card provides synergy with library manipulation or top-deck strategies, creating opportunities for potent combinations that can swing the game in your favor.

Meta-Relevance: In an environment where foreseeing an opponent’s strategy is crucial, Merfolk Observer offers an edge, especially in formats where predicting counterspells or removals can be game-changing.

How to beat

Merfolk Observer is an intriguing creature that gives players an unexpected insight into their opponent’s next draw in Magic: The Gathering. Its reveal mechanic can be a double-edged sword, offering both foresight and necessary adaptability to the player controlling it. To effectively counteract the Observer, consider using instant speed removal before the opponent’s draw step or when it is tapped for attacking, limiting the opportunity for information gathering.

Utilizing board wipes can also be an efficient way to clear the Observer from the field, especially if the opponent has amassed several creatures alongside it. Alternatively, strategies that don’t rely heavily on the order of your own deck could minimize the impact of Merfolk Observer’s ability. This can be done by employing top-deck manipulation tools or cards that shuffle the library, which in turn reduces the advantage the opponent might gain.

By prioritizing the removal of key threat points and adopting approaches that dilute the Observer’s intel, players can navigate around its ability. Therefore, while the Merfolk Observer can pose an interesting challenge, with smart play and deck-building choices, it is possible to diminish its effectiveness and maintain control of the game.

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Merfolk Observer 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 Merfolk Observer and other MTG cards:

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Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Merfolk Observer has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
PaupercommanderLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
PauperLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal