Momentum Rumbler MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 4 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Creature — Dinosaur |
| Released | 2020-04-24 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths |
| Set code | IKO |
| Power | 3 |
| Toughness | 3 |
| Number | 126 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Andrey Kuzinskiy |
Text of card
Whenever Momentum Rumbler attacks, if it doesn't have first strike, put a first strike counter on it. Whenever Momentum Rumbler attacks, if it has first strike, it gains double strike until end of turn.
Cards like Momentum Rumbler
Momentum Rumbler is a creature card that has found its place within red aggressive decks in Magic: The Gathering. Its similarity with other creatures extends to those like Spellbreaker Behemoth, which also emphasizes impacting the board the moment it arrives. However, Momentum Rumbler is unique with its ability to unlock double strike upon consecutive attacks, adding a layer of threat with each passing turn.
Comparably, Ball Lightning is another creature that deals heavy damage, albeit with a focus on immediate impact, as it must be sacrificed at the end of turn. While Momentum Rumbler doesn’t have this same self-destruct trait, it instead rewards players for maintaining a presence on the battlefield over time. Moreover, Keldon Halberdier stands out as another comparable card, due to its initial suspended state – a factor that contrasts with Momentum Rumbler’s readiness to engage in combat upon being played.
In summary, although there are creatures with overlapping functions, Momentum Rumbler’s capacity to grow stronger with sustained aggression gives it a particular niche within Magic: The Gathering’s red deck strategies, combining both immediate and potential long-term combat advantages.
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Momentum Rumbler offers a continuous growth mechanic, encouraging you to attack with it every turn. If it has first strike, attacking a second time lets it gain double strike—a potential for two points of damage becomes four, giving you the advantage in battle.
Resource Acceleration: Although Momentum Rumbler itself doesn’t accelerate resources directly, its aggressive pressure can lead to advantageous board states. If it survives multiple engagements, the Rumbler compels your opponent to dedicate more resources to deal with it, indirectly benefiting you.
Instant Speed: While the card isn’t cast at instant speed, its second ability triggers at the beginning and after your draw step, giving you immediate access to its upgraded version without waiting for sorcery speed. This allows for strategic combat planning before you commit to your main phase actions.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Momentum Rumbler necessitates a discard to activate its key ability. This can set players back, especially when hand size is crucial for maintaining in-game momentum.
Specific Mana Cost: The casting cost of Momentum Rumbler requires both red and generic mana, potentially restricting its compatibility to decks that can consistently generate the needed mana colors.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a cost of four mana to deploy, players often weigh Momentum Rumbler against other creatures that may present a greater threat or utility on the battlefield for the same investment.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Momentum Rumbler showcases flexible gameplay, capable of integrating into decks seeking to aggressively apply pressure. Its ability to gain first strike and subsequently transform into a trampling force allows players to adapt to various board states effectively.
Combo Potential: This fiery elemental can synergize with cards that add or modify counters, or those that untap creatures, enabling it to consistently pose a formidable threat and maximise its evolving combat abilities.
Meta-Relevance: In an environment where creature-based combat prevails, Momentum Rumbler’s escalating threat level can keep opponents on their toes, making it a strategic choice for decks looking to outpace and outmaneuver creature-centric opponents.
How to Beat
Momentum Rumbler is an intriguing creature in the landscape of MTG. Its ability to grow stronger with each attack makes it a threat that players must address quickly. Yet, like all cards, there are strategies to counteract it. One effective method involves removing it before it can gain momentum – literally. Instant-speed removal spells like Lightning Bolt allow players to respond to the creature before it becomes too powerful, maintaining control over the game.
Furthermore, negating Momentum Rumbler’s ability to untap is critical. Utilizing cards that tap creatures or keep them in a perpetually tapped state ensures that the Rumbler cannot activate its formidable ability. Cards like Pacifism or Claustrophobia can effectively neutralize it without even having to remove it from the board. Control decks that have access to countermagic can also stop the Rumbler in its tracks, preventing it from ever hitting the field in the first place. When facing this card, it’s vital to have a response ready, or it may just roll over your defenses.
In essence, defeating Momentum Rumbler comes down to quick removal, disabling its abilities, or utilizing control measures to preemptively deal with the threat. Keep these counters in mind, and the Rumbler will lose its momentum in your next MTG battle.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Momentum Rumbler MTG card by a specific set like Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths, 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 Momentum Rumbler 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 Momentum Rumbler has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Restricted |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |