Mounted Archers MTG Card
1997-10-14 - Number 30
2015-05-06 - Number 19
| Card sets | Released in 2 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 4 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Human Soldier Archer |
| Abilities | Reach |
| Power | 2 |
| Toughness | 3 |
Text of card
Mounted Archers can block creatures with flying. o W: Mounted Archers can block an additional creature this turn. (All blocking assignments must still be legal.)
Cards like Mounted Archers
Mounted Archers hold their ground as a versatile defensive unit in the pantheon of Magic: The Gathering creatures specialized in blocking multiple attackers. A notable comparison is the Stoic Ephemera which also has the ability to block an additional creature each combat. Yet, Mounted Archers stand out, as they come equipped with reach, enabling them to intercept flying creatures that would otherwise pass unchallenged. Unlike their ethereal counterparts, the Archers remain a consistent presence on the battlefield rather than vanishing after blocking.
Looking at Carven Caryatid, the similarity lies in a defensive creature featuring card advantage. While the Caryatid draws a card upon entering the battlefield, the Mounted Archers’ asset is their potential for repeated multi-blocking. Lastly, Wall of Denial emerges as another comparable card, as a stalwart defender, with shroud and a formidable toughness. However, it lacks the Mounted Archers’ ability to fend off several attackers at once, emphasizing the Archers’ strategic value in defensive maneuvers.
As defenders with a specific combat role, Mounted Archers present an intriguing option for players looking to stabilize the board against numerous threats, striking a balance between aerial defense and persistent blockading.
Cards similar to Mounted Archers by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Mounted Archers provide a key role in allowing deck strategies to unfold steadily by potentially offering players the opportunity to access more cards. With abilities that can trigger draws or multi-card interactions, Mounted Archers can be a solid option for those looking to sustain a strong hand throughout the match.
Resource Acceleration: In MTG, efficiently utilizing resources can be the difference between victory and defeat. Mounted Archers might contribute to resource acceleration with abilities that untap lands or other permanents, ensuring that a player’s resources remain fluid and adaptable during the intricate dance of gameplay.
Instant Speed: The flexibility of instant speed interactions is a formidable tool in any player’s arsenal. Mounted Archers, if they feature flash or can activate abilities at instant speed, permit tactical plays that can surprise an opponent. Controlling the flow of the game with astute timing can pivot the outcome of a duel, and Mounted Archers can be instrumental in such strategies.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: The Mounted Archers card comes with a need to discard a card to activate certain abilities. For players who are already managing limited hand sizes, this can be detrimental, forcing tough decisions on resource allocation and potentially diminishing your in-game advantage.
Specific Mana Cost: The mana cost for Mounted Archers is particular, requiring not just any mana but a specific combination to cast. This can restrict deck flexibility, making it a challenging fit unless you’re committed to a deck that can reliably generate the required mana types.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: In comparison to other cards with similar abilities, Mounted Archers may seem expensive in terms of mana. For the investment, players often expect a stronger or more immediate impact on the game state, which means Mounted Archers might not make the cut in highly-optimized decks where efficiency is key.
Reasons to Include Mounted Archers in Your Collection
Versatility: Mounted Archers is flexible enough to slide into a range of decks, able to fit roles from early defense to mid-game counterattacks. Their capability to block multiple attackers keeps you secure as you build up your resources.
Combo Potential: Working smoothly with cards that boost defenders, Mounted Archers’ reach and ability to untap makes it a crucial piece in defensive combo setups, turning your backline into a veritable fortress.
Meta-Relevance: In an environment thick with flying threats, this card’s reach ability ensures you have a solid option against airborne assaults. When agility on the battlefield can make or break a game, Mounted Archers provides the tactical edge you need.
How to beat
Understanding how to navigate against Mounted Archers in the Magic: The Gathering landscape can make all the difference. This card is known for its defensive attributes, with the reach ability allowing it to block creatures with flying. Efficiency is key when tackling cards of this nature. Strategies to overcome Mounted Archers include the use of removal spells that can bypass its defensive stance. Board wipes are especially effective since they can clear multiple threats, including Mounted Archers, without being hindered by its blocking capability.
Spell types such as direct damage or targeted removal, like Lightning Bolt or Murder, can eliminate Mounted Archers before it starts impacting the battlefield. Additionally, combat tricks that increase the power of your attacking creatures or reduce the Mounted Archers’ toughness can tip the scales in your favor. It’s essential to keep these removal options in your deck to ensure you can handle threats like Mounted Archers smoothly during the game.
Ultimately, stand prepared with removals or strategies that outmaneuver defenders to maintain pressure on your opponent. Keeping your deck versatile and responsive ensures you won’t be caught off guard by cards like Mounted Archers — no matter how high they aim.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Mounted Archers MTG card by a specific set like Tempest and Tempest Remastered, 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 Mounted Archers 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
Printings
The Mounted Archers Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 1997-10-14 and 2015-05-06. Illustrated by Kev Walker.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1997-10-14 | Tempest | TMP | 30 | 1997 | Normal | Black | Kev Walker | |
| 2 | 2015-05-06 | Tempest Remastered | TPR | 19 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Kev Walker |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Mounted Archers has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
Rules and information
The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Mounted Archers card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.
| Date | Text |
|---|---|
| 2004-10-04 | You can use the ability multiple times so it can block more than two creatures. |
| 2008-04-01 | This card now uses the Reach keyword ability to enable the blocking of flying creatures. This works because a creature with flying can only be blocked by creatures with flying or reach. |