Birds of Paradise MTG Card


Card setsReleased in 48 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost1
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Bird
Abilities Flying
Power 0
Toughness 1

Key Takeaways

  1. Birds of Paradise is a versatile mana accelerator, pivotal for multicolor decks requiring mana fixing.
  2. The card’s high demand stems from its utility in various MTG formats, from Commander to Vintage.
  3. Despite its simplicity, Birds of Paradise offers strategic depth, facilitating explosive starts and smoother curves.

Text of card

Flying// Tap to add one mana of any color to your mana pool. This tap may be played as an interrupt.


 


Pros of Birds of Paradise

Card Advantage: While the Birds of Paradise doesn’t grant direct card draw, utilizing these feathery friends provides a strategic card advantage. Players are allowed efficient use of their deck and mana, thereby unlocking more card play options.

Resource Acceleration: Birds of Paradise are exceptional when it comes to resource acceleration. Their ability to provide any color of mana renders them a matchless tool for mana ramp and color fixing strategies. This accelerates gameplay as more powerful spells can be cast earlier.

Instant Speed: Even though Birds of Paradise lack a specific instant-speed ability, their one-mana casting cost and full round availability can often feel like it. By being so cost-effective, they can be cast almost instantly, freeing up both mana pool and hand for other strategic plays.


Drawbacks of Birds of Paradise

Discard Requirement: While Birds of Paradise MTG doesn’t necessitate any direct discarding, its loss can equate to a significant discard in resources. As one of the game’s most reliable mana sources, losing Birds of Paradise from your battlefield can make your hand feel suddenly spare.

Specific Mana Cost: Birds of Paradise requires green mana to get into play. Although it subsequently provides flexibility in mana color, its initial dependence on green may limit its presence to predominantly green or multi-color decks.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: While just a single green mana might not seem costly, considering the fragility of this 0/1 creature, the investment can seem steep. There might be other cards available that offer more stability or value at a similar or even lower cost.


Reasons to Include Birds of Paradise in Your Collection

Versatility: Birds of Paradise offers a dynamic approach to gameplay, serving as a powerful mana source capable of providing any color you need, making it an essential piece in multicolor decks.

Combo Potential: This card has a wide range of powerful combinations. Its ability to add any color mana to your pool can trigger multicolor synergies or help you cast costly spells earlier than expected.

Meta-Relevance: Given the current meta-game where the mana curve and speed play essential roles, the ramp provided by Birds of Paradise may prove invaluable. Its versatile mana provision can adjust to game shifts seamlessly, making it a relevant pick in various types of meta.


Similar Cards

In the realm of Magic: The Gathering, the Birds of Paradise card is unique but there exist similar cards in terms of power and function. A card that immediately comes to mind is Noble Hierarch. Like Birds of Paradise, Noble Hierarch is a one-mana creature that aids in mana acceleration. However, Noble Hierarch’s Exalted mechanic gives it an edge during combat scenarios, but lacks the versatility of Birds of Paradise’s ability to produce mana of any color.

Another card to consider is Sylvan Caryatid. It requires an additional mana to cast compared to Birds of Paradise, yet it brings added resilience with higher toughness and the ability to generate any color of mana. Nevertheless, the higher mana cost could affect early game strategies that Birds of Paradise often assists so effectively.

There’s also Elvish Mystic, most closely resembling Birds of Paradise in terms of mana cost and acceleration abilities. However, it’s limited to only providing green mana, which greatly distinguishes it from Birds of Paradise’s wide range of mana generation.

To summarize, while there are similar cards in the MTG universe, the Birds of Paradise stands out with its one-mana cost and capacity to generate any color mana, making it an invaluable resource in multicolored deck strategies.


How to Beat Birds of Paradise

As an iconic card in mtg, Birds of Paradise stirs strategic thoughts in the minds of experienced players. Its low-cost mana of one green and the ability to tap for any color makes it an excellent mana fixer and accelerator. But dealing with it demands strategic insight. So, how to negate the advantage of Birds of Paradise?

Incorporating cards that deal with creatures without targeting them is one solution. Pyroclasm or Anger of the Gods allows you to handle Birds of Paradise effectively. Countering the enchantment aura that transforms it into a potent attacker is another tactic. Removing the card from the game entirely is a direct answer, cards like Path to Exile or Unmake fits the bill perfectly. These methods not only dispose of Birds of Paradise, but any creature posing a similar threat.

In essence, dealing with Birds of Paradise is about predicting your opponent’s game plan and having a counter measure ready. Its power lies in its flexibility and speed. If you can limit these aspects, you have significantly reduced its impact. So include smart choices in your decks for a successful game plan against Birds of Paradise.


The Timeless Allure of Birds of Paradise in Magic the Gathering

Deep within the realm of Magic the Gathering, lies a card that has captivated players for decades with its simple brilliance and strategic utility—Birds of Paradise. This iconic card, known for its elegant artwork and its versatile mana-generating ability, has been a staple in competitive and casual decks alike. It’s a testament to the depth and complexity of MTG that even such a seemingly straightforward card can open up a world of strategic possibilities. Whether you’re building a multicolored deck or just need that one extra mana to cast the game-changing spell, Birds of Paradise stands out as a card that every player should be familiar with.

Understanding the Birds of Paradise Card

Birds of Paradise sees play across multiple MTG formats, showcasing its power as a mana dork—a term used to describe creatures that can tap for mana. But Birds of Paradise is no ordinary mana dork. Unlike other similar creatures, it gives you the freedom to tap for one mana of any color, creating endless opportunities for a wide range of deck archetypes. This flexibility is a precious commodity in MTG, where the right mana at the right time can make all the difference.

First introduced in Magic’s inaugural Alpha set, Birds of Paradise has seen numerous reprints across various sets, each time reintroducing its distinct advantages to a new generation of players. Despite the ups and downs of the meta, Birds of Paradise remains a resoundingly popular choice, demonstrating timeless utility no matter the current trends in deck construction.

Deck Building with Birds of Paradise

The strength of Birds of Paradise isn’t just in the mana it provides, but also in the options it opens up for deck builders. Competitors looking to craft a deck that quickly accelerates into powerful spells will find Birds of Paradise an indispensable asset. It serves as a key enabler for casting potent threats ahead of curve, which can often tip the scales of a match.

From enabling three-color decks to smoothing out mana bases, Birds of Paradise complements a myriad of strategies. Its unassuming nature means it can fly under the radar, offering more than just a splash of vibrant color to your play style. Whether integrated into combo decks, serving as part of a high-flying aggressive strategy, or sitting in the ranks of a control deck, Birds of Paradise is a card that can adapt and thrive in various environments.

Strategic Gameplay with Birds of Paradise

The strategic impact of Birds of Paradise extends beyond its deck-building benefits. In-game, it is an invaluable tool for reaching your mana thresholds earlier than expected. This acceleration can be crucial for deploying threats, executing combos, and adapting to an ever-shifting battlefield. Moreover, as a creature, it can be called upon to block incoming attackers in a pinch, though its primary function remains rooted in its mana production.

The tactical considerations of when to play Birds of Paradise, how to protect it from removal, and when to commit it as a blocker are nuanced decisions that can influence the entire course of a game. Masters of MTG understand the subtleties at play and make each choice with careful forethought, leveraging every aspect of this multifaceted card to propel themselves to victory.

The Birds of Paradise in MTG History

While Birds of Paradise is just one card among thousands in the ever-expanding universe of MTG, its legacy is unrivaled. Its design represents a harmony between functionality, artistry, and game lore. Early printings of the card featured the illustrious artwork of Mark Poole, capturing the ethereal beauty of this creature as it perches delicately amidst mystical foliage. Over the years, various artists have reimagined this fantastical avian, each offering a unique vision that contributes to the legacy of this cornerstone card.

Part of the Bird’s enduring appeal comes from its history. Seasoned players reminisce about victories achieved with the help of this card, and newcomers are intrigued by its storied past. Birds of Paradise is an emblem of the game itself, a piece of MTG culture that bridges generations of play.

Caring for Your Birds of Paradise Collection

For collectors and competitive players, maintaining and preserving your Birds of Paradise cards is crucial. As reprints may vary in value, understanding the nuances of card conditions, editions, and rarities is part of the collector’s journey. Ensuring proper storage and handling can help maintain the card’s condition, keeping it ready for battle or in peak state for display purposes.

When considering the acquisition of a Birds of Paradise card, factor in its place in MTG history. Earlier, rarer editions are regarded highly among collectors, but even more recent iterations command respect at the gaming table. Each version of this card carries a piece of the game’s evolution, making it more than just a strategic asset—it’s a collectible with intrinsic nostalgic value.

Facing Off Against Birds of Paradise

Encountering Birds of Paradise across the table presents its own set of challenges. When it’s in an opponent’s deck, it signifies the potential for explosive turns that can escalate the game quickly. Anticipating and disrupting an opponent’s mana sources, including targeted removal of their Birds of Paradise, can be a sound tactic. Being aware of your own deck’s answers to such threats is a component of strategic gameplay in MTG.

Understanding the mechanics of how Birds of Paradise functions, recognizing the signs of the strategies it enables, and carefully timing your response to its presence are skills refined over time. Here, experience in the MTG landscape is your greatest ally, guiding you in dismantling the slick strategies that this card supports.

Enhancing Your MTG Experience with Birds of Paradise

Whether you’re a competitor seeking to optimize your deck or a collector chasing the excitement of the hunt, Birds of Paradise is a quintessential card that deserves a place in your MTG experience. Its combination of beauty, utility, and storied history makes it a card that transcends the ordinary, capturing the hearts and minds of MTG players around the world.

Enhancing your understanding of this card and the myriad ways it can influence the game is not just about adding a single card to your deck—it’s about embracing the complexity and depth that make MTG a continuously engaging and rewarding hobby.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the rich landscapes of Magic the Gathering requires strategy, insight, and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re planning your next big win or fine-tuning your deck for maximum impact, there’s always room to elevate your game. As you continue to delve into the MTG universe, remember that it’s not just about the single triumphs but the continuous journey towards mastery. We invite you to keep exploring this fascinating world, discovering new techniques, and unearthing valuable cards to ensure your next match is more than just a game, but a Big Score. Ready to level up your play? Join us to learn more and become the ultimate MTG champion.


Cards like Birds of Paradise

In the realm of Magic: The Gathering, the Birds of Paradise card is unique but there exist similar cards in terms of power and function. A card that immediately comes to mind is Noble Hierarch. Like Birds of Paradise, Noble Hierarch is a one-mana creature that aids in mana acceleration. However, Noble Hierarch’s Exalted mechanic gives it an edge during combat scenarios, but lacks the versatility of Birds of Paradise’s ability to produce mana of any color.

Another card to consider is Sylvan Caryatid. It requires an additional mana to cast compared to Birds of Paradise, yet it brings added resilience with higher toughness and the ability to generate any color of mana. Nevertheless, the higher mana cost could affect early game strategies that Birds of Paradise often assists so effectively.

There’s also Elvish Mystic, most closely resembling Birds of Paradise in terms of mana cost and acceleration abilities. However, it’s limited to only providing green mana, which greatly distinguishes it from Birds of Paradise’s wide range of mana generation.

To summarize, while there are similar cards in the MTG universe, the Birds of Paradise stands out with its one-mana cost and capacity to generate any color mana, making it an invaluable resource in multicolored deck strategies.

Noble Hierarch - MTG Card versions
Sylvan Caryatid - MTG Card versions
Elvish Mystic - MTG Card versions
Noble Hierarch - Conflux (CON)
Sylvan Caryatid - Theros Promos (PTHS)
Elvish Mystic - Magic 2014 (M14)

Cards similar to Birds of Paradise by color, type and mana cost

Scryb Sprites - MTG Card versions
Llanowar Elves - MTG Card versions
Ghazbán Ogre - MTG Card versions
Shanodin Dryads - MTG Card versions
Wall of Wood - MTG Card versions
Rime Dryad - MTG Card versions
Village Elder - MTG Card versions
Willow Dryad - MTG Card versions
Spike Drone - MTG Card versions
Skyshroud Elite - MTG Card versions
Elvish Berserker - MTG Card versions
Tree Monkey - MTG Card versions
Norwood Ranger - MTG Card versions
Ghazbán Ogress - MTG Card versions
Wild Dogs - MTG Card versions
Elvish Herder - MTG Card versions
Pouncing Jaguar - MTG Card versions
Taunting Elf - MTG Card versions
Sacred Prey - MTG Card versions
Llanowar Elite - MTG Card versions
Scryb Sprites - Limited Edition Alpha (LEA)
Llanowar Elves - 30th Anniversary History Promos (P30H)
Ghazbán Ogre - Masters Edition (ME1)
Shanodin Dryads - Summer Magic / Edgar (SUM)
Wall of Wood - 30th Anniversary Edition (30A)
Rime Dryad - Ice Age (ICE)
Village Elder - Mirage (MIR)
Willow Dryad - Portal (POR)
Spike Drone - Tempest (TMP)
Skyshroud Elite - Exodus (EXO)
Elvish Berserker - Ninth Edition (9ED)
Tree Monkey - Ninth Edition (9ED)
Norwood Ranger - Ninth Edition (9ED)
Ghazbán Ogress - Unglued (UGL)
Wild Dogs - Dominaria Remastered (DMR)
Elvish Herder - Urza's Saga (USG)
Pouncing Jaguar - Urza's Saga (USG)
Taunting Elf - Urza's Destiny (UDS)
Sacred Prey - Mercadian Masques (MMQ)
Llanowar Elite - Invasion (INV)

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Birds of Paradise MTG card by a specific set like Limited Edition Alpha and Limited Edition Beta, 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 Birds of Paradise and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Birds of Paradise Magic the Gathering card was released in 34 different sets between 1993-08-05 and 2024-01-12. Illustrated by 10 different artists.

#ReleaseNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
11993-08-05Limited Edition AlphaLEA 1861993normalblackMark Poole
21993-10-04Limited Edition BetaLEB 1871993normalblackMark Poole
31993-12-01Unlimited Edition2ED 1871993normalwhiteMark Poole
41993-12-10Collectors' EditionCED 1871993normalblackMark Poole
51993-12-10Intl. Collectors' EditionCEI 1871993normalblackMark Poole
61994-04-01Revised Edition3ED 1871993normalwhiteMark Poole
71994-04-01Foreign Black BorderFBB 1871993normalblackMark Poole
81994-06-21Summer Magic / EdgarSUM 1871993normalwhiteMark Poole
91995-04-01Fourth Edition Foreign Black Border4BB 2341993normalblackMark Poole
101995-04-01Fourth Edition4ED 2341993normalwhiteMark Poole
111996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC et2341993normalgoldMark Poole
121997-03-24Fifth Edition5ED 2801997normalwhiteMark Poole
131998-08-12World Championship Decks 1998WC98 bs2801997normalgoldMark Poole
141999-04-21Classic Sixth Edition6ED 2171997normalwhiteMark Poole
152000-08-02World Championship Decks 2000WC00 nl2171997normalgoldMark Poole
162000-08-02World Championship Decks 2000WC00 jk2171997normalgoldMark Poole
172001-04-11Seventh Edition7ED 231★1997normalblackEdward P. Beard, Jr.
182001-04-11Seventh Edition7ED 2311997normalwhiteEdward P. Beard, Jr.
192001-08-08World Championship Decks 2001WC01 jt2311997normalgoldEdward P. Beard, Jr.
202002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 375982003normalblackTerese Nielsen
212002-08-14World Championship Decks 2002WC02 shh2311997normalgoldEdward P. Beard, Jr.
222002-08-14World Championship Decks 2002WC02 bk2311997normalgoldEdward P. Beard, Jr.
232003-07-28Eighth Edition8ED 233★2003normalblackEdward P. Beard, Jr.
242003-07-28Eighth Edition8ED 2332003normalwhiteEdward P. Beard, Jr.
252005-10-07Ravnica: City of GuildsRAV 1532003normalblackMarcelo Vignali
262007-07-13Tenth Edition10E 2522003normalblackMarcelo Vignali
272007-07-13Tenth Edition10E 252★2003normalblackMarcelo Vignali
282009-07-17Magic 2010M10 1682003normalblackMarcelo Vignali
292010-07-16Magic 2011M11 1652003normalblackMarcelo Vignali
302011-07-15Magic 2012M12 1652003normalblackMarcelo Vignali
312016-08-26Conspiracy: Take the CrownCN2 1762015normalblackMarcelo Vignali
322019-02-15RNA Guild KitGK2 822015normalblackMarcelo Vignali
332019-11-07Mystery BoosterMB1 11382015normalblackMarcelo Vignali
342019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 1762015normalblackMark Poole
352019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 11472015normalblackAndrea Radeck, age 35
362019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 11482015normalblackEli, age 8
372019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 922015normalblackOvidio Cartagena
382020-09-26The ListPLST CN2-1762015normalblackMarcelo Vignali
392022-11-2830th Anniversary Edition30A 1822015normalblackMark Poole
402022-11-2830th Anniversary Edition30A 4791997normalblackMark Poole
412023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 4392015normalborderlessDarrell Riche
422023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 1512015normalblackMark Poole
432023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 3361997normalblackMark Poole
442023-06-23Tales of Middle-earth CommanderLTC 2352015normalblackBen Wootten
452024-01-12Ravnica RemasteredRVR 344z2015normalblackMarcelo Vignali
462024-01-12Ravnica RemasteredRVR 1332015normalblackMarcelo Vignali
472024-01-12Ravnica RemasteredRVR 3441997normalblackMarcelo Vignali
482024-01-12Ravnica RemasteredRVR 4322015normalborderlessKemonomichi

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Birds of Paradise has restrictions

FormatLegality
OldschoolLegal
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
PremodernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal

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