Nath of the Gilt-Leaf MTG Card


Nath creates card advantage by depleting opponents’ hands and triggering synergistic effects. Demands specific mana and might strengthen opposing graveyard strategies inadvertently. Combines disruption with tribal synergy, making him a valuable addition to any collection.
Card setsReleased in 2 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost5
RarityRare
TypeLegendary Creature — Elf Warrior
Power 4
Toughness 4

Text of card

At the beginning of your upkeep, you may have target opponent discard a card at random. Whenever an opponent discards a card, you may put a 1/1 green Elf Warrior creature token into play.

A savage hunter with a prince's bearing.


Cards like Nath of the Gilt-Leaf

Nath of the Gilt-Leaf holds a unique position within the elf archetype in Magic: The Gathering, drawing comparisons to cards that emphasize hand disruption and token generation. It echoes the abilities of Sadistic Hypnotist, granting the ability to whittle down opponents’ hands, albeit through a triggered ability rather than an activated one. Sadistic Hypnotist offers a repeatable effect but lacks the synergy with elf strategies that Nath provides.

Another parallel can be drawn with Mind Slash, which shares with Nath the potential for targeted discard. While Mind Slash requires a mana investment and creature sacrifice to activate, Nath leverages the natural ebb and flow of the game, delivering its effects without additional costs at the start of each opponent’s upkeep. However, Mind Slash offers more control over timing and target, something that Nath cannot claim.

When assessing Nath’s role in deck construction, its ability to disturb opponents’ plans while fueling your strategy with elf tokens presents a powerful dynamic not easily replicated. This duality makes Nath of the Gilt-Leaf a compelling option for players looking to blend disruption with tribal theme benefits.

Sadistic Hypnotist - MTG Card versions
Mind Slash - MTG Card versions
Sadistic Hypnotist - MTG Card versions
Mind Slash - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Nath of the Gilt-Leaf by color, type and mana cost

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Wormwood Treefolk - MTG Card versions
Spiritmonger - MTG Card versions
Deathbloom Ritualist - MTG Card versions
Ikra Shidiqi, the Usurper - MTG Card versions
Vulturous Zombie - MTG Card versions
Grave-Shell Scarab - MTG Card versions
Golgari Rotwurm - MTG Card versions
Deity of Scars - MTG Card versions
Creakwood Ghoul - MTG Card versions
Sapling of Colfenor - MTG Card versions
Marrow Chomper - MTG Card versions
Lord of Extinction - MTG Card versions
Golgari Longlegs - MTG Card versions
Korozda Gorgon - MTG Card versions
Pharika's Mender - MTG Card versions
Kheru Dreadmaw - MTG Card versions
Brood Butcher - MTG Card versions
Mazirek, Kraul Death Priest - MTG Card versions
The Gitrog Monster - MTG Card versions
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Card Pros

Card Advantage: Nath of the Gilt-Leaf shines in creating card disparity by forcing each opponent to discard a card at the beginning of your upkeep. This not only reduces their hand size but can also indirectly grow your own hand through various synergies that capitalize on your opponents discarding.

Resource Acceleration: Coupled with elves or other creatures that tap for mana, Nath can significantly accelerate your resource availability. With each discarded card from an opponent, Nath’s ability can potentially trigger effects that create extra mana, propelling you ahead in the game.

Instant Speed: Although Nath himself does not operate at instant speed, he influences a board state that embraces instant speed interactions. By keeping your opponents on edge with depleted resources, you’re better positioned to leverage your instant speed spells and effects while they’re hampered by fewer options.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Nath of the Gilt-Leaf necessitates that every opponent discard a card, which can sometimes backfire. If your adversaries are using decks that thrive off of discarding or graveyard strategies, this could inadvertently give them an advantage.

Specific Mana Cost: Nath’s casting cost is quite specific, requiring both black and green mana. This characteristic makes it trickier to fit into a multicolored deck that doesn’t heavily focus on these two colors, possibly restricting its playability to dedicated Golgari decks.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a total mana cost of five, including one black and one green, Nath of the Gilt-Leaf might arrive on the battlefield somewhat later than other impactful commanders. Its higher cost may slow down your game plan in fast-paced matches where early dominance is key.


Reasons to Include Nath of the Gilt-Leaf in Your Collection

Versatility: Nath of the Gilt-Leaf has a multifaceted role in Elf tribal and discard-focused decks, offering both a strong tribal leader and a source of opponent disruption.

Combo Potential: With Nath’s ability to generate Elf tokens as opponents discard, he synergizes with strategies that capitalize on having numerous creatures and can set up powerful board states or combo off with other cards.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta with heavy hand interaction, Nath can be a strong contender. He disrupts opponents’ plans while bolstering your board presence, making him a relevant choice for those looking to explore new deck archetypes or enhance existing strategies.


How to beat

Nath of the Gilt-Leaf is a notable commander in MTG with the ability to disrupt your hand while simultaneously strengthening their elf army. To counteract this leafy adversary, a keen strategy involves minimizing your hand size to reduce Nath’s effect on your game plan. Cards like Leyline of the Void can prove invaluable by nullifying the token-generating ability triggered by discards, essentially blunting Nath’s force.

Moreover, incorporating instant removal or sweepers effectively deals with Nath and the elven horde it conjures. Spot removal such as Path to Exile or Wrath of God ensure Nath is removed before their passive ability can impact your hand size significantly. Additionally, having card draw spells ready after a board clean-up can help you recover quickly and gain a decisive advantage.

In essence, flexibility and well-timed control elements are key in your deck construction to withstand the onslaught of Nath and his elven legion. Maintaining board control and being strategic about your hand size can turn the tide of battle against Nath of the Gilt-Leaf.


BurnMana Recommendations

Mastering the delicate interplay of disruption and board presence is essential in MTG, and Nath of the Gilt-Leaf is a figurehead in this realm. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses outlined, players can effectively integrate Nath into their deck for a dynamic and disruptive gameplay experience. Whether you’re looking to reign supreme with elf synergy or are drawn to the strategy of hand disruption, Nath of the Gilt-Leaf is a card worth considering for your collection. Craving deeper insights and strategies or seeking ways to round out your deck-building skills? Our detailed guides and articles can enhance your understanding and help turn the tide in your favor. Don’t miss out on leveling up your MTG prowess—connect with us to delve further into the world of Magic the Gathering.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Nath of the Gilt-Leaf MTG card by a specific set like Lorwyn and Commander 2016, 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 Nath of the Gilt-Leaf and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Nath of the Gilt-Leaf Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 2007-10-12 and 2016-11-11. Illustrated by Kev Walker.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12007-10-12LorwynLRW 2502003NormalBlackKev Walker
22016-11-11Commander 2016C16 2132015NormalBlackKev Walker

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Nath of the Gilt-Leaf has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal