Paradox Engine MTG Card
2016-09-30 - Number 43
2017-01-20 - Number 169
2017-01-20 - Number 169s
2020-11-12 - Number 259
| Card sets | Released in 4 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 5 |
| Rarity | |
| Type | Legendary Artifact |
Text of card
Whenever you cast a spell, untap all nonland permanents you control.
"This device was submitted to the Fair anonymously. It is imperative that its maker be found. We must understand it." —Confiscation directive
Cards like Paradox Engine
Paradox Engine injects a unique dynamic in Magic: The Gathering, with capabilities closely resembling those of other cards designed to untap permanents. Intriguingly, Isochron Scepter stands out as a comparable card, primarily due to its ability to repeatedly cast the imprinted instant card with each spell you play, thus sharing the theme of reusing resources. However, Paradox Engine amplifies this by untapping all nonland permanents, not just the Scepter itself, leading to potentially game-altering combos.
Another relative is Dramatic Reversal. This instant offers a one-time mass untap effect at a far lower cost, which can still set up a significant advantage. Although not a direct engine for continuous untapping like Paradox Engine, it’s often combined with Isochron Scepter for a similar, recurring effect. Unwinding Clock is a card that somewhat mimics Paradox Engine’s untap ability as well, albeit with a restriction to only untap during your untap step, thus lacking the explosive play potential Paradox Engine carries.
In the context of flexibility and potential for creating overwhelming board states, Paradox Engine certainly stands as a powerhouse among cards that untap permanents. Its ability to transform nearly any spell into a catalyst for untapping makes it a card that, while similar to others, presents a unique and powerful option for players crafting intricate MTG combos.
Cards similar to Paradox Engine by color, type and mana cost
Decks using this card
MTG decks using Paradox Engine. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.
| # | Name | Format | Archetype | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | BR | Legacy | Legacy Preliminary 2024-04-29 (1) | |
| UBR | Legacy | Legacy League 2024-04-17 | |
 | Grixis Artifacts | Legacy | Blue Artifacts | Legacy Challenge 32 2024-04-27 (1) |
| U | Legacy | Legacy Challenge 32 2024-04-20 | |
 | Dice Factory | Modern | Dice Factory | Modern Preliminary 2024-04-26 (1) |
| Mystic Forge Combo | Legacy | Mystic Forge Combo | Legacy League 2024-04-14 |
 | Izzet Artifacts | Legacy | Blue Artifacts | Legacy Challenge 32 2024-04-20 |
 | Dice Factory Tron | Modern | Dice Factory Tron | Modern Challenge 64 2024-04-20 (1) |
 | 4c Tinker | Vintage | Blue Tinker | Vintage Challenge 32 2024-04-20 |
 | Mono-Blue Paradoxical Outcome | Legacy | Blue Artifacts | $1K - Legacy - SCG CON Atlanta - Sunday - 9:30 am |
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Paradox Engine is a powerhouse of synergy that maximizes your card usefulness by untapping nonland permanents whenever you cast a spell. This cyclical untapping can lead to drawing multiple cards per turn if combined with the right artifacts or creatures that draw cards upon tapping.
Resource Acceleration: In the domain of mana generation, Paradox Engine works wonders by allowing players to untap mana-producing artifacts or creatures each time they sling a spell. This creates a potent loop for accelerating resources and enabling the casting of even more spells in the same turn.
Instant Speed: While Paradox Engine itself does not operate at instant speed, it empowers plays that can. It enables mana rocks and dorks to be used repeatedly, providing the necessary mana to react swiftly with instant spells any time within the game cycle, thus ensuring you’re always ready to respond or further your board state.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Despite its unique untapping ability, Paradox Engine necessitates the player to have a steady flow of castable spells to maintain momentum. This pressure can lead to discarding valuable cards due to a hand clogged with expensive or situational spells not suitable for the current board state.
Specific Mana Cost: With a generic mana cost of five, Paradox Engine can be slotted into any deck. However, the need to harness its power effectively means it often requires a strategic build with mana-generating or low-cost spells, potentially restricting deck diversity and creativity.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: At five mana, Paradox Engine is an investment, especially in formats where speed is critical. Players might find it challenging to balance the high cost of getting the engine online with maintaining a presence on the board, as other strategies could reach their peak much quicker, leaving lesser room for engine-based build-ups.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Paradox Engine is adaptable across various deck archetypes, particularly those harnessing spells that untap nonland permanents. Its ability to untap all nonland permanents anytime you cast a spell makes it an asset in strategies aiming for continuous mana generation or repeated activation of abilities.
Combo Potential: This artifact is infamous for its combo-enabling properties, allowing players to create powerful synergies with cards like mana dorks or rocks for an almost unlimited mana loop. Incorporating Paradox Engine into your deck opens the door to explosive plays that can turn the tide of the game.
Meta-Relevance: In environments where longer, more involved games are typical, Paradox Engine shines by maintaining board presence and resource availability. Its potential to significantly impact the game state by perpetuating combo plays ensures it remains a pertinent choice for competitive play.
How to beat
The Paradox Engine is a powerful artifact in the world of MTG, infamous for its ability to untap all nonland permanents whenever its controller casts a spell. Often used in combination with mana-producing artifacts, it can generate massive amounts of mana in a single turn, creating opportunities for a player to cast numerous spells or even win the game on the spot. Overcoming this card requires a strategic approach.
Interrupting the synergy that Paradox Engine relies on is key. Artifact removal spells like Naturalize or Abrade can directly target and eliminate the Engine from play. Disruption tactics are also effective; cards such as Duress can help preemptively remove it from your opponent’s hand. Additionally, countering the spells that would trigger the Engine’s ability, using spells like Counterspell or Mana Leak, can hinder your opponent’s strategy. Control decks that can manage the board and keep pressure on the opponent’s resources also stand a better chance at disrupting the combo-ridden game plan enabled by Paradox Engine.
Ultimately, recognizing the pivotal role that Paradox Engine plays in your opponent’s strategy and aiming to interrupt their plays through removal, hand disruption, counterspells, or efficient board control will increase your odds of overcoming this formidable card.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Paradox Engine MTG card by a specific set like Kaladesh Inventions and Aether Revolt, 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 Paradox Engine 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
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Printings
The Paradox Engine Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2016-09-30 and 2020-11-12. Illustrated by 2 different artists.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2016-09-30 | Kaladesh Inventions | MPS | 43 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Vincent Proce | |
| 2 | 2017-01-20 | Aether Revolt | AER | 169 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Christine Choi | |
| 3 | 2017-01-20 | Aether Revolt Promos | PAER | 169s | 2015 | Normal | Black | Christine Choi | |
| 4 | 2020-11-12 | Kaladesh Remastered | KLR | 259 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Christine Choi |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Paradox Engine has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Commander | Banned |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |
Rules and information
The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Paradox Engine card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.
| Date | Text |
|---|---|
| 2017-02-09 | Paradox Engine’s triggered ability resolves before the spell that caused it to trigger. The ability will resolve even if that spell is countered. |