Predation Steward MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 2 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Creature — Phyrexian Elf Warrior |
| Released | 2023-02-03 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Phyrexia: All Will Be One |
| Set code | ONE |
| Power | 2 |
| Toughness | 2 |
| Number | 180 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Aaron J. Riley |
Text of card
Predation Steward enters the battlefield with two oil counters on it. , , Remove an oil counter from Predation Steward: Target creature gets +2/+2 until end of turn. Activate only as a sorcery.
"Best we move on. That gurgling means it's feeding time." —Melira
Cards like Predation Steward
Predation Steward stands out within the unique fauna of creature cards in Magic: The Gathering. This card bears resemblances to some of the stalwarts in creature control, yet it possesses distinct traits that set it apart. Much like Thalia’s Lieutenant, a card which also provides a potent boost to your other creatures, Predation Steward demands attention for its synergy in specific decks. However, where Thalia’s Lieutenant is tailored towards a Human tribal strategy, Predation Steward thrives in an environment rich with diverse creature types, thereby elevating its versatility and potential for surprise.
In the same realm of creature fortification, Metallic Mimic is a contender, whereby it’s designated to enhance a single creature type. Predation Steward plays a broader role with its capacity to interact with any creature type, not just the ones previously chosen. Its unique offering challenges the ability of Adaptive Automaton, another creature that selects a type upon entry but is confined to that choice thereafter. Predation Steward’s flexibility in enhancing various types makes it particularly advantageous in multi-tribal strategic constructs.
In essence, Predation Steward claims a deserving spot among creature-enabling cards in Magic: The Gathering, striking a delicate balance between targeted tribal enhancement and universal adaptive utility.
Cards similar to Predation Steward by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Predation Steward helps players maintain a firm grasp on card superiority, offering a creature that can also fetch another card from your library when it exerts. This keeps your hand stocked and ready to respond to opponents’ moves.
Resource Acceleration: This clever flyer not only offers utility on the battlefield but also propels your mana resources. By providing an extra land on exertion, it accelerates your potential to play high-cost cards earlier in the match, giving you a vital edge.
Instant Speed: The ability to exert at instant speed with Predation Steward means flexibility in gameplay. Use it to surprise your opponent during their turn, or after declaring blockers, creating strategic opportunities that can turn the tide of a game in your favor.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: The playability of Predation Steward can be hindered by its discard requirement. This can be quite taxing on a player’s hand, particularly in the early game or situations where you need to maintain card advantage.
Specific Mana Cost: Requiring a certain combination of mana, Predation Steward’s casting cost may not mesh well with multi-colored decks seeking to minimize color dependency. It could restrict deck-building options, narrowing the card’s versatility.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a cost that is steep relative to its abilities, Predation Steward might fall behind in a race against decks that capitalize on lower cost creatures. It’s a significant investment that may not always align with a player’s curve strategy.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Predation Steward brings flexibility to any deck with its capacity to manipulate creature dynamics. This card can serve as a key piece in decks that require an edge in terms of creature control and field presence.
Combo Potential: This creature card can seamlessly integrate into combos, especially in green-centric decks that maximize on creature abilities. Its potential to enhance creature-based strategies cannot be overstated, potentially pivoting the game in your favor.
Meta-Relevance: Considering the constant evolution of the game, Predation Steward can be a formidable addition if creature-heavy decks are dominant. It aligns well with the shifting demands of the competitive environment, ensuring that your collection stays ahead of the curve.
How to beat Predation Steward
Predation Steward can be a challenging card to face in any MTG match, with its utility lying in its protective ability for creatures with counters. To effectively counteract the influence of Predation Steward, consider using removal spells that don’t target or that can bypass its shielding effect. Spells such as Wrath of God, which destroy all creatures without targeting, can clear the board regardless of the Steward’s defenses. Spot removal can also be ineffective due to the Steward’s ability to grant hexproof, making board wipes or global effects more reliable solutions.
Alternatively, limiting the number of counters on the opponent’s creatures can reduce the Steward’s protective scope. This can be achieved with cards that prevent the proliferation of counters or remove them altogether. Reducing the number of threats on the battlefield beforehand, thus lessening the impact of Predation Steward’s ability when it comes into play, can also be a strategic approach.
In essence, while Predation Steward may bolster the opponent’s defenses, strategic use of non-targeting destruction spells and counter control are key for turning the tide of battle and mitigating the Steward’s influence in an MTG game.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Predation Steward MTG card by a specific set like Phyrexia: All Will Be One, 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 Predation Steward 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 Predation Steward has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Standard | Legal |
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Alchemy | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Future | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Brawl | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |