Primeval Shambler MTG Card
1999-10-04 - Number 152
2003-07-28 - Number 156
2003-07-28 - Number 156★
| Card sets | Released in 3 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 5 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Creature — Horror Mercenary |
| Power | 3 |
| Toughness | 3 |
Text of card
oo B Primeval Shambler gets +1/+1 until end of turn.
His mind, like his body, is made up of the swamp's flotsam.
Cards like Primeval Shambler
In the realm of customizable creatures in MTG, Primeval Shambler finds itself in an interesting niche. Its likeness can be observed in cards like Balduvian Hydra, which shares the ability to adjust its power through mana investment. Primeval Shambler offers players the versatility to boost its power at any moment during their turn, potentially turning it into a formidable attacker. Unlike the Hydra, which requires a red mana for each counter and only grows during upkeep, Shambler’s flexibility allows it to adapt to various in-game situations without the time restriction.
Exploring further, Skinshifter stands out for its rapid adaptation skill, allowing it to become a variety of different creatures until end of turn. Although Skinshifter’s transformations come with preset stats compared to the incremental improvements Primeval Shambler can achieve, it provides tactical shape-shifting that Shambler cannot. This brings an element of surprise and unpredictability to the table, which might just tip the scales in certain games.
To sum up, while Primeval Shambler’s kin do exist, its specific blend of continuity and control in combat situations presents a unique option for MTG players looking for a creature that can grow in strength and potentially dominate the battlefield.
Cards similar to Primeval Shambler by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Primeval Shambler may not directly provide card advantage in the conventional sense, but its presence on the battlefield can deter opponents from attacking, effectively preserving your hand and field. Moreover, its flexibility as a mana sink means you can pump unused mana into it late in the game for a potentially game-ending threat.
Resource Acceleration: While Primeval Shambler itself doesn’t accelerate resources, its capacity to exploit excess mana can be seen as a form of virtual acceleration. The mana you invest in it helps develop a more formidable creature, turning spare resources into raw power on the board.
Instant Speed: Though the Shambler is a creature, it has synergy with instant speed interactions. It fits into decks that can pass the turn with unspent mana, potentially bluffing instants while subsequently strengthening the Shambler if no immediate actions are taken. This can lead to favorable board positions as opponents may hesitate to commit resources, fearing instant-speed responses.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: The Primeval Shambler card demands discarding another card to activate its ability. For MTG players, this can be a hefty price to pay, especially when your hand is running low on cards. This requirement can set them back by reducing options for future plays.
Specific Mana Cost: Equipped with a casting cost that includes black mana, Primeval Shambler locks itself into a particular mana base. This makes it less flexible for inclusion in multi-colored decks or those that do not have a focus on black mana sources.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost and an additional ability cost that sums to a significant mana investment, Primeval Shambler challenges MTG players to consider their mana economy carefully. There are alternative creatures that may provide more bang for their mana buck, making this card less appealing in a competitive scenario where efficiency is key.
Reasons to Include Primeval Shambler in Your Collection
Versatility: Primeval Shambler offers a flexible mana sink for any turn. Whether you’re ahead or just holding the fort, you can scale its power to match your available resources, fitting seamlessly into decks that can generate a lot of mana.
Combo Potential: With its adjustable power, Primeval Shambler pairs nicely with effects that care about creature stats like those that trigger when a creature with a certain power enters the battlefield. It’s a solid piece for synergy-driven decks.
Meta-Relevance: In an environment heavy on interaction and combat tricks, Primeval Shambler can adjust on the fly to be just big enough to survive or apply pressure, making it a crafty addition when you’re facing opponents who rely on precision tactics.
How to beat
Primeval Shambler brings to the battlefield a versatile set of skills that demand strategic handling. This creature’s strength lies in its ability to grow through mana infusion, becoming a formidable opponent as the game progresses. To counteract the adaptable nature of Primeval Shambler, efficient removal spells are your best allies. Instants such as Path to Exile or Murder prove to be effective, as they can be cast regardless of how much mana has been pumped into the Shambler. Artifact and enchantment removals that target buffs or equipment can also disrupt the momentum card allies may have lent to this creature.
Combat tricks are another way to subdue the Shambler. Swapping power and toughness or using spells that limit its attacking or blocking capabilities can swing things in your favor. The key is to stay one step ahead. Keeping mana open for these responses when your opponent begins investing in growing their Primeval Shambler is crucial. Once you negate the Shambler’s advantages, you tilt the scales, asserting control over the pace and power on the board.
Your approach should focus on anticipation and timely intervention. By utilizing your resources intelligently and maintaining a watchful eye on the mana your opponent allocates to their Shambler, you can diminish its impact and maintain dominance in the match.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Primeval Shambler MTG card by a specific set like Mercadian Masques and Eighth Edition, 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 Primeval Shambler 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 Primeval Shambler Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 1999-10-04 and 2003-07-28. Illustrated by Chippy.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1999-10-04 | Mercadian Masques | MMQ | 152 | 1997 | Normal | Black | Chippy | |
| 2 | 2003-07-28 | Eighth Edition | 8ED | 156 | 2003 | Normal | White | Chippy | |
| 3 | 2003-07-28 | Eighth Edition | 8ED | 156★ | 2003 | Normal | Black | Chippy |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Primeval Shambler has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Restricted |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |