Progenitor Exarch MTG Card


Progenitor Exarch offers both a card tutor and instant-speed play, enhancing strategic flexibility. Its discard and specific mana requirements may limit versatility and weigh on resources. Despite its higher mana cost, Progenitor Exarch’s clone ability justifies its inclusion.
Card setsReleased in 4 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost1
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Phyrexian Cat Cleric
Abilities Incubate,Transform
Power 1
Toughness 2

Text of card

When Progenitor Exarch enters the battlefield, incubate 3 X times. (To incubate 3, create an Incubator token with three +1/+1 counters on it and ": Transform this artifact." It transforms into a 0/0 Phyrexian artifact creature.) : Transform target Incubator token you control.


Cards like Progenitor Exarch

Progenitor Exarch makes a notable entry into the world of creature-based control spells in Magic: The Gathering. Comparable to its predecessor, Deceiver Exarch, it shares the central characteristics of causing disruption by untapping or tapping a permanent upon entry. Yet, Progenitor Exarch goes beyond by providing the option to search your library for a card named Praetor and reveal it, diversifying its tactical advantage.

Reflecting on Pestermite, another creature with a similar tap or untap mechanism, Progenitor Exarch offers a more substantial body on the board. Pestermite excels in its lower mana cost and flash ability, allowing surprise maneuvers. However, it lacks the tutoring ability of Progenitor Exarch, which can be a game-changer by pulling key components into your hand right when you need them.

In the realm of battlefield manipulation and library tutor synergy, Progenitor Exarch holds its ground with distinct capabilities. Its blend of control, utility, and strategic deck searching solidifies its place in decks that pivot around the exquisite power of the Praetors.

Deceiver Exarch - MTG Card versions
Pestermite - MTG Card versions
Deceiver Exarch - MTG Card versions
Pestermite - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Progenitor Exarch by color, type and mana cost

Savannah Lions - MTG Card versions
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Faerie Guidemother // Gift of the Fae - MTG Card versions
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Yoshimaru, Ever Faithful - MTG Card versions
Mother of Runes - MTG Card versions
Daru Mender - MTG Card versions
Savannah Lions - MTG Card versions
Benalish Hero - MTG Card versions
Icatian Infantry - MTG Card versions
Icatian Scout - MTG Card versions
Icatian Javelineers - MTG Card versions
Kjeldoran Warrior - MTG Card versions
Trade Caravan - MTG Card versions
Vigilant Martyr - MTG Card versions
Honor Guard - MTG Card versions
Volunteer Militia - MTG Card versions
Nomads en-Kor - MTG Card versions
Soul Warden - MTG Card versions
Resistance Fighter - MTG Card versions
Honorable Scout - MTG Card versions
Devoted Caretaker - MTG Card versions
Faerie Guidemother // Gift of the Fae - MTG Card versions
Kor Duelist - MTG Card versions
Yoshimaru, Ever Faithful - MTG Card versions
Mother of Runes - MTG Card versions
Daru Mender - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Progenitor Exarch. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Naya AggroNaya Aggro StandardNaya AggroStandard Qualifier 2024-01-01

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Progenitor Exarch proves to be a key asset in obtaining card advantage by allowing you to tutor for a key card and put it directly into your hand. This ensures that you have access to the right tools at the right time and keeps your hand filled with options.

Resource Acceleration: This dynamic card enables you to put a permanent card onto the battlefield straight from your hand, effectively bypassing its mana cost and accelerating your resource deployment. This can significantly tip the scales in your favor as you deploy impactful threats or crucial assets ahead of schedule.

Instant Speed: Progenitor Exarch’s flash ability means you’re never caught off guard. You can play it at the speed of an instant, allowing you to keep mana available for reactions during your opponent’s turn. Then, if no immediate threats arise or you do not need to respond to triggers, you can summon the Exarch, making effective use of your resources and catching opponents by surprise.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Progenitor Exarch asks players to discard a card to utilize its graft ability. This disadvantage becomes apparent when your hand is almost empty, putting you at risk of losing valuable resources and momentum in the game.

Specific Mana Cost: Casting Progenitor Exarch requires a very precise mana combination, which can be challenging in MTG, especially in multicolored decks. This can potentially hinder its integration into a wide range of strategies, thereby limiting the card’s versatility.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a higher casting cost compared to other creatures of similar abilities, Progenitor Exarch may not always be the most mana-efficient choice. In a game where tempo is important, the cost of getting this creature onto the battlefield can sometimes be a setback.


Reasons to Include Progenitor Exarch in Your Collection

Versatility: Progenitor Exarch can be a game-changer in various deck builds, given its ability to clone the best creature on the battlefield. This allows for flexibility in gameplay, adapting to both your own strategy and whatever opponents might bring to the table.

Combo Potential: With the power to copy activated or triggered abilities, Progenitor Exarch sets up numerous combo opportunities. It complements strategies that revolve around enter-the-battlefield effects or abilities that can be exploited when repeated.

Meta-Relevance: In an environment where individual creature abilities can dominate, having Progenitor Exarch can tip the scales in your favor. It’s capable of fitting into the current meta by mimicking the most impactful creature-based strategies out there.


How to defeat Progenitor Exarch

Progenitor Exarch can be a formidable card in your opponent’s arsenal, boasting card advantage and a powerful enter-the-battlefield effect that reshuffles into the library. Defeating this card requires strategic play and a keen understanding of game mechanics. One effective method is to utilize instant speed removal spells, ensuring that Progenitor Exarch is dealt with before its abilities can be used. Cards like Swords to Plowshares or Path to Exile are excellent choices, as they can remove the Exarch without triggering death effects.

Counterplay is another avenue, using counterspells like Mana Leak or Negate to prevent the Exarch from hitting the battlefield in the first place. Moreover, graveyard disruption tools, such as Relic of Progenitus or Scavenging Ooze, can prevent the recursive aspect of Progenitor Exarch. Playing around its strengths and minimizing the impact of its abilities are key factors in overcoming this potent card. Understanding and anticipating your opponent’s moves will give you a significant advantage, ensuring that Progenitor Exarch becomes more of a mild inconvenience rather than a game-ending threat.


BurnMana Recommendations

Mastering MTG goes beyond understanding individual cards; it’s about weaving a symphony of strategic plays. With Progenitor Exarch, players gain a nuanced ally that offers both tactical versatility and a surprise element with its instant speed capabilities. Leveraging its strengths and mitigating its weaknesses require insight and timing. Whether it’s perfecting your deck or countering your opponent’s moves, knowledge is your greatest weapon. Enhance your gameplay and discover how Progenitor Exarch can serve as a pivotal addition to your arsenal. Dive deeper with us, where every card counts, and every match is a step toward victory.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Progenitor Exarch MTG card by a specific set like March of the Machine Promos and March of the Machine Promos, 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 Progenitor Exarch and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Progenitor Exarch Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 2023-04-21 and 2023-04-21. Illustrated by Marie Magny.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12023-04-21March of the Machine PromosPMOM 32s2015NormalBlackMarie Magny
22023-04-21March of the Machine PromosPMOM 32p2015NormalBlackMarie Magny
32023-04-21March of the MachineMOM 3482015NormalBlackMarie Magny
42023-04-21March of the MachineMOM 322015NormalBlackMarie Magny

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Progenitor Exarch has restrictions

FormatLegality
StandardLegal
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
AlchemyLegal
PioneerLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
FutureLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
BrawlLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal