Reckless Assault MTG Card


Card advantage through Reckless Assault allows for rapid hand replenishment and sustained battlefield momentum. By enabling instant-speed cast, it offers players the flexibility to adapt and react in a dynamic game state. Despite its high mana cost, Reckless Assault’s ability to unblock battles can significantly impact gameplay.
Reckless Assault - Invasion
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityRare
TypeEnchantment
Released2000-10-02
Set symbol
Set nameInvasion
Set codeINV
Number263
Frame1997
LayoutNormal
BorderBlack
Illustred byJeff Easley

Text of card

o1, Pay 2 life: Reckless Assault deals 1 damage to target creature or player.

"How will you fight an enemy that cares nothing for itself?" —The Blind Seer


Cards like Reckless Assault

In the arena of red aggro spells, Reckless Assault carves out its own niche in the MTG environment. Players might find resemblances with other aggressive cards, such as Relentless Assault, which also offer additional combat phases. Reckless Assault, however, typically carries a heftier mana cost but compensates by letting creatures unable to block this turn, paving the way for a potential unobstructed attack.Comparing it to the likes of Seize the Day, we notice that while both cards enable an extra swing at your opponent, Seize the Day provides additional utility with flashback, granting a second chance to strike. Conversely, Reckless Assault’s stipulation of opponent’s creatures not blocking may affect the board state to a larger extent in a single turn.Moving into the mix, we observe World at War, which offers repeated benefits in successive turns. Although it has a greater initial investment, the aftermath is a sustained offensive pressure, unlike the immediate but single burst of Reckless Assault.Zooming out, within the spectrum of red spells designed to ramp up the offensive, each brings to the table a unique tactical use. Reckless Assault holds its ground with an impactful, game-swinging ability—perfect for players looking to clear the way and deliver a decisive strike.

Relentless Assault - MTG Card versions
Seize the Day - MTG Card versions
World at War - MTG Card versions
Relentless Assault - MTG Card versions
Seize the Day - MTG Card versions
World at War - MTG Card versions

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Card Pros

Card Advantage: Reckless Assault shines by enabling players to swiftly replenish their hand, giving the option to replace itself and another card. This pivotal move keeps the momentum on your side of the battlefield.

Resource Acceleration: By efficiently utilizing your mana, Reckless Assault propels your gameplay forward. It fuels aggressive strategies, granting quicker access to your more demanding spells and allowing you to outpace your opponent.

Instant Speed: The ability to cast Reckless Assault whenever you deem opportune cannot be understated. It allows for tactical flexibility, giving you the edge to react to an evolving game state and surprise opponents with sudden card draws and resource boosts.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Reckless Assault imposes a discard condition to activate its potent effect. This requirement could be detrimental when your hand is already depleted, making it difficult to maintain card advantage.

Specific Mana Cost: This card commands a precise mana cost, including red mana, which could be restrictive. It necessitates dedicated deck construction around red mana sources, potentially limiting its inclusion in multi-color strategies that don’t heavily feature red.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Allocating four mana can be a steep price especially if you’re aiming for a quick-paced gameplay. While Reckless Assault offers a significant game-altering ability, other cards in the available pool might deliver similar benefits for less mana, thereby posing a challenge for this card’s role in competitive play.


Reasons to Include Reckless Assault in Your Collection

Versatility: Reckless Assault can seamlessly integrate into a variety of red aggro decks, empowering players to apply pressure with swift and unexpected boosts during combat phases. Its ability to enhance numerous creatures simultaneously makes it a formidable addition to any aggressive strategy.

Combo Potential: This card shines in combinations with cards that benefit from combat phase advantages or additional attack steps. It may also synergize with strategies that reward you for dealing combat damage to a player, leading to powerful turn sequences.

Meta-Relevance: Considering the pace of the current meta, a card like Reckless Assault can turn the tide of battle in your favor, especially in formats where quick aggression can outpace more ponderous control or combo decks. It’s an essential tool for players looking to gain a crucial edge in the race against time.


How to beat Reckless Assault

Reckless Assault can be a game changer, fueling aggressive strategies in Magic: The Gathering by giving creatures a sudden boost in strength and haste. Encountering this can be daunting, but there are effective countermeasures. The key is to anticipate the surge of tempo and be prepared with removals or board wipes to clear out buffed creatures, nullifying the card’s advantage. It’s also wise to manage your life total judiciously and build a battlefield presence that can withstand a sudden onslaught.

When facing decks that might run Reckless Assault, playing cards that give you lifelink or create chump blockers can provide crucial cushions against the incoming damage. Additionally, control players should hold up mana for instant-speed interaction, ensuring the creatures never get the chance to capitalize on the Reckless Assault’s benefits. Those who adapt to the pace Reckless Assault brings and prepare for bursts of offensive power can turn the tables on their opponent and emerge victorious from the fray.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Reckless Assault MTG card by a specific set like Invasion, 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 Reckless Assault and other MTG cards:

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Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Reckless Assault has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
PremodernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal