Reverse the Polarity MTG Card


Generates card advantage by allowing reuse of spells and multiplying strategic resources. Instant-speed play offers flexibility and unpredictability within complex game scenarios. Pivotal for decks with a control focus; a true game-changer in spell-heavy metagames.
Card setsReleased in 4 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost3
RarityRare
TypeInstant

Text of card

Choose one — • Counter all other spells. • Switch each creature's power and toughness until end of turn. • Creatures can't be blocked this turn.

"You see, before you reactivated it, I reversed the polarity of the neutron flow."


Cards like Reverse the Polarity

Reverse the Polarity is an interesting piece of tech in the realm of damage redirection spells in MTG. It’s often considered alongside cards such as Deflecting Palm, which also provides a twist on negating and repurposing the damage dealt to a player. Where Reverse the Polarity shines is in its ability not just to redirect damage but also to potentially heal the player based on the damage amount projected.

Comparing Reverse the Polarity further, we find an older card, Reflect Damage, which functionally redirects attack damage to an opponent. Although Reflect Damage is limited as it targets only one source of damage, whereas Reverse the Polarity applies to all damage from a single turn, allowing for more comprehensive protection.

On evaluating these, Reverse the Polarity offers a unique combination of damage prevention and life gain, setting it apart from its counterparts. While the cost and specific conditions may vary, Reverse the Polarity’s potential for turning a game around on a pivotal turn makes it a notable option for players looking to add some defensive surprise to their deck.

Deflecting Palm - MTG Card versions
Reflect Damage - MTG Card versions
Deflecting Palm - MTG Card versions
Reflect Damage - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Reverse the Polarity by color, type and mana cost

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Forbid - MTG Card versions
Frantic Search - MTG Card versions
Exclude - MTG Card versions
Hibernation - MTG Card versions
Circular Logic - MTG Card versions
Keep Watch - MTG Card versions
Archmage's Charm - MTG Card versions
Commander's Insight - MTG Card versions
Catalog - MTG Card versions
Thirst for Knowledge - MTG Card versions
Murmurs from Beyond - MTG Card versions
Dream Fracture - MTG Card versions
Oona's Grace - MTG Card versions
Cancel - MTG Card versions
Deluge - MTG Card versions
Stoic Rebuttal - MTG Card versions
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Card Pros

Card Advantage: Reverse the Polarity shines by offering a unique twist on card advantage. When played correctly, it can return key spells to your hand for reuse, effectively multiplying the resources at your disposal.

Resource Acceleration: This card contributes to resource acceleration by potentially returning mana-efficient spells to your hand. This can allow for a powerful follow-up turn, effectively speeding up your game plan.

Instant Speed: The instant speed nature of Reverse the Polarity offers strategic flexibility. It enables you to react swiftly to your opponent’s moves, adjusting your tactics in real-time and keeping them guessing about your next play.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: When casting Reverse the Polarity, you’re required to discard a card. This can be a significant drawback, especially in situations where card advantage is crucial, and your hand size is already dwindling.

Specific Mana Cost: Reverse the Polarity demands specific mana resources to play. With a cost that includes both colorless and colored mana, the card can sometimes be a challenge to cast on curve, particularly in multicolored decks that might struggle with mana fixing.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: The mana investment for Reverse the Polarity is notable when compared to other options available within the game. Players might find the cost steep for the effect it provides, potentially opting for alternatives that offer similar benefits without the hefty mana requirement.


Reasons to Include Reverse the Polarity in Your Collection

Versatility: Reverse the Polarity offers the flexibility to manipulate the stack in your favor. It’s not just about countering a spell; it can also be about strategically choosing the order of effects to optimize your game plan. This card can find its place in various deck types, especially those that play a reactive, control-oriented strategy.

Combo Potential: By effectively “rewinding” the stack, this card boasts significant combo potential. It can save your critical spells from counters, disrupt combo plays from opponents, or simply confuse the timing to gain an advantage. It works exceptionally well in combination with cards that have cast triggers or when you’re looking to create a powerful chain of spellcasting.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta that frequently sees complex stacks and spell-slinging standoffs, Reverse the Polarity can be a game-changer. It provides an unusual form of interaction that can turn the tides of a match, particularly against decks heavily reliant on spell sequencing and timing. As the metagame evolves, having this card in your arsenal might give you the unforeseen edge you need.


How to beat

Reverse the Polarity is a strategic piece in MTG, offering a unique twist in redirecting damage. This card can certainly throw a wrench in your plans if you’re not prepared. When facing an opponent wielding this spell, your best bet is to take a cautious approach. Avoid overloading a single spell with damage enhancements unless you’re certain there’s no risk of a sudden reversal.

It’s also wise to consider baiting out this card early on if you suspect it’s in your opponent’s hand. Force them to use it when the impact would be minimal, perhaps by threatening with smaller, less crucial spells. Moreover, you can also keep an eye on your opponent’s mana pool since playing Reverse the Polarity requires a significant mana investment, meaning they might be leaving themselves open elsewhere. Lastly, a well-timed counterspell or discard effect could ensure that Reverse the Polarity never gets its moment, keeping you firmly in control of the damage you deal.

Tackling Reverse the Polarity is all about timing and control. By keeping these strategies in mind, you can neutralize its potential and keep your offensive game strong.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Reverse the Polarity MTG card by a specific set like Doctor Who and Doctor Who, 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 Reverse the Polarity and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Reverse the Polarity Magic the Gathering card was released in 1 different sets between 2023-10-13 and 2023-10-13. Illustrated by Randy Gallegos.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12023-10-13Doctor WhoWHO 9602015NormalBlackRandy Gallegos
22023-10-13Doctor WhoWHO 3692015NormalBlackRandy Gallegos
32023-10-13Doctor WhoWHO 6592015NormalBlackRandy Gallegos
42023-10-13Doctor WhoWHO 542015NormalBlackRandy Gallegos

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Reverse the Polarity has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Reverse the Polarity card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date Text
2023-10-13 Because damage remains marked on a creature until the cleanup step or an effect removes that damage, nonlethal damage dealt to a creature may become lethal if you switch its power and toughness during that turn.
2023-10-13 Effects that switch a creature's power and toughness apply after all other effects, regardless of when those effects began to apply. For instance, if you switch a 2/4 creature's power and toughness and then give it +2/+0 later in the turn, it's a 4/4 creature, not a 6/2 creature.