Risky Move MTG Card


Risky Move can alter the battlefield dynamic, offering unique creature control and strategic complexity. It facilitates resource acceleration, potentially granting access to opponents’ high-value creatures. The card operates at instant speed, enabling players to disrupt opponents’ plans at pivotal moments.
Card setsReleased in 2 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost6
RarityRare
TypeEnchantment

Text of card

At the beginning of each player's upkeep, that player gains control of Risky Move. When you gain control of Risky Move from another player, choose a creature you control and an opponent. Flip a coin. If you lose the flip, that opponent gains control of that creature.


Cards like Risky Move

Risky Move is a unique enchantment in the Magic: The Gathering arena that introduces a thrilling layer to gameplay. Much like the game-changing Grip of Chaos, which also alters control of game elements, Risky Move shifts control of creatures, but it does so under very particular conditions. In contrast to Grip of Chaos, Risky Move specifically targets the most powerful creatures and involves an element of choice, as opposed to the randomness of Grip of Chaos.

Comparably, the card Confusion in the Ranks presents a similar control-swap mechanism, yet it trades permanents rather than just creatures, making its impact more widespread but less predictable. Risky Move, with its focus on creatures, allows for more strategic planning. Meanwhile, Assault Suit deals in voluntarily passing creatures around the table, but, unlike Risky Move, the creatures cannot attack their original owner, offering a different strategic angle.

Each of these cards provides a distinct twist on the idea of exchanging control, yet Risky Move finds its niche by allowing players to use their opponent’s strength against them, a compelling tactic for those who enjoy turning the tables with a calculated risk.

Grip of Chaos - MTG Card versions
Confusion in the Ranks - MTG Card versions
Assault Suit - MTG Card versions
Grip of Chaos - MTG Card versions
Confusion in the Ranks - MTG Card versions
Assault Suit - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Risky Move by color, type and mana cost

Territorial Dispute - MTG Card versions
Arcane Bombardment - MTG Card versions
Fiery Emancipation - MTG Card versions
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Curse of the Fire Penguin // Curse of the Fire Penguin Creature - MTG Card versions
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Cyclops of Eternal Fury - MTG Card versions
Might Makes Right - MTG Card versions
Sunbird's Invocation - MTG Card versions
Form of the Dinosaur - MTG Card versions
Haphazard Bombardment - MTG Card versions
Mirror March - MTG Card versions
Dreamshaper Shaman - MTG Card versions
Territorial Dispute - MTG Card versions
Arcane Bombardment - MTG Card versions
Fiery Emancipation - MTG Card versions
Dragon Roost - MTG Card versions
Grip of Chaos - MTG Card versions
Tide of War - MTG Card versions
Curse of the Fire Penguin // Curse of the Fire Penguin Creature - MTG Card versions
Homura, Human Ascendant // Homura's Essence - MTG Card versions
Rage Reflection - MTG Card versions
Wild Evocation - MTG Card versions
Warstorm Surge - MTG Card versions
Guild Feud - MTG Card versions
Lightning Diadem - MTG Card versions
Cyclops of Eternal Fury - MTG Card versions
Might Makes Right - MTG Card versions
Sunbird's Invocation - MTG Card versions
Form of the Dinosaur - MTG Card versions
Haphazard Bombardment - MTG Card versions
Mirror March - MTG Card versions
Dreamshaper Shaman - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Risky Move offers a novel approach to game strategy by potentially granting control of a creature from each player’s battlefield. This unique swapping mechanism can result in advantageous board states and unpredictable outcomes, keeping your opponents guessing and strategizing.

Resource Acceleration: In decks designed around leveraging opponents’ creatures, Risky Move can act as an accelerator by handing you a resource you normally wouldn’t have access to. By shifting control of high-value creatures to your side, even temporarily, you unlock new avenues for overwhelming your rivals.

Instant Speed: The quickened pace at which Risky Move can be deployed adds a layer of tactical unpredictability. Cast it when least expected to disrupt opponents’ plans or to safeguard your position at crucial moments. Having the ability to initiate such a game-altering effect instantly can be the difference between a win or a loss.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Risky Move’s unique mechanic necessitates discarding another card, which could potentially leave you in a vulnerable position, especially during the late game where each card in hand is invaluable.

Specific Mana Cost: This card demands a precise blend of mana types to be played, red and two others, which can be restrictive, making it less flexible outside of multi-colored decks that can reliably generate the necessary mana combination.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a mana cost that stands at three, including one red, Risky Move may be on the higher side when comparing it to other options that could fill the slot in your deck. Its impact on the board needs to be weighed against other cards with similar or lower costs that provide more immediate or versatile benefits.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Risky Move is a unique card that can be a game changer in the right circumstances. This red enchantment can turn the tide by shifting control of creatures, showing its flexibility in various deck strategies that favor dynamic board states.

Combo Potential: This card shines when paired with decks that manipulate ownership and control of permanents, allowing for creative and unexpected combos that take advantage of the chaotic nature of creature control.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta with frequent combat and creature-heavy decks, Risky Move poses a threat that can disrupt opponents’ plans. This can be particularly potent in matches where taking control of key creatures can sway the momentum in your favor.


How to beat

Risky Move is a unique card that can have a significant impact on the board state in a game of Magic: The Gathering. To outmaneuver this card, one must understand its nuances and how it affects gameplay. Risky Move forces a change of creature control which can be volatile and unpredictable. A solid strategy against Risky Move involves the use of homogenous creature types or tokens that lessen the value of what your opponent might gain from the card’s effect.

Additionally, you can run spells that protect your creatures or cards that easily remove an opponent’s creatures, undermining the impact of Risky Move. This includes instant speed removal that can be used in response to the trigger of Risky Move, ensuring that you maintain control over the game’s flow. Cards that grant hexproof can also be pivotal, as they prevent your creatures from being targeted by the ability. Another angle is to have fewer creatures overall or creatures with enter-the-battlefield effects that benefit you regardless of whose control they fall under.

Mastering the art of deck construction and game strategy can often neutralize the effect of Risky Move. It’s essential to adapt your playstyle and have contingency plans, turning the potential risk into a calculated maneuver within your overall strategy in Magic: The Gathering.


BurnMana Recommendations

Mastering MTG involves understanding the ever-evolving metagame and recognizing when unconventional cards like Risky Move could tilt the odds in your favor. Its ability to disrupt traditional play styles means it can be a secret weapon in the right deck. If you’re curious about integrating Risky Move into your strategy or looking for innovative ways to utilize this distinctive card to outwit your opponents, dive deeper with us. Explore the full potential of your deck and arm yourself with knowledge that could secure your next victory. Learn more about strategically playing Risky Move and become a true tactician in the MTG realm.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Risky Move MTG card by a specific set like Onslaught and The List, 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 Risky Move and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Risky Move Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 2002-10-07 and 2002-10-07. Illustrated by Jerry Tiritilli.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12002-10-07OnslaughtONS 2231997NormalBlackJerry Tiritilli
22020-09-26The ListPLST ONS-2231997NormalBlackJerry Tiritilli

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Risky Move has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
PremodernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2004-10-04 The change of control of creatures does not end at end of turn or even when this card leaves the battlefield.
2004-10-04 This card does not target any creatures or players.