Samite Archer MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Creature — Human Cleric Archer |
| Released | 2000-10-02 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Invasion |
| Set code | INV |
| Power | 1 |
| Toughness | 1 |
| Number | 269 |
| Frame | 1997 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Scott M. Fischer |
Text of card
oc T: Prevent the next 1 damage that would be dealt to target creature or player this turn. oc T: Samite Archer deals 1 damage to target creature or player.
"I can preserve ten lives by taking one."
Cards like Samite Archer
Samite Archer makes its mark in the Magic: The Gathering scene as a versatile creature, with its ability to both deal damage and prevent it. Notably comparable is the utility of Fire Whip, which also gives a creature the option to deal one damage to any target. However, Samite Archer’s flexibility extends beyond this single aspect, as it can shield your creatures or you by preventing damage, a trait Fire Whip does not possess.
The comparison grows when looking at Prodigal Pyromancer, another card that similarly pings for one damage. However, unlike Samite Archer, it does not offer damage prevention. A distinct card that shares the damage prevention ability is Benevolent Bodyguard, which can sacrifice itself to protect another creature. While this is a powerful safeguard, it lacks the repeatability and offensive capabilities offered by Samite Archer.
Given these points, Samite Archer positions itself uniquely within the card ecosystem of Magic: The Gathering. Its blend of offensive and defensive skills lends a degree of control and versatility to gameplay that few other cards can match.
Cards similar to Samite Archer by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: The Samite Archer offers a versatile skill set that provides strategic depth in prolonged matches. Its ability to deal damage and prevent it can turn the tide by steadily whittling down opposing forces or protecting key creatures on your board. Utilizing the Archer effectively can lead to a favorable battlefield and card advantage over your opponent.
Resource Acceleration: While not directly a tool for resource acceleration like mana ramping cards, the Archer contributes to resource maximization by offering dual functionality. Maintaining board presence while controlling the pace of combat saves resources over the long run, essentially accelerating your game plan without spending additional cards.
Instant Speed: The Samite Archer operates at instant speed with its abilities, allowing you to react dynamically to the state of play. Whether it’s shielding a creature from fatal damage or picking off a weakened enemy, the ability to use the Archer’s skills during any phase adds a layer of tactical advantage, keeping opponents on their toes.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: While Samite Archer can be a versatile addition to a deck, one limitation is the cost of discarding a card to use its ability. This could prove cumbersome, especially when your hand size is dwindling, and each card’s value is magnified. Keeping your hand stocked is key to maintaining strategic flexibility, and this requirement can sometimes act against that principle.
Specific Mana Cost: Deploying Samite Archer demands a specific combination of mana colors, including white and red. This cost may restrict the card’s compatibility with multicolored decks or those that lean heavily on a different color. Players must carefully consider their mana base to ensure they can consistently cast it when needed.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: The casting cost of Samite Archer, set at three mana, may be deemed steep for its relatively moderate impact on the game. When assessing the utility against mana efficiency, players may find that there are alternative cards that offer more significant benefits for the same, or even a lower, mana investment. In the ever-evolving meta of Magic the Gathering, mana efficiency is a crucial aspect of deck building and game strategy.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Samite Archer can seamlessly integrate into various deck builds with its dual utility to deal damage and protect your creatures. Its unique skill set allows for both defensive plays and offensive strategies, fitting into the scheme of any player who values flexibility on the battlefield.
Combo Potential: With the ability to tap and deal damage, Samite Archer can work synergistically with cards that trigger off damage or tap effects. It’s capable of activating cards that would benefit from damage being dealt or creatures becoming tapped, bolstering your existing combos or creating new interactions.
Meta-Relevance: As the metagame shifts and evolves, decks that can interfere with the opponent’s board gain increased significance. Samite Archer’s potential to disrupt creature-based strategies may elevate its status, especially in metas where small utility creatures play a pivotal role.
How to beat
Understanding your opponent’s cards is key to success in Magic: The Gathering, and Samite Archer is no exception. This card can prove to be an obstacle with its ability to deal damage while providing a defensive buffer. To effectively counter it, you’ll want to focus on removal spells that can take it out without requiring combat. Instant-speed removals such as Fatal Push or Path to Exile work well, as they can disrupt your opponent’s plans before they can make use of the Archer’s abilities.
Beyond direct removal, cards that limit the use of activated abilities can also be effective. Consider including Pithing Needle in your sideboard, which can shut down Samite Archer’s capabilities. Additionally, engaging in fights that Samite Archer can’t interfere with will help you maintain board control. Cards like Fry or Lava Coil that deal damage beyond the Archer’s toughness can remove it from the game without triggering its ability, keeping your path to victory clear.
In summary, to thwart Samite Archer, adapt your strategy with efficient removals, use ability-restricting cards, and engage in favorable fights. Keeping these tactics in mind can turn the tide of battle in your favor.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Samite Archer 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 Samite Archer and other MTG cards:
BUY NOW BurnMana is an official partner of TCGPlayer
- 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
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Samite Archer has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Restricted |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |