Saproling Infestation MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 2 |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Type | Enchantment |
| Released | 2000-10-02 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Invasion |
| Set code | INV |
| Number | 208 |
| Frame | 1997 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Heather Hudson |
Text of card
Whenever a player pays a kicker cost, you put a 1/1 green Saproling creature token into play.
"My army took centuries to gather," remarked Urza. "Yavimaya seems to conjure hers out of thin air."
Cards like Saproling Infestation
When examining the unique synergies of Saproling Infestation, it’s worth comparing it to other token-generating staples in the game. Tendershoot Dryad is an impactful card that also exponentially increases the presence of Saproling tokens, but unlike Saproling Infestation which triggers from opposing strategies, Tendershoot Dryad relies on the ascension condition to provide consistent token generation each upkeep. Verdant Force is another parallel, an iconic card for spawning Saproling tokens each upkeep, ensuring a steady board presence.
Slimefoot, the Stowaway offers not only the ability to create Saproling tokens but also adds a layer of strategy by dealing damage to opponents whenever your Saprolings die, providing a persistent threat over time. Looking over to the wide range of token generators, Utopia Mycon stands out as it provides utility by converting Saprolings into much-needed mana resources.
While each of these cards share the theme of populating the board with Saproling tokens, Saproling Infestation’s mechanism is uniquely reactive, capitalizing on an opponent’s actions to expand your army. This can pose an unexpected challenge to opponents, especially in formats where creature spells are a mainstay. Overall, this card reflects a strategic dimension within token-based gameplay, acting as a potential linchpin in a well-crafted Saproling deck.
Cards similar to Saproling Infestation by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Saproling Infestation shines in strategies focused on creature count proliferating. Each time you create a Saproling, you’re effectively multiplying your forces and potential for board presence, without losing cards from your hand, thus maintaining or even escalating your advantageous position.
Resource Acceleration: The swell of Saprolings can also act as a means of resource acceleration. Beyond their capability for attack and defense, these little fungi might be tapped for mana with the assistance of other cards, fueling your ability to cast more impactful spells or activate key abilities ahead of schedule.
Instant Speed: Adding Saprolings to the battlefield at instant speed gives you the flexibility to respond to your opponent’s actions on their turn. This can lead to advantageous blocks or surprise swings in a race, making Saproling Infestation a versatile tool in any deck that can leverage the token generation.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Saproling Infestation comes with the unwelcome stipulation that you must discard a card to activate its ability. This can set you back in the game, particularly if you’re already struggling with card advantage.
Specific Mana Cost: Its casting requires a specific combination of mana, green in particular, potentially restricting its fit to only decks that can reliably produce the necessary colors.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a cost that’s on the higher side for its effect, its place in your deck might be better served by other cards that proliferate creatures for less mana, thus providing a quicker return on your investment and a faster board presence.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Saproling Infestation introduces a flexible mechanic to decks, adjusting well to strategies centered around creature tokens and board presence. It can transform incidental damage into added value by spawning Saproling tokens, making it a multi-faceted addition to any collection.
Combo Potential: This card thrives in synergy-rich environments, interacting seamlessly with effects that buff creature tokens or utilize them as resources for larger spells and abilities. It can also be a key piece in engines designed to exploit the death of creatures, turning each Saproling into a resource beyond the battlefield.
Meta-Relevance: In a meta where small creatures can impact the game state significantly, Saproling Infestation gains value. It allows players to capitalize on an aggressive strategy by others, turning damage taken into a growing army of tokens, which can be crucial for turning the tide of battle.
How to beat
Strategies to overpower Saproling Infestation in your Magic: The Gathering matches can greatly influence the game’s outcome. This enchantment can be quite insidious, turning simple creature creation into an onslaught of Saproling tokens. To outmaneuver this card, consider employing board wipes like Wrath of God or Damnation to reset the playing field and remove all those pesky tokens. It’s also effective to include enchantment removal like Disenchant in your deck, enabling you to directly target and destroy Saproling Infestation before it gets out of hand.
Moreover, preventing the card from resolving is a smart move. Counterspells like Cancel or Mana Leak ensure that your opponent’s plans are thwarted right from the get-go. Remember, a proactive approach is key against Saproling Infestation. Preemptively controlling the board, either through removal or counter strategies, can shut down the token generation engine and maintain your advantage throughout the duel.
In essence, maintaining flexibility and readiness to respond to the growth of Saproling tokens can secure your position in the game against a strategy centered around Saproling Infestation.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Saproling Infestation 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 Saproling Infestation and other MTG cards:
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- 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
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Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Saproling Infestation has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |