Scalding Cauldron MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 1 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Artifact |
| Released | 2019-10-04 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Throne of Eldraine |
| Set code | ELD |
| Number | 229 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Craig J Spearing |
Text of card
, , Sacrifice Scalding Cauldron: It deals 3 damage to target creature.
"It's a witch's trick, this cauldron full of pain. I wouldn't dump it on any but the wicked."
Cards like Scalding Cauldron
Scalding Cauldron is an intriguing artifact in the arsenal of removal options in MTG. It draws parallels to other mana-free sacrificial artifacts, most notably Implements of Combustion. While the latter can only deal one damage to a target, it compensates with the ability to draw a card upon its exit. Scalding Cauldron, in contrast, can inflict three damage, enough to take out a multitude of key creatures in play, yet does not provide card advantage.
Another kin in function is Explosive Apparatus – it too deals damage upon sacrifice. However, Scalding Cauldron outpaces it by offering additional damage without needing to invest any mana at the activation step. Conversely, Alchemist’s Vial allows the controller to prevent a creature from attacking or blocking, and benefits the caster with card draw. Although it doesn’t deal damage, it’s a tactically flexible tool compared to the Cauldron’s more aggressive stance.
In summary, Scalding Cauldron finds its niche within MTG’s plethora of removal artifacts by offering a no-cost damage-based utility, aligning itself as a prime option for decks aiming to control the board without the need for mana at the critical moment of activation.
Cards similar to Scalding Cauldron by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Scalding Cauldron offers a direct way to remove creatures, which can help swing the battlefield in your favor. By taking out key creatures, you maintain the upper hand and can press the advantage without overextending resources from your hand.
Resource Acceleration: This artifact can be brought into play early, setting you up for resource acceleration in decks that exploit artifacts. It can also be sacrificed later in the game as a resource itself, making it a versatile option in various stages of play.
Instant Speed: The beauty of Scalding Cauldron is that it operates at instant speed, providing flexibility in response to threats. You can pass the turn with untapped mana, delivering an element of surprise by eliminating a creature during an opponent’s turn or after their attacks are declared.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: While Scalding Cauldron doesn’t require you to discard a card, it does demand you sacrifice a creature as part of its activation cost. This can be a significant setback, especially when the creatures in your arsenal are few or of high value.
Specific Mana Cost: Scalding Cauldron’s activation cost needs three generic mana, which can be restrictive in terms of when you are able to use it. In certain situations, this mana could be allocated towards casting creatures or more impactful spells.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: The cost to activate Scalding Cauldron is steep when considering it only deals three damage to a creature. Many players might find that there are other cards in their library that can deal with threats more efficiently or at a lower mana cost.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Scalding Cauldron offers a flexible removal solution that slots into various decks. As a low-cost artifact, it can serve as an accessible option to deal with early-game creatures.
Combo Potential: This card shines in artifact synergistic decks, enabling sacrifice mechanics or triggering effects each time an artifact is tapped or a creature is destroyed.
Meta-Relevance: With creatures being a cornerstone of many strategies, having this card on hand proves invaluable in a creature-dominated meta, acting as a deterrent or a way to clear the board.
How to beat Scalding Cauldron
Scalding Cauldron is a utility artifact in Magic: The Gathering providing direct creature removal for a flexible three mana investment. Its straightforward ability to deal three damage to a target creature makes it a versatile tool, fitting into decks that struggle with creature threats. Nevertheless, conquering this cauldron hinges on timing and resource management. Engaging creatures with toughness greater than three can slip past the cauldron’s clutches, rendering its damage negligible.
Another strategy involves overwhelming the cauldron’s controller with multiple creature threats. Since the cauldron requires tapping, it can only be utilized once each turn, making it less effective against a broad array of creatures. Additionally, preemptive actions like artifact removal spells or cards that grant hexproof to your creatures can neutralize the cauldron’s fiery offense, securing your creatures’ safety on the battlefield.
Ultimately, understanding your opponent’s potential to leverage Scalding Cauldron dictates whether it becomes a mere nuisance or a potent threat. Efficient deck building and strategic play can ensure this artifact’s impact is kept to a simmer rather than a boil.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Scalding Cauldron MTG card by a specific set like Throne of Eldraine, 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 Scalding Cauldron 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 Scalding Cauldron has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Historicbrawl | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |