Shivan Branch-Burner MTG Card


Capable of drawing cards and ramping mana, Shivan Branch-Burner advantages red spell-heavy decks. Its mandatory discard and specific red mana cost may limit versatility across various deck types. Despite its higher mana cost, its versatility and meta relevance make it a formidable asset.
Shivan Branch-Burner - March of the Machine
Mana cost
Converted mana cost7
RarityUncommon
TypeCreature — Dragon
Abilities Convoke,Flying,Haste
Released2023-04-21
Set symbol
Set nameMarch of the Machine
Set codeMOM
Power 4
Toughness 4
Number165
Frame2015
LayoutNormal
BorderBlack
Illustred byAaron Miller

Text of card

Convoke (Your creatures can help cast this spell. Each creature you tap while casting this spell pays for or one mana of that creature's color.) Flying, haste

The New Coalition gave Shiv time to prepare a warm welcome for the invaders.


Cards like Shivan Branch-Burner

The Shivan Branch-Burner offers a unique set of abilities for MTG enthusiasts, similar to other creatures that excel in dealing damage. It can be compared to cards like Fanatic of Mogis, which also relies on the number of red symbols in the mana costs of permanents you control to inflict damage upon the opponent. Shivan Branch-Burner, however, introduces an additional layer of strategy with its scry ability whenever a land enters the battlefield under your control, providing a potential advantage in controlling your upcoming draws.

Another similar card is the Cinder Pyromancer, which offers repeated damage with its tap ability but must be untapped, commonly through spells or abilities that untap creatures. While both cards can apply consistent pressure, Shivan Branch-Burner’s scrying adds an element that can help shape future plays. Lastly, there’s the Prophetic Flamespeaker, which boasts double strike and the ability to exile cards off the top of your library to play them. Though they differ in their secondary abilities, all these cards share the common thread of pushing through direct damage, making Shivan Branch-Burner a valuable asset for players seeking to build a deck with a burn strategy at its core.

Fanatic of Mogis - MTG Card versions
Cinder Pyromancer - MTG Card versions
Prophetic Flamespeaker - MTG Card versions
Fanatic of Mogis - MTG Card versions
Cinder Pyromancer - MTG Card versions
Prophetic Flamespeaker - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Shivan Branch-Burner by color, type and mana cost

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Tyrant of Discord - MTG Card versions
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Molten Primordial - MTG Card versions
Magma Giant - MTG Card versions
Trained Orgg - MTG Card versions
Thunder Dragon - MTG Card versions
Velican Dragon - MTG Card versions
Crazed Firecat - MTG Card versions
Yidaro, Wandering Monster - MTG Card versions
Butcher Orgg - MTG Card versions
Goblin Dynamo - MTG Card versions
Ashen Monstrosity - MTG Card versions
Rimescale Dragon - MTG Card versions
Hamletback Goliath - MTG Card versions
Boldwyr Intimidator - MTG Card versions
Shivan Hellkite - MTG Card versions
Knollspine Dragon - MTG Card versions
Karplusan Giant - MTG Card versions
Ridge Rannet - MTG Card versions
Ancient Hellkite - MTG Card versions
Tyrant of Discord - MTG Card versions
Minotaur Aggressor - MTG Card versions
Molten Primordial - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Shivan Branch-Burner. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Izzet AggroIzzet Aggro StandardIzzet AggroJapan Standard Cup: Murders at Karlov Manor

Card Pros

Card Advantage: The Shivan Branch-Burner can potentially draw you a card each turn, boosting your hand with more options to outplay your opponent.

Resource Acceleration: This card can ramp up your mana by adding a bonus red mana whenever you cast a red spell. This helps you deploy threats quicker and keeps your game pace ahead of the opponent.

Instant Speed: With its ability to potentially draw a card at instant speed upon casting red spells, you’re equipped to outmaneuver your opponent. It allows for strategic plays even during their turn, keeping your hand refreshed and ready.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Shivan Branch-Burner demands that you discard a card in order to unlock its potential. This can be a steep price to pay, particularly for players who are already grappling with a depleted hand.

Specific Mana Cost: The mana cost for this card is specifically weighted towards red mana, which narrows its strategic fit. Decks not heavily invested in red mana might struggle to accommodate Shivan Branch-Burner without disrupting their mana base.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Weighing in at three mana, including two red, Shivan Branch-Burner falls on the pricier side compared to other creatures with similar abilities. Its cost makes it a less appealing choice in aggressive decks seeking to maximize efficiency and speed on the battlefield.


Reasons to Include Shivan Branch-Burner in Your Collection

Versatility: Shivan Branch-Burner offers remarkable flexibility for red-dominated decks. Its ability to serve as both an efficient attacker and source of mana ramp makes it a valuable asset across various strategies. Especially in decks emphasizing land interaction, it can be a game-changer.

Combo Potential: This fiery creature has excellent synergy with cards that care about elemental types or landfall triggers. It can quickly become a powerhouse on the battlefield, enabling explosive turns when combined with the right suite of cards.

Meta-Relevance: Given the dynamic nature of MTG’s competitive environment, Shivan Branch-Burner aligns well with decks that want to outpace opponents in resource generation. As the meta shifts towards aggressive and resourceful playstyles, including this card in your collection can give you an edge at your next tournament.


How to Beat Shivan Branch-Burner

Shivan Branch-Burner is a notable new creature card that has taken MTG players by surprise with its potential to deal massive damage if left unchecked on the battlefield. But fear not, as beating this card can be done with strategic moves and proper counterplay.

To effectively counter Shivan Branch-Burner, consider using instant-speed removal spells that can eliminate it before its ability is triggered. Cards such as Fatal Push or Path to Exile are excellent for swiftly taking the Shivan Branch-Burner off the board. Another effective strategy is to utilize creature counters. Cards like Essence Scatter ensure that Shivan Branch-Burner never touches the playing field, interrupting your opponent’s strategy before it unfolds.

Beyond direct removal, you can employ strategic blockers. Since Shivan Branch-Burner’s power isn’t overwhelming, creatures with high toughness can successfully wall it off, nullifying its threat. In the broader game plan, always prioritize maintaining control over the board and be ready to respond before the Shivan Branch-Burner’s ability can set your opponent up for a winning play. It is all about timing and efficient resource management to ensure this fiery creature doesn’t burn your chances of victory.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Shivan Branch-Burner MTG card by a specific set like March of the Machine, 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 Shivan Branch-Burner and other MTG cards:

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Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Shivan Branch-Burner has restrictions

FormatLegality
StandardLegal
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
PaupercommanderRestricted
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
AlchemyLegal
PioneerLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
FutureLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
BrawlLegal
TimelessLegal