Skinrender MTG Card


Skinrender provides a unique two-for-one board advantage by placing -1/-1 counters upon entry. Efficient mana usage makes it a multifaceted card combining removal and creature value. Instant-like disruption potential elevates the tactical game even without instant speed.
Card setsReleased in 3 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Phyrexian Zombie
Power 3
Toughness 3

Text of card

When Skinrender enters the battlefield, put three -1/-1 counters on target creature.

"Your creations are effective, Sheoldred, but we must unite the flesh, not merely flay it." —Elesh Norn, Grand Cenobite


Cards like Skinrender

In the realm of creature abilities within MTG, Skinrender emerges as a standout card, especially when comparing removal creatures. It’s closely related to cards like Nekrataal, which also dispatches creatures upon entering the battlefield. However, Skinrender is unique with its flexibility, targeting any creature with the placement of -1/-1 counters, allowing it to diminish even indestructible enemies.

Another notable peer is Shriekmaw, which similarly provides a way to deal with creatures through its evoke ability. Though Shriekmaw’s effect is limited to nonartifact, nonblack creatures, its lower evoke cost can be a boon for early game strategies. Conversely, Skinrender’s lack of such restrictions gives it a broader scope, making it a solid choice irrespective of your opponent’s deck colors.

Reflecting on their utility in gameplay, Skinrender’s strength shines when placed in decks built around -1/-1 counter synergies, where it can become a part of a greater strategy rather than just a one-off removal piece. In such settings, it’s a creature with lasting impact compared to the immediate, but singular, removal options of its counterparts.

Nekrataal - MTG Card versions
Shriekmaw - MTG Card versions
Nekrataal - MTG Card versions
Shriekmaw - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Skinrender by color, type and mana cost

Hell's Caretaker - MTG Card versions
Rag Man - MTG Card versions
Phyrexian Debaser - MTG Card versions
Xiahou Dun, the One-Eyed - MTG Card versions
Slinking Skirge - MTG Card versions
Gravedigger - MTG Card versions
Scandalmonger - MTG Card versions
Urborg Shambler - MTG Card versions
Whispering Shade - MTG Card versions
Filth - MTG Card versions
Demon of Catastrophes - MTG Card versions
Bold Plagiarist - MTG Card versions
Toxin Sliver - MTG Card versions
Vampiric Spirit - MTG Card versions
Nim Shambler - MTG Card versions
Bad Ass - MTG Card versions
Scourge of Numai - MTG Card versions
Deathgazer - MTG Card versions
Dirty Wererat - MTG Card versions
Faceless Butcher - MTG Card versions
Hell's Caretaker - MTG Card versions
Rag Man - MTG Card versions
Phyrexian Debaser - MTG Card versions
Xiahou Dun, the One-Eyed - MTG Card versions
Slinking Skirge - MTG Card versions
Gravedigger - MTG Card versions
Scandalmonger - MTG Card versions
Urborg Shambler - MTG Card versions
Whispering Shade - MTG Card versions
Filth - MTG Card versions
Demon of Catastrophes - MTG Card versions
Bold Plagiarist - MTG Card versions
Toxin Sliver - MTG Card versions
Vampiric Spirit - MTG Card versions
Nim Shambler - MTG Card versions
Bad Ass - MTG Card versions
Scourge of Numai - MTG Card versions
Deathgazer - MTG Card versions
Dirty Wererat - MTG Card versions
Faceless Butcher - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Skinrender brings a form of board advantage by directly placing three -1/-1 counters on a target creature when it enters the battlefield. This potentially removes an opponent’s threat and can tip the scales in your favor, acting as a pseudo two-for-one scenario.

Resource Acceleration: Although Skinrender does not directly contribute to resource acceleration in terms of mana, it efficiently uses the existing mana resources by being a removal and a creature body in one card, saving mana and resources over multiple turns.

Instant Speed: While Skinrender is a creature and does not operate at instant speed itself, the immediate impact of its ability when it enters the battlefield can be as disruptive as an instant, affecting the flow of the game at a crucial moment, especially when combined with flash enablers.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: In the realm of MTG, every resource counts. When deploying Skinrender, there isn’t a direct discard requirement; however, it’s important to consider what other cards might need to be set aside to accommodate its specific and somewhat demanding mana cost, potentially causing an indirect discard dilemma.

Specific Mana Cost: Skinrender requires a very precise mana configuration with one black mana symbol and two of any color. This may not pose a severe restriction in a mono-black deck, but in multicolored decks, especially those not heavily favoring black, the need to muster that exact mana can lead to a bottleneck in your gameplay strategy.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Weighing in at four mana, Skinrender’s casting cost is not negligible. For this level of investment, players expect a substantial impact on the game. In fast-paced matches or environments dominated by low-cost spells, the tempo loss from a four-mana creature could be more pronounced, putting players at a possible disadvantage compared to opting for lower-cost creatures with similar abilities.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Skinrender offers flexible utility in a range of black-centric or multicolor decks. Its ability to distribute -1/-1 counters can be pivotal in dismantling opponent creatures, giving it a solid place in both aggressive and control decks.

Combo Potential: With the right setup, Skinrender can serve as a critical piece in counter-based strategies, synergizing with cards that thrive on -1/-1 counters or proliferate mechanics. Its entry effect can be repeatedly utilized through flicker or reanimation tactics.

Meta-Relevance: In metas dominated by creature-heavy decks, Skinrender shines as a valuable tactical asset. It thwarts key threats, maintaining relevance across various competitive formats where creature control is essential to a deck’s success.


How to beat Skinrender

Skinrender adds a strategic layer to creature-based interactions in the game of Magic: The Gathering. Known for its ability to dispatch opposing creatures upon entering the battlefield, it efficiently places three -1/-1 counters on a creature. This makes Skinrender an asset in managing threats, but also a challenge to overcome when you’re on the receiving end.

To effectively counter Skinrender’s impact, it’s helpful to focus on creatures with hexproof or indestructible abilities, as they can withstand or be unaffected by the -1/-1 counters. Cards like Slippery Bogle or Darksteel Myr can serve as robust defenses against Skinrender’s targeted ability. Moreover, utilizing instant-speed removals, such as Path to Exile or Rapid Hybridization, can eliminate Skinrender before its ability triggers, preserving your creature’s longevity on the battlefield. The power of counter spells cannot be underestimated in this encounter, making a well-timed Negate or Counterspell pivotal in maintaining your board presence against a Skinrender play.

In essence, when players examine their options and make informed decisions about the creatures and spells they include in their decks, they can mitigate the impact of a potent card like Skinrender and maintain an advantage during the match.


BurnMana Recommendations

Dive deeper into the strategy of MTG with our incisive insights on Skinrender, a card that offers both board control and -1/-1 counter synergies. Learn how to efficiently deploy this creature in your black-centric or multicolor deck, maximizing its effect to outmaneuver opponents and dictate the pace of the game. Whether it’s by integrating Skinrender into complex counter-based strategies, leveraging its immediate board impact, or using it to consistently neutralize threats, there is much to explore with this versatile card. Enhance your gameplay and collection by understanding the nuances of Skinrender’s role in various metas. Ready to optimize your deck’s performance? Continue your journey with us and unlock the full potential of your MTG arsenal.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Skinrender MTG card by a specific set like DCI Promos and Scars of Mirrodin, 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 Skinrender and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Skinrender Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2006-01-02 and 2022-07-08. Illustrated by 2 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12006-01-02DCI PromosPDCI 632003NormalBlackAdrian Smith
22010-10-01Scars of MirrodinSOM 782003NormalBlackDavid Rapoza
32022-07-08Double Masters 20222X2 912015NormalBlackDavid Rapoza

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Skinrender has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
PaupercommanderRestricted
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2011-01-01 This ability is mandatory. If there are no other creatures on the battlefield, you must target Skinrender itself.