Storage Matrix MTG Card
1999-06-07 - Number 138
2005-07-29 - Number 310
2005-07-29 - Number 310★
| Card sets | Released in 3 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 3 |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Type | Artifact |
Text of card
As long as Storage Matrix is untapped, instead of each player untapping the permanents he or she controls during his or her untap step, that player chooses artifacts, creatures, or lands and untaps all permanents of the chosen type he or she controls.
Cards like Storage Matrix
Storage Matrix stands out in MTG as a unique artifact with the ability to control the flow of the game. It shares design space with cards like Winter Orb and Static Orb which also aim to restrict opponents’ resources. What sets Storage Matrix apart is its specific constraint on untapping either creatures, lands, or artifacts each turn. Players must navigate this choice strategically to maintain an advantage.
Similar in effect, Smoke focuses solely on creatures, limiting untaps to just one per turn. A subtle difference, yet significant in how it affects gameplay. Storage Matrix’s flexibility extends to multiple card types, which can both be a boon and a challenge depending on the deck it’s played against. Meekstone is another comparable card, rewarding players for using smaller creatures by restricting larger ones from untapping. While the scope of Meekstone is narrower, its low cost can make it a more efficient choice in the right deck.
Considering the broader impact on the game’s economy of actions, Storage Matrix provides a versatile tool for players looking to disrupt opponent strategies across the board, whereas similar cards tend to target more specific avenues of play.
Cards similar to Storage Matrix by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Unlike cards that merely alter the state of play, Storage Matrix compels both players to adjust their strategies, often leading to a card advantage for the controller who builds their deck to exploit its unique effect.
Resource Acceleration: While this artifact doesn’t directly generate additional mana, it can indirectly work as resource acceleration by limiting the opponent’s ability to untap their resources, therefore granting you a relative increase in available resources per turn cycle.
Instant Speed: While Storage Matrix itself does not operate at instant speed, its constant effect on the board creates a scenario where players are inclined to play at instant speed to work around the restrictions imposed. This encourages a game state that prioritizes instant speed interactions.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: For players eager to maintain card advantage, the persistent need to select and set aside a card each upkeep can quickly become a burden, particularly in formats where hand size is crucial.
Specific Mana Cost: Requiring three generic mana makes Storage Matrix flexible, yet it doesn’t easily fit into decks that capitalize on color-specific synergies or mana reduction strategies.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: While the locking effect of Storage Matrix is potent, its initial investment of three mana can be a steep requirement. This tempo loss could often be detrimental in a game where early momentum is key.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Storage Matrix can be a powerful tool in decks that aim to control the pace of the game. Its ability to dictate the resources opponents can use during their untap step allows for strategic planning and resource denial, making it a valuable asset in various control strategies.
Combo Potential: This card can be synergized with untap effects to gain advantage over opponents. In decks designed to exploit such combos, Storage Matrix can lock down an opponent’s board while the user bypasses its effects, creating one-sided gameplay that can dominate matches.
Meta-Relevance: In a meta heavy with aggro strategies, Storage Matrix shines by essentially forcing opponents to choose between attacking and developing their board, slowing them down and giving control and combo decks more time to establish their game plan and win condition.
How to beat
Storage Matrix is a unique artifact that can set the pace of any MTG game by dictating the phase when other players may untap their cards. Controlling the flow of the game, this card presents a challenge and, naturally, players are keen on finding strategies to overcome its constraints. If you’re facing Storage Matrix, it’s vital to strategically choose the type of cards you untap during your untap step to maximize the potential of your plays. Utilize cards with abilities that allow you to untap as a cost or during other player’s turns to circumvent the restrictions imposed by Storage Matrix.
Another effective approach is employing artifact destruction or bounce spells to eliminate the Storage Matrix from the field. Cards like Nature’s Claim or Disenchant offer a quick solution, while something like Cyclonic Rift can provide a wider reset if the situation demands. Additionally, look for cards in your deck that can operate effectively even when tapped, such as those with activated abilities or static effects, enabling you to work around the limitations and maintain momentum regardless of the Storage Matrix’s presence on the board.
In summary, outmaneuvering Storage Matrix requires a blend of foresight, deck adaptation, and timing. Whether you’re tweaking your untap choices or bringing in direct answers to this artifact, the resilience and adaptability of your strategy will be key to claiming victory.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Storage Matrix MTG card by a specific set like Urza's Destiny and Ninth Edition, 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 Storage Matrix 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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Printings
The Storage Matrix Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 1999-06-07 and 2005-07-29. Illustrated by Patrick Ho.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1999-06-07 | Urza's Destiny | UDS | 138 | 1997 | Normal | Black | Patrick Ho | |
| 2 | 2005-07-29 | Ninth Edition | 9ED | 310 | 2003 | Normal | White | Patrick Ho | |
| 3 | 2005-07-29 | Ninth Edition | 9ED | 310★ | 2003 | Normal | Black | Patrick Ho |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Storage Matrix has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Premodern | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
Rules and information
The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Storage Matrix card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.
| Date | Text |
|---|---|
| 2004-10-04 | This card’s ability does not override effects which prevent a permanent from untapping. |
| 2005-08-01 | If another effect limits the number of permanents that untap, that number combines with Storage Matrix’s effect. For example, Imi Statue says “players can’t untap more than one artifact during their untap steps.” If both Imi Statue and an untapped Storage Matrix are on the battlefield, and you choose “artifact,” only one artifact untaps. |
| 2005-08-01 | Permanents with multiple types untap if any of their types is chosen. For example, an artifact creature untaps if either artifact or creature is chosen. |