Sword of the Ages MTG Card
1994-06-01 - Number 296
2009-09-07 - Number 202
| Card sets | Released in 2 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 6 |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Type | Artifact |
Text of card
Sword of the Ages comes into play tapped. oc T: Sacrifice Sword of the Ages and as many creatures as you choose. Sword does the combined power of these creatures in damage to one target. Sacrificed creatures and Sword are then removed from the game entirely.
Cards like Sword of the Ages
Examining the unique attributes of Sword of the Ages from Magic the Gathering, we can look at similar powerful artifacts that stand out in the game. Sword of the Ages is a renowned artifact that when sacrificed sends a massive surge of damage towards a player or creature by tapping your creatures. Its impact is akin to things such as Blazing Sunsteel, which also dishes out damage based on the power of creatures you control.
While Sword of the Ages requires a significant build-up and one grand strike, the Grafted Exoskeleton provides a more gradual, yet potent approach to dealing damage through infect counters. Both cards are classic examples of leveraging creature power, but they apply it differently within gameplay. It’s also worth noting that the Sword of the Ages’ one-time effect tends to be a more decisive and often game-ending move, especially for Commander format enthusiasts.
Through the lens of these comparisons, Sword of the Ages stands as a heavy hitter among artifacts that translate creature strength into direct damage. Its legendary status and unique activation cost make it a formidable card to consider for players looking to capitalize on dynamic board states.
Cards similar to Sword of the Ages by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: The Sword of the Ages provides an undeniable edge by potentially turning all sitting creatures into a game-ending swing. When activated, this can decimate opponents by utilizing creatures that have already served their purpose on the battlefield.
Resource Acceleration: Though not a direct source of typical resource acceleration, the Sword of the Ages maximizes the utility of your available resources. By capitalizing on the creatures you’ve already played, it transforms them into an explosive boost of damage, effectively leveraging your board presence into a powerful offensive resource.
Instant Speed: Its ability to be activated at instant speed gives you the flexibility to wait for the opportune moment to strike. This ensures that you can adapt to the state of the game, catching opponents off guard just before your turn or in response to their actions.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Sword of the Ages necessitates discarding other cards to activate its ability. This could deplete your hand, leaving you at a disadvantage, especially during the late game when card advantage is critical.
Specific Mana Cost: Summoning this artifact requires six mana of any type, which is a serious consideration for many deck strategies. This specific cost can affect the fluidity of your mana curve, possibly slowing down your game plan.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a mana value of six, Sword of the Ages comes with a high cost compared to other equipment or artifact cards. This makes it a substantial investment, and it competes with other high-impact cards you could play for the same resource investment.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Sword of the Ages is not just another collector’s item; it has a place in decks that capitalize on high-powered artifacts. Its ability to potentially deliver a game-ending blow by sacrificing creatures makes it a formidable addition to any deck looking to utilize artifacts or direct damage strategies.
Combo Potential: When it comes to constructing powerful combinations, Sword of the Ages does not disappoint. It can work wonders in a setup that revolves around multiplying creature power, to then convert into massive direct damage. Integrating it into decks with creatures that have enter-the-battlefield effects or those that can be easily recurred could yield an exceptional advantage.
Meta-Relevance: Understanding the competitive landscape is crucial, and if larger creatures with substantial abilities are prevailing, having Sword of the Ages on your side can be a game-changer. In a meta where long games are the norm, it serves as a potent threat that demands an immediate answer, potentially turning the tides in your favor.
How to Beat Sword of the Ages
The Sword of the Ages represents a unique artifact card that, when harnessed correctly, can deal a decisive blow to an opponent in MTG. To mitigate the damage from this powerful card, an effective strategy involves maintaining control over the battlefield. Since the Sword’s ability taps it and requires the user to sacrifice creatures, keeping the number of creatures on your opponent’s side to a minimum will limit the Sword’s impact.
One approach is to use removal spells swiftly before the Sword can be activated. Tools like board wipes or targeted removal ensure that your adversary’s creature pool remains too shallow for a significant attack. It’s also advisable to have instant-speed interaction to respond when your opponent attempts to connect with the Sword of the Ages. Lastly, incorporating artifact removal or counterspells can keep this threatening artifact in check.
Ultimately, prevailing over the Sword of the Ages requires foresight and preparedness. With strategic planning and the right cards on hand, you can ensure that this legendary weapon doesn’t turn the tide against you in a game of MTG.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Sword of the Ages MTG card by a specific set like Legends and Masters Edition III, 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 Sword of the Ages 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 Sword of the Ages Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 1994-06-01 and 2009-09-07. Illustrated by Dan Frazier.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1994-06-01 | Legends | LEG | 296 | 1993 | Normal | Black | Dan Frazier | |
| 2 | 2009-09-07 | Masters Edition III | ME3 | 202 | 1997 | Normal | Black | Dan Frazier |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Sword of the Ages has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Oldschool | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
Rules and information
The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Sword of the Ages card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.
| Date | Text |
|---|---|
| 2009-10-01 | The activated ability checks the power the exiled creatures had as they last existed on the battlefield. |