Swords to Plowshares MTG Card


Swords to Plowshares is a premier removal spell in formats where it’s legal, renowned for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This card offers unparalleled versatility, allowing players to handle nearly any creature threat at minimal mana expense. Despite its power, strategic timing of Swords to Plowshares is crucial due to the life gain granted to opponents.
Card setsReleased in 74 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost1
RarityUncommon
TypeInstant

Text of card

Target creature is removed from game entirely; return to owner's deck only when game is over. Creature's controller gains life points equal to creature's power.


Cards like Swords to Plowshares

Swords to Plowshares is a definitive card in the realm of removal spells in MTG. Its closest analogs are cards like Path to Exile, which likewise offers exiling, though it compensates the opponent with a land instead of life gain. Unlike Swords to Plowshares, it doesn’t offer the life gain proportional to the creature’s strength, a unique advantage making it a strategic choice during gameplay.

Condemn, another similar card, has a unique mechanic of placing the opponent’s creature at the bottom of the deck, rather than exiling. However, its conditional nature, only working on attacking creatures, gives Swords to Plowshares an edge in versatility.

Murder enters the discussion as a robust removal card, destroying any creature without conditions. Yet, compared to Swords to Plowshares, it lacks the instantaneous speed of exiling creatures, giving the opponent a window to react.

In conclusion, when we compare Swords to Plowshares with similar alternatives, it confidently stakes its claim as one of the best removal spells in MTG due to its instantaneity, adaptability, and unique life gain mechanic.

Path to Exile - MTG Card versions
Condemn - MTG Card versions
Murder - MTG Card versions
Path to Exile - MTG Card versions
Condemn - MTG Card versions
Murder - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Swords to Plowshares by color, type and mana cost

Death Ward - MTG Card versions
Blaze of Glory - MTG Card versions
Healing Salve - MTG Card versions
Purelace - MTG Card versions
Guardian Angel - MTG Card versions
Righteousness - MTG Card versions
Indestructible Aura - MTG Card versions
Glyph of Life - MTG Card versions
Warning - MTG Card versions
Heal - MTG Card versions
Anoint - MTG Card versions
Reaping the Rewards - MTG Card versions
Rally the Troops - MTG Card versions
Scent of Jasmine - MTG Card versions
Moment of Silence - MTG Card versions
Enlightened Tutor - MTG Card versions
Orim's Touch - MTG Card versions
Pollen Remedy - MTG Card versions
Sacred Rites - MTG Card versions
Pay No Heed - MTG Card versions
Death Ward - MTG Card versions
Blaze of Glory - MTG Card versions
Healing Salve - MTG Card versions
Purelace - MTG Card versions
Guardian Angel - MTG Card versions
Righteousness - MTG Card versions
Indestructible Aura - MTG Card versions
Glyph of Life - MTG Card versions
Warning - MTG Card versions
Heal - MTG Card versions
Anoint - MTG Card versions
Reaping the Rewards - MTG Card versions
Rally the Troops - MTG Card versions
Scent of Jasmine - MTG Card versions
Moment of Silence - MTG Card versions
Enlightened Tutor - MTG Card versions
Orim's Touch - MTG Card versions
Pollen Remedy - MTG Card versions
Sacred Rites - MTG Card versions
Pay No Heed - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Swords to Plowshares. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Naya DepthsNaya Depths LegacySelesnya DepthsLegacy League 2024-04-25
Esper StonebladeEsper Stoneblade LegacyEsper StonebladeLegacy League 2024-04-25
Beanstalk ControlBeanstalk Control LegacyBeanstalk ControlLegacy Challenge 32 2024-04-24
Lurrus SagaLurrus Saga VintageLurrus SagaVintage League 2024-04-25
WUBWUB LegacyLegacy League 2024-04-24
Death and TaxesDeath and Taxes LegacyDeath and TaxesLegacy League 2024-04-24
MaverickMaverick LegacyMaverickLegacy Challenge 32 2024-04-24
Esper TinkerEsper Tinker VintageBlue TinkerVintage League 2024-04-24
ReanimatorReanimator LegacyReanimatorLegacy Challenge 32 2024-04-24
LandsLands LegacyLandsLegacy Challenge 32 2024-04-24

Pros of Swords to Plowshares

Card Advantage: With Swords to Plowshares, you don’t technically provide card advantage but create a scenario where you can outperform your opponent. It allows the exile of a creature, granting you strategic advantage. You can exile a creature card at an opportune moment and potentially decrease your opponent’s pool of useful resources.

Resource Acceleration: Swords to Plowshares doesn’t directly give resource acceleration. However, it lets you deal with threats for a single white mana. In this way, you use your resources effectively by neutralizing an otherwise potent threat to your board state. The opponent gaining life is a minimal downside considering the potential threats you might be exiling.

Instant Speed: This card really shines with its instant speed. The ability to exile a threat at any moment, especially during combat or in response to an ability, provides invaluable flexibility, completely disrupting your opponent’s plans.


Downsides of Swords to Plowshares

Discard Requirement: Swords to Plowshares does not require you to discard a card, which might sound like a positive, but sometimes activating such abilities can provide you with useful strategic advantages.

Specific Mana Cost: Swords to Plowshares requires a single white mana to cast, making it predominantly a choice for white decks. This can certainly limit its usage if your deck is not builds around white mana or multicolored decks that incorporate white.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: While Swords to Plowshares costs only one mana, its cost in terms of the gained life given to the target might be high. It removes a threat for quite cheap, but it can significantly strengthen your opponent’s life total in the process, thus potentially delaying your victory.


Reasons to Include Swords to Plowshares in Your Collection

Versatility: Swords to Plowshares exhibits adaptable utility that accommodates multiple deck types. The card is particularly effective in decks that necessitate efficient ways of dealing with creatures.

Combo Potential: With its instant speed and cheap casting cost, Swords to Plowshares can smoothly gel into and amplify various strategy enthused archetypes. It has potential for synergies particularly in control decks that require instant creature handling.

Meta-Relevance: Amid prevailing creature-heavy strategies in the meta, the exiling power provided by Swords to Plowshares can be indispensable, making it an enduringly relevant card in diverse MTG formats.


Similar Cards

Swords to Plowshares is a definitive card in the realm of removal spells in MTG. Its closest analogs are cards like Path to Exile, which likewise offers exiling, though it compensates the opponent with a land instead of life gain. Unlike Swords to Plowshares, it doesn’t offer the life gain proportional to the creature’s strength, a unique advantage making it a strategic choice during gameplay.

Condemn, another similar card, has a unique mechanic of placing the opponent’s creature at the bottom of the deck, rather than exiling. However, its conditional nature, only working on attacking creatures, gives Swords to Plowshares an edge in versatility.

Murder enters the discussion as a robust removal card, destroying any creature without conditions. Yet, compared to Swords to Plowshares, it lacks the instantaneous speed of exiling creatures, giving the opponent a window to react.

In conclusion, when we compare Swords to Plowshares with similar alternatives, it confidently stakes its claim as one of the best removal spells in MTG due to its instantaneity, adaptability, and unique life gain mechanic.


How to Beat Swords to Plowshares

Swords to Plowshares is a powerful card removal in Magic: The Gathering that can completely change the dynamics of the game. Being on the receiving end of this card isn’t great, but strategies can be implemented to counteract its effects.

One of the easiest ways to counter this card is through use of counter spells. Counterspells like “Mental Misstep” or “Dovin’s Veto” can nullify the power of the Swords to Plowshares by negating its spell before it has an effect. The key is to be ready for your opponent’s play and to keep the right cards in hand.

Furthermore, cards with Hexproof or Shroud abilities will protect your creatures from being targeted directly by Swords to Plowshares. Cards such as “Invisible Stalker” or “Troll Ascetic” come with these abilities, making it impossible for your opponent to target your creatures. It adds another layer of protection for your key creatures in game.

Finally, you can save your game from Swords to Plowshares with creature sacrificing. Cards such as “Doomed Traveler” returns as a spirit while “Fleshbag Marauder” forces your opponent to sacrifice a creature as well. Making tactical sacrifices can greatly mitigate the impact of that single removal.

Understanding your options, planning ahead, strategic play and correctly timing your counters are key aspects in beating Swords to Plowshares. Whether it be countering, protection, or sacrificing, with right tactics, you can mitigate the effects of this potent card.


The Enduring Appeal of Swords to Plowshares in Gameplay

For many players in the world of Magic the Gathering, possessing the right card can make all the difference between victory and defeat. Among the plethora of options, one card has stood out consistently since its debut in 1993: Swords to Plowshares. This card has remained a formidable tool in a player’s arsenal due to its simplistic yet profoundly impactful ability to exile a creature at minimal cost.

Considered one of the most efficient removal spells, its longstanding relevance is a testament to its power in gameplay. It’s a classic case of utility meeting versatility. In many circumstances, the life gain afforded to the opponent is a negligible downside when weighed against the potential threats you could remove. From competitive tournaments to casual kitchen table games, this card offers peace of mind against formidable creatures blocking your path to victory.

Understanding Swords to Plowshares

Understanding the card’s mechanics is crucial for players who seek to optimize their play. At its core, Swords to Plowshares allows you to exile any target creature, a defensive maneuver that effectively removes even the most resilient of threats from the game. Unlike destruction, which can be countered by regeneration or indestructability, exile is a clean and permanent solution. This makes it a versatile answer to a vast array of problems you might face on the battlefield.

Moreover, the cost-to-effect ratio of this spell is unparalleled. For a single white mana, you can tip the scales massively in your favor. This economical casting cost ensures that the card can slot into various deck types, from aggressive builds that need to clear a path to more control-oriented decks that prize efficient answers to enemy forces.

Strategies and Synergies

Strategically, it’s not just a question of when to play Swords to Plowshares but also how it fits into the broader game plan. It synergizes well with strategy-enabling cards that seek to control the board and maintain a steady pace towards victory. It also serves as an excellent combo breaker, able to disrupt the opponent’s carefully laid plans at a crucial moment.

When incorporating this spell into your deck, consider the potential synergies at play. For instance, in a deck focused on life total manipulation, the card’s downside can be turned into an upside. Alternatively, in a deck that cares about exile effects, Swords to Plowshares becomes an enabler, activating conditions that might benefit from the exiling of creatures.

The Evolution of Its Role in MTG

Throughout its history, the role of Swords to Plowshares has evolved. Initially, it was just another removal option among many, but as the game matured, the need for precise and effective answers grew. This stalwart card kept pace, emerging as a staple in formats like Legacy and Commander where its value and efficiency are paramount.

In today’s MTG landscape, the gravity of this card hasn’t waned, proving that some aspects of magic—much like the finest of spells—stand the test of time. As the MTG universe expands and new cards are introduced, the reliability of a well-rounded card like Swords to Plowshares in the competitive scene remains clear. Players investing in this card can rest assured that it will serve them well across various formats and metagames.

Incorporating Swords to Plowshares into Your Deck

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to Magic the Gathering, incorporating Swords to Plowshares into your deck requires understanding the current meta and your personal play style. While the card is highly adaptable, the timing of its use is critical. Knowing when to deploy this powerful spell can mean the difference between wasting its potential and seizing a decisive moment. Regular practice and engagement with the MTG community will help sharpen your instincts on when to use this iconic card.

Deck builders should also consider the overall synergy and strategy of their build. Swords to Plowshares should enhance your existing game plan, not detract from it. Understanding the decks you often face and tuning your strategy accordingly can elevate the effectiveness of this card to new heights, making each cast a potential game-changer.

Continued Impact in MTG Communities

Beyond individual play, Swords to Plowshares has garnered a community around it, with discussions about its utility filling forums and social media. It’s a card that prompts storytelling, as players recount the pivotal moments it created in crucial games. The impact of this singular spell reaches into the very fabric of the MTG community, strengthening the bonds between those who appreciate strategy, history, and the thrill of the game.

In the end, the continued conversation and analysis around Swords to Plowshares prove its unshakeable place in the hearts of MTG players. It’s a card that will surely be debated, studied, and celebrated for years to come, as veterans pass down knowledge to newcomers, and the cycle of learning and mastery persist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the rich landscape of Magic the Gathering requires strategy, insight, and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re planning your next big win or fine-tuning your deck for maximum impact, there’s always room to elevate your game. As you continue to delve into the MTG universe, remember that it’s not just about the single triumphs but the continuous journey towards mastery. We invite you to keep exploring this fascinating world, discovering new techniques, and unearthing valuable cards to ensure your next match is more than just a game, but a Great Quest. Ready to level up your play? Join us to learn more and become the ultimate MTG champion.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Swords to Plowshares MTG card by a specific set like Limited Edition Alpha and Limited Edition Beta, 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 Swords to Plowshares and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Swords to Plowshares Magic the Gathering card was released in 55 different sets between 1993-08-05 and 2024-06-14. Illustrated by 16 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
11993-08-05Limited Edition AlphaLEA 401993NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
21993-10-04Limited Edition BetaLEB 411993NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
31993-12-01Unlimited Edition2ED 411993NormalWhiteJeff A. Menges
41993-12-10Collectors' EditionCED 411993NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
51993-12-10Intl. Collectors' EditionCEI 411993NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
61994-04-01Revised Edition3ED 411993NormalWhiteJeff A. Menges
71994-04-01Foreign Black BorderFBB 411993NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
81994-06-21Summer Magic / EdgarSUM 411993NormalWhiteJeff A. Menges
91995-04-01Fourth Edition Foreign Black Border4BB 521993NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
101995-04-01Fourth Edition4ED 521993NormalWhiteJeff A. Menges
111995-06-03Ice AgeICE 541993NormalBlackKaja Foglio
121996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC mj521993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
131996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC bl521993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
141996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC ml521993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
151996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC et52sb1993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
161996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC pp521993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
171996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC shr521993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
181996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC et521993NormalGoldJeff A. Menges
191997-08-13World Championship Decks 1997WC97 jk541997NormalGoldKaja Foglio
201999-11-12Battle Royale Box SetBRB 841997NormalWhiteJeff A. Menges
212001-01-01Friday Night Magic 2001F01 61997NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
222002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 861382015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
232002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 313811997NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
242006-07-21Coldsnap Theme DecksCST 542003NormalBlackKaja Foglio
252008-09-22Masters Edition IIME2 371997NormalBlackKaja Foglio
262010-11-08Magic Online Theme DecksTD0 B122003NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
272010-11-08Magic Online Theme DecksTD0 A171997NormalBlackKaja Foglio
282011-01-10Masters Edition IVME4 301997NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
292013-08-23From the Vault: TwentyV13 22003NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
302014-06-06ConspiracyCNS 842003NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
312014-06-16Vintage MastersVMA 512015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
322016-06-10Eternal MastersEMA 322015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
332016-11-11Commander 2016C16 782015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
342017-08-25Commander 2017C17 762015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
352017-11-17Iconic MastersIMA 362015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
362018-03-16Masters 25A25 352015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
372018-06-08BattlebondBBD 1102015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
382019-11-07Mystery BoosterMB1 2532015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
392019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 1102015NormalBlackDmitry Burmak
402019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 7132015NormalBlackJustin Hernandez & Alexis Hernandez
412019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 3642015NormalBlackMSCHF
422019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 10212015NormalBlackRyo Kamei
432020-09-26The ListPLST VOC-992015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
442020-09-26The ListPLST C16-782015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
452020-11-20Commander LegendsCMR 6272015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
462020-11-20Commander LegendsCMR 3872015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
472021-04-23Strixhaven Mystical ArchiveSTA 102015NormalBorderlessMark Tedin
482021-04-23Strixhaven Mystical ArchiveSTA 732015NormalBorderlessNagano
492021-07-23Forgotten Realms CommanderAFC 752015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
502021-08-26Jumpstart: Historic HorizonsJ21 7792015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
512021-09-24Midnight Hunt CommanderMIC 942015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
522021-11-19Crimson Vow CommanderVOC 992015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
532022-02-18Neon Dynasty CommanderNEC 892015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
542022-04-29New Capenna CommanderNCC 2112015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
552022-10-07Warhammer 40,000 Commander40K 190★2015NormalBlackDiego Gisbert
562022-10-07Warhammer 40,000 Commander40K 1902015NormalBlackDiego Gisbert
572022-10-14Game Night: Free-for-AllGN3 192015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
582022-11-18The Brothers' War CommanderBRC 751997NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
592022-11-2830th Anniversary Edition30A 3371997NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
602022-11-2830th Anniversary Edition30A 402015NormalBlackJeff A. Menges
612023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 2751997NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
622023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 312015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
632023-02-03Phyrexia: All Will Be One CommanderONC 892015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
642023-04-21March of the Machine CommanderMOC 2112015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
652023-06-23Tales of Middle-earth CommanderLTC 1782015NormalBlackChristina Kraus
662023-08-04Commander MastersCMM 8412015NormalBlackSam Wolfe Connelly
672023-09-08Wilds of Eldraine CommanderWOC 782015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
682023-10-13Doctor WhoWHO 8032015NormalBlackAxel Sauerwald
692023-10-13Doctor WhoWHO 2122015NormalBlackAxel Sauerwald
702023-11-17The Lost Caverns of Ixalan CommanderLCC 1372015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
712024-02-09Murders at Karlov Manor CommanderMKC 882015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing
722024-03-08FalloutPIP 7012015NormalBlackAlex Konstad
732024-03-08FalloutPIP 1732015NormalBlackAlex Konstad
742024-06-14Modern Horizons 3 CommanderM3C 1732015NormalBlackJesper Ejsing

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Swords to Plowshares has restrictions

FormatLegality
OldschoolLegal
HistoricbrawlLegal
CommanderLegal
HistoricBanned
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
PremodernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
GladiatorLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2022-12-08 Use the power of the creature from when it was last on the battlefield to determine how much life is gained.