Tempest Caller MTG Card


Tempest Caller excels in controlling the battlefield, potentially leading to game-winning scenarios. Best used in blue mana-focused decks for tempo and strategic plays. Consider alternative cards for similar effects with less mana investment.
Tempest Caller - Ixalan
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityUncommon
TypeCreature — Merfolk Wizard
Released2017-09-29
Set symbol
Set nameIxalan
Set codeXLN
Power 2
Toughness 3
Number86
Frame2015
LayoutNormal
BorderBlack
Illustred byRyan Alexander Lee

Text of card

When Tempest Caller enters the battlefield, tap all creatures target opponent controls.

"I *am* the storm."


Cards like Tempest Caller

Tempest Caller is a unique card in the realm of tap-down effects within Magic: The Gathering. It finds its niche by offering a mass tap-down ability that can sometimes clinch a game by preventing opponents from blocking during a crucial turn. It operates similarly to cards like Sleep, which also taps all creatures your opponents control. However, Sleep affects the board for two turns, while Tempest Caller provides a one-time mass tap-down event when it enters the battlefield.

Another comparable card is the intriguingly designed Flood of Tears, albeit with a twist. Instead of just tapping, it returns all nonland permanents to their owners’ hands. Though not a creature like Tempest Caller, Flood of Tears can lead to swingy plays that can drastically alter the game state. Then there is Engulf the Shore, a card that bounces creatures to hand based on the number of Islands you control. Unlike Tempest Caller, Engulf the Shore has the potential to affect both sides of the battlefield but is limited to creatures with a certain toughness.

Assessing the value and strategic use of Tempest Caller alongside similar cards, it certainly stands out for its targeted tap-down ability tailored for players looking to create a decisive turn for an overwhelming attack in Magic: The Gathering.

Sleep - MTG Card versions
Flood of Tears - MTG Card versions
Engulf the Shore - MTG Card versions
Sleep - MTG Card versions
Flood of Tears - MTG Card versions
Engulf the Shore - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Tempest Caller by color, type and mana cost

Phantasmal Forces - MTG Card versions
Phantom Monster - MTG Card versions
Wall of Vapor - MTG Card versions
Screeching Drake - MTG Card versions
Tradewind Rider - MTG Card versions
Archivist - MTG Card versions
Extravagant Spirit - MTG Card versions
Thieving Magpie - MTG Card versions
Inga Rune-Eyes - MTG Card versions
Sakashima of a Thousand Faces - MTG Card versions
Laboratory Drudge - MTG Card versions
Undercover Operative - MTG Card versions
Archmage Emeritus - MTG Card versions
Hisoka, Minamo Sensei - MTG Card versions
Johnny, Combo Player - MTG Card versions
Dream Prowler - MTG Card versions
Clone - MTG Card versions
Cytoplast Manipulator - MTG Card versions
Crookclaw Transmuter - MTG Card versions
Dreamborn Muse - MTG Card versions
Phantasmal Forces - MTG Card versions
Phantom Monster - MTG Card versions
Wall of Vapor - MTG Card versions
Screeching Drake - MTG Card versions
Tradewind Rider - MTG Card versions
Archivist - MTG Card versions
Extravagant Spirit - MTG Card versions
Thieving Magpie - MTG Card versions
Inga Rune-Eyes - MTG Card versions
Sakashima of a Thousand Faces - MTG Card versions
Laboratory Drudge - MTG Card versions
Undercover Operative - MTG Card versions
Archmage Emeritus - MTG Card versions
Hisoka, Minamo Sensei - MTG Card versions
Johnny, Combo Player - MTG Card versions
Dream Prowler - MTG Card versions
Clone - MTG Card versions
Cytoplast Manipulator - MTG Card versions
Crookclaw Transmuter - MTG Card versions
Dreamborn Muse - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: The Tempest Caller shines in scenarios where board presence determines the game’s outcome. By allowing you to control the battlefield and prevent your opponent’s creatures from blocking for a turn, Tempest Caller can help swing the game in your favor, potentially enabling you to break through stalemates or secure victory.

Resource Acceleration: Although Tempest Caller does not directly accelerate resources, tactically it supports aggressive plays. Utilizing this card correctly aligns with decks aiming for quick tempo, leveraging the momentary advantage to press the attack or establish a formidable board state before the opposition can muster a robust defense.

Instant Speed: As a card that operates at sorcery speed, Tempest Caller is best played during your main phase. However, its ability to tap all creatures the opponent controls essentially acts like an instant by setting the stage just before your attack, potentially clearing the path of blockers, and allowing you to optimize your turn for maximum impact.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Although Tempest Caller doesn’t require a discard itself, many players pairing this card with other blue cards might face this drawback. Ensuring you have enough cards in hand to support both Tempest Caller’s effect and any potential discards can be challenging.

Specific Mana Cost: Tempest Caller’s blue mana cost can pose a restriction, as it requires a deck to be tailored towards or heavily inclusive of blue mana sources. This can limit the card’s flexibility and inclusion in multi-color decks that do not primarily focus on blue mana.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost that includes two blue mana symbols, Tempest Caller can be considered costly, especially when you aim to tap all of your opponent’s creatures and achieve a powerful board advantage. There are alternative cards that might provide similar effects or more immediate board impact at a lower mana investment.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Tempest Caller offers a range of strategic options to players, fitting seamlessly into decks that aim to control the battlefield. Its ability to tap all creatures your opponents control can swing the game, preparing the stage for a decisive attack.

Combo Potential: This merfolk wizard becomes an integral piece in combo setups, especially when paired with cards that capitalize on opponents having tapped creatures. Utilize it to magnify the effect of sleep and lockdown strategies, creating a solid path to victory.

Meta-Relevance: In a format where creature-based combat is prevalent, Tempest Caller gains increased significance. Its ability to disrupt opponent strategies and provide a massive tempo swing can position your deck favorably against various aggro and midrange builds currently shaping the meta.


How to beat

Tempest Caller is a game changing card when it comes to closing out matches in Magic: The Gathering. As a creature that taps all your opponent’s creatures when it enters the battlefield, it can effectively neutralize threats and clear the way for an unimpeded attack. To beat this card, it’s crucial to manage the battlefield effectively. Utilize removal spells or counterspells before the Tempest Caller can be cast or its enter-the-battlefield effect is triggered. Removal spells like Murder or Counterspell can be key in preventing Tempest Caller from tipping the scales.

Players should also consider keeping their removal spells available when their opponent reaches the mana necessary to play Tempest Caller. Instant-speed interaction is paramount; thus, holding up mana for spells like Essence Scatter or Negate becomes a strategic choice. Alternatively, cards that give your creatures indestructible for a turn or grant them the ability to untap can mitigate the impact of Tempest Caller’s ability, ensuring that your defenses remain robust against such tide-turning plays.

In summary, responsive play and strategic foresight are essential when facing Tempest Caller. By anticipating its arrival and maintaining defensive options, players can effectively navigate around this potent threat and maintain control of the game.


BurnMana Recommendations

Tempest Caller stands as a pivotal card for players looking to command the game’s momentum. With its capacity to tap opposing creatures, it weaves a strategic edge into blue-centric decks. Savvy deck builders incorporate this merfolk wizard to break deadlocks and clear the path for decisive blows. Understanding its strengths and limitations is key to maximizing its potential. If you’re eager to refine your deck’s capabilities and explore new strategies involving Tempest Caller, we encourage you to delve deeper with us. Discover how to optimize your MTG deck and turn the tides in your favor.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Tempest Caller MTG card by a specific set like Ixalan, 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 Tempest Caller and other MTG cards:

TCGPlayerBUY NOW
BurnMana is an official partner of TCGPlayer
Continue exploring other sealed products in Amazon
See MTG Products

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Tempest Caller has restrictions

FormatLegality
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
PaupercommanderRestricted
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
PioneerLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2017-09-29 Tempest Caller’s ability targets only the player. Creatures with hexproof that player controls will be tapped as that ability resolves.