Maddening Imp MTG Card

Mana cost
Converted mana cost	3
Rarity	Rare
Type	Creature — Imp
Abilities	Flying
Released	1997-10-14
Set symbol
Set name	Tempest
Set code	TMP
Power	1
Toughness	1
Number	143
Frame	1997
Layout	Normal
Border	Black
Illustred by	Zina Saunders

Key Takeaways

Maddening Imp can create card advantage by clearing opponents’ creatures via forced combat.
Instant speed activation allows for on-demand combat manipulation, disrupting enemy strategies.
Cons include a specific mana cost and a discard requirement, limiting its deck compatibility.

Text of card

Flying oc T: All non-Wall creatures target opponent controls attack this turn if able. At end of turn, destroy each of those creatures that did not attack. Use this ability only during target opponent's turn and only before combat.

Card Pros

Card Advantage: The Maddening Imp’s ability to force opponents to attack each turn can inadvertently lead to card advantage by clearing the board of opponent’s creatures through combat.

Resource Acceleration: Although not directly contributing to resource acceleration, using the imp effectively can indirectly influence the pace of the game by dictating combat scenarios, leaving opponents less equipped to deal with your threats.

Instant Speed: Maddening Imp offers a tactical advantage with its instant speed activation, letting you decide during the opponent’s turn whether to force their creatures into untimely attacks, potentially disrupting their strategies and combat plans.

Card Cons

Discard Requirement: To keep the Maddening Imp’s ability active, you need to continually discard cards which can quickly deplete your hand, making it less ideal for decks that don’t capitalize on having an empty hand or graveyard synergies.

Specific Mana Cost: The inclusion of two Black mana in its casting cost narrows deck compatibility, requiring a strong Black mana base which might not fit into multi-color deck strategies without proper mana fixing.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost of three mana, including two specific Black mana, Maddening Imp may arrive too late in games where early board presence is crucial, and its ability may not offset the tempo lost compared to other impactful three-mana creatures or spells.

Reasons to Include Maddening Imp in Your Collection

Versatility: Maddening Imp is a unique card that can be slotted into various deck archetypes owing to its tactical creature control ability. This allows players to dictate combat phases and force unfavorable attacks from opponents.

Combo Potential: This creature’s ability pairs well with cards that benefit from opponents’ creatures becoming tapped or with effects that punish creatures for attacking. It can create powerful synergies that can dominate the board.

Meta-Relevance: In a game state that is creature-heavy, Maddening Imp gains considerable value. Forcing opponents to attack when they are ill-prepared turns the tides of battle, disrupting their strategies and potentially steering the match in your favor.

How to beat

Maddening Imp is a unique creature card that has both intrigued and frustrated players since its release. Its ability to force opposing creatures to attack and destroy those that do not is a tactical advantage that must be handled carefully. Overcoming this card requires strategic planning and an understanding of its particular mechanics.

One way to nullify the imp’s threat is by utilizing instant-speed removal spells when the imp’s ability is on the stack. This way, you ensure your creatures are safe for that turn. Another method is to deploy creatures with vigilance or those that can tap for an effect so they are already tapped before the imp’s ability can target them. Creatures with hexproof or shroud also provide a reliable defense, as they are not valid targets for the imp’s ability.

Moreover, playing cards that can change the creature type or protect your creatures from being targeted will allow you to maintain your board presence. Cards that can silence abilities or counter activations are also effective in shutting down Maddening Imp’s disruptive capabilities, thus allowing you to dictate the pace and flow of the match.

Cards like Maddening Imp

Maddening Imp gives players a unique tactical advantage in a MTG match, somewhat resembling the playstyle alteration seen with Master of Cruelties. The imp forces enemy creatures to attack each turn if able, similar to how Master of Cruelties mandates a one-on-one combat scenario. However, Maddening Imp does not need to engage in combat itself to influence the battlefield.

Another card that shifts the flow of combat is Goblin Diplomats. While this card allows the player to force each creature to attack if able during a single turn, Maddening Imp presents an ongoing threat, compelling combat turn after turn. This persistent ability to dictate the opponent’s actions inevitably draws comparisons with cards like Angel’s Trumpet, which also coerces creatures to attack every turn but, unlike Maddening Imp, affects all creatures and not just those controlled by the opponent.

Ultimately, when considering cards that manipulate combat phases, Maddening Imp is a distinctive option. Its persistent ability to control your opponent’s creatures sets a relentless pace and strategic depth that is uncommon among MTG cards. With careful play, Maddening Imp can disrupt an opponent’s strategy significantly, making it a noteworthy card within its own right.

Cards similar to Maddening Imp by color, type and mana cost

Mischievous Poltergeist - MTG Card versions

Where to buy

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

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Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Maddening Imp has restrictions

Format	Legality
Commander	Legal
Legacy	Legal
Oathbreaker	Legal
Premodern	Legal
Vintage	Legal
Duel	Legal
Predh	Legal

Rules and information

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