Phyrexian Splicer MTG Card
1997-10-14 - Number 303
2020-09-26 - Number TMP-303
| Card sets | Released in 2 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 2 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Artifact |
| Abilities | First strike,Trample |
Key Takeaways
- Provides unique tactical advantages by enabling creature ability manipulation on the battlefield.
- Its instant-speed activation allows for real-time responses, boosting flexibility during play.
- The requirement to discard a card for activation and its specific mana cost are notable constraints.
Text of card
, oc T: Choose flying, first strike, trample, or shadow. Target creature with that ability loses it until end of turn. Another target creature gains that ability until end of turn.
Card Pros
Card Advantage: The Phyrexian Splicer offers a unique tactical edge, allowing you to manipulate creatures on the battlefield. This can translate into gaining superior card functionality, outmaneuvering your opponent’s strategies or bolstering your own offensive capabilities.
Resource Acceleration: This artifact’s ability isn’t just a matter of reconfiguring creature statistics; it’s also a strategic method of enhancing your resource management. With adept use, the Splicer can shift the tide of a match by optimizing the potential of the creatures at your disposal without the need for additional mana investment.
Instant Speed: Rapidly adjusting to the evolving battlefield is pivotal in MTG, and the Phyrexian Splicer’s instant-speed activation gives you the flexibility to react in real time. Whether you’re disrupting an opponent’s combo or fortifying your own creatures in a pinch, the Splicer’s quick fire utility can be a key to victory.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Phyrexian Splicer demands you to discard another card upon activation. This can be a tactical drawback when your hand is already low, potentially losing valuable cards in the process.
Specific Mana Cost: This artifact requires a precise mix of generic and Phyrexian mana, which may not be as fluidly integrated into a deck without the right mana base or support cards.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: For its utility, Phyrexian Splicer’s activation cost is on the higher side. Players may find that other cards could provide similar, if not more efficient, abilities at a lower mana investment.
Reasons to Include Phyrexian Splicer in Your Collection
Versatility: Phyrexian Splicer proves invaluable in decks that manipulate creature abilities. Its ability to swap creature effects allows for adaptive gameplay, often turning the tide in your advantage regardless of the matchup.
Combo Potential: This artifact thrives in an environment rich in creature-based synergies. Utilizing Phyrexian Splicer’s effects can create unexpected and powerful interactions, paving the way for overwhelming board states that can catch opponents off guard.
Meta-Relevance: As the competitive scene shifts, Phyrexian Splicer retains relevance through its ability to adapt to various popular decks. It’s a tool that can counter or complement the prevailing strategies, making it a versatile pick for anyone looking to stay one step ahead in the game.
How to beat
The Phyrexian Splicer is one of those Magic: The Gathering cards that can become a thorn in the side of many players. It emerges from the shadows of the game’s vast card pool, bringing a unique ability to the battlefield – it can manipulate creature abilities. Understanding the essence of what makes the Phyrexian Splicer tick is crucial.
One approach to overcoming this card’s influence is to prioritize the removal of creatures it can target. Keeping your creature count low and minimizing the impact of its ability swap is tactical. Conversely, bringing in instant-speed removal allows you to respond to the Splicer’s activation and neutralize its threat immediately. Whether it’s by direct destruction or exile effects, preparing your deck with versatile answers will ensure that the Splicer’s grip on the game does not last.
Lastly, countering the Splicer before it lands on the board is a foolproof solution. Counter spells that handle artifacts or focus on noncreature spells are crucial here. The goal is to disrupt the Splicer’s strategy, keeping your powerful creatures safe from its manipulations, and ultimately securing your position in the game.
Cards like Phyrexian Splicer
Phyrexian Splicer finds its place in the scheme of tool-based artifacts in Magic: The Gathering. It shares a kinship with cards such as Neurok Transmuter, which offers the ability to manipulate creature types and features. However, Phyrexian Splicer gives players the unique ability to exchange power/toughness attributes between creatures, making it a versatile choice during intricate battlefield scenarios.
Another artifact that resonates with Phyrexian Splicer is the Manipulate Fate card. This gem allows for creature control, albeit through a different avenue of influence, focusing on exile and card draw rather than direct battlefield manipulation. Although it doesn’t alter creature stats, the foresight it provides can be invaluable in a well-crafted deck strategy.
Looking closer, we find Aethermage’s Touch as a spell that shares the surprise element, bringing creatures into play unexpectedly. However, unlike the repeatable nature of Phyrexian Splicer’s ability, Aethermage’s Touch is a one-off with a potential for a higher immediate impact but lacks the sustained utility offered by the Splicer.
In sum, within the variety of creature-manipulating cards available, Phyrexian Splicer stands out with its unique attrition and combat trick potential, offering tactical depth to players who enjoy actively altering the course of combat in Magic: The Gathering.
Cards similar to Phyrexian Splicer by color, type and mana cost
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Phyrexian Splicer MTG card by a specific set like Tempest and The List, 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 Phyrexian Splicer and other MTG cards:
- eBay
- TCG Player
- 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
See MTG Products
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Phyrexian Splicer 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 Phyrexian Splicer 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 | If the target which is having the ability removed does not have that ability during the resolution of this effect, then this effect still grants the chosen ability. The reason is that the second target is still legal even if the first one is not. |
