The Monarch MTG Card


The Monarch mechanic allows extra draw, fostering an advantageous role through a consistent flow of new options. Playing Monarch cards can be tactically timed due to instant speed, increasing in-game flexibility and options. While offering unique gameplay, The Monarch may compel strategic deck building due to specific mana requirements.
Card setsReleased in 11 setsSee all
TypeCard

Text of card

At the beginning of your end step, draw a card. Whenever a creature deals combat damage to you, its controller becomes the monarch.


Cards like The Monarch

The Monarch, a unique mechanic in MTG, draws intriguing parallels with other game elements. Its closest comparison is with the City’s Blessing, another beneficial game state that is non-transferable once owned. However, The Monarch features a more dynamic and strategic gameplay where possession can change throughout the game. City’s Blessing, in contrast, is static and remains with a player once achieved.

Another notable comparison can be drawn with the Emblem mechanic. Like The Monarch, Emblems provide persistent effects. Emblems differ though, as they pose sturdier, more resistant in-game advantages as they cannot be removed or transferred. The Monarch, meanwhile, adds a level of unpredictability and tactical nuance as players vie to wrest the title during combat.

Therefore, when scrutinizing the diverse gameplay elements in MTG, The Monarch stands out with its unique interactive dynamic and strategic implications. While other mechanics provide stable advantages that are more reliable, The Monarch adds an enticing layer of tactical depth, volatility and constant state of change that keeps every player engaged in the game.

City's Blessing - MTG Card versions
City's Blessing - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Holding the title of the Monarch allows the player to draw an additional card at the end of their turn. This effect can provide a constant stream of new options in your hand, placing you in a advantageous position in the game.

Resource Acceleration: By having the Monarch status, not only does one gain extra cards, but in multiplayer game dynamics these extra draws can rapidly turn into a significant resource advantage. This forward momentum can set the pace, putting the Monarch player in a dominant role.

Instant Speed: Playing cards that grant the Monarch title can happen anytime, as numerous are instants or have flash. This means you have the possibility to claim the Monarch at the optimal moment or keep an open mana base for other spells, increasing your flexibility during the game.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: The Monarch, being a dynamic designation rather than a traditional card, can often feel like a risky maneuver. Should you lose the combat to an opponent, you are required to pass on this status, essentially discarding your crown.

Specific Mana Cost: In order to attain The Monarch status, typically you need to deploy cards with specific-colored mana cost. This can limit the accessibility of The Monarch among various deck builds, leaning towards those suited with the required colors.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Some cards that offer the opportunity to become The Monarch can hold high mana costs. This might deter some players due to more efficient alternatives present in MTG, thereby making its cost-to-benefit ratio not very appealing to some.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: The Monarch Mtg Card provides a unique game mechanism that can be skillfully woven into various decks. This card’s adaptable nature allows it to be used in a variety of game strategies, serving as a powerful tool in your arsenal.

Combo Potential: The main allure of The Monarch is its ability to feed into multiple combo strategies. With the right planning and execution, you can utilize the draw power from monarch mechanic to churn your deck effectively and hit your combo pieces more swiftly.

Meta-Relevance: With the ever-changing meta of MTG, The Monarch card retains its position of relevance. As it offers core advantages such as additional draw power, it’s a vital asset against control strategies, making it a beneficial addition to your collection.


How to beat

The Monarch in MTG is an interesting game mechanic introduced in the Conspiracy set. When a player becomes The Monarch, they draw an extra card at their end step. The intriguing part, though, is any player who deals combat damage to The Monarch steals the title, potentially causing this effect to leapfrog between players.

Overpowering The Monarch essentially requires smart gameplay. First, you must consider the type of deck you’re battling against – decks full of creatures would usually try to steal the Monarch title by dealing damage. Protect yourself from these attacks by using cards that create multiple blockers, take advantage of those that deal with multiple creatures, or even manipulate combat to your favor. That being said, you may want to prevent your opponent from drawing extra cards in the first place. Decks full of removal or counterspells can be your best tool for this.

Remember, strategic and timely play of your cards in your arsenal is key to dealing with The Monarch. As you continuously refine your game strategies, you will surely manage to outwit and oust your opponent in their quest for dominance.


BurnMana Recommendations

The pursuit to ascend as the Monarch in MTG can be as strategic as it is rewarding. With the ability to draw extra cards and accelerate your resources, it’s a compelling mechanic that ensures a dynamic and engaging play experience. While the risks involved in holding the Monarch status can be significant, clever deck construction and tactical play can turn this unique role into a major advantage. Whether it’s enhancing your deck’s versatility, fueling combo strategies, or staying ahead in the meta, incorporating the Monarch mechanic could serve as a game-changer. Embark on the quest for the crown and enrich your MTG gameplay. Delve deeper with us to discover optimum strategies and become the definitive Monarch on your battlefield.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase The Monarch MTG card by a specific set like Conspiracy: Take the Crown and Commander Legends, 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 The Monarch and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The The Monarch Magic the Gathering card was released in 11 different sets between 2016-08-26 and 2024-04-19. Illustrated by 3 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12016-08-26Conspiracy: Take the CrownCN2 12015TokenBlackMike Bierek
22020-11-20Commander LegendsCMR 142015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
32021-07-23Forgotten Realms CommanderAFC 132015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
42023-02-03Phyrexia: All Will Be One CommanderONC 222015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
52023-04-21March of the Machine CommanderMOC 462015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
62023-06-23Tales of Middle-earth CommanderLTC 152015TokenBlackAudrey Benjaminsen
72023-08-04Commander MastersCMM 502015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
82023-09-08Wilds of Eldraine Japanese Promo TokensWWOE 62015TokenBlackMike Bierek
92023-11-17The Lost Caverns of Ixalan CommanderLCC 182015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
102024-02-09Murders at Karlov Manor CommanderMKC 312015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa
112024-04-19Outlaws of Thunder Junction CommanderOTC 292015TokenBlackVolkan Baǵa