Torch the Witness MTG Card
2024-02-09 - Number 146†
2024-02-09 - Number 146
| Card sets | Released in 2 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 1 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Sorcery |
| Abilities | Investigate |
Text of card
Torch the Witness deals twice X damage to target creature. If excess damage was dealt to that creature this way, investigate. (Create a Clue token. It's an artifact with ", Sacrifice this artifact: Draw a card.")
"He was scheduled to meet me tomorrow with something important to share. This was no coincidence." —Algrom of the Foundway Associates
Cards like Torch the Witness
Torch the Witness is an intriguing new contender in the realm of creature control within Magic: The Gathering. It’s often compared to other cards such as Lighting Bolt, a staple spell recognized for its efficiency in dealing three damage to any target. Torch the Witness differentiates itself with the added ability to exile a creature it deals lethal damage to, ensuring that the threat doesn’t return from the graveyard.
Then, we have Lava Coil, which offers a similar exile effect upon dealing damage. However, while Lava Coil can deal with creatures boasting up to four toughness, Torch the Witness can potentially handle even more robust creatures if paired with additional damage sources. Another card in this space is Incinerate, which deals damage and prevents regeneration. This is a nod to Torch the Witness’s utility in handling persisting threats, albeit without the actual exile effect.
Looking at the array of options, Torch the Witness presents a valuable mix of damage and graveyard disruption. For players who need a safety net against creatures that refuse to stay dead, this card earns its place as a powerful control tool in the Magic: The Gathering arsenal.
Cards similar to Torch the Witness by color, type and mana cost
Decks using this card
MTG decks using Torch the Witness. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.
| # | Name | Format | Archetype | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Decklist | Free form | 86#CS | |
 | Sealed Deck | Limited | Murders At Karlov Mansion Pre-release |
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Torch the Witness shines in scenarios where maintaining momentum is key. It enables you to efficiently deal with a threat on the battlefield, ensuring you don’t fall behind in the race for board control.
Resource Acceleration: While this card doesn’t directly create resources, its efficient cost to impact ratio frees up mana for other important plays in the same turn, indirectly contributing to resource acceleration strategies.
Instant Speed: The instant nature of Torch the Witness offers the element of surprise and flexibility, allowing you to optimize your plays reactively. Whether you’re disrupting an opponent’s strategy or protecting an asset in crucial moments, being able to act at instant speed is an undeniable edge in any match.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Torch the Witness forces a player to part ways with a card upon playing, a move that might deplete an already dwindling hand, creating a disadvantage during critical gameplay moments.
Specific Mana Cost: Requiring both red and white mana, Torch the Witness can be somewhat restrictive, necessitating a particular deck strategy or mana base to capitalize on its benefits effectively.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With its mana cost demanding four resources, players might find themselves weighing its cost against other cards offering a similar effect at a lower cost, potentially making it a less attractive option in decks that value efficiency.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Torch the Witness offers flexibility in various deck builds, contributing to red’s swift and impactful play style. Its ability to deal damage or remove blockers complements aggressive strategies effectively.
Combo Potential: This card can synergize with decks that focus on spell-slinging or prowess-like mechanics, where casting non-creature spells can trigger advantageous effects.
Meta-Relevance: In a meta where creatures and planeswalkers play key roles, Torch the Witness can act as a functional tool to control opponents’ threats, keeping the board state in your favor.
How to beat
Torch the Witness has made quite the buzz in the MTG community for good reason. This versatile instant speed card can either dispatch a creature on the battlefield or be aimed straight at an opponent or planeswalker. With its affordability and flexibility, overcoming this card can be a bit tricky.
One effective strategy is employing creatures with hexproof to shield them from being targeted by such spot removal. Counterspells are also a player’s good friend against Torch the Witness; by keeping mana ready, you can negate its effect entirely. Alternatively, instant-speed tricks to bolster your creature’s toughness when Torch the Witness is cast can turn the tables. Using these techniques properly can not only protect your assets but also potentially waste your opponent’s card, setting you ahead in resource management.
Bearing in mind that Torch the Witness can also be pointed at players or planeswalkers, life gain strategies or cards that prevent noncombat damage can mitigate its impact. By preparing for these scenarios, players can navigate around the potential pitfalls of Torch the Witness and maintain control over the game.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Torch the Witness MTG card by a specific set like Murders at Karlov Manor and Murders at Karlov Manor, 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 Torch the Witness and other MTG cards:
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- eBay
- 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
Printings
The Torch the Witness Magic the Gathering card was released in 1 different sets between 2024-02-09 and 2024-02-09. Illustrated by Andrew Mar.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2024-02-09 | Murders at Karlov Manor | MKM | 146† | 2015 | Normal | Black | Andrew Mar | |
| 2 | 2024-02-09 | Murders at Karlov Manor | MKM | 146 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Andrew Mar |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Torch the Witness has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Standard | Legal |
| Historic | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Gladiator | Legal |
| Standardbrawl | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |
| Commander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Future | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Explorer | Legal |
| Brawl | Legal |
| Timeless | Legal |