Moniker Mage MTG Card


Moniker Mage - Unhinged
Mana cost
Converted mana cost3
RarityCommon
TypeCreature — Human Wizard
Released2004-11-19
Set symbol
Set nameUnhinged
Set codeUNH
Power 2
Toughness 2
Number39
Frame2003
LayoutNormal
BorderSilver
Illustred byKeith Garletts
Un-set :-)This card is part of an Un-set

Key Takeaways

  1. Moniker Mage can shift game momentum with its resource acceleration and ability for generating card advantage.
  2. Instant-speed abilities offer strategic flexibility, though the card demands careful management of resources.
  3. It has high combo potential and maintains relevance in diverse MTG metas, despite some mana cost limitations.

Text of card

, Say your middle name: Moniker Mage can't be the target of spells or abilities this turn. , Say an opponent's middle name: Moniker Mage gains flying until end of turn.


Card Pros

Card Advantage: Moniker Mage has the potential to generate substantial card advantage, allowing you to manipulate the battle by drawing extra cards. This keeps your hand filled with options and puts you ahead of your opponent in terms of resources.

Resource Acceleration: This Mage can swiftly change the tide of a match through its ability to accelerate your resources. Whether it’s by untapping lands or producing tokens that can be leveraged for mana, you’ll find yourself with more ways to cast spells quicker than your rivals.

Instant Speed: The power of acting at instant speed cannot be overstated. Moniker Mage’s instant-speed abilities give you the flexibility to react during your opponent’s turn or at the end of their phase, keeping them guessing and allowing you to make moves with more information.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Engaging with the tactical depth that Moniker Mage brings to the battlefield isn’t without its setbacks. Players must navigate the precarious balance of resources, as activating this card’s ability necessitates the sacrifice of another card in hand. This could potentially set you back by depleting valuable options too early in the game.

Specific Mana Cost: Moniker Mage demands precision in mana allocation, boasting a mana cost that is unyielding in its specificity. Should your deck strategy skew towards a diverse mana base, this requirement could pose a restriction, potentially delaying your power plays or hindering the seamless execution of your strategy.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: In a game where efficiency can dictate victory, the Moniker Mage stands at a crossroads. Its mana cost might eclipse that of other choices within the same strategic niche. This comparative expense calls into question the opportunity cost of including it in your deck, especially when alternative cards may provide similar effects with less resource strain.


Reasons to Include Moniker Mage in Your Collection

Versatility: Moniker Mage offers a flexible role in decks that pivot on spell-slinging and creature strategies, becoming a valuable asset for players seeking to adapt to various playstyles and formats.

Combo Potential: This card can synergize with numerous spells, increasing its combo potential. Coupling Moniker Mage with cards that trigger upon casting spells or creating copies can lead to game-changing plays.

Meta-Relevance: With a changing competitive landscape, Moniker Mage maintains relevance as it can be a potent tool against decks that rely heavily on creature-based tactics or certain spells, allowing for strategic sideboarding.


How to Beat

Moniker Mage is a unique card that can prove to be a challenge in duels. This card allows its controller to copy instants and sorceries with the same name as another card they own in exile. To effectively counter this effect, consider utilizing diverse removal spells that limit the card’s utility. Strategic discard effects which disrupt the opponent’s hand and exile their options can be critical in diminishing Moniker Mage’s power.

Another approach is to focus on controlling the board. Cards that limit spell casting or abilities can restrain Moniker Mage’s capacity to clone spells. Counterspells are especially potent as they prevent the trigger of the Mage’s ability by stopping the initial spell from resolving. Additionally, direct damage spells can remove the Mage from the field before it becomes a larger threat.

Keep in mind, the key to defeating a card like Moniker Mage lies in proactive disruption and maintaining a versatile strategy. A mix of thoughtful counters, targeted removal, and hand disruption can ensure that Moniker Mage does not tip the scales in your opponent’s favor.



Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Moniker Mage MTG card by a specific set like Unhinged, 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 Moniker Mage and other MTG cards:

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