Wrath of God MTG Card


Card setsReleased in 52 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityRare
TypeSorcery

Key Takeaways

  1. Wrath of God is a pivotal card in control decks, defining board resets and enabling strategic comebacks.
  2. Its enduring presence across multiple formats showcases its effectiveness in shifting the tide of gameplay.
  3. The card’s iconic status stems from its ability to clear the battlefield, setting a high bar for similar effects.

Text of card

All creatures in play are destroyed and cannot regenerate.


 


Pros of Wrath of God

Card Advantage: Wrath of God gives an incredible advantage on the battlefield by destroying all creatures, including indestructible ones. This mechanic can lead to a severe card advantage as your opponents lose their defenses while you maintain yours.

Resource Acceleration: A well-timed Wrath of God can be a resource accelerator. By playing this card at the right moment, you can wipe out all creatures on the board, clearing the way for you to take control and accelerate your strategies without the threat of counter-attacks.

Instant Speed: Wrath of God is a sorcery-speed card, which gives you full control over when it’s played during your turn. Strategize when to wipe the board clean, planning ahead for your next moves and setting the pace of the game.


Cons of Wrath of God Mtg

Discard Requirement: Wrath of God does not require you to discard a card, which might seem advantageous at first glance. However, this “no discard requirement” means you don’t have the flexibility to control the game by sacrificing certain cards at opportune moments.

Specific Mana Cost: Wrath of God needs two White Mana, making it a bit restrictive. It might constrain your deck-building options, restricting its use to primarily white or multicolored decks that can produce enough white mana.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Even though its destructive force is widespread, Wrath of God comes with a comparatively high mana cost of four. In fast-paced or aggressive metagames, other cards might provide quicker or cheaper alternatives for board control.


Reasons to Include Wrath of God in Your Collection

Versatility: Wrath of God exhibits immense adaptability. It can seamlessly slide into any style of deck, but dominates in those which require a game-changing board reset. Its ability to wipe out all creatures, ignoring indestructibility, gives players a fresh start irrespective of what position they are in.

Combo Potential: This card opens the door to a wide array of combinations. Pairing it with flicker or blink effects to save your creatures or coupling with cards that gain advantage from destruction events, Wrath of God has significant combo potential.

Meta-Relevance: In a landscape teeming with creature-heavy strategies, the need for reliable board wipes is paramount. Here, Wrath of God reigns supreme. Its significance grows in metas dominated by resilient creature-based decks, making it an extremely valuable asset.


Similar Cards

When we consider the card Wrath of God from MTG, other popular board clear cards such as Damnation, Day of Judgment, and Supreme Verdict come into the picture for their close resemblance. Damnation is the most similar, offering an almost mirrored effect but in a different color, black instead of white. It also destroys all creatures and can’t be regenerated.

Day of Judgment is another similar card to Wrath of God but is less powerful. It comes at a lessened mana cost, making it a viable alternative for beginner decks or players seeking lower cost options. Supreme Verdict stands out in this comparison for a unique ability. While the cost is high, it can’t be countered, providing a guaranteed strategy against decks that thrives on dodge maneuvers.

Even though Wrath of God was one of the first MTG cards to introduce a sweeping board clear, several cards have been introduced over the years that offer similar abilities. Various nuances, such as cost, speed, and counter protection, can make some of these cards more suitable in certain decks or against specific opponents. Thus, while Wrath of God maintains its iconic status, these similar cards provide exciting strategic options for MTG players.


How to Beat Wrath of God

Wrath of God is a potent spell in the MTG universe. Casting it clears the battlefield, eliminating every creature with no chance for regeneration. Going by its formidable power, it is vital to develop a strategy to neutralize this card when faced against it. The key here is all about timing and protection.

Counter spells such as “Negate” or “Swan Song” serve as practical tools against Wrath of God. These spells interrupt the casting and cancel out the effects of Wrath of God before it takes place. By doing so, your creatures can stay standing, unscathed. Though, this requires an understanding of your opponent’s strategy and prompt timing.

Similarly, cards with the Indestructible trait like “Darksteel Myr” or “Avacyn, Angel of Hope” can withstand the power of Wrath of God. Despite its overwhelming destruction, creatures with this trait can remain on the board even after the spell is cast, providing a solid offense and defense.

The crux of the matter is anticipating Wrath of God’s play and preparing defenses beforehand. As a Magic: The Gathering player, the art of dodging this powerful spell lies in the strategic handling of your deck and timing your plays intelligently.


A Comprehensive Guide to Wrath of God in Magic the Gathering

When it comes to Magic the Gathering, certain cards have risen above the rest, becoming iconic pieces of the game’s long and storied history. Wrath of God is one such card, a powerful spell that can turn the tide of any match with its devastating ability to clear the battlefield. If you’re new to the game or an experienced player looking to refine your strategy, understanding how to effectively utilize Wrath of God can be a game-changer.

This comprehensive guide is tailored for all levels of MTG players – from those who are just getting started to veterans looking to optimize their decks. We’ll delve deep into the mechanics of the card, its various editions and artwork, its place in different formats, and offer strategic advice on how to make the most out of this potent game-resetting tool.

Understanding the Mechanics

Let’s start at the beginning. Wrath of God is a classic card known for its simple yet potent ability: “Destroy all creatures. They can’t be regenerated.” This means that with a single card, you can clear the board of all creatures, whether they are untapped, tapped, or even indestructible. The power of Wrath of God lies in its ability to reset the playing field, offering a fresh start when you find yourself at a disadvantage. It’s important to note the subtleties of its effect, and when best to deploy this strategic reset button.

The Art and Editions of Wrath of God

Over the years, Wrath of God has been featured in multiple sets and donned various artworks, becoming a collector’s item as well as a competitive staple. Each portrayal of the spell’s cataclysmic power brings with it a different artistic interpretation, from the famous original artwork by Quinton Hoover to newer renditions that show the spell’s relentless force. Collectors value these differences and variations, with some editions holding a special place due to rarity or nostalgic value. Understanding the history of Wrath of God editions can add a layer of appreciation for the card beyond its strategic use.

Wrath of God in Different Formats

MTG offers a variety of formats for players with different preferences – and Wrath of God has found its place in almost all of them. From Standard to Commander, this spell has been a part of winning strategies and heartbreaking defeats. Each format comes with its own set of rules and meta, which affects how Wrath of God can be best utilized. In some formats, its presence is almost expected, while in others, it’s a surprise tech choice that can catch opponents unprepared.

Strategies and Deck Building

Integrating Wrath of God into your deck requires finesse and strategic planning. It’s not just about having the card, but knowing when to play it. It pairs well with control strategies, allowing you to hold back your own creature plays until after you’ve cleared the board. Additionally, knowing the meta and anticipating moments when multiple creatures threaten your victory is key. Deck building is an art, and including Wrath of God in your lineup calls for a balance between creature spells and other types of control and utility cards.

Timing and Gameplay Tips

One of the most critical aspects of mastering Wrath of God is timing. Cast it too early, and you may not get the full value; too late, and it might not save you. There’s also the psychological impact of the card—opponents may play conservatively, fearing its wrath. Knowing how to capitalize on this can be just as important as the cast itself. Additionally, combining Wrath of God with graveyard retrieval or similar recovery mechanics can tilt the aftermath of its devastation in your favor.

Competitive Play and Meta Impact

In the competitive scene, Wrath of God has shaped entire games. Its presence in a player’s deck can deter creature-heavy strategies and define how games unfold. Competitors need to be aware of the impact that Wrath of God has on the meta and prepare their sideboards accordingly. The card’s influence extends to deck construction and match strategies, making it a powerful tool in any player’s arsenal.

Alternative Options and Synergies

While Wrath of God is undoubtedly a strong choice, there are alternatives and synergistic cards that can amplify its effectiveness or offer similar functions in different colors. Exploring these cards can help players develop complex strategies and responses for when Wrath of God is not at hand. Understanding a wider array of options can serve you well, as different situations may call for different but equally impactful plays.

Collecting and Trading

For many, MTG goes beyond the game itself – it’s also about the joy of collecting. Wrath of God, with its numerous printings and variations, is a desirable card for many collectors. Knowing its value, both in gameplay and financially, is beneficial when trading. Like the ebb and flow of the market, the value of Wrath of God can fluctuate, making timing and knowledge crucial components of successful collecting and trading endeavors.

Building a Community

The world of MTG is vast and varied, and being a part of a community can enhance your experience significantly. Sharing tips, strategies, and tales of epic plays can inspire and motivate players to try new things and improve. Whether it’s discussing the best ways to utilize Wrath of God or recounting a close match where it saved the day, community engagement is a core element of the MTG experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the rich landscapes of Magic the Gathering requires strategy, insight, and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re planning your next big win or fine-tuning your deck for maximum impact, there’s always room to elevate your game. As you continue to delve into the MTG universe, remember that it’s not just about the single triumphs but the continuous journey towards mastery. We invite you to keep exploring this fascinating world, discovering new techniques, and unearthing valuable cards to ensure your next match is more than just a game, but a Big Score. Ready to level up your play? Join us to learn more and become the ultimate MTG champion.


Cards like Wrath of God

When we consider the card Wrath of God from MTG, other popular board clear cards such as Damnation, Day of Judgment, and Supreme Verdict come into the picture for their close resemblance. Damnation is the most similar, offering an almost mirrored effect but in a different color, black instead of white. It also destroys all creatures and can’t be regenerated.

Day of Judgment is another similar card to Wrath of God but is less powerful. It comes at a lessened mana cost, making it a viable alternative for beginner decks or players seeking lower cost options. Supreme Verdict stands out in this comparison for a unique ability. While the cost is high, it can’t be countered, providing a guaranteed strategy against decks that thrives on dodge maneuvers.

Even though Wrath of God was one of the first MTG cards to introduce a sweeping board clear, several cards have been introduced over the years that offer similar abilities. Various nuances, such as cost, speed, and counter protection, can make some of these cards more suitable in certain decks or against specific opponents. Thus, while Wrath of God maintains its iconic status, these similar cards provide exciting strategic options for MTG players.

Damnation - MTG Card versions
Day of Judgment - MTG Card versions
Supreme Verdict - MTG Card versions
Damnation - Planar Chaos (PLC)
Day of Judgment - Zendikar (ZEN)
Supreme Verdict - Return to Ravnica Promos (PRTR)

Cards similar to Wrath of God by color, type and mana cost

Armageddon - MTG Card versions
Resurrection - MTG Card versions
Cleanse - MTG Card versions
Breath of Life - MTG Card versions
Path of Peace - MTG Card versions
Vengeance - MTG Card versions
False Defeat - MTG Card versions
Ravages of War - MTG Card versions
Replenish - MTG Card versions
Gerrard's Wisdom - MTG Card versions
Decree of Justice - MTG Card versions
Day of Judgment - MTG Card versions
Starnheim Unleashed - MTG Card versions
Presence of the Wise - MTG Card versions
Divine Congregation - MTG Card versions
Retether - MTG Card versions
Misfortune's Gain - MTG Card versions
Windborne Charge - MTG Card versions
Captain's Call - MTG Card versions
Excoriate - MTG Card versions
Armageddon - 30th Anniversary Edition (30A)
Resurrection - 30th Anniversary Edition (30A)
Cleanse - Masters Edition III (ME3)
Breath of Life - Seventh Edition (7ED)
Path of Peace - Starter 1999 (S99)
Vengeance - Eighth Edition (8ED)
False Defeat - Portal Three Kingdoms (PTK)
Ravages of War - Fallout (PIP)
Replenish - Urza's Destiny (UDS)
Gerrard's Wisdom - Seventh Edition (7ED)
Decree of Justice - Jumpstart 2022 (J22)
Day of Judgment - Strixhaven Mystical Archive (STA)
Starnheim Unleashed - Kaldheim Promos (PKHM)
Presence of the Wise - Saviors of Kamigawa (SOK)
Divine Congregation - Time Spiral (TSP)
Retether - Planar Chaos (PLC)
Misfortune's Gain - Masters Edition III (ME3)
Windborne Charge - Mystery Booster (MB1)
Captain's Call - Magic 2013 (M13)
Excoriate - The List (PLST)

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Wrath of God MTG card by a specific set like Limited Edition Alpha and Limited Edition Beta, 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 Wrath of God and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Wrath of God Magic the Gathering card was released in 35 different sets between 1993-08-05 and 2023-08-04. Illustrated by 10 different artists.

#ReleaseNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
11993-08-05Limited Edition AlphaLEA 451993normalblackQuinton Hoover
21993-10-04Limited Edition BetaLEB 461993normalblackQuinton Hoover
31993-12-01Unlimited Edition2ED 461993normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
41993-12-10Intl. Collectors' EditionCEI 461993normalblackQuinton Hoover
51993-12-10Collectors' EditionCED 461993normalblackQuinton Hoover
61994-04-01Foreign Black BorderFBB 461993normalblackQuinton Hoover
71994-04-01Revised Edition3ED 461993normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
81994-06-21Summer Magic / EdgarSUM 461993normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
91995-04-01Fourth Edition Foreign Black Border4BB 581993normalblackQuinton Hoover
101995-04-01Fourth Edition4ED 581993normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
111996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC ml581993normalgoldQuinton Hoover
121996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC pp581993normalgoldQuinton Hoover
131996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC et581993normalgoldQuinton Hoover
141996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC shr581993normalgoldQuinton Hoover
151996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC bl58sb1993normalgoldQuinton Hoover
161996-05-02Pro Tour Collector SetPTC bl581993normalgoldQuinton Hoover
171997-03-24Fifth Edition5ED 691997normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
181997-05-01PortalPOR 391997normalblackMike Raabe
191999-04-21Classic Sixth Edition6ED 541997normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
201999-11-12Battle Royale Box SetBRB 1001997normalwhiteQuinton Hoover
212000-08-02World Championship Decks 2000WC00 tvdl54sb1997normalgoldQuinton Hoover
222000-08-02World Championship Decks 2000WC00 tvdl541997normalgoldQuinton Hoover
232001-04-11Seventh Edition7ED 57★1997normalblackKev Walker
242001-04-11Seventh Edition7ED 571997normalwhiteKev Walker
252002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 828822015normalblackThomas M. Baxa
262002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 350482003normalblackRon Spencer
272003-07-28Eighth Edition8ED 582003normalwhiteKev Walker
282003-07-28Eighth Edition8ED 58★2003normalblackKev Walker
292003-08-07World Championship Decks 2003WC03 dz582003normalgoldKev Walker
302004-09-01World Championship Decks 2004WC04 gn582003normalgoldKev Walker
312004-09-01World Championship Decks 2004WC04 jn582003normalgoldKev Walker
322005-07-29Ninth Edition9ED 562003normalwhiteKev Walker
332005-07-29Ninth Edition9ED 56★2003normalblackKev Walker
342007-01-01Magic Player Rewards 2007P07 12003normalblackRon Spencer
352007-07-13Tenth Edition10E 612003normalblackKev Walker
362013-11-01Commander 2013C13 272003normalblackKev Walker
372015-11-18Legendary Cube Prize PackPZ1 172015normalblackKev Walker
382016-06-10Eternal MastersEMA 382015normalblackKev Walker
392017-04-28Amonkhet InvocationsMP2 72015normalborderlessTitus Lunter
402019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 1852015normalborderlessJermaine Rogers
412019-12-02Secret Lair DropSLD 4412015normalborderlessKevin Gnutzmans
422020-08-07Double Masters2XM 3832015normalblackThomas M. Baxa
432020-08-07Double Masters2XM 392015normalblackKev Walker
442020-08-13Amonkhet RemasteredAKR 462015normalblackTitus Lunter
452020-09-26The ListPLST POR-391997normalblackMike Raabe
462022-11-2830th Anniversary Edition30A 3421997normalblackQuinton Hoover
472022-11-2830th Anniversary Edition30A 452015normalblackQuinton Hoover
482023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 372015normalblackKev Walker
492023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 2791997normalblackKev Walker
502023-01-13Dominaria RemasteredDMR 4162015normalborderlessDave Kendall
512023-08-04Commander MastersCMM 4772015normalblackWillian Murai
522023-08-04Commander MastersCMM 702015normalblackWillian Murai

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Wrath of God has restrictions

FormatLegality
OldschoolLegal
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
PremodernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal

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