Zealous Inquisitor MTG Card

Provides game advantage by disrupting opponents’ creature plays each turn with its ability. Can save player resources and spell slots by using its ability instead of spells. Flexible instant speed ability offers strategic defensive plays during opponents’ turns.

Scourge (SCG)
2003-05-26 - Number 27

Zealous Inquisitor - Ninth Edition (9ED)

Ninth Edition (9ED)
2005-07-29 - Number 57★

Ninth Edition (9ED)
2005-07-29 - Number 57

Card sets	Released in 3 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost	3
Rarity	Common
Type	Creature — Human Cleric
Power	2
Toughness	2

Text of card

: The next 1 damage that would be dealt to Zealous Inquisitor this turn is dealt to target creature instead.

"I only return what rightly belongs to another."

Cards like Zealous Inquisitor

The Zealous Inquisitor offers MTG devotees an intriguing combination of abilities that cater to a defensive strategy. It provides assurance against creatures with smaller attributes, similar to the functionality seen in cards like Coalhauler Swine. However, the Inquisitor elevates the concept with its activated ability that allows it to deal damage equal to its power to a target attacking or blocking creature. This reactive ability distinguishes the Inquisitor from the Swine, which passively deals damage when hurt.

Analogous to the Inquisitor, Prodigal Pyromancer lends players the capacity to pinpoint and shoot down creatures or planeswalkers, yet the Pyromancer can also target opponents directly, offering a more flexible use of its ability. On the other hand, Kamahl, Pit Fighter also packs a similar tactile punch but does so with haste and direct player or planeswalker focus, trading persistent defense for aggressive offense at a higher mana value.

In sum, Zealous Inquisitor solidifies its position within the unique class of creatures in MTG that favor a resilient board state, bolstered by an ability that proactively shapes the skirmishes of the match. Its versatility and reliable power make it a card worth considering for decks building around tactical creature-based interactions.

Cards similar to Zealous Inquisitor by color, type and mana cost

Pianna, Nomad Captain - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Zealous Inquisitor offers an interactive game advantage by enabling you to potentially remove an opponent’s creature each turn it remains on the battlefield. This disruption adds to your strategic depth, giving you the upper hand by systematically weakening your opponent’s board presence.

Resource Acceleration: While not a direct source of mana acceleration, the Inquisitor’s ability can be a resource-saving mechanism. It effectively conserves your spell slots and mana by dealing with threats using its ability. This allows you to allocate resources to further your game plan in more significant ways.

Instant Speed: The Inquisitor’s ability can be activated at instant speed, offering flexibility and surprise factor. You can wait until the most opportune moment during your opponent’s turn to utilize its effect, which maximizes its defensive potential and ensures optimal use of your mana each round.

Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Zealous Inquisitor requires specific conditions for its abilities to be advantageous. Without proper setup, you might not reap the full benefits, leading to missed opportunities during gameplay.

Specific Mana Cost: With a mana cost that includes white mana, the Zealous Inquisitor may not effortlessly fit into multi-color deck strategies, potentially limiting its versatility and deck compatibility.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Considering its mana cost and the effects it provides, Zealous Inquisitor may compete with other cards for a spot in your deck. There are alternative cards with lower mana costs or more impactful abilities at similar costs.

Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Zealous Inquisitor offers solid utility in decks focused on creature control. Its ability to deal damage to attacking or blocking creatures can act as a deterrent, fitting well in defensive white strategies.

Combo Potential: In synergy with cards that prevent or redirect damage, the Inquisitor’s ability turns into a repeatable source of removal, aligning with combo setups that seek to maintain a clear battlefield.

Meta-Relevance: Within a meta where aggressive creature-based strategies prevail, Zealous Inquisitor shines by offering a way to disrupt opponent’s combat plans and preserve your life total.

How to beat

Overcoming the challenge posed by Zealous Inquisitor can be an interesting aspect of Magic: The Gathering gameplay. This particular card stands out with its ability to convert unwanted creatures into direct damage against opponents. To effectively navigate against this card, it’s advisable to limit your attacks when Zealous Inquisitor is untapped and capable of utilizing its ability.

Another effective strategy involves removing it from the battlefield with removal spells, negating its damage-dealing potential entirely. Given its moderate toughness, spells that deal damage or force sacrifices are particularly efficient. Additionally, countering it upon casting can be a preemptive way to ensure it never becomes a threat on the board.

Lastly, you can also bypass this card by emphasizing noncombat strategies that do not rely on creature damage, minimizing the impact of its defensive capabilities. By carefully selecting your timing and means of interaction, Zealous Inquisitor becomes far less intimidating, ensuring your path to victory remains clear.

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Zealous Inquisitor MTG card by a specific set like Scourge and Ninth Edition, 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 Zealous Inquisitor and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Zealous Inquisitor Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 2003-05-26 and 2005-07-29. Illustrated by Wayne England.

#	Released	Name	Code	Number	Frame	Layout	Border	Artist
1	2003-05-26	Scourge	SCG	27	1997	Normal	Black	Wayne England
2	2005-07-29	Ninth Edition	9ED	57★	2003	Normal	Black	Wayne England
3	2005-07-29	Ninth Edition	9ED	57	2003	Normal	White	Wayne England

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Zealous Inquisitor has restrictions

Format	Legality
Commander	Legal
Legacy	Legal
Paupercommander	Legal
Modern	Legal
Oathbreaker	Legal
Pauper	Legal
Premodern	Legal
Vintage	Legal
Duel	Legal
Predh	Legal
Penny	Legal