Zealous Strike MTG Card
2012-05-04 - Number 41
2016-08-26 - Number 101
2019-11-07 - Number 280
2020-09-26 - Number CN2-101
| Card sets | Released in 4 setsSee all |
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 2 |
| Rarity | Common |
| Type | Instant |
Text of card
Target creature gets +2/+2 and gains first strike until end of turn.
"Cower, fiend. The night is yours no longer."
Cards like Zealous Strike
Zealous Strike is a notable combat trick in MTG, offering a boost to a creature’s power and toughness along with the added benefit of granting it first strike. It draws a comparison with cards such as Sure Strike, which similarly provides a temporary power spike and gives first strike, however, it does not increase toughness. The distinction is critical in combat, making Zealous Strike slightly more versatile in protecting creatures as well as eliminating blockers or attackers.
Another card worth comparing is Swift Justice, which gives a creature not only first strike but also lifelink for one turn, at the same cost. While it doesn’t pump a creature’s power or toughness, the addition of lifelink could potentially swing the game by bolstering a player’s life total alongside eliminating an opponent’s threat. Moment of Heroism stands out as well by offering a comparable increase to power and toughness, but instead of first strike, it gives lifelink, driving strategic decisions based on the user’s immediate need in-match.
Ultimately, Zealous Strike holds its ground within MTG’s arsenal of combat tricks. It’s reliable for a sudden advantage in power dynamics on the battlefield, making it a card to consider in decks focused on aggressive and tactical creature play.
Cards similar to Zealous Strike by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Zealous Strike doesn’t directly provide card draw, but strengthening a creature can help it survive combat encounters, effectively retaining cards on the battlefield and advancing your board presence.
Resource Acceleration: While Zealous Strike doesn’t generate mana or tokens, it can be seen as a form of resource acceleration by augmenting a creature’s power. This can potentially speed up the clock against your opponent, leading to quicker victories and saving resources over the course of a match.
Instant Speed: This spell being castable at instant speed adds a layer of flexibility, allowing players to react to their opponent’s actions. Whether it’s buffing a creature before damage is assigned or catching an adversary off guard during their attack, Zealous Strike’s instant speed is a strategic boon.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: Zealous Strike does not directly involve a discard mechanic, but as an instant boost, it can deplete your hand quickly, leaving fewer options for later plays.
Specific Mana Cost: Zealous Strike’s white mana cost positions it firmly in white decks or multi-color decks that include white, potentially limiting its overall versatility in a player’s arsenal.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: At two mana for a one-time boost of +2/+2 and first strike, it can be less cost-effective compared to other permanent creature buffs or more comprehensive combat tricks available in MTG.
Reasons to Include in Your Collection
Versatility: Zealous Strike is a card infamous for its flexibility, seamlessly integrating into several deck archetypes. Its ability to grant a creature a sudden boost in power and toughness can easily turn the tides in combat or catch an opponent off guard. The added benefit of granting first strike makes it a formidable tool in both offensive and defensive scenarios.
Combo Potential: The instant nature of Zealous Strike allows for surprise synergies within decks that capitalize on combat tricks or prowess-like abilities. When timed correctly, it can be a decisive play that enables knockout blows or pivotal blocks that leave your strategic options wide open.
Meta-Relevance: In a game environment where creatures often clash and jockey for board dominance, Zealous Strike can be the edge needed to outpace the competition. Its relevance is particularly pronounced in metas that favor creature-heavy tactics, making it a useful card to hold in reserve for the perfect moment.
How to beat
Zealous Strike, a card favored for its instant speed and ability to boost a creature’s power and toughness, can be challenging for opponents in the right circumstances. When facing this card, the key is to play around the potential combat tricks it presents. Being aware of the mana an opponent has open and the likelihood they have Zealous Strike can influence your block and attack decisions significantly.
If you’re up against a creature that could be the target of Zealous Strike, consider using removal spells before attackers are declared. This preempts the possibility of your opponent casting Zealous Strike in combat to their advantage. Alternatively, countermagic is effective at intercepting Zealous Strike and preserving the state of the game. This way, you can keep your momentum without the setback of a suddenly emboldened opposing creature. A well-timed counterspell or removal could effectively negate the advantages this card offers.
Ultimately, understanding your opponent’s deck and managing your resources carefully can mitigate the impact of cards like Zealous Strike during gameplay. Patience and strategic planning are essential when determining the optimal time to act against combat tricks. By doing so, you maintain the upper hand and reduce the threat level posed by instant-speed enhancements.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Zealous Strike MTG card by a specific set like Avacyn Restored and Conspiracy: Take the Crown, 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 Strike 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 Zealous Strike Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2012-05-04 and 2019-11-07. Illustrated by Bud Cook.
| # | Released | Name | Code | Symbol | Number | Frame | Layout | Border | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2012-05-04 | Avacyn Restored | AVR | 41 | 2003 | Normal | Black | Bud Cook | |
| 2 | 2016-08-26 | Conspiracy: Take the Crown | CN2 | 101 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Bud Cook | |
| 3 | 2019-11-07 | Mystery Booster | MB1 | 280 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Bud Cook | |
| 4 | The List | PLST | CN2-101 | 2015 | Normal | Black | Bud Cook |
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Zealous Strike has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Pauper | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |