Ink-Treader Nephilim MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 4 |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Type | Creature — Nephilim |
| Released | 2006-02-03 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Guildpact |
| Set code | GPT |
| Power | 3 |
| Toughness | 3 |
| Number | 117 |
| Frame | 2003 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Christopher Moeller |
Key Takeaways
- The Nephilim transforms single-target spells into board-wide game-changers, maximising card advantage.
- Enables resource acceleration, turning one action into an overflow of tokens or untapped lands.
- Instant speed allows for unexpected plays, adding a layer of strategic depth to games.
Text of card
Whenever a player plays an instant or sorcery spell, if Ink-Treader Nephilim is the only target of that spell, copy the spell for each other creature that spell could target. Each copy targets a different one of those creatures.
When it awoke, the mirrors of the world reflected only darkness.
Card Pros
Card Advantage: The Ink-Treader Nephilim provides a unique mechanic that can turn a single targeted spell into a dramatic draw for your deck. By choosing it as the target for any spell that says “target creature,” you’re suddenly targeting every creature on the board, potentially drawing dozens of cards or achieving numerous effects in one grand swoop.
Resource Acceleration: This incredible creature can serve as a catalyst for resource acceleration as well, as the aforementioned mechanic applies to spells that generate tokens or untap lands. This means that with the right setup, you can create a massive amount of resources across the board that can be leveraged for an even bigger play or rush the win.
Instant Speed: Having abilities that operate at instant speed enhances the versatility of the Ink-Treader Nephilim. It allows players to wait for the perfect moment during any turn, perhaps when the board is fullest, to capitalize on its ability to amplify the effects of a single spell, potentially turning the tide of a game unexpectedly and in your favor.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: While not directly demanding a card discard, the Ink-Treader Nephilim’s unique ability could indirectly lead to card disadvantage. Casting spells on the Nephilim that target multiple creatures can result in overextending your resources, causing a player to dip into their card reserve more than they might prefer.
Specific Mana Cost: The Nephilim requires a very specific mana arrangement to cast—red, green, blue, and white. This limits its inclusion to decks that can accommodate such a diverse mana base, potentially restricting the Nephilim’s playability to four-color or five-color decks, which are inherently more complex and less stable than mono or two-color decks.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost that includes four different mana, the Ink-Treader Nephilim’s cost is not only color-intensive but also relatively high compared to other creatures with potentially more impactful board presence. This makes it a challenging inclusion in faster-paced games where tempo and efficiency are key.
Reasons to Include Ink-Treader Nephilim in Your Collection
Versatility: Ink-Treader Nephilim is known for its dynamic ability to adapt to various playstyles, making it an asset to many Commander decks. It shines in environments where targeting spells are prevalent, turning any single-target spell into a potentially massive game changer.
Combo Potential: This card’s unique mechanic opens the door for inventive combos, turning innocuous spells like single-target cantrips into massive draw engines or using pump spells to create a colossal army in one swift move, all while keeping up with the pace of more competitive decks.
Meta-Relevance: While not in the spotlight, in a meta where creature-based strategies dominate or politics play a key role, the Ink-Treader Nephilim can unexpectedly turn the tide of a game, making it a sleeper hit in the right circle of players focused on creative and complex board states.
How to beat
Ink-Treader Nephilim presents a unique challenge in Magic: The Gathering with its ability to potentially cause a significant game swing when targeted. When facing this multi-colored creature, it’s essential to formulate a strategy that minimizes its ability to exploit spells that target. One reliable approach is to avoid using single-target spells that could inadvertently benefit your opponent by affecting all creatures sharing a color with Ink-Treader Nephilim.
Board wipes such as Wrath of God or Supreme Verdict are effective tools for safely removing Ink-Treader Nephilim without triggering its ability. Additionally, employing cards that cause players to sacrifice creatures can circumvent the need to target Ink-Treader Nephilim directly, with options like Diabolic Edict or Liliana of the Veil providing excellent alternatives.
Lastly, countering the spells your opponent aims at their Ink-Treader Nephilim can limit the advantage they gain. Efficient counter spells like Counterspell or Mana Leak can play pivotal roles in maintaining control of the game state. By crafting a solid plan that incorporates these tactics, players can neutralize the threat of Ink-Treader Nephilim and maintain an advantage in their matches.
BurnMana Recommendations
The Ink-Treader Nephilim’s ability to amplify single-target spells puts it in a unique position for MTG players looking to shake up their gameplay. Its potential for card advantage, resource acceleration, and instant-speed interactions invite clever strategies and exciting combos, making it a worthy addition to any collection. Remember, to unlock the true power of this card, having a well-rounded strategy that considers both its strengths and its vulnerabilities is key. For those interested in integrating the Nephilim into their deck or simply curious about its full capabilities, our insights can guide you through optimal usage and help you harness the card’s potential for awe-inspiring plays. Explore further with us and discover how the Ink-Treader Nephilim can redefine your gaming experience.
Cards like Ink-Treader Nephilim
The Ink-Treader Nephilim stands out in Magic: The Gathering for its unique ability to copy spells for each other creature on the battlefield. A parallel can be drawn to Zada, Hedron Grinder, which has a similar ability but is restricted to creatures you control. Both cards excel in decks that emphasize casting spells that target creatures, yet the Nephilim’s broader effect can impact multiplayer games on a grander scale.
Another comparable figure is Mirrorwing Dragon, which also duplicates spells but only for your creatures. Unlike Ink-Treader Nephilim, the dragon offers flying and strictly copies spells targeted specifically at it, not any other creature. Additionally, Radiate delivers a comparable effect in red, targeting every viable permanent or player for the spell’s intended effect. However, Radiate is a one-time use spell and lacks the reusable nature of the Nephilim’s ability.
In conclusion, while each of these cards brings a unique strategy to the table, the Ink-Treader Nephilim provides a broader scope of chaos and potential value, especially in formats where you face multiple opponents and numerous creatures are in play.
Cards similar to Ink-Treader Nephilim by color, type and mana cost
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Ink-Treader Nephilim MTG card by a specific set like Guildpact, 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 Ink-Treader Nephilim and other MTG cards:
- eBay
- TCG Player
- 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
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Ink-Treader Nephilim has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Predh | Legal |
| Penny | Legal |
Rules and information
The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Ink-Treader Nephilim card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.
| Date | Text |
|---|---|
| 2006-02-01 | Even though you control the copies, the ability cares about who cast the original spell when determining which other creatures that spell could target. If the original spell has a targeting restriction that refers to “an opponent,” the copies will see that from the perspective of the original spell’s controller. For example, if your opponent casts a spell that says “Destroy target creature an opponent controls” targeting your Ink-Treader Nephilim, its ability will create a copy for each other creature the original spell could target: the rest of your creatures. However, since you control the copies, all the copies won’t resolve for having illegal targets. |
| 2006-02-01 | Ink-Treader Nephilim’s ability is mandatory and will create a copy targeting each possible creature whether you want it to or not. You control all the copies of the spell (even if you didn’t control the original spell), so you choose the order to put them on the stack. |
| 2006-02-01 | Ink-Treader Nephilim’s ability will trigger off a spell with multiple targets if all of those targets are Ink-Treader Nephilim. For example, Seeds of Strength cast with Ink-Treader Nephilim as each of the three targets will cause the ability to trigger. |
