Scar MTG Card

Mana cost
Converted mana cost	1
Rarity	Common
Type	Instant
Released	2008-05-02
Set symbol
Set name	Shadowmoor
Set code	SHM
Number	194
Frame	2003
Layout	Normal
Border	Black
Illustred by	Pete Venters

Key Takeaways

Scar generates card advantage by removing creatures and disrupting opponent hands.
Instant speed casting allows for flexible and opportune strategic plays.
The discard requirement and mana specificity of Scar may limit use.

Text of card

Put a -1/-1 counter on target creature.

"What is a scar? A sign of courage in the face of danger? A mere trick of flesh? Or a constant reminder of agonizing pain, and the follies of war." —Illulia of Nighthearth

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Scar enables players to efficiently remove a creature from the battlefield while potentially disrupting an opponent’s hand, thus providing a swing in card advantage. Utilizing it can lead to a more dominant position as you reduce your opponent’s resources while maintaining your own.

Resource Acceleration: Although Scar itself doesn’t directly accelerate resources, the card’s low mana cost aids in preserving mana for other spells or abilities within the same turn. This efficient use of mana can lead to a more robust board presence and a quicker route to high-impact plays.

Instant Speed: The ability to cast Scar at instant speed gives players the flexibility to respond to threats on the fly. This can lead to strategically advantageous plays, as you can wait until the most opportune moment to remove a creature, catching an opponent off-guard and potentially ruining their planned sequence of plays.

Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Casting Scar necessitates the discard of another card, which could be detrimental when your hand size is already receding, potentially leaving you in a predicament where you’re trading one valuable card for an uncertain outcome.

Specific Mana Cost: Requiring both red and one other mana, this card is tailored for a specific color palette, potentially limiting its versatility across various deck types or strategies that may not have easy access to red mana sources.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: While the card’s effect can be impactful, the overall cost for its activation is substantial when compared to other removal options available in the game. Players might find alternative cards that deliver similar effects for less, allowing for a more efficient mana expenditure within their turns.

Reasons to Include Scar in Your Collection

Versatility: Scar is an adaptable addition to any MTG player’s arsenal, capable of providing valuable utility in a variety of deck archetypes. Its instant-speed nature allows for strategic plays in both offensive and defensive scenarios.

Combo Potential: This card serves as a key piece in combo builds, enabling intricate interactions that can turn the tide of the game. Its low mana cost allows for a seamless integration into chains of spells for maximum impact.

Meta-Relevance: In an environment where creature-based strategies are prevalent, Scar offers a cost-effective solution to manage opposing threats. Its presence can enhance a player’s ability to contend with and adapt to the evolving competitive landscape.

How to Beat Scar

Combating the Scar card in Magic: The Gathering requires a strategic approach. Thinking ahead, removal spells are key as they enable you to deal with creatures before Scar’s effect can capitalize on their damage potential. Consider spells like Swords to Plowshares or Path to Exile for efficient removal. Timing is essential; targeting creatures in response to Scar being cast can disrupt your opponent’s plans.

Another tactic is to reduce the number of creatures you control, minimizing the impact of Scar. This can be counterintuitive but embracing a control-heavy or spell-based deck minimizes Scar’s potential. If Scar is a frequent threat, incorporating creatures with hexproof or shroud in your deck could prevent them from being targeted.

Lastly, leverage counterspells to prevent Scar from hitting the battlefield in the first place. Counterspell, Mana Leak, and Negate are excellent choices to keep in your arsenal. With these strategies, you can gain the upper hand against Scar, mitigating its influence and maintaining control over the game state.

Cards like Scar

Scar is a card that may not be widely recognized outside of its niche, but it occupies a unique place in Magic: The Gathering’s array of damage-inflicting spells. Much like Shock, Scar deals a small amount of damage, but Scar distinguishes itself by dealing it in the form of -1/-1 counters. While Shock deals 2 damage directly and ends there, Scar’s impact is more profound as it can permanently weaken creatures beyond mere damage recovery.

Comparable to Scar, Disfigure also delivers -1/-1 counters but with a broader effect, targeting creatures rather than just creatures you don’t control. This can play a crucial role in games where controlling the state of your own creatures is advantageous. Another akin spell is Dead Weight, an enchantment that provides a continuous -2/-2 debuff. While Dead Weight cannot be used at instant speed like Scar, it offers a persistent obstacle for your opponent as long as the creature remains on the battlefield.

Evaluating the finer points of these spells gives us insight into Scar’s situational utility within Magic: The Gathering. Its ability to permanently cripple opponents’ creatures can be invaluable, making it a noteworthy option for players who prefer long-term strategic plays and board control.

Cards similar to Scar by color, type and mana cost

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Scar MTG card by a specific set like Shadowmoor, 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 Scar and other MTG cards: