Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer MTG Card

Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer - Shadows over Innistrad

Mana cost
Converted mana cost	1
Rarity	Uncommon
Type	Artifact Creature — Gargoyle
Abilities	Defender,Transform
Released	2016-04-08
Set symbol
Set name	Shadows over Innistrad
Set code	SOI
Power	2
Toughness	2
Number	266
Frame	2015
Layout	Transform
Border	Black
Illustred by	Daniel Ljunggren

Key Takeaways

Offers card advantage by being an adaptable two-in-one creature with a defensive start and aggressive transformation.
The transformation to Stonewing Antagonizer can quickly clear paths, accelerating your offensive strategy.
Instant speed activation provides strategic flexibility, allowing for surprise combat twists.

Text of card

Defender : Transform Thraben Gargoyle.

Runechanters engrave their strongest wards on those that protect the church.

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer works as a functional two-in-one card. Initially, you have a defensive creature that later can transform into an offensive threat, thus extending the utility and effectiveness of a single card slot in your deck.

Resource Acceleration: Once transformed into Stonewing Antagonizer, it doesn’t only turn into an aggressive flyer but also adds value by potentially removing an opponent’s blocker from the equation. This can accelerate your strategy by clearing the way for other attackers to press the advantage.

Instant Speed: The transformation from Thraben Gargoyle to Stonewing Antagonizer can be activated at instant speed, offering strategic flexibility. You can decide the best time to initiate the transformation, whether that’s at the end of your opponent’s turn or during combat to surprise an adversary and shift the combat in your favor.

Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer requires that you discard a card upon activation, an additional cost that could set you back when your hand is already dwindling.

Specific Mana Cost: This card’s ability to transform hinges on having exactly six mana including at least one white, which could potentially restrict its playability in multi-colored or mana-intensive decks.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: To make the most of this card, a substantial initial mana investment is needed for its casting and transformation abilities. This can be particularly taxing in faster paced games where resources are precious.

Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer offers flexibility in deck building with its two-sided nature. Initially, it’s a defensive creature perfect for early-game board presence. After transforming into Stonewing Antagonizer, it becomes an aggressive flyer that can serve as a finisher.

Combo Potential: This card can synergize with strategies that activate upon a creature transforming or benefit from having a strong airborne attacker. Its potential to switch roles makes it a tactical addition that can adapt to the evolving battlefield.

Meta-Relevance: Considering its dual capabilities, this card is well-suited for metas where games may swing between aggressive starts and prolonged battles. Its transition from a sturdy blocker to a significant threat aligns seamlessly with a range of game scenarios.

How to beat

The Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer poses a unique challenge in the landscape of Magic: The Gathering. Initially, it may not seem intimidating as a mere 1/3 blocker. Yet, its true potential lies dormant in its ability to transform into Stonewing Antagonizer, a flying threat capable of doling out sizeable damage. Confronting this card requires a multi-faceted approach.

For those seeking to navigate such obstacles, consider the utility of instant speed removal spells. Destroying the gargoyle before it unleashes its aerial form is a direct strategy. However, should you face the transformed Stonewing Antagonizer, employing targeted removal or utilizing spells that negate flying abilities can swiftly turn the tide in your favor. Additionally, board wipes are an effective safeguard against creatures that become more dangerous as the game progresses.

Acknowledging this dual card’s intricacies and maintaining a prepared defense can significantly mitigate the risks it presents. Crafting a deck with versatile answers enhances your resilience against the Stonewing Antagonizer’s assault, ensuring you maintain control of the battlefield.

Cards like Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer

In the vast universe of Magic: The Gathering, the Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer card finds its niche among versatile creature cards. Its closest relatives are those which, like this double-faced card, offer a transformation ability, morphing the game’s dynamics as they flip. Notable analogs include cards like Delver of Secrets, which also begins as a small creature and, given the correct conditions, metamorphoses into an aerial threat.

In terms of defensive capability, Wall of Omens is another card that shares the original defensive intent of Thraben Gargoyle, granting card draw upon entering the battlefield. However, unlike the Gargoyle, it doesn’t transform into an attacker later on. Looking at the offensive side, Stonewing Antagonizer can be compared to the likes of Vault Skirge, which provides aggressive potential with lifelink, though it lacks the transformation surprise element and the inherent flexibility offered by cards with two forms.

Ultimately, what sets Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer apart in Magic: The Gathering is its dual nature, providing strategic depth and adaptability. It begins as a stalwart defender and evolves into an offensive asset, presenting players with tactical decisions pivotal to the game’s outcome.

Cards similar to Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer by color, type and mana cost

Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer MTG card by a specific set like Shadows over Innistrad, 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 Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer and other MTG cards:

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Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer has restrictions

Format	Legality
Commander	Legal
Legacy	Legal
Paupercommander	Restricted
Modern	Legal
Oathbreaker	Legal
Vintage	Legal
Duel	Legal
Pioneer	Legal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Thraben Gargoyle // Stonewing Antagonizer card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date	Text
2016-07-13	For more information on double-faced cards, see the Shadows over Innistrad mechanics article (http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/shadows-over-innistrad-mechanics).