Cult of the Waxing Moon MTG Card


Generates continuous 2/2 Wolf tokens, fostering a growing presence on the battlefield for token-centric decks. Provides indirect resource acceleration through Wolf tokens that don’t tap your mana reserves. Balances a higher mana cost with the potential to create board-altering impact via token generation.
Card setsReleased in 2 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost5
RarityUncommon
TypeCreature — Human Shaman
Power 5
Toughness 4

Text of card

Whenever a permanent you control transforms into a non-Human creature, put a 2/2 green Wolf creature token onto the battlefield.

In times of madness, people cling to the familiar, monstrous though it may be.


Cards like Cult of the Waxing Moon

The Cult of the Waxing Moon card carves out a unique slot in Magic: The Gathering’s creature lineup. Nestled among other werewolf cards, it has compelling similarities to Tovolar’s Magehunter. Both cards endorse the werewolf theme and reward players for transformation, but Cult of the Waxing Moon provides a 2/2 wolf creature token for each transformation, upping the ante on creature production. It stands out by fostering a robust board presence compared to the direct player damage approach Tovolar’s Magehunter offers.

In concordance with werewolf synergies, we find Ulrich of the Krallenhorde. Similar to Cult of the Waxing Moon, Ulrich bolsters the werewolf tribe and trigger upon creatures transforming. But while Cult of the Waxing Moon focuses on widespread token generation, Ulrich’s strength lies in buffing a single creature either with a +4/+4 bonus or by removing a problematic creature from the opponent’s side. This versatility in creature enhancement or removal options gives Ulrich a different tactical edge.

Through comparison, it’s clear that Cult of the Waxing Moon has a special role in MTG, particularly in decks emphasizing creature numbers and transformation mechanics, making it a key component for players harnessing the power of the moon.

Tovolar's Magehunter - MTG Card versions
Tovolar's Magehunter - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Cult of the Waxing Moon by color, type and mana cost

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Thicket Basilisk - MTG Card versions
Cockatrice - MTG Card versions
Ironroot Treefolk - MTG Card versions
Elvish Bard - MTG Card versions
Durkwood Boars - MTG Card versions
Elven Riders - MTG Card versions
Panther Warriors - MTG Card versions
Redwood Treefolk - MTG Card versions
Spined Wurm - MTG Card versions
Rabid Wolverines - MTG Card versions
Deadly Insect - MTG Card versions
Vintara Elephant - MTG Card versions
Crashing Boars - MTG Card versions
Kavu Climber - MTG Card versions
Kavu Chameleon - MTG Card versions
Spring-Leaf Avenger - MTG Card versions
Okina Nightwatch - MTG Card versions
Consuming Blob - MTG Card versions
Ashaya, Soul of the Wild - MTG Card versions
Primeval Force - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Cult of the Waxing Moon shines in decks focused on generating creature tokens, as it can continually create 2/2 Wolf creature tokens. This potential for recurring token creation without expending additional resources or cards can lead to significant card advantage over the course of a game.

Resource Acceleration: While not directly a resource accelerator, the 2/2 Wolf tokens generated can indirectly contribute to resource acceleration by providing blockers or attackers that don’t require tapping your mana. This allows you to use your mana for other spells and abilities, efficiently leveraging your in-game resources.

Instant Speed: Although Cult of the Waxing Moon itself is not an instant, the ability to create tokens triggers whenever a permanent you control transforms. This passive ability can be used to great effect at instant speed when it coincides with the transformation of other creatures on your side during an opponent’s turn, potentially creating sudden blockers or unexpected pressure.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: The Cult of the Waxing Moon doesn’t require you to discard cards, so this point is not applicable to this card’s playability.

Specific Mana Cost: A blend of generic and green mana is necessary to cast Cult of the Waxing Moon, which might not blend well with decks that are not green-centric or are lacking in mana flexibility.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost of five mana, including one green, Cult of the Waxing Moon can be a hefty investment in the early to mid-game. Other creatures or spells at this mana range may offer immediate board impact or versatility, which could make the Cult less favorable in fast-paced games or against decks that pressure early on.


Reasons to Include Cult of the Waxing Moon in Your Collection

Versatility: Cult of the Waxing Moon is a flexible card that can be included in a variety of Green decks. It shines in midrange strategies but also serves as a powerful addition to creature-focused builds, enhancing the value of every transformed werewolf.

Combo Potential: This card’s ability to create a 2/2 Wolf creature token whenever a permanent transforms into a werewolf makes it a natural pairing for transform and werewolf themed decks, potentially setting off a chain of creature spawns.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta ripe with flip and werewolf mechanics, Cult of the Waxing Moon’s passive token generation can rapidly shift the board in your favor, providing significant advantages against opponents.


How to beat

Cult of the Waxing Moon represents a unique challenge in Magic: The Gathering. This card has the power to turn the tides of a match by creating a 2/2 Wolf creature token when a permanent becomes transformed. To effectively counter this card, players must concentrate on removal strategies that can deal with both the card itself and the tokens it generates. Efficient removal spells like Doom Blade and Path to Exile can directly eliminate the threat by targeting Cult of the Waxing Moon before it unleashes its potential.

Another effective strategy is to employ board wipes, such as Wrath of God or Damnation, which remove all creatures from the battlefield, neutralizing the advantage gained from Wolf tokens. Preventing the Cult from activating is also crucial; cards like Pithing Needle can halt the triggered ability, thus avoiding the creation of additional Wolf tokens. Additionally, it’s important to limit the transformations that fuel Cult of the Waxing Moon’s ability — meaning keeping transformation enablers to a minimum and focusing on controlling the game pace. A careful balance of removal, board control, and ability prevention can effectively counter this card and maintain dominance in the game.


BurnMana Recommendations

Mastering MTG involves deep comprehension of cards like Cult of the Waxing Moon. Its ability to generate 2/2 Wolf tokens makes it a powerhouse in token-centric strategies. Understand that effective deck-building and knowing the meta can turn this card from a simple creature into a consistent advantage generator. While Cult of the Waxing Moon demands a specific mana cost, its potential to enhance your gameplay is substantial. If you’re eager to exploit the full power of this card and similar strategies, our insights will guide you towards optimizing your deck’s performance. Delve deeper with us and cultivate your deck to its utmost potential.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Cult of the Waxing Moon MTG card by a specific set like Shadows over Innistrad and The List, 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 Cult of the Waxing Moon and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Cult of the Waxing Moon Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 2016-04-08 and 2016-04-08. Illustrated by Anastasia Ovchinnikova.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12016-04-08Shadows over InnistradSOI 2012015NormalBlackAnastasia Ovchinnikova
22020-09-26The ListPLST SOI-2012015NormalBlackAnastasia Ovchinnikova

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Cult of the Waxing Moon has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
PaupercommanderRestricted
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PioneerLegal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Cult of the Waxing Moon card rulings provides official rulings, any errata issued, as well as a record of all the functional modifications that have occurred.

Date Text
2016-04-08 A non-Human creature that’s put onto the battlefield transformed, such as Skin Shedder, will not cause Cult of the Waxing Moon’s ability to trigger.
2016-04-08 A permanent transforms into a non-Human creature if it transforms and is a creature without the creature type Human after transforming, regardless of whether it was a Human creature (or a creature at all) before it transformed. For example, Westvale Abbey and Thraben Gargoyle will both cause Cult of the Waxing Moon’s ability to trigger when they transform.