Goblin Spymaster MTG Card


Goblin Spymaster shines in decks focused on attrition and managing combat phases effectively. Its influence is situational; it requires your opponent to have creatures to maximize its potential. Despite its higher casting cost, the unique tactical advantage it offers can justify its inclusion.
Card setsReleased in 3 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost3
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Goblin Rogue
Abilities First strike
Power 2
Toughness 1

Text of card

First strike At the beginning of each opponent's end step, that player creates a 1/1 red Goblin creature token with "Creatures you control attack each combat if able."

"Infiltrate and infuriate!" —Goblin Espionage League motto


Cards like Goblin Spymaster

Goblin Spymaster is a unique entrant in the world of creature cards in Magic: The Gathering. It can be juxtaposed alongside cards like Goblin King, a classic creature card with an ability to boost other goblins. However, where Goblin Spymaster takes the lead is with its unique ability to turn foes into essential allies for itself. This adds a twist to your gameplay and makes your opponent’s creatures a threat to themselves.

In the same vein, we can compare the Spymaster to Ib Halfheart, another card with a goblin ‘giving’ ability. Ib Halfheart, however, goes on a slightly offbeat path by turning lands into goblin tokens. Hence, even though Ib’s ability is powerful, the card’s lack of tactical unpredictability is where Goblin Spymaster takes the limelight.

Another example of comparable mechanics is the Krenko, Mob Boss, creating goblin tokens galore. Krenko, though similar, does not pose the same counter-intuitive challenge for an opponent as Goblin Spymaster.

In conclusion, when comparing attributes of similar cards, the Goblin Spymaster provides a unique blend of tactics and unpredictability. Up against other goblin-themed cards, it offers a strategic angle that changes the course of gameplay in a compelling manner.

Goblin King - MTG Card versions
Krenko, Mob Boss - MTG Card versions
Goblin King - MTG Card versions
Krenko, Mob Boss - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Goblin Spymaster by color, type and mana cost

Dwarven Warriors - MTG Card versions
Raging Bull - MTG Card versions
Wall of Lava - MTG Card versions
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Imperial Recruiter - MTG Card versions
Uthden Troll - MTG Card versions
Hobgoblin Bandit Lord - MTG Card versions
Goblin Rabblemaster - MTG Card versions
Nosy Goblin - MTG Card versions
Goblin Sky Raider - MTG Card versions
Cosmic Larva - MTG Card versions
Mannichi, the Fevered Dream - MTG Card versions
Cunning Bandit // Azamuki, Treachery Incarnate - MTG Card versions
Ghost-Lit Raider - MTG Card versions
Goblin Chariot - MTG Card versions
Balduvian Barbarians - MTG Card versions
Shinen of Fury's Fire - MTG Card versions
Basalt Gargoyle - MTG Card versions
Goblin Chieftain - MTG Card versions
Dwarven Warriors - MTG Card versions
Raging Bull - MTG Card versions
Wall of Lava - MTG Card versions
Brassclaw Orcs - MTG Card versions
Sabretooth Tiger - MTG Card versions
Imperial Recruiter - MTG Card versions
Uthden Troll - MTG Card versions
Hobgoblin Bandit Lord - MTG Card versions
Goblin Rabblemaster - MTG Card versions
Nosy Goblin - MTG Card versions
Goblin Sky Raider - MTG Card versions
Cosmic Larva - MTG Card versions
Mannichi, the Fevered Dream - MTG Card versions
Cunning Bandit // Azamuki, Treachery Incarnate - MTG Card versions
Ghost-Lit Raider - MTG Card versions
Goblin Chariot - MTG Card versions
Balduvian Barbarians - MTG Card versions
Shinen of Fury's Fire - MTG Card versions
Basalt Gargoyle - MTG Card versions
Goblin Chieftain - MTG Card versions

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Goblin Spymaster Mtg Card’s unique ability to force opponents to attack each turn often means they will lose creatures in unfavorable battles. This can grant a continual stream of card advantage as their board state dwindles.

Resource Acceleration: This card does not directly provide resource acceleration, but by commanding the pace of the game, it indirectly affects resource management. It puts pressure on opponents, potentially forcing them to use resources prematurely or in less optimal circumstances.

Instant Speed: While the Goblin Spymaster itself isn’t an instant speed card, the tokens it gives to opponents are instants. This adds an unexpected element to every turn, providing subtle control over combat dynamics. By instigating attacks at every turn, players may find surprising routes to victory.

Remember that the key abilities of this card are highly situational. Its best use is in a deck geared towards attrition strategies and combat control. However, when employed skillfully, Goblin Spymaster may disrupt opponents’ strategies, providing a potent weapon in any Mtg game.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Keep in mind Goblin Spymaster needs your opponents to have enough creature cards in play to fully benefit. If they run a low creature deck, the effectiveness lessens.

Specific Mana Cost: The restriction lies in the red mana cost. This requirement confines its integration primarily to decks that are either red or multi-color with red, thereby reducing its application scope.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost of three mana, including two red, Goblin Spymaster might be considered expensive for what it offers. Other creature cards within a similar mana cost range can potentially provide more direct benefits or control over the game. The choice to include Goblin Spymaster in your deck will require strategic planning to weigh if the potential disorder it brings to your enemies outweighs its cost.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Goblin Spymaster is a card that plays a significant role in various decks, particularly those that profit from forcing opponents to attack each turn if able, adding a twist to gameplay.

Combo Potential: As an ability enforcer, this card pairs well with decks employing cards that benefit from constant combat or those with effects triggered by ongoing attacks, opening doors for strategic plays.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta where keeping adversaries on their toes is key, the forceful approach of the Goblin Spymaster can disrupt opponent strategies, making it a valuable asset in a number of gameplays.


How to beat

Goblin Spymaster is a powerful Magic: The Gathering card that can instantaneously shift the game’s dynamic. It’s an aggressive red creature card, known for its unique ability to force opponents into unwanted attacks. However, there are ways to put this goblin in its place.

First, look for instant speed removal. Versatile removal cards like Fatal Push, Path to Exile, or even Lightning Bolt can be used to swipe the Spymaster off the board before its forced attack phase can ensue. It’s worthy to note that removing Goblin Spymaster after attackers are declared but before damage is dealt, doesn’t stop the attack but at least removes the spymaster from the equation.

Second, cards that offer protection or revenge damage can be a great deterrent against forced attacks. An ideal option would be Righteousness, which can turn a forced attack into a destruction for the opponent’s creatures. Cards that grant Indestructible or Protection from Red are also good choices to protect your forces.

In summary, Goblin Spymaster is a formidable card if unchecked but the right combination of removal and defense cards can efficiently neutralize this threatening MTG card.


BurnMana Recommendations

For MTG enthusiasts looking to spice up their gameplay, Goblin Spymaster presents a fantastic opportunity. Its unique ability to manipulate combat adds depth to your strategy, encouraging you to think several moves ahead and forecast your opponents’ reactions. This card truly shines when integrated into a deck built for disruption and surprise tactics. As you fine-tune your collection, consider the impact Goblin Spymaster could have in your matchups. If you’re eager to challenge your foes in new and unexpected ways and love the thrill of a dynamic battlefield, dive deeper into our insights on how to make the most of this cunning creature. Mastery awaits you in the art of the sneak attack, and we’re here to guide you through it. Learn more and outwit your opposition with skills honed to perfection.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Goblin Spymaster MTG card by a specific set like Commander 2016 and Treasure Chest, 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 Goblin Spymaster and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Goblin Spymaster Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2016-11-11 and 2022-06-10. Illustrated by Wayne Reynolds.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12016-11-11Commander 2016C16 192015NormalBlackWayne Reynolds
22016-11-16Treasure ChestPZ2 252015NormalBlackWayne Reynolds
32022-06-10Commander Legends: Battle for Baldur's GateCLB 7952015NormalBlackWayne Reynolds

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Goblin Spymaster has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2016-11-08 If, during your declare attackers step, a creature you control is tapped or is affected by a spell or ability that says it can't attack, then it doesn't attack, even if you control one of Goblin Spymaster's tokens. If there's a cost associated with having a creature attack, you aren't forced to pay that cost, so it doesn't have to attack in that case either.