Runehorn Hellkite MTG Card


Runehorn Hellkite’s graveyard draw ability can drastically alter game dynamics, especially at instant speed. Resource acceleration through graveyard synergies complements high-pressure strategies in MTG. Despite its power, the Hellkite’s high mana costs and discard requirements balance the playfield.
Card setsReleased in 2 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost6
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Dragon
Abilities Flying
Power 5
Toughness 5

Text of card

Flying , Exile Runehorn Hellkite from your graveyard: Each player discards his or her hand, then draws seven cards.

Inscribed with runes that predate the dragon, its horns possess their own ancient magic.


Cards like Runehorn Hellkite

Runehorn Hellkite stands out in the pantheon of powerful dragons within Magic: The Gathering. It’s a massive flying creature akin to Inferno Titan, with the Titan offering immediate board impact by dealing damage upon entry or when attacking. Although Inferno Titan has a body that’s similarly stout, Runehorn Hellkite distinguishes itself with its graveyard ability, enabling the wielder to cycle their hand, potentially turning a stale game state into an advantageous one.

Another comparable beast is Thundermaw Hellkite, which also brandishes flying and a formidably aggressive stance. While Thundermaw clears the skies of potential flying blockers, Runehorn offers a strategic edge by reshuffling the graveyard into one’s library, thus preventing decking out and reviving chances for a comeback. Lastly, we can’t ignore Balefire Dragon, another imposing dragon capable of decimating opposing creatures on contact. While it doesn’t share the hand-cycling ability of Runehorn Hellkite, the raw power to obliterate creatures can be game-defining.

Considering the aspects of each dragon, Runehorn Hellkite provides a unique angle of recursion and late-game power that can dramatically alter the flow of a match, making it a noteworthy choice for any player looking to harness the might of dragons in their arsenal.

Inferno Titan - MTG Card versions
Thundermaw Hellkite - MTG Card versions
Balefire Dragon - MTG Card versions
Inferno Titan - MTG Card versions
Thundermaw Hellkite - MTG Card versions
Balefire Dragon - MTG Card versions

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Shivan Dragon - MTG Card versions
Firestorm Phoenix - MTG Card versions
Crater Hellion - MTG Card versions
Callous Giant - MTG Card versions
Halam Djinn - MTG Card versions
Bloodshot Cyclops - MTG Card versions
Worldgorger Dragon - MTG Card versions
Two-Headed Dragon - MTG Card versions
Iron-Barb Hellion - MTG Card versions
Ryusei, the Falling Star - MTG Card versions
Patron of the Akki - MTG Card versions
Ronin Cavekeeper - MTG Card versions
Oni of Wild Places - MTG Card versions
Thundermare - MTG Card versions
Pardic Dragon - MTG Card versions
Tectonic Fiend - MTG Card versions
Etali, Primal Storm - MTG Card versions
Kamahl, Pit Fighter - MTG Card versions
Sunrise Sovereign - MTG Card versions
Lu Bu, Master-at-Arms - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Runehorn Hellkite. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
The EPIC GambleThe EPIC Gamble LegacyThe EPIC GambleLegacy Challenge 32 2024-05-11 (1)
WURGWURG LegacyLegacy League 2024-04-12

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Runehorn Hellkite allows for a substantial refill of your hand by eliminating itself for a seven-card draw when activated from the graveyard. This can turn the tides of the game by giving you new options and a second wind.

Resource Acceleration: While the dragon itself doesn’t directly accelerate resources, it puts considerable pressure on opponents, potentially accelerating your game plan as they deal with the flying threat. Plus, if you leverage graveyard synergies, the Hellkite can indirectly speed up your resource utilization by fueling graveyard-based strategies.

Instant Speed: The Hellkite’s ability to draw cards can be activated at instant speed. This means you can wait until the end of an opponent’s turn to use its effect or in response to a move that would exile it from the graveyard, ensuring that you get the full value out of the ability and maintain flexibility in your play.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Runehorn Hellkite demands that you discard it to harness its ability, a significant setback if the card pool in your hand is already depleted.

Specific Mana Cost: Summoning this dragon requires a hefty sum of red mana, necessitating a deck build with a strong red mana base to consistently play the card.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: A six-mana cost investment pegs Runehorn Hellkite at a premium, which can be problematic in faster paced games where lower cost creatures and spells might yield a more immediate impact on the game’s state.


Reasons to Include Runehorn Hellkite in Your Collection

Versatility: As a formidable dragon, Runehorn Hellkite provides a significant flying threat that can be a game-changer in various deck types. Its ability to influence the board state simply by being present, combined with its late-game mana sink ability to draw cards, makes it a versatile option for red decks needing both power and card advantage.

Combo Potential: Runehorn Hellkite’s ability to discard and draw cards can set the stage for powerful combos. It meshes well with strategies that capitalize on graveyard play or require cycling of the deck to access key components more quickly. Imagine the possibilities when paired with reanimation tactics or spells that benefit from large hand sizes.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta where board presence and resilience against control are essential, Runehorn Hellkite shines. Its imposing stance in the air can outmaneuver many common removal spells. Moreover, in a slower-paced game, leveraging its draw ability ensures you maintain pressure and resources against the competition.


How to beat

Runehorn Hellkite boasts a striking presence in MTG as a formidable flying dragon capable of impacting the game with its substantial six power. Most notably, it can enlist its ability to discard and draw cards, potentially revitalizing your strategy. Yet, for opponents, this can also be an opportunity. Cards with the capacity to exile creatures at instant speed, such as Swords to Plowshares or Path to Exile, can efficiently remove Runehorn Hellkite before its owner leverages its power. Additionally, counter spells like Counterspell or Negate permit players to prevent the Hellkite’s summoning altogether. Players can also turn to less costly creatures with flying or reach as a defense, building a barrier against the aerial threat.

Moreover, control decks that limit an opponent’s ability to accumulate the necessary mana for casting large creatures make it difficult for Runehorn Hellkite to even enter the battlefield. When considering battlefield tactics, it’s crucial to remember that Runehorn Hellkite’s impact lies in its looming threat – removing or neutralizing it swiftly is key to maintaining control of the game.


BurnMana Recommendations

Diving into the strategic depths of MTG can often lead to the discovery of game-changing cards like Runehorn Hellkite. Understanding its pros and cons is crucial in fully utilizing its grave-drawing power and formidable board presence. Whether you’re accelerating your resources, seeking instant speed advantages, or exploring its combination potential, this dragon can be a valuable asset. Keep in mind the necessity for a strong red mana base and its comparative mana cost when considering Runehorn Hellkite for your deck. Curious about strategies to reinforce your gameplay or outmaneuver opponents with similar challenging cards? Step into a realm of mastery with us and unlock the full potential of your MTG collection.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Runehorn Hellkite 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 Runehorn Hellkite and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Runehorn Hellkite Magic the Gathering card was released in 2 different sets between 2016-11-11 and 2016-11-16. Illustrated by Karl Kopinski.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12016-11-11Commander 2016C16 202015NormalBlackKarl Kopinski
22016-11-16Treasure ChestPZ2 272015NormalBlackKarl Kopinski

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Runehorn Hellkite has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal

Rules and information

The reference guide for Magic: The Gathering Runehorn Hellkite 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 Exiling Runehorn Hellkite from your graveyard is part of the cost of its activated ability. An opponent can’t remove Runehorn Hellkite from your graveyard in response to you activating the ability.
2016-11-08 If a player has no cards in hand, that player discards no cards, then draws seven cards.