Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt MTG Card


Snapdax excels in generating card advantage through its creature removal and aggressive traits in gameplay. The mutate ability provides instant speed versatility, making Snapdax a flexible threat in various situations. Despite its power, Snapdax’s specific mana requirements can challenge deck construction and strategic plays.
Card setsReleased in 8 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityMythic
TypeLegendary Creature — Dinosaur Cat Nightmare
Abilities Double strike,Mutate
Power 3
Toughness 5

Text of card

Mutate {B/R} (If you cast this spell for its mutate cost, put it over or under target non-Human creature you own. They mutate into the creature on top plus all abilities from under it.) Double strike Whenever this creature mutates, it deals 4 damage to target creature or planeswalker an opponent controls and you gain 4 life.


Cards like Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt

Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt, makes a splash in the realm of Magic: The Gathering as a standout among multicolored legendary creatures. It can be paralleled to other mythic rare monsters, such as Illuna, Apex of Wishes. Both feature the Mutate mechanic, allowing players to merge them with other creatures for combined abilities and stats. Yet, Snapdax offers a distinctive double strike and life gain tactic, diverging from Illuna’s focus on revealing and potentially free casting cards from the deck.

Examining further, we spot Quartzwood Crasher, which also demands attention. Although it doesn’t boast Mutate, it shines in creating hefty dinosaur tokens with trample. This creature’s strength lies in accumulating board presence, contrasting Snapdax’s direct player and creature target damage. Moreover, Brokkos, Apex of Forever also shares the Mutate ability and invites a comparison. Its ability to play from the graveyard gives it a persistent edge, yet it lacks the immediate impact of Snapdax’s enter-the-battlefield ability.

Deciding which of these giants of the game to include in a deck will rely heavily on a player’s strategy. However, Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt, undeniably sets itself apart in MTG with its aggressive potential and life-swinging capabilities.

Illuna, Apex of Wishes - MTG Card versions
Quartzwood Crasher - MTG Card versions
Brokkos, Apex of Forever - MTG Card versions
Illuna, Apex of Wishes - MTG Card versions
Quartzwood Crasher - MTG Card versions
Brokkos, Apex of Forever - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt by color, type and mana cost

Kaalia of the Vast - MTG Card versions
Queen Marchesa - MTG Card versions
Extus, Oriq Overlord // Awaken the Blood Avatar - MTG Card versions
Archangel of Wrath - MTG Card versions
Butcher of the Horde - MTG Card versions
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Brutal Hordechief - MTG Card versions
Jirina Kudro - MTG Card versions
Shanid, Sleepers' Scourge - MTG Card versions
Caesar, Legion's Emperor - MTG Card versions
Kaalia of the Vast - MTG Card versions
Queen Marchesa - MTG Card versions
Extus, Oriq Overlord // Awaken the Blood Avatar - MTG Card versions
Archangel of Wrath - MTG Card versions
Butcher of the Horde - MTG Card versions
Mardu Warshrieker - MTG Card versions
Brutal Hordechief - MTG Card versions
Jirina Kudro - MTG Card versions
Shanid, Sleepers' Scourge - MTG Card versions
Caesar, Legion's Emperor - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

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

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Five-color AggroFive-color Aggro Legacy5c ZenithCharlotte Legacy League Season 1 Week 5
Five-color ComboFive-color Combo Legacy5c ZenithCharlotte Legacy League Season 4 Week 12
Five-color MidrangeFive-color Midrange Legacy5c ZenithCharlotte Legacy League Season 4 Week 11

Card Pros

Card Advantage: Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt shines in generating card value by potentially removing an opponent’s creature while establishing a robust presence on the battlefield. This multifaceted interaction means you’re likely to come out ahead in card economy during the clash.

Resource Acceleration: When mutating onto a non-human creature you own, Snapdax can accelerate your resources by potentially clearing a blocker or threat from the opposing side. This can help you press the advantage and maintain an aggressive board state, indirectly contributing to resource accumulation.

Instant Speed: Though Snapdax itself is not an instant, its mutate ability can be deployed at instant speed, offering flexibility. You can mutate during your opponent’s turn, surprising them with a sudden double strike threat or responding to their moves with a swift creature removal thanks to Snapdax’s damage-dealing ability.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Snapdax Apex of the Hunt requires a creature to mutate onto as part of its casting mechanic. If you don’t have a creature on the battlefield to be the host for the mutation, Snapdax can’t be cast using the powerful mutate ability, limiting its immediate utility.

Specific Mana Cost: The casting cost for Snapdax demands a specific combination of colors — red, white, and black, plus one of any color. This mana requirement makes it a challenging fit for multicolored decks, often necessitating a highly-tuned mana base to cast it reliably.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: With a casting cost of four mana, including three specific colors, Snapdax’s cost is steep compared to other creatures with efficient abilities or mutate costs. This can be restrictive when trying to maintain tempo against decks with lower mana curves.


Reasons to Include Snapdax Apex of the Hunt in Your Collection

Versatility: Snapdax Apex of the Hunt is a multifaceted card that can slide into a variety of decks with ease. Acting as both an aggressive creature and a removal spell, it elevates strategies that thrive on direct damage and creature control.

Combo Potential: This card can serve as a lynchpin in combos, utilizing its mutate ability to enhance creatures on the board while also dealing 4 damage to a creature or planeswalker, potentially changing the tide of the game.

Meta-Relevance: In a game that values dynamic play and frequent meta shifts, Snapdax finds its niche by being adaptable and potent against various deck types, proving to be a worthy addition in a creature-centric or midrange setup.


How to beat

Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt, makes a big impact on the battlefield, carving a niche for itself in the pantheon of Magic: The Gathering creatures. Doubling as both a fearsome dinosaur and a cunning cat, Snapdax brings an intimidating presence to the game. Its unique ability when mutating inflicts four damage to a creature or planeswalker an opponent controls while also providing the same amount of life to its owner, setting it apart from other cards.

To successfully navigate a match against this mighty creature, players should focus on removal spells that can target Snapdax either before it mutates or as a response to the mutation trigger. Effective spells like Heartless Act or Path to Exile can manage the threat before it snowballs out of control. Additionally, counterspells are highly effective since they can prevent Snapdax from ever entering the fray. Counterspell, Dovin’s Veto, or any instant-speed counter can prove invaluable in maintaining control of the game. Moreover, having a strategy that limits the creature-based gameplay, potentially through board wipes like Wrath of God, can neutralize the advantages Snapdax offers.

In essence, swift removal, strategic countering, and game plan adjustments are key to triumph over the fearsome Snapdax, ensuring that players can maintain control and edge towards victory in their MTG campaigns.


BurnMana Recommendations

Exploring the capabilities and challenges of Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt is vital for every MTG enthusiast aiming to make their mark on the battlefield. With its potential for advantageous card interaction and impressive combo plays, Snapdax can be a game-changer in the right deck. While considering its specific mana requirements and optimal deployment, mastering Snapdax’s mutate mechanics can provide a substantial boost to your match outcomes. Enhance your knowledge and refine your strategies by incorporating this cunning Apex beast into your collection. Curious to discover more? Dive in with us to uncover the intricacies and elevate your MTG gameplay.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt MTG card by a specific set like Magic Online Promos and Magic Online Promos, 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 Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2020-04-24 and 2022-02-25. Illustrated by 4 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 809112015MutateBlackYW Tang
22002-06-24Magic Online PromosPRM 809892015MutateBlackAndrew Huerta
32020-04-24Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths PromosPIKO 209s2015MutateBlackViktor Titov
42020-04-24Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths PromosPIKO 209p2015MutateBlackViktor Titov
52020-04-24Ikoria: Lair of BehemothsIKO 3812015MutateBorderlessYW Tang
62020-04-24Ikoria: Lair of BehemothsIKO 2092015MutateBlackViktor Titov
72020-04-24Ikoria: Lair of BehemothsIKO 3062015MutateBorderlessAndrew Huerta
82022-02-25Year of the Tiger 2022PL22 32015MutateBlackWalleystation

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Snapdax, Apex of the Hunt has restrictions

FormatLegality
HistoricbrawlLegal
HistoricLegal
LegacyLegal
OathbreakerLegal
GladiatorLegal
PioneerLegal
CommanderLegal
ModernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
ExplorerLegal
PennyLegal
TimelessLegal

Rules and information

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

Date Text
2020-04-17 If there is no legal target for Snapdax’s triggered ability when it triggers, it won’t be put onto the stack at all and you won’t gain 4 life. Similarly, if the target creature or planeswalker is an illegal target by the time the ability tries to resolve, the ability won’t resolve and you won’t gain 4 life.