Magic: The Gathering, with its vast and ever-expanding card pool, offers a surprising number of feline friends for players to collect and utilize. While not a dedicated tribe like Elves or Dragons, cats hold a special place in the hearts of many MTG players, boasting a range of abilities and playstyles. This guide explores some of the best cat cards in MTG history, categorizing them for different formats and playstyles. We'll delve into their strengths, weaknesses, and potential within various deck archetypes.
Understanding the "Cat" Tribe in MTG
Before diving into specific cards, it's crucial to understand that "Cat" isn't a formally defined tribe in MTG like some others. Many cards feature cats in their artwork and flavor text, but the true defining characteristic is the presence of "Cat" in the card's creature type. This means a card might have other creature types alongside "Cat," such as "Cat Warrior" or "Cat Wizard." This makes searching for and building cat-themed decks a bit more nuanced.
Top-Tier Cat Cards Across Formats
This section highlights standout cat cards that have proven their worth in various formats, ranging from casual play to competitive Standard and even Commander.
Powerful Cats for Constructed Play
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Lion Sash: While not a cat itself, Lion Sash’s powerful ability to grant +1/+1 and Trample to a target creature makes it a staple in many aggressive cat strategies. It significantly boosts the power of your feline attackers.
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Acererak the Archlich: Though primarily known for its potent zombie synergy, Acererak’s ability to create cat tokens can be surprisingly effective in certain builds. Its strategic flexibility makes it an asset even outside dedicated zombie decks.
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Storm-Kiln Artist: This card's ability to create Elemental tokens (which can sometimes be considered "creatures of opportunity" in cat decks needing a boost) coupled with potential synergy with other sacrifice themes can create a surprising amount of board presence.
Fantastic Felines for Commander
Commander, with its focus on powerful singleton strategies, provides ample room for creative cat decks. Here are some standouts:
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Kediss, Emberclaw Familiar: Kediss acts as a solid value engine, creating cat tokens that can be sacrificed for advantage. Its synergy with sacrifice effects makes it a powerful commander for a dedicated cat tribal deck.
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Feline Overlord: This powerful legendary cat provides a significant boost to your feline army, adding both power and toughness. This makes it an ideal commander for a more aggressive cat strategy.
Budget-Friendly Purrfect Choices
Building a powerful cat deck doesn't require a huge investment. Several affordable options provide impactful effects:
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Cinder Barons: While not explicitly a cat, its ability to create tokens which can be further bolstered with cat-themed support spells opens opportunities for affordable, impactful plays.
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Various Common and Uncommon Cats: Don't overlook the wealth of common and uncommon cats throughout MTG's history! Many offer surprising value in the right deck, adding to a synergistic and budget-friendly experience.
Building Your Purrfect Cat Deck
Constructing a successful cat deck requires strategic thinking beyond simply including cats. Consider these elements:
- Synergies: Look for cards that enhance the strengths of your cats—cards that provide buffs, protection, or additional abilities.
- Ramp: Ensure you have adequate mana ramp to cast your larger, more powerful cats effectively.
- Removal: Include removal spells to deal with opposing threats and secure your board position.
- Card Draw: Efficient card draw is crucial to maintain momentum throughout the game.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Inner Cat Herder
The world of Magic: The Gathering offers a surprisingly diverse and engaging collection of cat cards. By understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and strategic synergies, you can build a purrfect deck that's both competitive and fun. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to MTG, exploring the feline side of the game promises a rewarding and unique experience. Remember to always check the latest card rulings and updates on the official Wizards of the Coast website for the most up-to-date information.
