The Evolution of Monstrous Creature Magic Cards: From Simple Beasts to Complex Titans

By admin

Monstrous creature magic cards are a popular and powerful type of card within the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering. These cards feature creatures with the ability to become monstrously powerful by paying a specific cost. Once a creature becomes monstrous, it gains additional abilities, increased power and toughness, and often becomes a formidable threat on the battlefield. Monstrous creatures are typically depicted as massive, otherworldly beings with fantastical characteristics. They often have unique abilities or impressive combat stats, making them highly sought after by players. The monstrous ability allows players to invest mana into their creature, triggering a transformation and unlocking its full potential.


Monstrosity is an activated ability (it has the structure of [cost]:[effect]) while monstrous isn’t an ability at all. It’s nothing more than a marker to say that the creature has used its monstrosity ability already. If a monstrous creature leaves the battlefield then it’s no longer monstrous.

But once the first instance of this resolves the creature becomes monstrous and the other instances on the stack will fail to resolve since it s already monstrous. We ve only seen a handful of reprints of this mechanic since the Theros block and it s possible we ll never see it printed again given the other options available.

Monstrous creature magic cards Arbor Colossus

When Arbor Colossus becomes monstrous, destroy target creature with flying an opponent controls.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Ashen Monstrosity

Ashen Monstrosity attacks each combat if able.

There was a dull thunder at the vanguard, then shocked cries in the midst of the column. Moments later, Takada, last of the rearguard, faced the kami alone.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Chillerpillar

Snow Creature — Insect

: Monstrosity 2. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put two +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous. can be paid with one mana from a snow source.)

As long as Chillerpillar is monstrous, it has flying.

From its cocoon, a flurry takes flight.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Clay Golem

Artifact Creature — Golem

, Roll a d8: Monstrosity X, where X is the result. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put X +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

Berserk — When Clay Golem becomes monstrous, destroy target permanent.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Not Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Not Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Colossus of Akros

Artifact Creature — Golem

: Monstrosity 10. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put ten +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

As long as Colossus of Akros is monstrous, it has trample and can attack as though it didn’t have defender.

10/10 Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Cursed Monstrosity

Whenever Cursed Monstrosity becomes the target of a spell or ability, sacrifice it unless you discard a land card.

“Run away! It’s an … um … run away!”
—Nomad sentry

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Not Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Death Kiss

Whenever a creature an opponent controls attacks one of your opponents, double its power until end of turn.

: Monstrosity X. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put X +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

When Death Kiss becomes monstrous, goad up to X target creatures your opponents control.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Not Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Not Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Domesticated Hydra

: Monstrosity X. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put X +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

As long as Domesticated Hydra is monstrous, it has trample.

“Sit. Fetch. Devastate.”

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Not Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Not Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Dreadlight Monstrosity

Creature — Crab Horror

Ward (Whenever this creature becomes the target of a spell or ability an opponent controls, counter it unless that player pays .)

: Dreadlight Monstrosity can’t be blocked this turn. Activate only if you own a card in exile.

Standard Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Legal Modern Legal Brawl Legal Legacy Legal Historic Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Legal Commander Legal Penny Not Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Ember Swallower

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

When Ember Swallower becomes monstrous, each player sacrifices three lands.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Etched Monstrosity

Artifact Creature — Phyrexian Golem

Etched Monstrosity enters the battlefield with five -1/-1 counters on it.

, Remove five -1/-1 counters from Etched Monstrosity: Target player draws three cards.

Now etched only with the scars of phyresis.

10/10 Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Fleecemane Lion

: Monstrosity 1. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put a +1/+1 counter on it and it becomes monstrous.)

As long as Fleecemane Lion is monstrous, it has hexproof and indestructible.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Fleetfeather Cockatrice

Flash (You may cast this spell any time you could cast an instant.)

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Gluttonous Cyclops

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

The cyclops had learned to never eat a shepherd. Instead he gently flung the “pit” aside to grow a new flock.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Hundred-Handed One

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

As long as Hundred-Handed One is monstrous, it has reach and can block an additional ninety-nine creatures each combat.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Hydra Broodmaster

: Monstrosity X. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put X +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

When Hydra Broodmaster becomes monstrous, create X X/X green Hydra creature tokens.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Hythonia the Cruel

Legendary Creature — Gorgon

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

When Hythonia the Cruel becomes monstrous, destroy all non-Gorgon creatures.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Ill-Tempered Cyclops

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

A cyclops has two moods: angry and asleep.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Legal Commander Legal Penny Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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The monstrous ability allows players to invest mana into their creature, triggering a transformation and unlocking its full potential. The appeal of monstrous creature cards lies in their versatility and strategic value. Players can choose when to activate the monstrous ability, allowing them to surprise opponents or gain a tactical advantage.

Jetpack Death Seltzer

— : Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Not Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Legal Commander Legal Penny Not Legal Oathbreaker Legal

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Kalemne's Captain

Creature — Giant Soldier

: Monstrosity 3. (If this creature isn’t monstrous, put three +1/+1 counters on it and it becomes monstrous.)

When Kalemne’s Captain becomes monstrous, exile all artifacts and enchantments.

Standard Not Legal Alchemy Not Legal Pioneer Not Legal Explorer Not Legal Modern Not Legal Brawl Not Legal Legacy Legal Historic Not Legal Vintage Legal Pauper Not Legal Commander Legal Penny Not Legal Oathbreaker Legal Show as sorted by :
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Monstrous creature magic cards

This aspect adds an element of unpredictability to the gameplay, making each encounter dynamic and thrilling. Monstrous creatures also offer players a sense of power and excitement. Being able to summon a massive creature that can singlehandedly dominate the battlefield is an exhilarating experience. It adds a layer of spectacle to the game, drawing players further into the immersive fantasy world of Magic: The Gathering. However, the power of monstrous creatures also introduces a level of balance and complexity to the game. While these cards are potent, they often come at a high mana cost. Players must carefully manage their resources and timing to maximize the impact of their monstrous creatures. Additionally, opponents can employ various strategies to neutralize or counter these formidable beasts, adding an element of strategy and counterplay. In conclusion, monstrous creature magic cards are a captivating aspect of Magic: The Gathering. They offer players the opportunity to wield immense power and unleash awe-inspiring creatures on the battlefield. The strategic depth, balance, and thrill these cards bring to the game make them a beloved element of the Magic: The Gathering experience..

Reviews for "Rare Finds: Discovering Hidden Gem Monstrous Creature Magic Cards"

1. John - 1 star
I'll be honest, I couldn't stand the "Monstrous creature magic cards". I found them to be overpowered and unbalanced. It seemed like once someone got a monstrous creature out, they were pretty much guaranteed to win the game. It took away from the strategy and skill aspect of the game. Additionally, the artwork on some of these cards was just downright unappealing. Overall, I was left frustrated and disappointed with these cards and wouldn't recommend them to anyone looking for a fair and enjoyable gaming experience.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I wasn't a fan of the "Monstrous creature magic cards". I felt like they took away from the overall theme and immersion of the game. It almost felt like a cheap way to win - just summon a monstrous creature and dominate the game. It made the gameplay predictable and one-sided. I also found that the monstrous creatures had unnecessarily complicated abilities and mechanics. It felt like I needed to constantly refer to the rulebook, which disrupted the flow of the game. Overall, I didn't find the inclusion of monstrous creature magic cards to enhance my enjoyment of the game.
3. Michael - 2 stars
The "Monstrous creature magic cards" didn't sit well with me. I felt like they introduced an imbalance in the game. It became frustrating to lose to someone who simply had a monstrous creature in their deck. It took away from the skill and strategy that I had come to enjoy in the game. Additionally, the artwork on some of these cards didn't appeal to me. It felt like the design took a backseat in favor of overpowering effects. Overall, I was disappointed with these magic cards and would prefer a more balanced and skill-based gameplay experience.
4. Emily - 3 stars
While I didn't hate the "Monstrous creature magic cards", I must admit that they weren't my favorite addition to the game. I found them to be a bit overpowered and disruptive to the overall gameplay. It felt like a race to summon a monstrous creature rather than a strategic and tactical game. The artwork on some of these cards was impressive, but it didn't make up for the imbalance they introduced. I would have preferred a more balanced approach that didn't heavily rely on monstrous creatures.
5. David - 2 stars
I'm not a fan of the "Monstrous creature magic cards". I found them to be too powerful and game-breaking. It almost felt unfair to play against someone who had a deck full of these cards. It took away from the fun and challenge of the game, making it more about who can summon the biggest creature rather than a strategic battle of wits. The concept of monstrous creatures itself felt arbitrary, and the gameplay became repetitive. Overall, I was left disappointed and frustrated with the inclusion of these cards in the game.

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The Art of Monstrous Creature Magic Cards: From Illustrations to Game Design