Swords to Plowshares (LTC)

Swords to Plowshares
Casting Cost: {W}
Card Type: Instant
Card Text:
Exile target creature. Its controller gains life equal to its power.
Flavour Text:
Anything that Hobbits had no immediate use for, but were unwilling to throw away, they called a mathom. Their dwellings were apt to become rather crowded with mathoms.
Artist: Christina Kraus

Card Strengths and Weaknesses:

• Strengths:

  • Provides instant-speed removal of target creature by exiling it.
  • Grants life gain to the controller of the exiled creature equal to its power, which can be advantageous.

• Weaknesses:

  • Only targets creatures and doesn't affect other types of permanents or spells.

Deck Utility:

• Removal: An efficient and versatile removal spell in decks that need to deal with opposing creatures.

• Lifegain Strategies: Can be used in lifegain decks to gain life while removing threats.

Interactions and Combos:

• Lifegain Synergy: Synergizes with cards and strategies that benefit from gaining life.

• Creature Power: More effective when targeting high-power creatures, as it results in more life gain for the opponent.

Flavor and Lore:
"Swords to Plowshares" references a concept of transforming weapons into tools for peaceful purposes. The flavor text ties into this by mentioning "mathoms," which are items of little immediate use but are preserved by Hobbits. The artwork and quote contribute to the thematic elements of the card.

Overall Impression:
"Swords to Plowshares" is a classic and efficient removal spell that provides a significant life gain bonus to the opponent, making it a tactical choice in various white decks. It is a staple in many formats due to its versatility and effectiveness.