What Are The Best MTG Artifacts In The Game?

Magic: The Gathering (MTG) has captivated players for decades, not just through its strategic gameplay but also through the wondrous variety of cards it offers—especially artifacts. Artifacts are a cornerstone of MTG decks, providing versatility and power unlike any other type of card.

Among the wide array of collectible cards in Magic: The Gathering, the artifacts category stands out for its unique and powerful cards that can significantly impact gameplay strategies. Here are some of the best MTG Artifacts out there that you can add to your collection to start winning games today!

The Powerhouses: Iconic Artifacts in MTG History

MTG is steeped in history, and certain artifacts have left an indelible mark. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic artifacts that have shaped the game:

These artifacts are famed not just for their powerful effects but also for their influence on MTG’s culture and history.

Deck Synergy Drivers: Artifacts That Complement Your Strategy

Artifacts are more than just standalone powerhouses, they’re also essential for crafting synergistic strategies. Here are a few that can become the linchpins of a deck:

• Sensei’s Divining Top: Gain control over what you draw.
• Aether Vial: Put creatures into play without paying their mana costs.
• Skullclamp: Turn creatures into card draw powerhouses.

Incorporating these artifacts into a deck can be a game-changer, enabling strategies that catch opponents off-guard.

Mana Sources and Accelerators: Artifacts That Speed Up Your Game

One of the primary roles of artifacts in MTG is ramping up the mana base. Mana accelerators are fundamental to casting more significant spells earlier in the game or enabling a quick explosive start.

With these artifacts, players can unleash the most potent spells well before opponents are ready to counter them.

Enhanced Defense: Artifacts That Protect Your Board

A solid offense in MTG often requires a robust defense, and artifacts can provide exactly that.

• Ensnaring Bridge: Keeps larger creatures from attacking.
• Crawlspace: Limits the number of creatures that can attack.
• Darksteel Forge: Artifacts become almost indestructible.

A well-protected board can often mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Game Enders: Artifacts That Can Win the Game Outright

For a dramatic finish, certain artifacts are designed to end games in style:

With these artifacts, a match can be brought to a close in the most memorable way possible.

Utility Artifacts: The Swiss Army Knives of MTG

Some artifacts offer a range of uses, earning them the title of utility artifacts.

• Sensei’s Divining Top: Organize the top cards of the library.
• Relic of Progenitus: Handle graveyards while drawing a card.
• Nevinyrral’s Disk: Clears the board of troublesome permanents.

Their multiple uses address various situations on the battlefield.

Collector’s Corner: Rare and Sought-After MTG Artifacts

For collectors and investors, some artifacts are as valuable as they are powerful. Here’s a snapshot of sought-after collectors’ artifacts:

These desirable artifacts not only enhance gameplay but also hold significant value as part of a collection.

Innovative Artifacts: The Latest Releases That Are Shaping the Meta

Magic’s constant evolution means that new artifacts regularly enter the battlefield.

• The Great Henge: Provides mana, life, and card advantage.
• Embercleave: Turns any creature into a formidable threat.
• Shadowspear: Removes hexproof and indestructible from opponents’ creatures.

These recent additions can breathe new life into a deck’s capabilities.

Building Artifact-Centric Decks: Constructing Around Artifact Synergy

When building a deck around artifacts, it’s essential to consider both synergy and consistency.

• Find the Linchpin Artifacts: Identify which artifacts are key to the strategy and ensure there are multiples.
• Balance the Curve: Include artifacts of varying mana costs to ensure a smooth gameplay experience.
• Include Redundancies: In case the main artifacts are countered or destroyed, have backups that offer similar functions.

A well-constructed artifact deck can be both robust and exciting to play.

Artifact Creatures: When Steel Comes to Life

Artifact creatures combine the resilience and utility of artifacts with the offensive capabilities of creatures.

Using these, players gain the upper hand both in terms of board control and strategic diversity.

Legends and Lore: The Most Famous Artifact Creatures in MTG

Some artifact creatures have become legendary, not just for their abilities but also for the stories they tell.

• Memnarch: Shapes reality on the plane of Mirrodin.
• Karn, Silver Golem: A central character in the MTG storyline.
• Blightsteel Colossus: A symbol of the Phyrexian invasion.

These creatures are a testament to MTG’s rich lore and narrative depth.

The Artisan’s Touch: Customizing and Altering Your Artifacts

Customizing artifacts through alters and sleeves adds a personal touch to a deck and stands out during play.

• Commission an artist: Custom alters can make artifacts unique.
• Use themed sleeves: Align card sleeves with the deck’s aesthetic.
• 3D cards and tokens: Add a tactile and visual element to gameplay.

Personalizing artifacts enhances the connection to the game and the deck.

Can Artifacts Go Solo? The Viability of Mono-Artifact Decks

While artifacts can complement various deck types, mono-artifact decks are also viable.

These specialized decks showcase the versatility of artifacts in MTG.

Artifacts in Commander: Top Picks for an EDH Arsenal

In the Commander format, or EDH (Elder Dragon Highlander), artifacts play a crucial role.

• Sol Ring: An almost ubiquitous presence in any EDH deck.
• Commander’s Sphere: Provides both mana and card draw.
• Lightning Greaves: Protects the commander and provides haste.

The right artifacts can significantly enhance the EDH deck’s performance.

The Competitive Scene: Artifacts That Dominate Tournaments

In competitive play, certain artifacts consistently make their mark.

• Aether Vial: Allows creature decks to play at instant speed.
• Grafdigger’s Cage: A sideboard staple that interrupts graveyard and library-based strategies.
• Pithing Needle: Targets specific card abilities to neutralize threats.

Knowing which artifacts are currently shaping the competitive scene can give players an edge.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Artifacts

By exploring the diverse world of MTG’s best artifacts, there are countless ways to enhance the gaming experience. Build decks, protect cards, and remember—the right artifact can turn the tide of any battle.

Key Takeaways:

• MTG artifacts are versatile and can be the cornerstone of powerful strategies.
• Iconic artifacts like Black Lotus and Sol Ring have shaped the game’s history.
• Recent artifact releases can revitalize a deck.
• Protect your artifacts with quality sleeves.
• Mono-artifact decks can be highly effective in gameplay.
• In EDH, artifacts are essential for enhancing deck performance.
• Keeping up with the competitive artifact meta can provide a strategic advantage.

Brian Cooper has been a part of the trading card scene since the 1980s and is the driving force behind MAGIC CARD INVESTOR. His mission is to help bring back the fun and nostalgia of collecting Magic: The Gathering cards and other Trading Card games to everyone young and old.