A bomb is a card, generally used in conjunction with Limited play, that always makes a large card impact on a game in which it is played.[1]
Description
Bombs are usually hard to defend against in a limited-card pool setting. Sometimes, bombs are Constructed-level threats, but not always; in fact, some cards which are bombs in Limited formats are almost useless in normal Constructed formats. Additionally, while often Rares or Mythic Rares, there are cases of "Mythic Uncommons", or build-around threats that exist at uncommon and are far more prevalent than typical bombs. Some of the biggest examples are Zenith Flare and Wingmantle Chaplain.
Bombs typically are threats that immediately impact the game state, often in a beneficial way even when behind, and can win the game singlehandedly if left unchecked (either through controlling combat, grinding out cards, or board advantage, or dealing damage quickly). Bombs typically pass the “Vindicate test,” meaning they are either hard to remove with targeted removal or leave you with a significant advantage even if removed (e.g. they leave behind board presence, give you card advantage, or remove threats from your opponent even if immediately killed).
Classic examples of bombs are Glorybringer, The Scarab God, Baneslayer Angel, Grave Titan.
References
- ↑ Sam Stoddard (June 10, 2016). "Why Bomb Rares Exist". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.