Hi all,
Introduction
Another post in this series. Thank you for your support in the previous posts π
This series intends to determine if there are other aspects of cards that may contribute to increasing its value. Based on your feedback I can focus on more/other things β so feel free to tell me where you want me to go into further detail.
I include some analysis on where the cards fit in terms of gameplay, strategy, comparison with other cards, and a market analysis of its price. Feel free to suggest what more do you want me to look into in this series, and your support is much appreciated!
In this edition I will be looking at the Xenith Archer.
Gameplay Analysis
Xenith Archer is a Common Neutral monster from the Chaos Legion Core Set. As a low-mana Ranged attacker, it offers a simple but effective option for many Splinters, especially in battles where mana is limited. With no abilities at any level, its value comes purely from its stats and flexibility in different team compositions.
Card Overview:
Mana Cost: 2
Attack Type: Ranged
Abilities: None
Level-Based Insights
Level 1:
Base Stats: 1 Ranged Attack, 2 Speed, 2 Health.
A basic filler unit that can be slotted into low-mana battles for extra damage.
Level 3:
Gains +1 Speed (3 total), improving its attack order in battles.
Level 6:
Gains +1 Ranged Attack (2 total), making it a stronger damage dealer.
Level 8:
Gains +1 Speed (4 total), increasing its chances of attacking first.
Comparative Analysis
How does this card compare to other similar ones?
Vs. Pelacor Bandit (Water): Pelacor Bandit has Flying and Sneak, offering mobility and backline damage, while Xenith Archer provides consistent ranged damage from a safe position.
Vs. Soul Strangler (Death): Soul Strangler deals more damage (3 Ranged at higher levels) but costs one more mana, making Xenith Archer a more efficient option in tight mana battles.
Vs. Gargoya Devil (Neutral): Gargoya Devil has Flying and Blast, but is more expensive at 5 mana, while Xenith Archer remains an efficient low-cost attacker.
Key Takeaway
Xenith Archer is a pure-stat low-mana ranged attacker. While it lacks abilities, its strength comes from its neutral flexibility, allowing it to be used in almost any lineup.
Synergies
Best Pairings:
General Sloan (Life Splinter): Boosts its Ranged Attack by +1, making it a much stronger damage dealer.
Kelya Frendul (Water Splinter): Provides additional Speed and Armor, increasing its survivability.
Low-Mana Fillers: Works well with other low-mana ranged attackers like Venari Marksrat and Hardy Stonefish for a balanced backline.
Splinter Synergies:
Life Splinter: Pairs extremely well with General Sloanβs Ranged buff.
Earth Splinter: Can be used alongside Magic-heavy teams for a mixed attack composition.
Death Splinter: Complements ranged attackers like Soul Strangler in low-mana matchups.
Ruleset Performance
Favorable Rulesets:
Little League: One of the best neutral options for low-mana battles.
Close Range: Allows Ranged monsters to attack from the first position, making it more viable if frontline units fall.
Challenging Rulesets:
Fog of War: Ranged cards struggle without Sneak or Snipe to hit targets.
Reverse Speed: Its high Speed at max level makes it less effective.
Market Analysis
Price Overview
Regular Foil: $0.03β$0.05 per BCX
Gold Foil: $0.75β$1.50 per BCX
Investment Potential
As a low-mana neutral card, it has consistent utility.
Conclusion
Xenith Archer is a simple, cost-efficient Ranged attacker with no abilities but decent stats. While it lacks versatility compared to ability-based Ranged units, its neutral status makes it a reliable filler for low-mana battles. Now tradable due to the unbinding of Soulbound cards, it remains a budget-friendly option for new and experienced players alike.
What do you think about this card? Do you use it in your lineups? Share your experiences in the comments and let me know which card you'd like me to analyze next!
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. π