Go for the Throat — Magic: The Gathering card

Go for the Throat

{1}{B}
Instant

Destroy target nonartifact creature.

*When Titania offered peace, Urza merely turned her down. Mishra made her people pay for the insult.*

Set March of the Machine Commander
Rarity Uncommon
Mana Value 2
Artist Kristina Carroll
Collector # 250
Scryfall

Why Play Go for the Throat

At just two mana, this efficient removal spell handles most threatening creatures in the early-to-mid game when tempo matters most. Black-based midrange and control decks rely on it as a clean answer to aggressive creatures, planeswalker protection creatures, and combo pieces. The instant speed allows you to respond reactively, holding up mana for counterspells or other responses until your opponent commits to a threat worth removing.

Format Notes

Most powerful in Pioneer and Modern where artifact creatures are less prevalent, making the restriction rarely relevant. Historic sees moderate play despite more artifact synergies, while Legacy and Vintage favor more versatile removal like Swords to Plowshares. Commander players appreciate the low mana cost and instant speed for political plays and protecting combo turns. Never faced banning issues due to its reasonable restriction and mana cost.

Combos & Synergies

Pairs excellently with Snapcaster Mage to reuse the removal spell from your graveyard for additional value. Works well alongside Liliana of the Veil, where you can destroy their creature then force them to discard, creating significant card advantage. Complements other conditional removal like Fatal Push perfectly - while Push excels against low-cost creatures, Go for the Throat handles expensive threats that don't trigger revolt.

Learn More

Instant Removal Modern Pioneer Commander
Frequently asked questions about Go for the Throat →

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