Great Train Heist — Magic: The Gathering card

Great Train Heist

{R}
Instant
Set OTJ
Rarity Rare
Mana Value 1
Collector # 125

Why Play Great Train Heist

Aggressive red decks and creature-based strategies benefit most from this flexible combat trick that can dramatically swing games. The ability to combine modes makes it effective both as a combat finisher when you need that extra push for lethal damage, and as a mid-game value engine when you can afford the full cost. Playing it during combat with all three modes creates explosive turns where you untap your team, pump them with first strike, generate additional combat steps, and create Treasure tokens to fuel future plays.

Format Notes

Standard and Pioneer see the most competitive play for this card, fitting well into aggressive red strategies and token-based decks that can capitalize on multiple combat steps. Commander multiplayer games provide excellent opportunities to generate significant value, especially when you can target the opponent with the weakest board state for maximum Treasure generation. The card hasn't faced any ban considerations due to its reasonable mana requirements and instant speed preventing truly oppressive combinations.

Combos & Synergies

Magda, Brazen Outlaw pairs excellently by turning the Treasure generation into additional value while providing a reliable creature base. Diamond Pick-Axe enhances the aggressive gameplan by providing consistent creature buffs that stack with the first strike mode. Return the Favor creates interesting political dynamics in multiplayer formats, potentially copying the spell for additional combat steps or redirecting targeted effects to maximize your board advantage.