Nezumi Cutthroat

Description

Nezumi Cutthroat, numbered 128 in the Champions of Kamigawa expansion, is a distinct artifact within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Released in 2004, this card introduces the nezumi, a rat-like humanoid race known for their cunning and mercenary nature. As a black Creature — Rat Warrior, it serves as a foundational piece for players building aggressive or control-oriented decks during that era. The card’s primary mechanical identity revolves around the Fear ability, a keyword that restricts how opponents can defend against it. Specifically, Nezumi Cutthroat cannot be blocked except by artifact creatures or black creatures. This unique defensive limitation makes it a persistent threat in combat, forcing players to allocate specific resources to neutralize its damage output. With a mana cost of {1}{B} and a mana value of two, it offers efficient early-game presence, delivering a two-power hit for a low investment. Beyond its gameplay utility, Nezumi Cutthroat captures the thematic essence of the Kamigawa plane, where spiritual and technological forces clash. The card’s flavor text highlights the mercenary reputation of the nezumi, noting their willingness to do anything for money, which adds narrative depth to their role on the battlefield. Art by Carl Critchlow, the card visually represents this gritty, survivalist aspect of the setting. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering often seek out cards from the Champions of Kamigawa set to complete their collections or to appreciate the unique art and mechanics of the block. Nezumi Cutthroat stands as a notable example of the set’s creature design, appealing to those who value both strategic depth and thematic consistency in their cards. Whether for casual play or competitive tournaments, this card remains a relevant option for black decks aiming to pressure opponents effectively.