Swift Response

Description

Swift Response is card number 40 from the Core Set 2021 (M21) release of Magic: The Gathering, published in 2020. This white Instant carries a mana cost of {1}{W} and a mana value of 2, providing players with a straightforward method to remove an opponent's tapped creature from the battlefield. The card was illustrated by Deruchenko Alexander, whose artwork accompanies the text box in the standard layout for this set. As a Common rarity card, Swift Response is a fundamental component of the white mana color identity in the game. Its single-target removal effect allows for efficient board control without the complexity of multiple targets or additional conditions beyond the target being tapped. The flavor text, attributed to Akroan captain Adrasteia, adds narrative context to the card's aggressive utility, referencing the satisfaction of striking a foe who is unprepared. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading card game components often track specific card numbers and set codes like M21 to organize their collections. This card represents the base checklist of the Core Set 2021, distinguishing it from supplemental or insert sets. The clean design and accessible power level make it a recognizable piece for enthusiasts building their M21 collection or seeking specific card numbers for organizational purposes.