Hi all,

Introduction

Another post in this series. Thank you for your support in the previous posts 😊

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 – 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 Goblin Thief.

Gameplay Analysis

Goblin Thief is a Common Earth Monster from the Untamed Core Set. As a low-mana melee attacker, it specializes in targeting enemy backlines, making it a strategic choice for disrupting opponent formations.

Mana Cost: 4
Attack Type: Melee
Abilities by Level
Level 1: Sneak (Targets the last Monster on the enemy team instead of the first)
Level 6: Shatter (Destroys all of the target's Armor when hit)

Level-Based Insights

Level 1: Begins with the Sneak ability, allowing it to bypass frontline tanks and directly attack enemy backline units, which are often less durable.
Level 6: Acquires the Shatter ability, enabling it to eliminate all armor on its target upon a successful hit, making it particularly effective against armored enemies.

Comparative Analysis

How does this card compare to other similar ones?

Vs. Orc Sergeant: While Orc Sergeant provides frontline support with its Inspire ability, boosting the melee attack of allies, Goblin Thief focuses on offensive disruption by targeting backline enemies with Sneak.
Vs. Child of the Forest: Child of the Forest offers ranged attacks with the Snipe ability, aiming at enemy support units, whereas Goblin Thief delivers melee attacks to the backline, serving different tactical roles.

Key Takeaway
Goblin Thief is an effective low-mana melee attacker that excels in disrupting enemy backlines, especially those relying on armored support units.

Synergies

Lyanna Natura (Earth Summoner): Increases Goblin Thief's health, enhancing its survivability during backline assaults.
Stone Golem: Serves as a durable frontline tank, absorbing damage while Goblin Thief targets enemy backlines.
Brownie: Provides the Swiftness ability, increasing the speed of Goblin Thief, allowing it to strike earlier in the round.

Ruleset Performance

Favorable Rulesets:
Super Sneak: All Melee attack Monsters have the Sneak ability, allowing Goblin Thief to benefit from its natural role and coordinate with other melee attackers to overwhelm enemy backlines.
Armored Up: All Monsters receive increased armor, which Goblin Thief can effectively counter with its Shatter ability at higher levels.

Challenging Rulesets:
Reverse Speed: Goblin Thief's moderate speed may be a disadvantage in this ruleset, causing it to attack later in the round.
Fog of War: Disables the Sneak ability, limiting Goblin Thief's primary offensive strategy.

Market Analysis

Price Overview
Regular Foil: around $ 0.095
Gold Foil: around $ 0.65

Investment Potential
Goblin Thief's combination of Sneak and Shatter abilities makes it a valuable addition to Earth teams, especially in battles where targeting backline enemies and countering armor are advantageous. Its low mana cost and disruptive role enhance its long-term utility and value.

Conclusion

Goblin Thief is a strategic low-mana melee attacker within the Earth Splinter. Its abilities to target and dismantle enemy backlines make it a formidable asset in various combat scenarios.

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. 😊