What Makes A Card A Hidden Gem? | Splinterlands #388

3 months ago

Whenever you play card-based games (whether Web 2.0 or Web 3.0) there will always be those hidden gems that both new and old players can benefit from. Also, with the splinterlands card market constantly fluctuating with price drops and changing metas, it's always a good idea to keep an eye open for cards that are underappreciated and provide utility. Let's dive in further!

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What Is A Hidden Gem?

Before we identify specific cards as hidden gems, let us determine what criteria will qualify a card as a hidden gem in splinterlands. I have opted for the following criteria:

Usefulness to new and experienced players
- A good gem card can be competitive in various leagues and therefore provide usefulness to old and new players regardless.
Future Value Potential
- Does the gem have the potential to appreciate in value over time?
Max-able
- Cards that will likely be levelled up and therefore reducing supply.

Hidden gems should not only provide a strategic advantage in battle but also hold strong potential as long-term investments. Also, with the splinterlands card market being on a decline for the past 1-2 years, it's a prime opportunity to capitalize and flesh out those decks. With the criteria, let's unpack some hidden gems that should be in your splinterlands deck.

Djinn Oshannus

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While it is naive to call Djinn Oshannus a hidden gem, as it has been a community favorite for a while now, for the sake of those new to splinterlands -- this card is one of the better tanks in the Water unit.

What makes it a gem? It combines high speed, high health, and its abilities -- Void, Phase and Forcefield. It synergizes with many summoners and is an almost default choice in mid-to-high mana battles. Also, it's a beast in matches where magic attacks dominate, and Phase allows it to evade hits, aiding its survival. If you want to build a solid Water deck, Djinn Oshannus is essential, whether at Bronze level or aiming for Diamond and beyond.

Pelacor Mercenary

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The Pelacor Mercenary is one of the most underrated tanks, especially considering its price. You can buy a maxed-out copy for $2.8. This is so cheap. This is a must-have card if you looking to build a solid Earth unit deck.

Why is it so good? Its stats alone make it a great defensive option, but the healing really sets it apart, allowing the Mercenary to absorb damage round after round. A solid card all around.

Pelacor Conjurer

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Pelacor Conjurer is another gem, especially in low-mana battles. This card is great due to its abilities (effective against magic attacks) and its high speed. The card brings great value due to its low mana cost. Also, with Weapons Training ability monsters, this card will now be able to attack.

Concluding Thoughts

The key takeaway is that these cards are sitting at reasonably low prices about the newer promo cards that the splinterlands team keep pushing. Regardless of whether you are new or an experienced player, it is always good to have a long-term view when building your decks and looking for those gems will offer great utility and value.