Ares, the God of War, descends upon the mortal realm of Marvel Snap, aiming to conquer and revitalize underperforming archetypes. But how does this iconic figure fit into the game's meta? His appearance in the comics, specifically his allegiance to Norman Osborn as a reluctant Avenger, highlights his unique perspective: loyalty to war itself, not any particular faction. This perfectly mirrors his Marvel Snap card's flavor. Ares thrives in powerful, large-scale conflicts, preferring the company of strong individuals. However, strategically, he presents a unique challenge.
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Strategic Considerations:
Unlike cards with readily apparent synergies, Ares demands a tailored approach. His strength lies in high-power cards. Cards like Grandmaster or Odin, with their on-reveal effects, offer cunning combinations. While a 12-power card costing 4 energy is decent, a 21-power card for 6 energy is significantly more impactful. Repeating his ability is key to maximizing his effectiveness beyond Surtur decks.
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Defensive strategies are also crucial. Protecting Ares from threats like Shang-Chi and Shadow King is vital, potentially using cards like Cosmo or Armor.
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Ares' Limitations:
Despite his raw power (a 4/12 stat line), Ares faces challenges. The current meta favors control decks and flexible strategies. Building a deck solely around high power is risky, especially without a significant point wager advantage. His performance often pales in comparison to Surtur, a similar high-power archetype, which currently boasts a mediocre win rate (around 51.5% at higher levels).
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Strategies like Mill decks can significantly impact Ares' effectiveness, potentially turning him into a massive threat or a complete liability depending on the opponent's remaining cards. Furthermore, cards like Death offer comparable power at a lower cost, making Ares' high energy requirement a disadvantage.
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Overall Assessment:
Ares often feels underwhelming compared to cards offering energy manipulation or widespread power boosts. His high-risk, high-reward nature requires precise deck construction to consistently win. While his raw power is undeniable, the current meta makes him a less desirable choice compared to more versatile options. Therefore, many players consider him a card to avoid.
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Ultimately, Ares' success hinges on a carefully crafted strategy that leverages his power while mitigating his weaknesses. His inclusion in a deck requires a thorough understanding of the current meta and a willingness to accept the inherent risk.
