Herald of Scales is the kind of enabler that doesn’t just support your strategy—it defines it.
In Riftbound, where Dragon units often carry steep energy costs to match their massive impact, this card shifts the math and the tempo in a serious way.
If you’re building around Mount Targon or any Dragon-heavy archetype, this is one of those low-attack utility pieces you absolutely want slotted in by turn four.
Gameplay / Cool Mechanics
The mechanics on Herald of Scales are simple but meta-shaping: “Your Dragons’ Energy costs are reduced by 2, to a minimum of 1.”
That doesn’t just let you cheat curve—it potentially opens up multiple plays per turn with creatures that are supposed to be late-game powerhouses.
You could be dropping mid-tier Dragons while still holding up counters or spell shields. Or play a massive one early and force awkward trades or board wipes.
It’s important to note the reduction caps at a minimum cost of 1.
So you’re not going infinite, but you’re definitely getting ahead of curve—especially in the hands of someone who knows how to tempo out threats.
This makes Herald of Scales a mid-game pivot card, not just a support piece.
It also plays a unique economic role in draft. In limited formats, where big creatures are often too slow or dead in hand, Herald of Scales might let you actually use those late bombs rather than just pray for time.
Visuals
The art on Herald of Scales reinforces its magical, support-tier identity without going passive.
You’ve got this elegant Targonian spellcaster in mid-cast, hands raised toward a looming celestial dragon that dominates the background like a living constellation.
The scale of it all communicates reverence, not dominance. This is not a battlefield—this is a ritual.
And it works. The pastel aura, flowing robes, and subtle energy swirl make it feel like power is about to happen, not already happening. Exactly how the card plays.
Pull Rate & Value Speculation
Herald of Scales is card 140/298, and while we don’t have official rarity data yet, the synergy power suggests uncommon or rare.
Its function is too good for common, but not splashy enough for mythic unless paired with foil or alt art.
If there’s a foil version—and this is a prime foil candidate thanks to the glowing aura and translucent dragon detailing—it’s going to pop visually.
So far, no alternate or overnumbered art has surfaced, but don’t be shocked if this becomes a quiet chase card for anyone brewing Dragon tribal decks. Meta-dependent value, but high ceiling in the right build.
Herald of Scales feels like one of those cards that doesn’t ask to be the star—but wins you games for showing up on time.
If Dragons take off in Riftbound, this might be one of the most quietly essential cards in the playbook.
Read more – Kai’Sa from Riftbound TCG
