Marvel Snap Unveils the God of War, Kratos

Ares, the God of War, descends upon the mortal realm of Marvel Snap, challenging the established meta and reigniting forgotten archetypes. His unexpected allegiance to Norman Osborn as the new Avengers leader raises eyebrows. Why would a supposed Avenger side with such an obvious villain? The answer lies in Ares' unwavering loyalty to war itself, not to any particular faction. This perfectly mirrors his Marvel Snap card's design and gameplay.

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Ares thrives in high-power decks, demanding a strategic approach unlike the readily available synergies of other cards. He lacks an immediate, built-in synergy, forcing players to craft a unique deck around him. Cards like Grandmaster or Odin, with their on-reveal effects, can be cunningly combined with Ares' ability to maximize his impact. While a 12-power, 4-energy card is decent, a 21-power, 6-energy card is far more desirable. Repeating his ability is key to his effectiveness outside of Surtur decks.

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Despite his disdain for weaker opponents, protective cards like Cosmo or Armor can shield Ares from threats like Shang-Chi.

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Unfortunately, Ares isn't a game-changer. While there are cards approaching his power level, the current meta favors control decks, making consistent high-power strategies challenging. His reliance on high-power cards necessitates a specific deck build, unlike more adaptable options. Simply focusing on power isn't enough; disruption and strategic maneuvering are crucial. Outperforming the already struggling Surtur archetype is a significant hurdle.

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The comparison to Death, a 12-power card with lower energy cost, highlights Ares' current limitations. However, his value extends beyond raw power; he provides valuable strategic information. His gameplay often boils down to a gamble on the power curve, requiring adaptable play.

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Ares' weakness stems from his susceptibility to counters compared to cards offering energy manipulation or widespread power boosts. His effectiveness hinges on a meticulously crafted deck. A 4/6 card is generally weak, while a 4/12 is strong, showcasing his dependence on high-power synergy.

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In conclusion, Ares is likely a skip for many players this season. His high-risk, high-reward playstyle, coupled with the current meta, makes him a less appealing option than cards offering more consistent and flexible strategies. His success relies heavily on a precisely constructed deck and a bit of luck.