Joaquin Torres Falcon: A Marvel Snap Deep Dive
Until recently, Joaquin Torres Falcon remained relatively unknown to me. His unique origin as a falcon-human hybrid, coupled with impressive regenerative abilities and a mental link to Sam Wilson via Redwing, immediately captured my attention. While a full backstory isn't the focus here, the crucial question is: is he worth your Spotlight Keys? Let's find out!
Table of Contents
- What Does He Do?
- Best 1-Cost Card Pairings with Torres
- Tier 1: Top Choices
- Tier 2: Solid Options
- Tier 3: Less Effective
- Special Cases
- How to Use Him Effectively
- Sample Day One Decks
- Falcon's Power
- Diamondback
- Time to Mill
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What Does He Do?
Torres' ability is straightforward and potent: he doubles the effect of all 1-cost cards played in his lane. Think of him as a Wong, but exclusively for 1-cost cards.
Best 1-Cost Card Pairings with Torres
There are numerous 1-cost cards with On Reveal effects, but here's a tiered list for optimal pairing with Torres:
Tier 1: Top Choices
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Cards like Blade and Yondu, when doubled, significantly impact their respective decks. Their power output is amplified, especially when combined with another Falcon for hand manipulation and replay.
Tier 2: Solid Options
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These cards offer substantial benefits, though perhaps not as game-changing as Tier 1. Collector receives massive buffs, Devil Dinosaur's growth potential increases with Agent 13 or Maria Hill, and Mantis shines brighter. America Chavez, while not guaranteeing a card play, remains a viable option.
Tier 3: Less Effective
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Cards like Squirrel Girl might fill lanes late-game, but generally don't synergize well with Torres' strategy. Board overload isn't usually beneficial.
Special Cases
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Nico Minoru's powerful On Reveal effects are incredibly potent when doubled, though consistency is a challenge. Basic Arrow, while strong with Torres, requires multiple steps, reducing reliability. Thanos, despite not being a 1-cost, introduces several 1-cost On Reveal cards, making for interesting experimentation.
How to Use Him Effectively
Torres shines in bounce decks, maximizing the value of 1-cost cards. His utility outside bounce is more limited. Consider him for Discard or Mill decks to enhance discard or mill effects with Yondu.
Pairing him with a Moonstone/Victoria Hand hand-generation deck can also be effective, significantly boosting Collector's power.
Sample Day One Decks
Falcon's Power
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A straightforward bounce deck leveraging Torres to amplify 1-cost cards like Rocket and Hawkeye. Since replaying Torres isn't crucial, he can remain on the board. The inclusion of some 3-cost cards makes the deck slightly top-heavy, but Torres adds excitement and high-roll potential.
Diamondback
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Korg synergizes exceptionally well with Torres to boost Darkhawk. Supporting characters like Zabu, Ares, Cassandra, and Rockslide create a powerful and resilient synergy.
Time to Mill
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While Mill decks are popular, Torres adds a disruptive element, especially late-game. However, playing him on turn 3 might slow down key plays, delaying Yondu or Iceman. Experimentation is key.
Torres Falcon offers exciting possibilities in Marvel Snap. By understanding his abilities and strategic pairings, you can unlock his full potential, whether through bounce mechanics or alternative strategies.
