Hi all,

Introduction

Another post in this series. Thank you for your support in the previous posts 😊

This series intends to determine if there are other aspects of cards that may contribute to increasing its value. Based on your feedback I can focus on more/other things – so feel free to tell me where you want me to go into further detail.
I include some analysis on where the cards fit in terms of gameplay, strategy, comparison with other cards, and a market analysis of its price. Feel free to suggest what more do you want me to look into in this series, and your support is much appreciated!
In this edition I will be looking at the Tortisian Fighter.

Gameplay Analysis

Tortisian Fighter is a Common Water Monster from the Untamed set in Splinterlands. It’s known for being a durable low-mana tank with solid defensive abilities, making it a reliable pick in armor-heavy and low-mana battles. Its progression adds powerful abilities that enhance both its survivability and team support.

Mana Cost: 4
Attack Type: Melee
Abilities by Level
Level 1: (No abilities)
Level 4: Shield (Reduces damage from Melee and Ranged attacks)
Level 8: Repair (Restores armor to the friendly Monster whose armor has taken the most damage)

Level-Based Insights

Level 1: Without any abilities early on, Tortisian Fighter is mainly used as a cheap frontliner with decent stats.
Level 4: Gains Shield, making it highly effective against Melee and Ranged attackers. This makes it a solid low-mana tank against physical damage.
Level 8: Repair adds a supportive element, allowing it to restore armor to allies, making it particularly effective in armor-focused Water lineups.

Comparative Analysis

How does this card compare to other similar ones?

Vs. Serpent of Eld: Serpent of Eld focuses on dodging attacks with its Dodge ability and high Speed, while Tortisian Fighter relies on raw durability through Shield and Repair.
Vs. Diemonshark: Diemonshark offers a more aggressive approach with Trample and higher offensive stats, while Tortisian Fighter focuses on defense and sustainability.
Vs. Baakjira: Baakjira is a magic-resistant tank with healing, whereas Tortisian Fighter excels against physical damage and supports with Repair.

Key Takeaway
Tortisian Fighter is a defensive low-mana tank that thrives against Melee and Ranged-heavy lineups. Its Shield and Repair abilities make it a great frontline unit and support piece in longer battles.

Synergies

Kelya Frendul (Water Summoner): Increases Speed and Armor, complementing the Fighter’s defensive strengths.
Venari Wavesmith: Provides additional Armor to allies, making Repair more effective.
Crustacean King: Can heal the Fighter, improving its longevity on the battlefield.
Captain’s Ghost: With Affliction to stop healing, pairs well to counter sustain-heavy teams while Tortisian Fighter handles physical defense.

Ruleset Performance

Favorable Rulesets:
Armored Up: Grants extra armor to all Monsters, allowing Tortisian Fighter to maximize its Repair ability.
Close Range: Allows it to attack even when placed at the front, keeping its Melee damage relevant.
Up Close & Personal: Only Melee Monsters are allowed, making it a strong tank due to Shield.

Challenging Rulesets:
Reverse Speed: Its moderate Speed puts it at a disadvantage.
Magic Reflect: Vulnerable due to a lack of Magic resistance, leaving it exposed against Magic-heavy teams.
Explosive Weaponry: Blast damage can bypass its Shield and Armor quickly.

Market Analysis

Price Overview
Regular Foil: around $ 0.05
Gold Foil: around $ 0.55

Investment Potential
Tortisian Fighter is a cost-effective tank for players who need a physical-damage absorber with late-game utility through Repair. It’s particularly valuable for players who favor armor-based Water lineups and low-mana battles.

Ratings

Usefulness: 7/10 (Shines in armor-heavy teams, with added value at higher levels)
Cost-Effectiveness: 8/10 (Affordable and effective at all stages, especially post-Level 4)
Versatility: 6/10 (Struggles against Magic-heavy lineups but is strong against physical damage)

Conclusion

Tortisian Fighter is a reliable low-mana tank that excels in physical-damage-heavy battles. Gaining Shield at Level 4 and Repair at Level 8 makes it increasingly valuable for both defense and support. It’s an essential pick for Water Splinter players who favor sustainability and defense in their strategies.

What do you think about this card? Do you use it in your lineups? Share your experiences in the comments and let me know which card you'd like me to analyze next!
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. 😊