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 Flying Squid.

Gameplay Analysis

The Flying Squid is a Common Water monster from the Chaos Legion set. Known for its melee attack and utility, this card is a reliable second-position attacker with abilities that enhance both offense and defense as it levels up.

Mana Cost: 6
Attack Type: Melee
Abilities:
Level 1: Reach – Allows the Flying Squid to attack from the second position.
Level 6: Blind – Reduces the enemy team's chance to hit with melee and ranged attacks.
Level 10: Backfire – Damages enemies that miss their attacks on this card, adding an extra layer of utility in evasion-based strategies.

The Flying Squid transforms from a simple attacker at Level 1 into a disruptive force by Level 10, with abilities that synergize well in defense-focused or melee-heavy strategies.

Level-Based Insights

Level 1: Starts with 3 Melee attack, 2 Speed, and 8 Health, offering solid second-position utility.
Level 3: Gains an additional Melee attack, boosting its damage output.
Level 6: Blind enhances its defensive role, reducing enemy accuracy and increasing survivability.
Level 8: Reaches 5 Melee attack and 9 Health, solidifying its place as a powerful mid-line unit.
Level 10: Backfire adds a punishing mechanic for enemies that miss their attacks, increasing its effectiveness in speed-focused setups.

Comparative Analysis

How does the Flying Squid compare to other Water splinter melee attackers?

Vs. Deeplurker: Deeplurker’s Opportunity ability allows it to focus on weak targets, while Flying Squid supports the team with Blind and punishes missed attacks with Backfire.
Vs. Serpent of Eld: Serpent of Eld prioritizes speed and evasion, whereas Flying Squid offers a balance of offense, disruption, and durability.

Key Takeaway
The Flying Squid is a versatile second-position attacker with abilities that enhance survivability and punish enemies. It fits well in teams that rely on melee synergy or defensive setups.

Synergies

Flying Squid pairs effectively with:

Kelya Frendul: Boosts Speed and Armor, increasing Flying Squid’s survivability and effectiveness.
Demonshark: Provides a strong frontline for Flying Squid to support from the second position.
Tide Biter: Another Reach attacker, forming a strong melee-focused mid-line.

Ruleset Performance

Favorable Rulesets:
Earthquake: Its Flying ability at higher levels ensures it avoids damage, giving it an edge in this ruleset.
Melee Mayhem: Allows Flying Squid to attack from any position, maximizing its damage potential.
Equalizer: Enhances survivability, particularly in matches where all Monsters have the same starting health.

Challenging Rulesets:
Magic Reflect: High health helps mitigate the risk, but Magic damage remains a threat.
Aim True: Neutralizes the evasion benefits of Blind and Backfire, reducing its defensive utility.

Market Analysis

Price Overview
Regular Foil: Approximately $0.03 per BCX.
Gold Foil: Approximately $0.50 per BCX.

Investment Potential
The Flying Squid has remained an affordable option for Chaos Legion players, with minor fluctuations in price due to its versatility in mid-range mana battles. With its combination of abilities and utility, the Flying Squid remains a solid choice for Water splinter players. Its value may increase as newer rulesets or synergies emerge that favor melee attackers with utility abilities.

Conclusion

The Flying Squid is a reliable and versatile melee attacker with strong mid-line utility. Its ability to support the team defensively and deal consistent damage makes it a valuable addition to Water splinter lineups, particularly in matches that favor melee synergy or evasion tactics.

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. 😊