The Comprehensive Day of Rebirth Preview

 

Raptor-Nest Nurse

A 1 mana 1/1 that generates two random cards is a solid value engine at a cheap cost. Nurse can be considered both a 1-drop and a 2-drop, as we can instantly play the minion we generate from it. For comparison, this card is significantly better than Fire Fly, helping our early game consistency while offering us ways to fill our curve later.

These kinds of value 1-drops usually find a way into competitive play. In the immediate term, we can see this card being a good fit for Niri, if we are playing a Discover Hunter deck.

Score: 3

Ankylodon

A high value beast, Ankylodon is a big taunt with a deathrattle that provides immediate impact, as the random beasts attack enemies immediately when they are summoned. If we value each beast at 3 mana, then the total stats and effects are strong for the cost, as they must be with minions this expensive.

Realistically, we can only see this minion being played by Quest Hunter as an additional 7-attack beast. Even then, it seems too expensive for what the archetype aims to do, which is completing the quest as quickly as possible rather than waiting until turn 9 to play Shokk.

We do not see a Big Beast Hunter returning anytime soon either.

Score: 1

Devilsaur Mask

The word ‘charge’ sounds enticing at first, but this spell is worse than an 8/8 charger for 8 mana, as it requires us to have a minion in play to be useful and may not represent full value for the buff. An 8-mana buff sounds like a nightmare to use, especially in a Hunter deck. The charge keyword is also meaningless if we do not buff a minion we just played.

The only way Devilsaur Mask would see play is in a convoluted Lunar Trailblazer deck that looks to discount it and play it alongside a Windfury minion. We are not signing up for that.

Score: 1

Final Thoughts: We do not think Nurse is a game changer for Discover Hunter, so the class is unlikely to shift in the mini-set. Beast Hunter should remain the primary competitive option for the class.