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 Biceratops.

Gameplay Analysis

Biceratops is a Common Earth Monster from the Untamed set in Splinterlands. It is known for its high health, armor, and low mana cost, making it a solid budget tank option, particularly in low-mana battles. While it starts off as a basic frontline defender, its abilities unlock greater defensive potential as it levels up.

Mana Cost: 4
Attack Type: Melee
Abilities by Level
Level 1: (No abilities)
Level 6: Thorns (When hit with a Melee attack, deals damage back to the attacker)

Level-Based Insights

Level 1: At its base level, Biceratops relies purely on its high health and armor stats to absorb damage, making it a dependable low-mana frontline choice.
Level 6: Gains Thorns, allowing it to punish enemy Melee attackers by reflecting damage, making it much more effective in Melee-heavy matchups.

Comparative Analysis

How does this card compare to other similar ones?

Vs. Unicorn Mustang: While Unicorn Mustang specializes in resisting Magic damage with Void, Biceratops is better suited against Melee attackers thanks to Thorns.
Vs. Stone Golem: Stone Golem has Shield to reduce incoming physical damage, while Biceratops reflects damage back at attackers, making it a more aggressive defensive option.
Vs. Mycelic Infantry: Mycelic Infantry combines Shield and high attack power, while Biceratops offers a more budget-friendly alternative focused on damage reflection and tankiness.

Key Takeaway
Biceratops is a durable low-mana tank that becomes significantly stronger against Melee attackers at Level 6 with Thorns. It’s a valuable asset for players who need a cost-effective frontliner that can deal passive damage while absorbing hits.

Synergies

Obsidian (Earth Summoner): Boosts Magic Attack for allied monsters while Biceratops holds the front line.
Goblin Psychic: Provides Tank Heal to keep Biceratops alive longer while supporting with Affliction.
Queen Mycelia: Grants additional Armor and Amplify, increasing the reflected damage from Thorns.
Kron the Undying: Offers sustain through healing, pairing well with Biceratops' ability to stall and reflect damage.

Ruleset Performance

Favorable Rulesets:
Melee Mayhem: Allows Biceratops to attack from any position, maximizing its Melee potential while tanking.
Up Close & Personal: Only Melee Monsters are allowed, making Biceratops’ Thorns ability especially deadly.
Equalizer: Benefits from its naturally high health, further boosting its tanking capacity.

Challenging Rulesets:
Reverse Speed: Its average Speed can be a disadvantage when slower Monsters are prioritized.
Noxious Fumes: Without healing abilities, Biceratops struggles to survive poison damage.
Explosive Weaponry: Blast damage can quickly bypass its armor and health pool.

Market Analysis

Price Overview
Regular Foil: around $ 0.07
Gold Foil: around $ 0.75

Investment Potential
Biceratops is an excellent low-cost tank option, especially for players focusing on Melee-heavy counters in the Earth Splinter. Its true value shines at Level 6 when Thorns becomes available, making it a strong pick for both budget players and those seeking additional flexibility in low-mana battles.

Ratings

Usefulness: 6/10 (Best suited for countering Melee attackers)
Cost-Effectiveness: 8/10 (A great budget tank with strong durability for its mana cost)
Versatility: 5/10 (Limited against Magic attackers and less effective in high-mana battles)

Conclusion

Biceratops is a durable, cost-effective frontliner that punishes Melee attackers with Thorns at higher levels. While it lacks utility against Magic-heavy teams, its strong health, armor, and ability to reflect damage make it a solid choice for Earth Splinter players in low-mana, Melee-focused battles.

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. 😊