Always Use Protection

It's always amusing to see players wish for support for underdog archetypes, because it can often be months (or even years) before it comes to fruition. Some of them, like Iron Chains, are probably destined never to receive support again. So when I saw the art on Safety Zone in the recently released Extreme Victory (OCG) I thought Gradius fans would finally find some solace. That was of course until I actually read its effect.

Safety Zone (Continuous Trap)

Select 1 face-up Attack Position monster on the field. It cannot be targeted or destroyed by your opponent's card effects, it cannot be destroyed by battle, and it cannot attack your opponent directly. When this card is removed from the field, destroy that monster. When that monster is removed from the field, destroy this card.

Had Safety Zone been restricted to work with just Gradius and the other spaceships, it would have been a decent card. However, the fact that it's generic support is what allows it to truly shine. Imagine having a Naturia Bamboo Shoot, Shooting Star Dragon, or Gravekeeper's Visionary under it's protection...a frightening prospect indeed.

Sure not being able to attack directly can be irritating, but as I've learned from experience, when your opponent has a nigh untouchable monster out winning a game becomes extremely difficult. You can even chain Safety Zone to it's own destruction to take out one of your opponent's monsters such as Lyla, Lightsworn Sorceress or Breaker the Magical Warrior, among others.

Recently I'd been trying to obtain a Forbidden Lance for it's similar versatility, but seeing that people are valuing it too high I think I'll wait for Safety Zone instead.

Remember players, the game ends with you.

UPDATE: Found this video while looking up the old Gradius games: