Foil MTG Card


Foil cards can psychologically impact opponents, potentially giving the owner a strategic edge in the game. Added trade value of foil cards facilitates faster deck improvement through accelerated resources. Collecting foil cards often involves higher expenditure without a direct in-game performance benefit.
Card setsReleased in 4 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost4
RarityUncommon
TypeInstant

Text of card

You may discard an island and another card from your hand instead of paying Foil's mana cost. Counter target spell.


Cards like Foil

In the vibrant world of Magic: The Gathering, players often seek the elusive shine that foil cards bring to their collections. The foil MTG card is not just a testament to aesthetics but also a marker of rarity and prestige. Reflecting on foil cards, one can’t help but draw parallels to their non-foil counterparts. The intrinsic value of a card remains constant, but the allure of a foil version lies in its unique visual appeal and potential for increased worth over time.

Consider the foil version of a staple like Lightning Bolt. The card’s utility in gameplay doesn’t change, whether it’s a standard or foil edition. However, the foil brings an additional layer of charm and collectibility. Similarly, take the iconic Black Lotus; the non-foil versions are highly coveted, yet foil reproductions released in special sets like From the Vault exude an exceptional collector’s appeal and carry a massive premium. They light up a player’s deck and showcase their commitment to the game.

In essence, foil MTG cards embody an additional layer of desirability for collectors and connoisseurs alike. They hold the same strategic value in a game but offer an exclusive cosmetic upgrade that can elevate the perception and value of a player’s deck or collection.

Lightning Bolt - MTG Card versions
Black Lotus - MTG Card versions
Lightning Bolt - MTG Card versions
Black Lotus - MTG Card versions

Cards similar to Foil by color, type and mana cost

Deflection - MTG Card versions
Ray of Command - MTG Card versions
Inspiration - MTG Card versions
Turnabout - MTG Card versions
Quash - MTG Card versions
Thwart - MTG Card versions
Plagiarize - MTG Card versions
Fact or Fiction - MTG Card versions
Cryptic Command - MTG Card versions
Fold into Aether - MTG Card versions
Part the Veil - MTG Card versions
Gifts Ungiven - MTG Card versions
Surging Aether - MTG Card versions
Careful Consideration - MTG Card versions
Gifts Given - MTG Card versions
Discombobulate - MTG Card versions
Permafrost Trap - MTG Card versions
Bone to Ash - MTG Card versions
Sudden Storm - MTG Card versions
Weave Fate - MTG Card versions
Deflection - MTG Card versions
Ray of Command - MTG Card versions
Inspiration - MTG Card versions
Turnabout - MTG Card versions
Quash - MTG Card versions
Thwart - MTG Card versions
Plagiarize - MTG Card versions
Fact or Fiction - MTG Card versions
Cryptic Command - MTG Card versions
Fold into Aether - MTG Card versions
Part the Veil - MTG Card versions
Gifts Ungiven - MTG Card versions
Surging Aether - MTG Card versions
Careful Consideration - MTG Card versions
Gifts Given - MTG Card versions
Discombobulate - MTG Card versions
Permafrost Trap - MTG Card versions
Bone to Ash - MTG Card versions
Sudden Storm - MTG Card versions
Weave Fate - MTG Card versions

Decks using this card

MTG decks using Foil. Dig deeper into the strategy of decks, sideboard cards, list ideas and export to play in ARENA or MOL.

#NameFormatArchetypeEvent
Dimir TerrorDimir Terror PauperDimir ControlMonthly Tournament #38 @ Paper Pauper Magic Discord
Selesnya AggroSelesnya Aggro PauperPauper
Azorius StiflenoughtAzorius Stiflenought PremodernEternal Weekend Europe 2023 Premodern Mainevent
Mono-Blue StiflenoughtMono-Blue Stiflenought PremodernEternal Weekend Europe 2023 Premodern Mainevent
Rogue DecklistsRogue Decklists LegacyAzorius ControlBerlin Double Up Legacy III im Brettspielplatz 07.03.24
Azorius ComboAzorius Combo Premodern$1K - Pre-Modern - SCG CON Hartford - Sunday - 9:30 am
Gro-A-TogGro-A-Tog Premodern$1K - Pre-Modern - SCG CON Hartford - Sunday - 9:30 am
StasisStasis PremodernEternal Weekend Europe 2023 Premodern Mainevent
StiflenoughtStiflenought PremodernEternal Weekend Europe 2023 Premodern Mainevent
Dimir StiflenoughtDimir Stiflenought Premodern$1K - Pre-Modern - SCG CON Hartford - Sunday - 9:30 am

Card Pros

Card Advantage: A foil MTG card on the battlefield stands out, suggesting a planned and potent presence in your deck that can psychologically prompt opponents to alter their strategy, potentially leading to tactical errors and a card advantage for you.

Resource Acceleration: Foil cards often carry added trade value over their non-foil counterparts. This perceived value can accelerate your resource accumulation when trading within the MTG community, allowing you to build stronger decks faster.

Instant Speed: While the physical properties of foil cards don’t affect play speed, the flashy appearance can cause a quick and startled response from players unfamiliar with your deck, akin to an instant speed play out of nowhere.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Collecting foil cards can sometimes compel players to discard more funds than they anticipated. The decision to pursue these shimmering beauties often leads to sacrificing budget for other in-game essentials or collections.

Specific Mana Cost: While the allure of foil cards is undeniable, they often come with a hefty price tag. This investment mirrors a specific mana cost in gameplay where committing resources restricts flexibility, affecting a player’s ability to adapt their collection strategy within the trading card game’s economy.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Compared to their non-foil counterparts, foil cards generally have a significantly higher market cost. This may not translate to a direct in-game advantage, making them a luxurious option rather than a strategic one. For players seeking to optimize their decks’ efficiency, the monetary dedication needed for foil versions might outweigh their tangible benefits in play.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: A foil card adds a unique layer of visual appeal that can make your deck stand out. It’s not just about the shimmer; having a foil version of a card indicates a player’s dedication to the game and to their deck’s aesthetic.

Combo Potential: Similarly, foil cards can indicate a nuanced understanding of the game. Players who utilize them often showcase their deep engagement with MTG, as they enhance their deck not only strategically but also visually, creating a more immersive experience.

Meta-Relevance: If the competitive scene values the rarity and distinctiveness of a deck’s composition, including foil cards could give you a psychological edge over opponents, while also potentially increasing the resale value of your collection due to their uniqueness and demand.


How to beat

Foil cards in MTG offer a unique aesthetic twist to your deck, often sought after for their shimmering finish. But when it comes to game strategy, a foil card holds no inherent advantage over its regular counterpart. To “beat” a foil card is to apply the same tactics you would against any card it represents, be it a formidable creature or a game-altering spell. Focus not on the reflective glint but on the card’s abilities and its place in your opponent’s strategy.

Your first step should be to understand the card’s strengths and weaknesses. If it’s a creature card with formidable power, consider removal spells or cards that negate its abilities. If it’s a spell with powerful effects, countermagic or cards that grant you hexproof can be your shield. Efficient deck construction, familiarizing yourself with popular card synergies, and a well-timed sideboard can dramatically increase your chances of success, no matter how shiny the opposition may be.

Remember, a foil MTG card can be intimidating, but in the heat of the game, it’s the strategy and skill that secure victory. By honing your knowledge of the game and maintaining a calm approach, you can turn the tides in your favor, foil or not.


BurnMana Recommendations

Foil cards in MTG are not merely collectibles; they can be an asset to your deck’s aesthetics and potential trade value. Understanding the pros and cons is essential, from the added visual appeal to the higher market cost. Despite their shiny surface, knowing that foil cards hold the same strategic function in gameplay as non-foil versions is key. For those seeking to level up their MTG experience or perhaps gain a slight psychological edge, incorporating foil cards could be a worthwhile venture. Dive deeper with us to explore how foil MTG cards can reflect your passion and elevate both your deck and your gaming prowess.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Foil MTG card by a specific set like Prophecy and Ultimate Masters, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.

For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.

Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.

Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Foil and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Foil Magic the Gathering card was released in 4 different sets between 2000-06-05 and 2019-11-07. Illustrated by 2 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12000-06-05ProphecyPCY 341997NormalBlackBradley Williams
22018-12-07Ultimate MastersUMA 552015NormalBlackDonato Giancola
32019-11-07Mystery BoosterMB1 3842015NormalBlackDonato Giancola
42020-09-26The ListPLST UMA-552015NormalBlackDonato Giancola

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Foil has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
PaupercommanderLegal
OathbreakerLegal
PauperLegal
PremodernLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal