Retaliator Griffin

Description

Retaliator Griffin stands as a distinctive creature card within the 2009 Alara Reborn expansion for Magic: The Gathering. As card number 123 in the set, this foil release offers collectors a visually striking addition to their library. The card is classified as a Rare, denoting its scarcity within the original print run and its appeal to enthusiasts of the game's complex mechanics. The creature operates as a Griffin with a mana cost of one generic, one red, one green, and one white mana, resulting in a mana value of four. This multi-color requirement reflects the shard structure of the Alara block, where five distinct colors interact in complex ways. The card enters the battlefield as a 2/2 creature with the Flying ability, allowing it to evade most ground-based blockers. Its true strength lies in its triggered ability: whenever a source controlled by an opponent deals damage to you, you may place that many +1/+1 counters on Retaliator Griffin. This mechanic allows the creature to grow rapidly in defensive scenarios, turning incoming damage into a significant power boost. Art by Jesper Ejsing, the foil treatment adds a shimmering finish that enhances the card's presentation. Collectors often seek out specific cards from Alara Reborn to complete their set collections or to acquire cards with specific gameplay utilities. The foil variant is particularly popular for its aesthetic appeal and the tactile experience it provides during gameplay. Whether you are building a Commander deck or simply curating a collection of rare Magic cards, this piece represents a solid example of the design philosophy from the late 2000s era of the game. When browsing the Magic: The Gathering category, collectors can find various conditions and variants of classic cards like Retaliator Griffin. The card remains a notable piece of TCG history, valued for its unique interaction between damage and growth mechanics.