The history and gameplay of the Magic: The Gathering Alliances Tornado card, a 1996 Rare Enchantment with distinctive cumulative upkeep mechanics.
Tornado
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Alliances
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Description
Released in 1996 as part of the Alliances expansion, the Tornado card (number 101) stands as a notable Rare Enchantment within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Designed by Susan Van Camp, this card introduces a complex resource management mechanic that challenges players to balance power with ongoing maintenance. The card requires a green mana cost and imposes a cumulative upkeep of one green mana per age counter, creating a strategic dilemma for deck builders. Its secondary ability allows the controller to destroy a target permanent by paying life and adding velocity counters, a feature that defines its role in late-game scenarios. Collectors value this piece for its iconic design from the mid-90s era and its enduring presence in competitive discussions. Whether you are building a nostalgic deck or studying the evolution of enchantment cards, Tornado remains a fascinating subject for enthusiasts of the Magic: The Gathering universe. The card's enduring legacy is celebrated by fans who appreciate the intricate design choices made during the Alliances set's development.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Tornado
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Susan Van Camp
Card Stock
English
{4}{G}
Enchantment
G
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Cumulative upkeep {G} (At the beginning of your upkeep, put an age counter on this permanent, then sacrifice it unless you pay its upkeep cost for each age counter on it.) {2}{G}, Pay 3 life for each velocity counter on this enchantment: Destroy target permanent and put a velocity counter on this enchantment. Activate only once each turn.