# 2017 Magic: The Gathering Archenemy: Nicol Bolas #82

> Cruel Ultimatum is a high-impact Sorcery from the 2017 Archenemy: Nicol Bolas expansion, featuring a unique five-color mana requirement and a devastating dual-effect ability.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2017
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Archenemy: Nicol Bolas
- **Card number**: #82
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Cruel Ultimatum, card number 82 from the 2017 Archenemy: Nicol Bolas set, stands as one of the most formidable spells in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. This Rare Sorcery demands a substantial mana investment of seven, requiring a complex mix of Blue, Black, and Red mana to cast. Its effect is equally imposing, forcing a target opponent to sacrifice a creature, discard three cards, and lose five life, while simultaneously allowing the caster to return a creature from their graveyard, draw three cards, and gain five life.

Designed by Todd Lockwood, this card captures the essence of the Archenemy: Nicol Bolas expansion, where players assume the role of a powerful planeswalker. The card's flavor text, "There is always a greater power," hints at the overwhelming dominance associated with the set's theme. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading card game cards often seek out this print for its intricate gameplay mechanics and its place within a distinct era of the game's history. The card's E01 set code and rare status make it a notable addition to any collection focused on modern expansions. Whether for completing a set or appreciating the strategic depth of high-cost spells, Cruel Ultimatum represents a significant piece of the Archenemy: Nicol Bolas product line.

## FAQ

### What set is Cruel Ultimatum from?

Cruel Ultimatum is part of the Archenemy: Nicol Bolas set, released in 2017. It is identified as card number 82 within this expansion.

### What are the gameplay effects of Cruel Ultimatum?

This Sorcery requires seven mana to cast. It forces a target opponent to sacrifice a creature, discard three cards, and lose five life. In return, the controller returns a creature card from their graveyard to their hand, draws three cards, and gains five life.

### Who illustrated the Cruel Ultimatum card?

The artwork for Cruel Ultimatum was created by Todd Lockwood, whose style is featured prominently in the Archenemy: Nicol Bolas set.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.