# 2015 Magic: The Gathering Battle for Zendikar #157

> The foil printing of Sure Strike, card number 157 from the 2015 Battle for Zendikar expansion. This Magic: The Gathering instant offers a powerful combat boost with first strike.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2015
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Battle for Zendikar
- **Card number**: #157
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Sure Strike stands out in the Battle for Zendikar expansion as a versatile red instant spell. Released in 2015, this common card carries the distinct foil treatment, adding a shimmering finish that appeals to collectors who appreciate visual variety within the BFZ set. As card number 157, it occupies a specific spot in the set's structure, making it a recognizable piece for builders tracking their progress.

For players of Magic: The Gathering, Sure Strike provides a straightforward yet effective combat trick. With a mana cost of {1}{R}, it allows players to target a creature, granting it +3/+0 power and toughness along with the first strike ability until the end of the turn. This mechanic ensures the targeted creature deals damage before opponents without first strike, offering tactical flexibility in any game state. The card’s simplicity and reliability make it a staple in aggressive red decks, though its collector value often lies in the foil printing rather than just its gameplay utility.

The 2015 release date places this card firmly in the modern era of Magic: The Gathering, a period known for robust design and diverse mechanics. Collectors often seek out foil cards from this era to complete their sets or to add a touch of elegance to their collections. The foil finish not only enhances the card's aesthetic appeal but also distinguishes it from the non-foil counterparts found in standard boosters. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to expand your library or a collector focusing on the Battle for Zendikar set, this foil Sure Strike represents a tangible piece of the game's rich history. It serves as a reminder of the strategic depth and artistic presentation that define the Magic: The Gathering experience.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of Sure Strike?

Sure Strike has a mana cost of {1}{R}, requiring one generic mana and one red mana to cast. This low cost makes it an efficient spell for early-game strategies.

### What does the first strike ability do in Magic: The Gathering?

First strike allows a creature to deal its combat damage in the first strike damage step, before creatures without first strike. This can prevent the creature from taking damage from blockers that do not also have first strike or double strike.

### What set is card number 157 from?

Card number 157 is from the Battle for Zendikar expansion, which was released in 2015.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.