Flame-Wreathed Phoenix

Description

Flame-Wreathed Phoenix is a Mythic Rare creature card identified as number 97 in the Born of the Gods set, released for Magic: The Gathering in 2014. Designed by artist James Ryman, this card represents a pivotal piece for collectors building complete sets of the BNG expansion. As a five-mana red Phoenix, it offers unique strategic depth through its tribute mechanic, allowing players to choose between immediate impact or long-term resilience. The card's design emphasizes its mythical nature, capturing the essence of the set's Greek-inspired mythology. When entering the battlefield, the tribute choice defines its playstyle. Paying two life counters grants the Phoenix flying, a standard trait for the Phoenix subtype. Alternatively, leaving it untributed triggers a powerful effect: it gains haste and returns to its owner's hand upon dying. This flexibility makes Flame-Wreathed Phoenix a compelling addition to red-based strategies, appealing to both competitive players and thematic collectors. For those focused on set completion, this Mythic Rare is a cornerstone of the Born of the Gods chase cards. Its distinct card number, 97, helps collectors track their progress through the expansion. The card's rules text introduces a nuanced decision point that has fascinated players since its debut. Understanding how the tribute mechanic interacts with other red spells is essential for mastering this card in gameplay. Collectors often seek out Flame-Wreathed Phoenix not just for its gameplay utility but for its place in Magic's rich history. This card exemplifies that design philosophy, offering a blend of risk and reward that defines the Phoenix subtype. Whether you are hunting for specific rarities or exploring the lore of Tarkir, this card holds significant interest. It serves as a reminder of the strategic variety Magic provides, encouraging deeper engagement with the game's rules and interactions.