The 2004 Magic: The Gathering card Lava Spike (CHK 178) is a red Arcane Sorcery that deals 3 damage to a target player or planeswalker.
2004 • Magic: The Gathering • Champions of Kamigawa
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$1.24 | Guide Estimate | -3.9% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 21, 2026
Lava Spike is a foundational red card from the 2004 Magic: The Gathering set Champions of Kamigawa. As card number 178 in the CHK expansion, this Common rarity card is classified as an Arcane Sorcery with a mana value of 1. Its primary effect allows the controller to deal 3 damage to any target player or planeswalker, making it a staple for direct damage strategies in the game's history. The card was illustrated by Mark Tedin, whose artistic style contributed significantly to the aesthetic of the Kamigawa block. The flavor text surrounding the card hints at the chaotic nature of the war between mortals and kami, describing attacks that were straightforward and overwhelming rather than subtle or deceptive. This narrative context grounds the card's mechanical power within the rich lore of the Japanese-inspired setting. Collectors often seek out Champions of Kamigawa cards for their distinct visual identity and historical significance in the Magic: The Gathering timeline. Lava Spike remains a recognizable piece of the game's early 2000s era, valued for its efficiency and simplicity. Whether for completing a set, building a vintage deck, or appreciating the design of early 2000s TCG cards, this release offers a tangible connection to that period of the game's evolution.
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The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Lava Spike
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Mark Tedin
Card Stock
English
{R}
Sorcery — Arcane
R
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Lava Spike deals 3 damage to target player or planeswalker.
Some kami attacks during the war were rife with trickery, subterfuge, and subtlety, draining hope and pride from the mortal world. Other attacks were a lot more straightforward.
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