War Elephant

Description

The War Elephant card from the 1995 Chronicles Foreign Black Border set stands as a foundational white creature in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Identified as card number 13 with the set code BCHR, this common rarity card was illustrated by Kristen Bishop and has maintained a steady presence in collector portfolios for decades. As a creature with a mana value of four, it requires three generic mana and one white mana to cast, making it a reliable inclusion in white-based decks that value board presence. Strategically, the War Elephant is defined by its powerful abilities: Trample and Banding. Trample allows excess combat damage to flow through to the defending player if the target creature cannot block the full power, while Banding enables a unique combat interaction. When creatures with Banding attack together, they form a band that is blocked as a single unit. Crucially, if any creatures with Banding are involved in blocking or being blocked, the Banding controller decides how to divide the incoming damage among the creatures in the block, offering tactical flexibility that was highly valued in the game's early competitive landscape. For collectors, the Chronicles Foreign Black Border version represents a distinct aesthetic from the standard release, featuring a black border that distinguishes it from other chronicles printings. These cards are sought after by those completing set collections or building vintage-inspired decks. The War Elephant's straightforward yet mechanically rich design makes it a staple for understanding early Magic rules interactions. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to revisit classic mechanics or a new collector exploring the game's rich history, this card offers a tangible piece of TCG heritage.