# 2013 Magic: The Gathering Commander 2013 #238

> The 2013 Magic: The Gathering Commander release, featuring the Carnage Altar artifact card. This uncommon C13 card offers a strategic sacrifice mechanic for TCG enthusiasts.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2013
- **Brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set**: Commander 2013
- **Card Number**: 238
- **Featured**: Carnage Altar
- **Game**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Rarity**: Uncommon
- **Mana cost**: {2}
- **Type**: Artifact
- **Language**: English
- **Material**: Card Stock
- **Finish**: Normal

## Description

The Carnage Altar is a notable artifact card from the 2013 Magic: The Gathering Commander set, designated as card number 238. As an uncommon release within the Commander (C13) series, this card has established itself as a functional component for players seeking efficient card advantage. The card features a mana cost of two and serves as a key piece in decks that utilize creature sacrifice strategies to maintain momentum and resource consistency. Designed by artist James Paick, the Carnage Altar provides a straightforward yet powerful ability: by sacrificing a creature and paying three mana, players can draw a card. This mechanic encourages strategic decision-making, as players must balance the immediate loss of a resource with the long-term benefit of card selection. The flavor text, attributed to Anowon, the Ruin Sage, adds narrative depth, hinting at themes of vengeance and retribution that resonate with the card's aggressive utility. For collectors, the Carnage Altar represents a tangible piece of Magic: The Gathering history from the 2013 Commander expansion. The card's design and mechanics reflect the innovative spirit of the Commander format, which focuses on multiplayer gameplay and unique deck-building constraints. Whether you are building a new deck or expanding your collection of Commander cards, the Carnage Altar offers both strategic value and collectible appeal. Its enduring presence in the TCG community highlights its significance as a versatile and beloved artifact. By focusing on the identity and context of each release, collectors can appreciate the craftsmanship and strategic depth that Magic: The Gathering brings to the hobby. The Carnage Altar remains a testament to the enduring popularity of the Commander format and the creative possibilities it offers.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of the Carnage Altar card?

The Carnage Altar has a mana cost of two, making it an affordable artifact to play early in the game. This low cost allows players to include it in various deck archetypes without disrupting their mana curve.

### How does the Carnage Altar ability work in gameplay?

The card allows players to sacrifice a creature and pay three additional mana to draw a card. This mechanic provides card advantage by trading a temporary resource for long-term deck consistency.

### Who is the artist for the Carnage Altar card?

The Carnage Altar card was illustrated by James Paick, whose artwork adds visual appeal to this 2013 Commander set release. The illustration complements the card's thematic elements of sacrifice and power.

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Editorial content updated: 2026-09-27.

Site deployment: 2025-11-29.