# 2017 Magic: The Gathering Commander 2017 #85

> Harbinger of the Tides, a Rare Merfolk Wizard from Magic: The Gathering's 2017 Commander set. This card offers powerful board control with its unique flash ability and return-to-hand effect.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2017
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Commander 2017
- **Card number**: #85
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Harbinger of the Tides is a Rare creature card from Magic: The Gathering’s 2017 Commander set, identified by card number 85. Designed by Svetlin Velinov, this Merfolk Wizard brings a distinct strategic layer to the game with its unique interaction capabilities. The card features a mana cost of {U}{U} and a mana value of 2, making it an efficient inclusion in blue-based decks. As a 2/2 creature, it serves as a versatile tool for players seeking to manipulate the board state without committing excessive resources.

The card’s primary appeal lies in its flexible casting rules. Players may cast Harbinger of the Tides as though it had flash by paying an additional {2}, allowing for instant-speed responses during opponents' turns. This versatility enables surprise plays and defensive maneuvers that catch adversaries off guard. When the creature enters the battlefield, it triggers an effect that allows the controller to return a target tapped creature an opponent controls to its owner's hand. This ability provides significant board control, disrupting enemy strategies and creating temporary advantages.

For collectors and players alike, Harbinger of the Tides represents a well-crafted piece of Magic: The Gathering lore and mechanics. Its design as a Merfolk Wizard fits seamlessly into the broader narrative of the game’s aquatic factions. The card’s straightforward yet impactful rules text makes it accessible to newer players while offering depth for seasoned strategists. Whether used in competitive play or casual Commander games, this card exemplifies the creative design philosophy of the Commander format.

Its rarity as a Rare card adds to its collectibility, making it a desirable addition for enthusiasts of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. The card’s enduring relevance in the TCG community highlights its successful integration of flavor and function, ensuring it remains a respected presence in blue decks across various formats.

## FAQ

### What makes Harbinger of the Tides a valuable card in Magic: The Gathering?

Harbinger of the Tides is valued for its unique flash ability and board control effect. It allows players to cast it at instant speed for an additional cost and can return a tapped opponent's creature to their hand, providing significant strategic flexibility.

### What is the mana cost and type of Harbinger of the Tides?

Harbinger of the Tides has a mana cost of {U}{U} and a mana value of 2. It is a Rare Creature — Merfolk Wizard with 2 power and 2 toughness, making it an efficient blue-based card.

### In which set can you find Harbinger of the Tides?

Harbinger of the Tides appears in the 2017 Commander set (C17) as card number 85. It is part of Magic: The Gathering's Commander format, which focuses on casual and multiplayer gameplay.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.