# 2017 Magic: The Gathering Commander 2017 #118

> Painful Truths is a black sorcery card from the 2017 Commander release, offering flexible card draw mechanics for strategic gameplay.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2017
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Commander 2017
- **Card number**: #118
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Painful Truths stands as a notable inclusion in the 2017 Commander release of Magic: The Gathering, designated as card number 118 within the set. Crafted by artist Winona Nelson, this rare card captures the essence of the game's strategic depth through its unique convergence mechanic. As a black mana sorcery, it offers players a dynamic way to manipulate their hand size relative to their resource expenditure. The card's design emphasizes the risk-reward balance central to the Commander format, appealing to collectors who appreciate both the artistic and mechanical elements of the game. The convergence ability allows casters to draw a number of cards equal to the life lost, scaled by the colors of mana spent, creating versatile play patterns. This flexibility makes Painful Truths a staple in many competitive and casual decks alike. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading cards often seek out specific cards from the Commander series for their historical significance and ongoing utility. The 2017 Commander set remains a cornerstone for enthusiasts looking to expand their libraries with high-quality, thematic cards. Painful Truths exemplifies the set's focus on powerful, singular-impact spells that can shift the tide of a game. Its enduring presence in various deck archetypes highlights its importance in the broader Magic: The Gathering ecosystem. Whether for completing a set or enhancing a specific strategy, this card represents a key piece of the Commander narrative. The combination of its striking rarity, thematic flavor, and robust mechanics ensures its place among the most discussed and utilized cards in the game.

## FAQ

### What is the convergence mechanic on Painful Truths?

Convergence allows you to draw X cards and lose X life, where X is determined by the number of colors of mana spent to cast the spell. This makes the card's effect scale based on your mana investment.

### Is Painful Truths a rare card in the Commander set?

Yes, Painful Truths is classified as a rare card within the 2017 Commander set. Its rarity is indicated by the foil stamp on the card and its specific card number, 118.

### Who illustrated the art for Painful Truths?

The artwork for Painful Truths was created by Winona Nelson, whose style contributes to the visual identity of the 2017 Commander release.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.