Szadek, Lord of Secrets

Description

Szadek, Lord of Secrets is a formidable Legendary Creature — Vampire from the Magic: The Gathering Commander Anthology Volume II, released in 2018. Identified as card number 168 with the set code CM2, this rare card demands a mana cost of {3}{U}{U}{B}{B} and boasts a mana value of seven. Designed by artist Donato Giancola, the card features a five-over-five power and toughness profile, making it a significant presence on the battlefield. The card’s design emphasizes its dual-color identity of black and blue, which is reflected in its unique abilities. Szadek possesses flying, allowing it to bypass ground-based defenses. More importantly, its triggered ability offers a strategic alternative to dealing combat damage: instead of reducing a player’s life total, the damage is converted into +1/+1 counters placed on Szadek, while the affected player mills cards equal to that amount. This mechanic allows players to grow their creature while simultaneously depleting an opponent’s library, creating a versatile tool for control and attrition strategies. The Commander Anthology Volume II is renowned for bringing powerful, preconstructed decks and reprinted staples to the forefront, making Szadek a highly sought-after addition for enthusiasts building vampire-themed decks or seeking versatile legendary creatures. Whether you are a long-time fan of the Vampire subtype or simply appreciate well-designed legendary creatures, this card remains a significant piece of Magic history. The card’s rules text is paraphrased here for clarity, but the original printed text box contains the official wording for tournament and casual play. Its design and abilities make it a standout in the Commander Anthology series, appealing to both casual commanders and serious collectors of Magic: The Gathering memorabilia.