Shriekmaw

Description

Shriekmaw, card number 160 in the 2014 Magic: The Gathering Commander set (C14), is a five-mana black Elemental creature designed to disrupt opposing strategies. Created by artist Steve Prescott, this uncommon card offers a distinct strategic option for players focusing on black mana pools. The card's design and mechanics reflect the aggressive, board-control themes often found in the Commander format, making it a recognizable piece for collectors of the era. The card’s abilities center around removal and protection. Shriekmaw possesses Fear, a keyword ability that restricts which creatures can block it, typically requiring artifact or black creatures to engage. This makes it difficult for opponents to defend against its attack without committing specific resources. When Shriekmaw enters the battlefield, it can destroy a target nonartifact, nonblack creature, providing immediate board impact. This effect is particularly valuable for clearing out key threats early in the game. Additionally, Shriekmaw features the Evoke mechanic, allowing players to cast it for an alternative cost of one black mana and one generic mana. If cast this way, the creature is sacrificed immediately upon entering the battlefield, triggering its death trigger. This adds a layer of strategic depth, enabling players to access its powerful entry effect at a lower mana cost while sacrificing the permanent itself. This dual nature—offering both a persistent threat and a cheap removal spell—makes Shriekmaw a versatile tool in deck construction. For collectors, Shriekmaw represents a solid entry point into the Commander product line. As an uncommon from a standalone Commander release, it holds appeal for those tracking set completions or seeking specific mechanics like Evoke. The card’s straightforward yet impactful design makes it a staple reference for understanding black creature strategies in Magic: The Gathering. Whether building a deck or expanding a collection, this card offers a clear example of efficient removal and protective abilities within the game’s framework.