This Magic: The Gathering product listing is for the Eighth Edition release of the Defense Grid card, designated as card number 296★ in the 2003 set.
2003 • Magic: The Gathering • Eighth Edition
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$45.74 | Guide Estimate | +14.4% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 3, 2026
The Defense Grid card from Magic: The Gathering's Eighth Edition (2003) stands as a distinctive artifact within the game's extensive history. Identified as card number 296★ in the 8ED set, this piece captures the strategic depth that defined the era. As a rare foil variant, it offers collectors a visually striking addition to their collections, distinguished by its shimmering finish and iconic design elements typical of the period. Gameplay-wise, Defense Grid introduces a unique tactical layer. The artifact imposes a cost increase of three mana for spells cast by opponents during their turns, while sparing the controller's own spells. This asymmetrical effect makes it a formidable tool for controlling the board state, appealing to players who enjoy defensive strategies. The card's mana cost of two and its status as an artifact make it a versatile inclusion in various decks. For collectors, the Eighth Edition represents a significant milestone in Magic: The Gathering lore. It was one of the last core sets to feature a specific black border style before the transition to the white border design, adding historical weight to each card in the set. The Defense Grid foil, with its specific card number and rare treatment, is particularly sought after by those building complete sets or focusing on artifact-themed collections. The artwork, created by Mark Tedin, complements the card's thematic role, though the visual details are best appreciated in person. Owning a copy of this card connects you to a pivotal moment in the trading card game's evolution, offering both nostalgic value and functional utility for enthusiasts.
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The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Defense Grid
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Mark Tedin
Card Stock
English
Foil
{2}
Artifact
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Each spell costs {3} more to cast except during its controller's turn.
"A good deal of tyranny goes by the name of protection." —Crystal Eastman, "Equality or Protection"
FAQ
Defense Grid is an artifact that forces each opponent to pay {3} more to cast each spell except during their controller's turn. This effect helps protect the controller's board by making it more expensive for opponents to interact with the game state.
Yes, the Defense Grid card from the Eighth Edition set is classified as a Rare rarity. In Magic: The Gathering, rare cards are less common in booster packs compared to common or uncommon cards, making them more desirable for collectors.
The 8ED set code refers to Magic: The Gathering's Eighth Edition, released in 2003. This core set is notable for being one of the final sets to use a black border design before the game switched to white borders, which adds historical interest for collectors.
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