The strategic depth of Grim Contest, a black and green instant from Magic: The Gathering's 2015 Fate Reforged expansion. This common card features a unique exchange-of-damage mechanic ideal for diverse gameplay strategies.
2015 • Magic: The Gathering • Fate Reforged
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.19 | Guide Estimate | +26.7% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 4, 2026
Grim Contest is a common instant card released as part of the Magic: The Gathering Fate Reforged set in 2015. Identified as card number 153, this piece of the game's rich lore offers players a distinct strategic option within the black and green mana colors. The card requires a mana cost of {1}{B}{G} and has a mana value of three, fitting seamlessly into decks that rely on these color identities. The gameplay mechanic of Grim Contest is both simple and impactful. Players can choose a target creature they control and a target creature an opponent controls. Each creature then deals damage to the other equal to its respective toughness. This exchange mechanic allows for creative tactical decisions, enabling players to trade weaker creatures for stronger ones or eliminate threats while preserving their own board presence. The flavor text hints at a brutal encounter, adding narrative depth to the mechanical interaction. As a common card in the Fate Reforged expansion, Grim Contest serves as a versatile tool for collectors and players alike. It is often sought after by those building competitive decks that require efficient removal or value-generating instant-speed effects. The card's design and text box are consistent with the aesthetic of the 2015 release, featuring clean typography and clear rules text. Collectors may also appreciate the artistic contribution of Phill Simmer, whose work defines the visual identity of this era in Magic: The Gathering history. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to refine your black-green strategies or a collector assembling a complete Fate Reforged set, Grim Contest represents a solid addition to your library. Its straightforward yet effective ability ensures it remains a relevant card in various formats, providing reliable interaction against opponent's threats. The card's enduring appeal lies in its ability to shift the momentum of a game through clever creature trading, making it a staple for many mid-range and control decks.
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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
Grim Contest
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Phill Simmer
Card Stock
English
{1}{B}{G}
Instant
B, G
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Choose target creature you control and target creature an opponent controls. Each of those creatures deals damage equal to its toughness to the other.
The invader hoped he could survive the beast's jaws and emerge through its rotting skin.
FAQ
Grim Contest is an instant that allows you to choose a target creature you control and a target creature an opponent controls. Each of those creatures deals damage to the other equal to its toughness.
The card has a mana cost of {1}{B}{G}, requiring one generic mana, one black mana, and one green mana to cast. It has a total mana value of three.
Grim Contest is part of the Fate Reforged expansion, released by Wizards of the Coast in 2015. It is printed as a common rarity card within that set.
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