The 1997 Magic: The Gathering Brainstorm card (#76) from Fifth Edition is a fundamental Instant spell known for its powerful card advantage mechanics in the Trading Card Game.
Brainstorm
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Fifth Edition
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$2.19
Description
Brainstorm, identified as card number 76 in the 1997 Fifth Edition release of Magic: The Gathering, remains one of the most recognizable spells in the Trading Card Game. Designed by Christopher Rush, this blue Instant card provides a unique strategic advantage that has influenced gameplay for decades. Its straightforward mana cost of {U} and low mana value make it accessible and efficient for players to cast early in a game. The card’s primary function involves drawing three cards from the top of the library and then placing two of them back on top in any order. This ability allows players to dig through their deck to find specific resources while maintaining control over their future draws. Such card filtering is critical for building consistent decks, as it helps mitigate the randomness inherent in drawing from a shuffled library. Collectors often seek out this piece of Magic history for its historical significance and its enduring presence in various formats. As part of the Fifth Edition set, Brainstorm represents a key era in the evolution of the Trading Card Game. The set helped solidify the core rules and card design language that Magic continues to use today. For enthusiasts of the hobby, owning a copy of Brainstorm offers a tangible connection to the game’s rich past. It is a favorite among those who appreciate the strategic depth and mechanical innovation that defined the late 1990s. Whether used in casual play or studied for its design, this card stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Magic: The Gathering.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
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Featured Subject
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Featured
Brainstorm
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Common
Christopher Rush
Card Stock
English
{U}
Instant
U
Card Text
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Draw three cards, then put two cards from your hand on top of your library in any order.
"I reeled from the blow, and then suddenly, I knew exactly what to do. Within moments, victory was mine." —Gustha Ebbasdotter, Kjeldoran royal mage




















