The 1997 Magic: The Gathering Fifth Edition Force Spike card (number 88) is a foundational blue instant that defines early mana management for collectors.
Force Spike
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Fifth Edition
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Market Price Guide
| Condition | Value | Comps | Source | Price Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raw / Ungraded | $1.16Over the last 30 days, stored prices ranged from $1.16 to $1.16 across 2 capture days. Change between Sep 4, 2026 and Sep 11, 2026: 0%. Compares the same source, grade and signed status. Capture days are not completed-sale counts. | Unknown | Guide estimate Based on TCGplayer Market (reference) | Source observation date unavailable |
Price History
Description
Force Spike, designated as card number 88 in the 1997 Fifth Edition set, remains a cornerstone of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Released during the game's foundational era, this blue instant card was designed to provide early-game control and tempo advantage. Its simple mana cost and straightforward effect made it a staple in decks seeking to disrupt opponents while conserving resources. For collectors of vintage trading cards, Fifth Edition represents a pivotal moment in the hobby's history. As one of the last core sets to be printed in English before the shift to expansion-based core sets, it holds significant nostalgic value. Force Spike, with its Common rarity, was distributed widely, making it an accessible entry point for new collectors while still offering depth for those studying the game's mechanical evolution. The card's enduring legacy lies in its design philosophy: providing powerful control options without excessive complexity. Collectors often seek out Fifth Edition cards to complete their base set collections or to study the evolution of card design and rules text. Force Spike serves as a tangible link to the game's golden age, where simple mechanics created complex strategic interactions. Whether you are building a vintage collection or researching the history of competitive play, this card offers a window into the strategic foundations of the game. The straightforward text and iconic blue border make it instantly recognizable to any seasoned player or curious newcomer.
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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
Force Spike
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Common
John Matson
Card Stock
English
{U}
Instant
U
Card Text
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Counter target spell unless its controller pays {1}.
"Unknown spears / Suddenly hurtle before my dream-awakened eyes . . . ." —William Butler Yeats, "The Valley of the Black Pig"










