The 1997 Magic: The Gathering Fifth Edition Stromgald Cabal is a rare black creature card designed by Anson Maddocks. This 5ED release features a classic mana cost and a unique life-pay effect for collectors.
Stromgald Cabal
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Fifth Edition
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Price History
$0.70
Description
The Stromgald Cabal is a distinct entry in the 1997 Magic: The Gathering Fifth Edition expansion, identified by card number 195 in the set. As a rare black creature, this card represents the strategic depth and thematic diversity that defined the game's early core sets. Collected by enthusiasts of vintage trading card games, this release offers a tangible connection to the foundational era of competitive and casual play alike. Designed by artist Anson Maddocks, the Stromgald Cabal functions as a Human Knight with a mana cost of three black mana. Its gameplay mechanics center on a unique sacrifice strategy: by tapping the card and paying one life, the controller can counter a target white spell. This interaction highlights the intricate card design philosophy of the late 1990s, where resource management and color-specific counters played pivotal roles in deck construction. For collectors, the value lies not just in the card's rarity within the set, but in its historical significance as part of the Fifth Edition, which standardized many gameplay elements and became a staple in countless decks worldwide. Collectors often seek out Stromgald Cabal from 1997 to complete their set of Fifth Edition cards, particularly those focusing on black-aligned strategies or rare cards from the base set. The card's enduring appeal stems from its role in the Stromgald storyline, reflecting the dark, ritualistic themes introduced during that narrative arc. Whether you are building a vintage collection, studying the evolution of Magic: The Gathering mechanics, or simply appreciating the artistry of Anson Maddocks, this card serves as a key piece for understanding the game's rich history. The Stromgald Cabal stands as a testament to the creative writing and mechanical innovation of its time. Its ability to disrupt white-based strategies makes it a notable subject for those studying the card's impact on early game balance. By adding this card to your collection, you are preserving a piece of Magic: The Gathering's evolution, from its humble beginnings in 1997 to its status as a global phenomenon today.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
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Featured
Stromgald Cabal
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Rare
Anson Maddocks
Card Stock
English
{1}{B}{B}
Creature — Human Knight
2 / 2
B
Card Text
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{T}, Pay 1 life: Counter target white spell.
When the alliance between Balduvia and Kjeldor deprived Stromgald of easy victories, its agents were forced to fuel their rituals with their own flesh.















