# 1994 Magic: The Gathering Foreign Black Border #171

> The iconic 1994 Foreign Black Border release of Red Elemental Blast, card number 171 from the Magic: The Gathering trading card game.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/magic-the-gathering-foreign-black-border-red-elemental-blast-171

## Identity

- **Year**: 1994
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Foreign Black Border
- **Card number**: #171
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 1994 as part of the Foreign Black Border set, Red Elemental Blast (card number 171) remains a foundational instant in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Designed by Richard Thomas, this common card has defined strategic interactions for decades. As a single mana red instant, it offers players a versatile tool to disrupt opponents by countering a blue spell or destroying a blue permanent. Its simplicity and effectiveness have made it a recognizable piece of early Magic history. Collectors often seek this card to complete sets or as a nostalgic reminder of the game's initial design philosophy. Whether you are building a vintage collection or studying the game's mechanical evolution, Red Elemental Blast represents a key moment in trading card game history.

## FAQ

### What does Red Elemental Blast do in gameplay?

Red Elemental Blast is a one-mana red instant that allows the player to choose one effect: counter target blue spell or destroy target blue permanent. This dual-purpose design made it highly flexible in early Magic: The Gathering matches.

### Is this card from the original Magic release?

Yes, Red Elemental Blast is from the 1994 Foreign Black Border set, which is part of the original Alpha and Beta era of Magic: The Gathering. It is card number 171 in that specific set.

### Why is Red Elemental Blast significant to collectors?

As one of the earliest blue-hate cards in Magic history, it represents a core design concept from the game's inception. Collectors value it for its historical importance and its role in shaping early competitive strategies.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.