# 1995 Magic: The Gathering Fourth Edition #176

> The 1995 Fourth Edition Magic: The Gathering Ball Lightning card (#176) is a Rare Elemental creature featuring powerful Trample and Haste mechanics.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/magic-the-gathering-fourth-edition-ball-lightning-176

## Identity

- **Year**: 1995
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Fourth Edition
- **Card number**: #176
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Ball Lightning represents a cornerstone of early Magic: The Gathering design, introduced in the 1995 Fourth Edition set. As card number 176, this Rare Elemental creature is defined by its aggressive stats of 6 power and 1 toughness, balanced by a unique lifecycle mechanic. The card grants both Trample and Haste, allowing it to deal excess damage and attack immediately upon entering the battlefield. However, its high cost and the requirement to sacrifice itself at the end of the turn create a distinct strategic profile that has fascinated collectors and players since its release. Illustrated by Quinton Hoover, the card embodies the classic aesthetic of the Fourth Edition era, making it a recognizable piece for vintage Magic enthusiasts. For collectors building a comprehensive set of Fourth Edition cards, Ball Lightning #176 serves as an essential component of the red mana pool. Its enduring legacy in competitive play and its status as a staple in the game's history make it a highly sought-after item for those documenting the evolution of the trading card game. The combination of its iconic rules text and its place within the foundational Fourth Edition expansion ensures its continued relevance in the collector community.

## FAQ

### What are the key mechanics of the Ball Lightning card?

Ball Lightning features both Trample and Haste, allowing it to deal excess damage and attack immediately. A unique constraint requires the controller to sacrifice it at the beginning of the end step.

### What set and year is the Ball Lightning #176 card from?

This card was released in 1995 as part of the Fourth Edition expansion for Magic: The Gathering. It is identified by the set code 4ED and card number 176.

### Who illustrated the Ball Lightning card in Fourth Edition?

The artwork for Ball Lightning in the Fourth Edition set was created by artist Quinton Hoover, contributing to the distinctive visual style of the 1995 release.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.