Shivan Dragon

Description

Shivan Dragon stands as a formidable presence in Magic: The Gathering lore, serving as a primary example of red mana's aggressive strategy during the game's early years. Issued in 1995 as part of the Fourth Edition Foreign Black Border set, this card is cataloged under number 220 and bears the set code 4BB. As a rare creature, it represents the classic design philosophy of the era, offering players a powerful tool for direct confrontation. The card features a mana cost of four generic mana and two red mana, resulting in a mana value of six. It enters the battlefield as a five-power, five-toughness Dragon. Its abilities allow it to evade ground-based defenses with flying and provide offensive flexibility through a triggered ability: by discarding a red mana, the Dragon gains +1/+0 until the end of the turn. This mechanic encourages dynamic play, allowing commanders to adjust their threat level mid-combat. Artwork for this release was created by Melissa A. Collectors of vintage Magic: The Gathering often seek this print run for its historical significance in the game's development. The foreign black border variant is particularly noted among enthusiasts for its distinct aesthetic compared to standard domestic releases. Whether you are looking to complete a Vintage collection or add a staple red card to your library, understanding the technical details and historical context of cards like Shivan Dragon is essential. The community values the clarity of the rules text and the iconic nature of the dragon archetype. Exploring the Fourth Edition Foreign Black Border set reveals the depth of design that made Magic: The Gathering a enduring cultural phenomenon.