# 2013 Magic: The Gathering Gatecrash #77

> Shadow Slice is a 2013 Magic: The Gathering card from the Gatecrash set, featuring the Cipher mechanic and illustrated by Raymond Swanland.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/magic-the-gathering-gatecrash-shadow-slice-77

## Identity

- **Year**: 2013
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Gatecrash
- **Card number**: #77
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Shadow Slice is a Black sorcery card from Magic: The Gathering's 2013 Gatecrash set, identified by card number 77. Designed by artist Raymond Swanland, this common card costs {4}{B} to cast and has a mana value of 5. Its primary effect allows the controller to target an opponent and cause them to lose 3 life. Beyond this immediate impact, Shadow Slice features the Cipher mechanic, a unique ability that lets players exile the card encoded on a creature they control. Whenever that creature deals combat damage to a player, the controller may cast a copy of the encoded card without paying its mana cost. This adds a layer of strategic depth to the card, encouraging integration into creature-based strategies. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering often seek out cards from the Gatecrash expansion due to its distinct visual style and innovative mechanics. Shadow Slice represents a solid piece of this era's design philosophy, offering both direct interaction and long-term value through its encoded abilities. For enthusiasts tracking the history of Magic: The Gathering, this card serves as a notable example of the set's approach to Black mana's aggressive playstyle combined with persistent board presence.

## FAQ

### What does the Cipher mechanic do on Shadow Slice?

Cipher allows you to exile Shadow Slice encoded on a creature you control. Whenever that creature deals combat damage to a player, you may cast a copy of the encoded card without paying its mana cost.

### Who illustrated the Shadow Slice card?

The card was illustrated by Raymond Swanland, who created the artwork for this 2013 Gatecrash release.

### What is the mana cost for Shadow Slice?

Shadow Slice has a mana cost of {4}{B}, requiring four colorless mana and one black mana to cast.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.