# 2020 Magic: The Gathering Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths #196

> The Necropanther foil card (#196) from the 2020 Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths expansion. This uncommon Cat Nightmare brings unique mutate mechanics to your Magic: The Gathering strategy.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2020
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths
- **Card number**: #196
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The Necropanther stands as a distinct creature card within the Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths expansion, released by Wizards of the Coast in 2020. Identified by card number 196 in the IKO set code, this uncommon foil features the intricate design work of artist Jason A. Engle. As a Cat Nightmare hybrid, the card offers a compelling strategic layer for players who enjoy complex interactions and resource management.

Central to the Necropanther’s identity is its mutate ability, allowing players to cast it for an alternative cost to overlap onto a target non-Human creature they control. This mechanic encourages creative deck building, as the resulting fused creature retains the abilities of both cards. The card’s secondary triggered ability activates whenever it mutates, enabling the player to return a target creature card with mana value three or less from their graveyard directly to the battlefield. This effect provides significant value, turning discarded resources back into immediate board presence.

The foil treatment adds a premium aesthetic to the uncommon rarity, making the Necropanther a desirable addition for builders focusing on the mutate archetype or those seeking to complete the full set. The B/W color identity allows for flexible mana bases, appealing to multi-color strategies. Whether you are drafting competitive decks or expanding your library with iconic cards from this era, the Necropanther represents a key piece of the Ikoria narrative. Its enduring appeal lies in its unique gameplay loop and the high-quality finish of the foil print, ensuring it remains a notable entry in any Magic: The Gathering collection.

## FAQ

### What is the mutate mechanic on the Necropanther?

Mutate allows you to cast the Necropanther over or under a target non-Human creature you own. The resulting fused creature has the characteristics of the top card plus all abilities from the cards underneath it.

### How does the Necropanther's graveyard ability work?

Whenever the Necropanther mutates, its triggered ability allows you to return a target creature card with mana value 3 or less from your graveyard to the battlefield. This provides immediate value from previously discarded cards.

### What are the Necropanther's stats and mana cost?

The Necropanther is a 3/3 Creature — Cat Nightmare with a mana cost of {1}{W}{B}. It has a mana value of 3 and belongs to the Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths set released in 2020.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.