Borrowed Hostility

Description

The Borrowed Hostility card, numbered 396, is a distinct inclusion in the 2025 Innistrad Remastered expansion for Magic: The Gathering. Produced by the game's official manufacturer, this release features a premium foil finish that enhances the visual appeal of the common rarity card. Designed with the signature aesthetic of the Innistrad Remastered set, it serves as a valuable addition for collectors seeking to complete their catalog of this reprint era. As an Instant spell with a mana value of one, Borrowed Hostility provides immediate tactical flexibility during gameplay. The card allows players to choose between two powerful effects: granting a target creature +3/+0 power until end of turn, or bestowing first strike on a target creature. These options make it a staple for red decks looking to control the board or secure combat advantages in the early turns. A unique feature of this card is the Escalate mechanic, which costs three additional mana for each mode chosen beyond the first. This allows a player to utilize both the power boost and the first strike benefit simultaneously by paying the extra cost, offering strategic depth that rewards careful resource management. The design, created by artist Volkan Baǵa, complements the card's aggressive nature while maintaining the high-quality production standards associated with the Magic: The Gathering brand. Collectors often seek out the foil version of this card for its shimmering finish, which stands out in a deck box or display collection. Whether you are building a competitive deck around the Innistrad Remastered subset or focusing on acquiring high-quality foils from the 2025 release, this card represents a key piece of the set's identity. Its versatile gameplay and striking presentation make it a memorable part of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game experience. ## What is the Escalate mechanic on this card? The Escalate mechanic allows you to choose additional modes for the spell by paying extra mana. For Borrowed Hostility, you can pay three mana to activate both the power boost and first strike effects simultaneously instead of choosing just one. ## Is this card suitable for competitive play? With a mana value of one and two flexible modes, this instant can be a powerful tool in red decks. Its ability to grant first strike or a significant power boost makes it relevant in various combat scenarios, though its effectiveness depends on your overall deck strategy. ## What makes the foil version of this card special? The foil finish adds a reflective, shimmering quality to the card's surface, making it visually distinct from the non-foil version. Collectors often prefer the foil treatment for its premium appearance and durability, enhancing the card's presence in any collection.