Dragon Whelp

Description

Dragon Whelp is card number 142 in the 1993 Intl. Collectors' Edition of Magic: The Gathering. As an Uncommon creature, this card is part of the foundational release that established the game's complex mechanics and lore. The card was illustrated by Amy Weber, whose artwork remains a notable component of this set's visual identity. In gameplay, Dragon Whelp is a red Dragon with a mana cost of {2}{R}{R} and a power/toughness of 2/3. Its most defining trait is the Flying ability, allowing it to evade non-flying blockers. The card features a unique activated ability that highlights the strategic risks inherent in the game's early design. By paying {R}, the creature gains +1/+0 until end of turn. However, if this ability is activated four or more times in a single turn, the creature must be sacrificed at the beginning of the next end step. This mechanic forces players to weigh immediate power against long-term board presence. Collectors often seek out cards from the Intl. Collectors' Edition for their historical significance in the Magic: The Gathering timeline. Dragon Whelp represents the diverse creature types introduced in these early sets, appealing to those interested in the game's evolution. The card’s design and text box are consistent with the standard layout of the era, making it a familiar yet distinct piece for enthusiasts of the game's history. Whether you are building a vintage collection or studying the mechanics of early Magic releases, this card offers a glimpse into the strategic depth of the 1993 era.