The Rock Hydra (#172) from the 1993 Magic: The Gathering Intl. Collectors' Edition is a rare creature card featuring complex counter-based gameplay.
Rock Hydra
1993 • Magic: The Gathering • Intl. Collectors' Edition
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Description
Released in 1993 as part of the Magic: The Gathering Intl. Collectors' Edition, the Rock Hydra is card number 172 in the set. This rare creature card, illustrated by Jeff A. Menges, offers a distinct mechanical experience within the early days of the trading card game. The Hydra is a red creature with a mana cost of {X}{R}{R} and a mana value of 2. The gameplay of the Rock Hydra revolves around +1/+1 counters. When cast, the creature enters the battlefield with X +1/+1 counters on it. It possesses a protective ability that prevents damage by removing a +1/+1 counter instead of taking hit points. Additionally, players can activate abilities to prevent further damage or to add more counters during their upkeep. This design encourages strategic planning around resource management and damage prevention. Collectors of vintage Magic: The Gathering cards often seek out cards from the Intl. Collectors' Edition due to their historical significance in the game's evolution. The Rock Hydra stands out for its unique interaction with counters, a mechanic that has influenced many future card designs. Its presence in the set provides a tangible link to the early experimental phase of Magic's rules and card design. For enthusiasts of the game's history, acquiring this card adds depth to a collection focused on the foundational years of Magic: The Gathering.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Rock Hydra
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Rare
Jeff A. Menges
Card Stock
English
{X}{R}{R}
Creature — Hydra
0 / 0
R
Card Text
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This creature enters with X +1/+1 counters on it. For each 1 damage that would be dealt to this creature, if it has a +1/+1 counter on it, remove a +1/+1 counter from it and prevent that 1 damage. {R}: Prevent the next 1 damage that would be dealt to this creature this turn. {R}{R}{R}: Put a +1/+1 counter on this creature. Activate only during your upkeep.
