The Hostage Taker foil card (223) from Magic: The Gathering's 2017 Ixalan expansion is a sought-after Rare Human Pirate creature with unique exile mechanics.
2017 • Magic: The Gathering • Ixalan
No listings available right now.
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$1.09 | Guide Estimate | +6.9% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 1, 2026
The Hostage Taker foil card, numbered 223 in the 2017 Magic: The Gathering Ixalan set, represents a compelling addition to any collector's library of rare artifacts. As a Rare Human Pirate creature with a mana cost of {2}{U}{B}, this four-mana threat brings strategic depth to the table through its distinctive exile mechanic. The card features artwork by Wayne Reynolds, whose style complements the pirate-themed universe of Ixalan, making this foil version particularly desirable for enthusiasts of the series. Gameplay-wise, the Hostage Taker offers a powerful interaction with opponents' boards. When this creature enters the battlefield, it allows the controller to exile another target creature or artifact until the Hostage Taker leaves play. This effect creates a temporary but potent advantage, as the controller may cast the exiled card using mana of any type, bypassing normal color restrictions. This flexibility makes the card a versatile tool in various deck architectures, appealing to players who value adaptive strategies and resource denial. The foil finish adds visual appeal, catching the light and highlighting the card's details in a way that resonates with high-end collectors. Whether you are building a competitive deck around pirate synergies or simply seeking to complete your Ixalan collection, this card offers both aesthetic and mechanical value. The Hostage Taker's unique ability to disrupt opponents while providing alternative casting options makes it a standout piece in the Ixalan lineup.
We'll pre-fill the product details from this catalog entry, so your listing lands on this exact page. Just add photos of your copy, pick its condition, and set your price.
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Hostage Taker
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Wayne Reynolds
Card Stock
English
Foil
{2}{U}{B}
Creature — Human Pirate
2 / 3
B, U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
When this creature enters, exile another target creature or artifact until this creature leaves the battlefield. You may cast that card for as long as it remains exiled, and mana of any type can be spent to cast that spell.
FAQ
The Hostage Taker has a mana cost of {2}{U}{B}, requiring two generic mana, one blue mana, and one black mana to cast. This four-mana total makes it a mid-game threat that can be played on turn four or earlier with acceleration.
When Hostage Taker enters the battlefield, you may exile another target creature or artifact until it leaves the battlefield. You may cast that exiled card using mana of any type for as long as it remains exiled.
The Hostage Taker card from the Ixalan set was illustrated by Wayne Reynolds, a renowned fantasy artist known for his dynamic and detailed character designs.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.
Tap an image to preview it, or a card’s name to open its page.