The Steelfin Whale (J21 #255) is a blue Common creature from the 2021 Jumpstart: Historic Horizons set, featuring an affinity mechanic that reduces its casting cost based on artifacts controlled.
2021 • Magic: The Gathering • Jumpstart: Historic Horizons
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The Steelfin Whale represents a distinct strategic option within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game, specifically from the Jumpstart: Historic Horizons set released in 2021. As a blue creature with a mana value of six, this card introduces a unique mechanical synergy that rewards players who have already established an artifact-based board presence. The card is numbered 255 in the set and carries the common rarity designation, making it a staple for players looking to build efficient, artifact-heavy decks. The card’s primary strength lies in its affinity for artifacts. This ability allows the spell to be cast for one less mana for each artifact you control, significantly lowering the initial investment required to play this six-mana creature. This mechanic aligns perfectly with strategies that rely on numerous low-cost artifacts, turning the Steelfin Whale into a highly efficient threat that can often be played earlier than its mana value suggests. Once on the battlefield, the Whale maintains its presence through a powerful trigger: whenever any artifact you control enters the battlefield, this creature untaps. This continuous untapping capability ensures that the Steelfin Whale remains a persistent threat, capable of blocking multiple times or attacking repeatedly as long as new artifacts are entering play. Collectors and players alike appreciate the Steelfin Whale for its clever design and utility. The card was illustrated by Milivoj Ćeran, adding to its visual appeal within the set. For those building decks in formats where Jumpstart: Historic Horizons cards are legal, this whale offers a reliable way to close out games against aggressive strategies or to stabilize against faster opponents. Its straightforward rules text and impactful effect make it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy artifact-centric archetypes. Whether you are looking to expand your collection of Magic: The Gathering cards or seek a powerful tool for your deck, the Steelfin Whale stands out as a cleverly designed creature from the 2021 era of the game.
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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
Steelfin Whale
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Milivoj Ćeran
Card Stock
English
{5}{U}
Creature — Whale
3 / 4
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Affinity for artifacts (This spell costs {1} less to cast for each artifact you control.) Whenever an artifact you control enters, untap this creature.
FAQ
The Steelfin Whale has a mana cost of {5}{U} and a mana value of six. However, its affinity for artifacts allows you to cast it for one less mana for each artifact you control, potentially reducing the total cost.
Affinity for artifacts reduces the generic mana cost of the Steelfin Whale by {1} for each artifact you control. This makes it significantly cheaper to cast if you have many artifacts on the battlefield.
Whenever an artifact you control enters the battlefield, you untap the Steelfin Whale. This allows the creature to block multiple times or attack multiple times in a single turn, provided new artifacts are entering play.
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