# 2009 Magic: The Gathering Magic 2010 #200

> The Magic 2010 Protean Hydra (Card 200) is a foil mythic rare creature from 2009 featuring complex counter-based mechanics.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2009
- **Brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set**: Magic 2010
- **Card Number**: 200
- **Featured**: Protean Hydra
- **Game**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Rarity**: Mythic Rare
- **Mana cost**: {X}{G}
- **Type**: Creature — Hydra
- **Power / Toughness**: 0 / 0
- **Color**: G
- **Language**: English
- **Material**: Card Stock
- **Finish**: Foil

## Description

The Magic 2010 Protean Hydra, designated as card number 200, is a green Creature — Hydra from the 2009 set. Released as part of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game, this mythic rare foil card introduces a dynamic gameplay loop centered entirely on +1/+1 counters. Unlike static power and toughness, this card enters the battlefield with X +1/+1 counters on it, scaling its size based on the mana cost paid. The card features a distinctive defensive and recursive ability. When damage would be dealt to the Protean Hydra, that damage is prevented, and an equal number of +1/+1 counters are removed from it instead. This mechanic allows the creature to survive combat or spells that would normally destroy it. Furthermore, the card includes a growth engine: whenever a +1/+1 counter is removed, two new +1/+1 counters are placed on it at the beginning of the next end step. This creates a net gain of one counter for every point of damage prevented, allowing the Hydra to grow indefinitely if it takes damage repeatedly. Art by Jim Murray, this card is a Mythic Rare foil from the Magic 2010 expansion. It appeals to collectors of mythic rare foils and players who enjoy interactive, counter-based strategies. The card’s mana cost of {X}{G} and mana value of 1 make it a flexible inclusion in green decks. For collectors seeking to complete the Magic 2010 checklist, this foil variant offers a distinct visual and mechanical identity within the set. The Protean Hydra remains a notable example of the complex mechanics introduced in modern Magic sets.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of the Magic 2010 Protean Hydra?

The Protean Hydra has a mana cost of {X}{G} and a mana value of 1. It is a green creature that enters the battlefield with X +1/+1 counters on it.

### How does the Protean Hydra's counter mechanic work?

When damage would be dealt to the Hydra, that damage is prevented, and an equal number of +1/+1 counters are removed from it. If a counter is removed, two new +1/+1 counters are placed on it at the beginning of the next end step.

### Who illustrated the Magic 2010 Protean Hydra card?

The card was illustrated by Jim Murray. It is a foil mythic rare card numbered 200 in the Magic 2010 set.

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Editorial content updated: 2026-10-03.

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