# 2010 Magic: The Gathering Magic Online Theme Decks #A36

> The Animate Dead Aura card (A36) from the 2010 Magic Online Theme Decks. This Black Uncommon enchantment allows players to return creatures from the graveyard to the battlefield.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2010
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Magic Online Theme Decks
- **Card number**: #A36
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The Animate Dead card, designated as A36 in the 2010 Magic Online Theme Decks, remains a staple for players who appreciate Black mana strategies. Crafted by artist Anson Maddocks, this Uncommon rarity enchantment operates as an Aura, requiring a single black mana and one generic mana to cast. Its mana value of two makes it an efficient inclusion in decks focused on graveyard interaction.

The card’s primary function revolves around reanimation mechanics. Initially, it targets a creature card residing in a graveyard. Upon entering the battlefield, the Aura’s enchantment changes to attach to the creature it returns. This effect brings the chosen creature back under your control, effectively bypassing the graveyard’s finality. However, the card carries a significant drawback: if the Aura leaves the battlefield for any reason, the creature it enchanted must be sacrificed. This creates a high-stakes dynamic where the player must protect the Aura to retain the creature’s presence on the field.

Beyond the return effect, Animate Dead imposes a -1/-0 counter on the enchanted creature, slightly reducing its combat effectiveness. Despite this penalty, the ability to recur creatures provides consistent value, making it a popular choice for collectors and players alike. The card is part of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game ecosystem, specifically tied to the Magic Online Theme Decks series. Collectors often seek this card to complete their Magic Online Theme Decks collection or to build thematic Black decks that leverage graveyard synergy. The distinct mechanics of Animate Dead offer a unique gameplay experience, balancing immediate power with strategic risk. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or new to the game, this card represents a classic example of Black mana’s thematic focus on death and resurrection.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of Animate Dead in Magic: The Gathering?

The mana cost for Animate Dead is one black mana and one generic mana, totaling two mana. This makes it an affordable spell to cast early in the game.

### How does the sacrifice clause work on Animate Dead?

When the Animate Dead Aura leaves the battlefield, the controller of the enchanted creature must sacrifice that creature. This prevents players from easily recycling the Aura to reanimate multiple creatures.

### Who illustrated the Animate Dead card in the 2010 Theme Decks?

The 2010 Magic Online Theme Decks version of Animate Dead was illustrated by Anson Maddocks. His artwork complements the card’s dark, necromantic theme.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.