# 2023 Magic: The Gathering March of the Machine #269

> The foil version of Dismal Backwater from Magic: The Gathering's March of the Machine set. This tapped land card adds one blue or black mana and enters with a life gain effect.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2023
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: March of the Machine
- **Card number**: #269
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The foil finish of Dismal Backwater (card number 269) offers a distinct visual upgrade for collectors of the 2023 Magic: The Gathering March of the Machine set. As a common land card, it serves as a functional staple for decks seeking flexible mana sources, specifically those built around blue and black color identities. The card’s design reflects the thematic turmoil of the Kamigawa block, where the Invasion Tree’s branches turned the city into a clouded nightmare, a narrative element that resonates with fans of the storyline. Mechanically, Dismal Backwater is a tapped land that enters the battlefield tapped. Upon entering, the controller gains 1 life, providing a minor defensive benefit. Once active, tapping the card allows the player to add either one blue or one black mana to their pool. This flexibility makes it a reliable component for multicolor spells, appealing to players who value consistent mana acceleration in their strategies. The artist Chris Ostrowski created the artwork, though the foil treatment adds a shimmering texture that enhances the card's appeal as a collectible item. For investors and hobbyists, the March of the Machine expansion is a significant release in the Modern format landscape. Owning the foil variant of this common land can be a satisfying addition for those who appreciate the aesthetic differences between standard and foil prints. Collectors often seek out complete sets, and having the foil version of every card in the set provides a unique display value. Whether you are building a Commander deck or simply expanding your library, the Dismal Backwater foil card represents a solid piece of the March of the Machine catalog.

## FAQ

### What mana does Dismal Backwater produce?

Dismal Backwater is a land card that can be tapped to add either one blue mana or one black mana to your mana pool. This flexibility allows it to support decks that utilize both colors.

### What is the card number for Dismal Backwater in March of the Machine?

Dismal Backwater is card number 269 in the March of the Machine set. It is categorized as a common rarity card within the expansion.

### How does Dismal Backwater enter the battlefield?

This land enters the battlefield tapped. When it does enter, you gain 1 life. You can tap it for mana only on your subsequent turns after it has entered.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.