# 1996 Magic: The Gathering Mirage #162

> The Burning Shield Askari from the 1996 Mirage set. This Magic: The Gathering card features the Human Knight creature type and unique flanking ability.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1996
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Mirage
- **Card number**: #162
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The Burning Shield Askari is a distinct creature card from the 1996 Magic: The Gathering Mirage expansion. Identified as Card Number 162, this Common rarity card belongs to the red mana color identity and carries the type line Creature — Human Knight. Designed by artist Dan Frazier, the card presents a unique gameplay profile for collectors who appreciate early 1990s mechanics.

In terms of gameplay, the Burning Shield Askari offers strategic depth through its flanking ability, which penalizes blocking creatures that lack flanking by reducing their power and toughness. Additionally, players can activate a red mana cost to grant the creature first strike until end of turn, allowing it to deal damage before opposing creatures can respond. This combination of defensive and offensive capabilities makes it a notable piece for enthusiasts of the Mirage era.

Collecting Mirage cards provides a glimpse into the foundational design of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. The Burning Shield Askari stands as a representative example of the set's creature design philosophy from 1996. Whether you are building a Mirage collection or focusing on specific creature types like Humans and Knights, this card adds value to any curated assembly. Its enduring presence in collector discussions highlights the lasting appeal of early Magic expansions.

## FAQ

### What is the Burning Shield Askari's creature type?

The Burning Shield Askari is classified as a Human Knight creature in Magic: The Gathering. It belongs to the red mana color identity and has a mana value of three.

### What abilities does the Burning Shield Askari have?

This card features the flanking keyword, which gives -1/-1 to blocking creatures without flanking. It also has an activated ability that grants first strike until end of turn for two red mana.

### What set is the Burning Shield Askari from?

The Burning Shield Askari is from the Mirage expansion, released in 1996. It is numbered 162 in the set and is considered a Common rarity card.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.