Piru, the Volatile

Description

Piru, the Volatile, card number 466 in the Modern Horizons 2 expansion, represents a high-impact addition to the Magic: The Gathering trading card game landscape. Released in 2021, this legendary Elder Dragon commands a substantial mana investment of eight total mana, requiring a unique mix of red, white, and black colors. This multicolored requirement makes it a standout artifact for players and collectors who appreciate the strategic depth of five-color or three-color shell deck building. Designed by Greg Staples, the card features a powerful 7/7 body with the essential keywords of flying and lifelink. These traits allow the dragon to control the board immediately upon entry, trading damage for life gain while remaining difficult for opponents to remove. The true strategic weight of Piru, the Volatile, however, lies in its upkeep and death triggers. Players must make a difficult decision each turn: pay {R}{W}{B} to keep the dragon on the battlefield or sacrifice it to unleash a devastating effect. When sacrificed or otherwise destroyed, Piru deals seven damage to each nonlegendary creature on the battlefield. This ability serves as a powerful board wipe, clearing out opposing armies and resetting the game state in favor of the dragon’s controller. The card’s design encourages aggressive playstyles that leverage its high power and toughness while utilizing its ultimate ability to eliminate threats. Whether building a competitive deck or expanding a collection of legendary creatures, this card offers both mechanical intrigue and aesthetic appeal.