Collect the 2002 Onslaught expansion Chain of Vapor foil card, a blue instant that allows players to bounce permanents and potentially copy the effect.
2002 • Magic: The Gathering • Onslaught
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$574.50 | Guide Estimate | 0% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 31, 2026
Chain of Vapor is a blue Instant card from Magic: The Gathering's 2002 Onslaught set, identified by the number 73 and the ONS set code. This version features a foil finish, adding a distinct visual quality to the card that appeals to collectors who appreciate the tactile and aesthetic variations found in older TCG releases. Designed by artist Carl Critchlow, the card represents a classic example of early 2000s Magic design, where mechanics were introduced to interact directly with the board state in dynamic ways. In terms of gameplay, Chain of Vapor offers a versatile response option with a mana cost of one blue mana. The card’s effect allows a player to return a target nonland permanent to its owner's hand. Following this disruption, the controller of that permanent must sacrifice a land of their choice. If they do, the original caster may copy Chain of Vapor and choose a new target for the copy. This ability to potentially remove two permanents or disrupt an opponent's resource base made it a notable inclusion in the Onslaught block, which focused heavily on the cycle of sacrificing lands for power. For collectors, this card serves as a key component for those building complete sets of the Onslaught expansion. The foil variant is particularly sought after by enthusiasts who focus on acquiring higher-treatment copies of uncommons and rares. As part of the Magic: The Gathering catalog, it remains a recognizable piece of trading card history, bridging the gap between competitive utility and collectible value. Whether you are a long-time player remembering the Onslaught block or a new collector exploring the game's deep history, Chain of Vapor represents an important moment in card design. Its straightforward yet impactful effect continues to be referenced in discussions about the game's evolution. Collectors often look for this card in various conditions and treatments to round out their Onslaught collection, making it a steady presence in the secondary market for vintage Magic products.
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The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Chain of Vapor
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Carl Critchlow
Card Stock
English
Foil
{U}
Instant
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Return target nonland permanent to its owner's hand. Then that permanent's controller may sacrifice a land of their choice. If the player does, they may copy this spell and may choose a new target for that copy.
FAQ
Chain of Vapor has a converted mana cost of one and requires one blue mana to cast.
The card returns a target nonland permanent to its owner's hand and may allow the caster to copy it if the affected player sacrifices a land.
This card was released in the Onslaught expansion in 2002 and is the 73rd card in that set.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.