What is the Morph mechanic on the Grinning Demon?

Morph allows the card to be cast face down as a 2/2 creature for {3} mana. The owner can turn it face up during any of their turns by paying its Morph cost, which is {2}{B}{B}, to reveal its true form and abilities.

Who illustrated the Grinning Demon card?

The artwork for card number 153 in the Onslaught set was created by artist Mark Zug, who is known for his detailed and atmospheric fantasy illustrations in Magic: The Gathering.

Is Grinning Demon a rare card in the Onslaught set?

Yes, the Grinning Demon is printed as a Rare card in the Onslaught expansion. It is identified by the card number 153 and the set code ONS, marking it as a higher-tier card within the standard distribution of that release.

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About This Card

The Grinning Demon (ONS #153) from Magic: The Gathering's 2002 Onslaught expansion is a Rare black creature featuring the versatile Morph mechanic.

Grinning Demon

2002 • Magic: The Gathering • Onslaught

2002 Magic: The Gathering Onslaught

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Description

Released in 2002 as part of the Onslaught block, Magic: The Gathering's Grinning Demon (card number 153) is a formidable black creature that appeals to strategy-focused collectors. Illustrated by Mark Zug, this rare card features a mana value of four and a power/toughness of 6/6, making it a significant presence on the battlefield. The card's unique mechanical identity lies in its Morph ability, allowing players to cast it face down as a 2/2 creature for three generic mana before revealing it later. This dual-state functionality adds strategic depth, balancing immediate board presence with the threat of its full power. Collectors value this print for its place within the dark, gothic aesthetic of the Onslaught era. The Grinning Demon remains a recognized piece of Magic: The Gathering history, representing a distinct period of gameplay innovation. Its enduring design and mechanics continue to draw interest from enthusiasts of the trading card game who appreciate both its artistic presentation and its tactical utility in constructed formats.

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Card Details

The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.

Catalog Profile

The core identity of the card within the set.

Year

2002

Brand

Magic: The Gathering

Series

Onslaught

Card Number

#153

Featured Subject

The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.

Featured

Grinning Demon

Game

Magic: The Gathering

TCG Attributes

Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.

Rarity

Rare

Artist

Mark Zug

Material

Card Stock

Language

English

Mana cost

{2}{B}{B}

Type

Creature — Demon

Power / Toughness

6 / 6

Color

Card Text

Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.

At the beginning of your upkeep, you lose 2 life. Morph {2}{B}{B} (You may cast this card face down as a 2/2 creature for {3}. Turn it face up any time for its morph cost.)

It's drawn to the scent of screaming.