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About This Card

The 2002 Onslaught set Smother card (170) is a black Instant that destroys target creatures with mana value 3 or less. This uncommon card features iconic design elements from the early 2000s Magic era.

Smother

2002 • Magic: The Gathering • Onslaught

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Market Value
Raw/Ungraded Market: $2.62
Updated 7 days ago
Based on TCGplayer Market (reference)Check Price Guide

Market & Price History

  • $2.62
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    Guide Estimate
    Trend
    -1.1%
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30-day Price History

Raw / Ungraded

TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 5, 2026

Each point is the last stored observation that day for this printing, condition, grader, autograph status and source. Gaps mean no observation; guide estimates and asking prices are not completed sales.
Product Overview

Description

As an Instant with a mana value of 2, this card offers immediate disruption, allowing players to remove target creatures with a mana value of 3 or less. The ability to prevent regeneration makes it a potent tool against resilient threats, cementing its role in competitive play and casual games alike. Designed by Carl Critchlow, the card captures the dark, gothic aesthetic that defined the Onslaught block. The flavor text, attributed to Phage the Untouchable, adds a layer of narrative depth, reflecting the ruthless efficiency of the card's effect. Collectors appreciate this uncommon card for its historical significance within the block and its enduring utility in formats where black removal is valued. The card's straightforward yet effective mechanic has made it a recognizable piece of Magic trivia and a favorite among players who enjoy controlling the board state. For enthusiasts of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game, Smother serves as a reminder of the strategic depth and thematic consistency that Magic has maintained since its inception. The Onslaught set, with its focus on tribal mechanics and black mana, produced several memorable cards, and Smother stands out as a reliable removal option. Its inclusion in various formats and its continued relevance in modern decks highlight its timeless design. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the game, adding Smother to your collection connects you to a rich history of strategic card design and magical storytelling. The card's legacy is preserved in every play, making it a cherished item for those who value both the art and the game. Exploring the nuances of such cards reveals the intricate balance of power and strategy that defines Magic: The Gathering.

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Product Specs

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

Series

Onslaught

Card Number

#170

Featured Subject

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

Featured

Smother

Game

Magic: The Gathering

TCG Attributes

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

Rarity

Uncommon

Artist

Carl Critchlow

Material

Card Stock

Language

English

Mana cost

{1}{B}

Type

Instant

Color

B

Card Text

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

Destroy target creature with mana value 3 or less. It can't be regenerated.

"I can't hear them scream, but at least I don't have to listen to them beg." —Phage the Untouchable

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Smother card do in Magic: The Gathering?

Smother is a black Instant that destroys target creature with mana value 3 or less. It cannot be regenerated, making it an effective removal spell against low-cost creatures.

Who illustrated the Smother card from the Onslaught set?

The artwork for the Smother card was created by Carl Critchlow, known for his detailed fantasy illustrations that contributed to the visual identity of the Onslaught block.

What is the mana cost of Smother?

The mana cost for Smother is one generic mana and one black mana, totaling a mana value of 2. This low cost allows it to be cast early in the game for immediate impact.

Cards Named Smother

Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.