Identify the 1997 Portal expansion's Cloud Pirates card, a common Magic: The Gathering creature with flying ability and Phil Foglio's artwork.
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Portal
No listings available right now.
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$1.90 | Guide Estimate | +2.2% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 12, 2026
Introduced in 1997, the Portal set reimagined the Magic: The Gathering experience with a streamlined approach that lowered the barrier to entry for new players. Within this foundational release, Cloud Pirates stands out as card number 46, offering a straightforward yet effective creature for early-game strategies. This common card features a 1/1 Human Pirate that costs a single blue mana to cast, making it an accessible addition to any blue-based deck. The card’s defining trait is its flying ability, which allows it to evade most ground-based blockers. However, it can only block other creatures that also possess flying, creating a specific tactical dynamic that encourages players to build synergistic strategies around air superiority. This mechanical constraint adds depth to the simple creature, rewarding thoughtful deck construction rather than random placement. The illustration brings the character to life with distinct visual flair that complements the set’s unique design language. For collectors of vintage Magic: The Gathering cards, this piece represents a significant moment in the game’s history when accessibility and fun were prioritized without sacrificing strategic integrity., enthusiasts can locate this card to complete their Portal collections or to appreciate its role in the early days of the trading card game. Whether you are building a nostalgic deck or simply admiring the art, Cloud Pirates remains a beloved staple of the 1997 expansion. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and the clever design choices that made Portal a gateway for millions of players into the world of Magic.
We'll pre-fill the product details from this catalog entry, so your listing lands on this exact page. Just add photos of your copy, pick its condition, and set your price.
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
Cloud Pirates
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Phil Foglio
Card Stock
English
{U}
Creature — Human Pirate
1 / 1
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Flying This creature can block only creatures with flying.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.