The 1997 Magic: The Gathering Portal card Grizzly Bears (#169), a foundational common creature card designed by Zina Saunders for entry-level play.
Grizzly Bears
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Portal
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$0.22
Description
As card number 169 in the Portal set, this common creature card features a straightforward mana cost of one green mana and one generic mana, resulting in a mana value of two. The card functions as a 2/2 Bear, offering a reliable defensive presence and an offensive threat that requires minimal investment to deploy. Designed by Zina Saunders, the card captures the accessible spirit of the Portal series, which was created to simplify the rules of Magic: The Gathering without sacrificing the strategic depth of the game. The printed flavor text, "Don't worry about provoking grizzly bears; they come that way," adds a touch of humor that has made this card a favorite among long-time players. Its simplicity makes it an excellent example of early Magic design philosophy, where cards were designed to be easy to understand yet integral to deck building. Collectors often seek out Portal cards for their historical significance in bringing the game to a wider audience. The Grizzly Bears card, with its clean design and memorable artwork, represents a key piece of Magic: The Gathering history. Whether you are building a nostalgic collection or exploring the roots of the game, this card offers a tangible connection to the late 1990s era of trading card games. The Portal set remains a beloved chapter in Magic's history, and cards like Grizzly Bears continue to be appreciated for their role in introducing countless players to the world of Magic. For enthusiasts of vintage Magic: The Gathering, the Portal series offers a unique glimpse into the game's evolution. The Grizzly Bears card, with its iconic status and enduring appeal, is a must-have for any serious collection. Its presence in the Portal set highlights the importance of accessibility in game design, a principle that continues to influence Magic today. As you explore the diverse offerings, you will find that this card is a testament to the enduring popularity of Magic: The Gathering and its ability to evolve while maintaining its core identity.
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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.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Grizzly Bears
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Zina Saunders
Card Stock
English
{1}{G}
Creature — Bear
2 / 2
G
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Don't worry about provoking grizzly bears; they come that way.




















