# 1997 Magic: The Gathering Portal #205

> This Magic: The Gathering Portal Swamp card (number 205) is a fundamental black mana source from the 1997 Portal set, offering essential utility for new players and vintage collectors alike.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1997
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Portal
- **Card number**: #205
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 1997 as part of the Portal expansion, this Magic: The Gathering Swamp card (number 205) serves as a foundational black mana source for players entering the game. This card allows collectors to acquire a key component for building decks within the Portal format, appealing to those interested in the history of game design simplification. For investors and hobbyists focusing on the Portal set, this common card represents an accessible entry point into vintage Magic collecting. While not a high-value rarity, it holds historical significance as part of Wizards of the Coast's effort to make the game more approachable for beginners. The card's straightforward function—providing black mana—makes it a staple in any Portal deck, reflecting the set's core philosophy of ease of play. Collectors often seek complete sets of Portal cards to preserve the full scope of this educational era in Magic history. Whether you are completing a set or exploring the roots of modern gameplay mechanics, this Portal Swamp card is a vital piece of Magic: The Gathering heritage.

## FAQ

### What is the Portal set in Magic: The Gathering?

The Portal set was released in 1997 to help new players learn the game by simplifying rules and card interactions. It features basic lands like the Swamp that function without complex text boxes, making it an important part of Magic's educational history.

### How does the Portal Swamp card work in gameplay?

The Portal Swamp is a basic land that produces black mana. Unlike other sets where lands might have additional abilities, this card's primary function is to provide the necessary resource for casting black spells in the Portal format.

### Is the Portal set still playable in tournaments?

The Portal set is not legal in most standard competitive formats today. However, it remains popular for casual play, vintage collections, and understanding the evolution of Magic: The Gathering's card design and mechanics.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.