The 1996 Pro Tour Collector Set Balance card (bl6) is a rare sorcery by Mark Poole that reshapes board states by equalizing resources among all players.
Balance
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Pro Tour Collector Set
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Market & Price History
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30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 11, 2026
Description
The 1996 Pro Tour Collector Set Balance card (bl6) stands as a cornerstone of early Magic: The Gathering history. As a rare sorcery with a mana cost of {1}{W}, this card from the Pro Tour Collector Set offers a unique strategic interaction that has captivated collectors and players alike. In gameplay, Balance serves as a powerful board reset mechanism. Each player selects a number of lands they control equal to the amount held by the player with the fewest, sacrificing the remainder. This effect extends to other cards in hand and creatures on the battlefield, ensuring a dramatic and equitable shift in game state. Such a mechanic highlights the innovative design principles that characterized Magic's early years, where strategic depth and player interaction were paramount. The Balance card, designated as bl6, is particularly sought after due to its impactful gameplay and rarity. Its inclusion in any collection speaks to an appreciation for the strategic elegance of vintage Magic. Whether for completing a set or appreciating the artistry of Mark Poole, this card represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of trading card games. By focusing on the historical and strategic context of cards like Balance, enthusiasts can deepen their understanding and appreciation of Magic: The Gathering's rich legacy. The Pro Tour Collector Set remains a testament to the game's enduring appeal and the creativity that drives its continued evolution.
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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
Balance
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Mark Poole
Card Stock
English
{1}{W}
Sorcery
W
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Each player chooses a number of lands they control equal to the number of lands controlled by the player who controls the fewest, then sacrifices the rest. Players discard cards and sacrifice creatures the same way.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Balance card do in Magic: The Gathering?
Balance is a sorcery that equalizes resources by having each player choose a number of lands, cards in hand, and creatures equal to the lowest amount held by any player, then sacrificing the excess. It is a powerful board reset tool that can dramatically shift the game state.
Who illustrated the Balance card in the Pro Tour Collector Set?
The Balance card in the 1996 Pro Tour Collector Set was illustrated by Mark Poole, known for his distinctive artwork in early Magic: The Gathering sets.
Is the Balance card still playable in modern Magic formats?
While Balance is a legal card in formats like Vintage, its impact is often mitigated by the faster pace and more complex card interactions found in modern Magic: The Gathering environments. It remains a nostalgic and strategic piece for collectors and casual players.
Cards Named Balance
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.
