The 1994 Revised Edition card Power Surge (3ED #170) is a high-impact red enchantment designed by Douglas Shuler, offering a unique mechanical threat in Magic: The Gathering.
Power Surge
1994 • Magic: The Gathering • Revised Edition
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Description
Power Surge, card number 170 from the 1994 Revised Edition, stands as a defining moment in the early history of Magic: The Gathering. Crafted by artist Douglas Shuler, this rare red enchantment introduces a dynamic mechanic that scales with board state, making it a staple in vintage formats. Unlike static effects, Power Surge creates a persistent threat that grows stronger as players fail to maintain their land base, forcing opponents to make difficult resource management decisions from the very first turn. As a cornerstone of the Revised Edition, this card reflects the strategic depth that helped establish Magic: The Gathering as a premier trading card game. The card’s design emphasizes its role as a high-impact spell, with a mana cost of {R}{R} allowing it to enter the battlefield quickly in the early game. Its enchantment type line ensures it remains on the field, creating a continuous pressure that can dominate games where opponents neglect to tap their lands for spells. Collectors and players alike value Power Surge for its elegant simplicity and devastating potential. The card’s ability to deal damage based on untapped lands creates a psychological advantage, encouraging aggressive land play while punishing passive strategies. This interplay between resource allocation and damage output makes it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate the strategic nuances of the game. Whether building a vintage deck or adding to a collection, this card represents a pivotal era in Magic’s evolution. The 1994 Revised Edition remains a beloved set among hobbyists, with its distinct border and iconic artwork setting it apart from later printings. Power Surge exemplifies the innovative spirit of this period, offering a mechanic that remains relevant decades after its release. For those seeking to complete the Revised Edition or explore the roots of Magic’s most enduring strategies, this enchantment is an essential piece of the puzzle.
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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
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Featured
Power Surge
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Rare
Douglas Shuler
Card Stock
English
{R}{R}
Enchantment
R
Card Text
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At the beginning of each player's upkeep, this enchantment deals X damage to that player, where X is the number of untapped lands they controlled at the beginning of this turn.
