The Painful Quandary is a Rare black enchantment from the 2010 Scars of Mirrodin expansion, featuring unique flavor text from a Moriok incantation.
2010 • Magic: The Gathering • Scars of Mirrodin
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$2.60 | Guide Estimate | -4.4% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 13, 2026
The Painful Quandary is a distinct Rare enchantment from the 2010 Scars of Mirrodin expansion in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Identified by the set code SOM and card number 73, this card represents a pivotal moment in the game's history, capturing the dark, mechanical aesthetic of the Mirrodin plane. As a five-mana black spell, it offers a strategic deterrent that challenges opponents to weigh the cost of their actions against the loss of life and resources. The card’s effect creates a powerful psychological pressure: whenever an opponent casts a spell, they must discard a card or suffer five damage. This mechanic forces difficult decisions in the late game, making it a memorable piece for players and collectors alike. The flavor text, attributed to a Moriok incantation, adds a layer of narrative depth that resonates with fans of the game's rich lore. For collectors, the Painful Quandary is a staple of the Scars of Mirrodin set. Its black border and standard layout are hallmarks of the era, appealing to those who appreciate the visual consistency of Magic’s design during this period. Whether you are assembling a complete set or focusing on specific color identities, this card holds a place of importance in the SOM collection. Collectors can find this enchantment to complete their libraries or as a standalone piece for their archive. The card’s enduring appeal lies in its unique mechanics and the iconic setting it represents, making it a sought-after item for enthusiasts of the game’s history.
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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
Painful Quandary
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Whit Brachna
Card Stock
English
{3}{B}{B}
Enchantment
B
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Whenever an opponent casts a spell, that player loses 5 life unless they discard a card.
"For each word spoken, one forgotten. For each thought, a memory rotten." —Moriok incantation
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