Spectacular Skywhale (229), an uncommon foil Elemental Whale from Magic: The Gathering's 2026 Secrets of Strixhaven set, featuring the dynamic Opus mechanic.
2026 • Magic: The Gathering • Secrets of Strixhaven
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.22 | Guide Estimate | -4.3% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 1, 2026
Spectacular Skywhale stands out as a unique Elemental Whale within the 2026 Magic: The Gathering Secrets of Strixhaven expansion. Identified as card number 229, this uncommon foil card brings a distinct flavor of whimsical power to the game's diverse roster of creatures. Designed by Serena Malyon, the card captures the imaginative spirit of the Strixhaven academic setting, offering collectors a visually striking piece of the set's artistic vision. From a gameplay perspective, Spectacular Skywhale offers a compelling strategic option for players looking to expand their decks. With a mana cost of {2}{U}{R} and a mana value of four, this blue-red creature provides significant potential for board impact. Its base stats of 1/4 are modest, but its abilities allow it to grow rapidly during play. The creature possesses flying, granting it evasion against most ground-based threats, and features the Opus mechanic, which rewards players for casting instant or sorcery spells. The Opus ability creates a dynamic interaction during the game. Whenever you cast an instant or sorcery, Spectacular Skywhale receives a temporary +3/+0 boost. More notably, if the spell cast cost five or more mana, the whale instead gains three +1/+1 counters, transforming it into a formidable threat. This mechanic encourages deck construction that focuses on spell density and mana efficiency, making it a favorite among players who enjoy synergistic strategies. The card's design and mechanics reflect the intricate world-building of the Secrets of Strixhaven set, appealing to both competitive players and those who appreciate the lore and artistry of Magic: The Gathering. Collectors often seek out foil versions of this card for their shimmering finish and the distinct identity they bring to a collection of Strixhaven cards.
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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
Spectacular Skywhale
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Serena Malyon
Card Stock
English
Foil
{2}{U}{R}
Creature — Elemental Whale
1 / 4
R, U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Flying Opus — Whenever you cast an instant or sorcery spell, this creature gets +3/+0 until end of turn. If five or more mana was spent to cast that spell, put three +1/+1 counters on this creature instead.
Rootha was humbled in the whale's presence. It was glorious and beautiful, all on its own terms.
FAQ
Opus triggers whenever you cast an instant or sorcery spell. If five or more mana was spent to cast that spell, Spectacular Skywhale gets three +1/+1 counters instead of the usual temporary power boost.
The mana cost for Spectacular Skywhale is {2}{U}{R}, requiring two generic mana, one blue mana, and one red mana to cast. This gives it a total mana value of four.
Serena Malyon is the artist responsible for the illustration of Spectacular Skywhale in the Secrets of Strixhaven set. Her work on this card contributes to the set's unique aesthetic.
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