# 2008 Magic: The Gathering Shadowmoor #73

> The 2008 Shadowmoor rare foil card Plague of Vermin, featuring Carl Critchlow's artwork and a high mana cost sorcery effect.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2008
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Shadowmoor
- **Card number**: #73
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Plague of Vermin stands as a high-impact sorcery from the 2008 Shadowmoor expansion, carrying a significant mana cost of six black mana and one generic mana. As a rare foil card numbered 73 in the Shadowmoor set, it represents a distinct moment in Magic: The Gathering history, designed by artist Carl Critchlow. This card demands strategic attention due to its seven mana value, requiring players to build substantial mana reserves before casting it during their turn. The mechanics of Plague of Vermin create a unique interactive dynamic during gameplay. Rather than a one-sided effect, the card initiates a sequential process where players, starting with the active player, may voluntarily pay any amount of life. This exchange continues until no participant wishes to pay further. For every single point of life paid, the paying player creates a 1/1 black Rat creature token. This design encourages calculated risk, as players must weigh the immediate loss of life against the potential board presence gained from the resulting tokens. The black mana identity ensures this card fits seamlessly into decks focused on life gain strategies or aggressive token swarms. The foil treatment of Plague of Vermin adds a layer of visual appeal that distinguishes it from the standard print run, making it a desirable addition for enthusiasts completing their Shadowmoor collection. Whether used for casual play or deep strategic analysis, this card offers a fascinating look at the design philosophy of the late 2000s era. The combination of Carl Critchlow's artistic direction and the card's unique life-for-tokens mechanic makes Plague of Vermin a memorable entry in the Magic: The Gathering canon.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of Plague of Vermin in Magic: The Gathering?

Plague of Vermin has a mana cost of {6}{B}, totaling seven mana. This high cost requires players to have significant mana resources available to cast the sorcery during their turn.

### How does the Plague of Vermin card mechanic work?

The card allows players to sequentially pay any amount of life. For each point of life paid, the player creates a 1/1 black Rat creature token. The process repeats until no player wishes to pay life.

### Which set and year was the Plague of Vermin card released?

Plague of Vermin was released in 2008 as part of the Shadowmoor expansion. It is a rare foil card, numbered 73 in the set, and features artwork by Carl Critchlow.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.