Startled Awake // Persistent Nightmare

Description

This Magic: The Gathering trading card, designated as card number 88, is a standout Mythic Rare from the Shadows over Innistrad expansion released in 2016. Created by artist Sean Sevestre, the card offers a unique gameplay experience through its double-faced design that allows it to transform. Players begin with Startled Awake, a powerful sorcery that requires {2}{U}{U} to cast and mills thirteen cards from a target opponent's library. This aggressive effect sets the stage for the card's second phase, Persistent Nightmare. The true collector appeal lies in the transform mechanic, which is central to the Shadows over Innistrad theme. Once the initial spell resolves, Persistent Nightmare can be activated from the graveyard for {3}{U}{U} as a sorcery. This ability brings the card back onto the battlefield in its transformed state, offering strategic depth that appeals to players who enjoy complex resource management and recurring threats. The transition from a removal spell to a persistent board presence makes this card a versatile tool in blue-based strategies. For collectors, this card represents a key piece of the 2016 Modern Horizon era of Magic: The Gathering. The Mythic Rare designation signifies its high rarity within the set, making it a desirable item for those building comprehensive collections of the Shadows over Innistrad block. The dual nature of the card reflects the gothic horror aesthetic of the Innistrad plane, where spirits and nightmares roam freely. Whether you are focusing on completing the base set or seeking specific high-rarity cards for your deck, Startled Awake // Persistent Nightmare provides a unique intersection of mechanical innovation and thematic storytelling. Its status as a Mythic Rare ensures it remains a focal point for enthusiasts looking to acquire premium cards from this influential expansion.