# 2008 Magic: The Gathering Shards of Alara #179

> The 2008 Shards of Alara foil mythic rare Mayael the Anima, a legendary Elf Shaman card essential for Magic: The Gathering collectors and players.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2008
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Shards of Alara
- **Card number**: #179
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Mayael the Anima stands as one of the most powerful creatures in Magic: The Gathering history, originally released in the 2008 Shards of Alara expansion. As the 179th card of the set, this foil mythic rare represents the peak of the set's design philosophy, blending red, green, and white mana to create a versatile threat that commands attention on any battlefield. The card's distinct identity as a legendary Elf Shaman makes it a cornerstone for collectors seeking high-rarity pieces from the Alara block.

The card’s enduring appeal lies in its devastating gameplay ability. By sacrificing mana and tapping the creature, players can look at the top five cards of their library and put a creature with power five or greater onto the battlefield. This ability allows for massive board swings and game-ending plays, making it a coveted inclusion in competitive decks and a prized addition for those building their Magic: The Gathering trading card game collections. The foil finish adds a premium tactile and visual quality that enhances its status as a collectible item.

For investors and hobbyists alike, Mayael the Anima from Shards of Alara represents a significant piece of TCG history. Its introduction marked the beginning of the mythic rare rarity tier, fundamentally changing how rare cards were distributed and valued. Collectors often seek out this card to complete high-end Shards of Alara sets or to own a piece of the era that redefined competitive magic. The combination of its legendary status, complex rules text, and foil treatment ensures that this card remains a relevant and desirable target for serious Magic enthusiasts looking to expand their library.

## FAQ

### What is the rarity of Mayael the Anima in Shards of Alara?

Mayael the Anima is a mythic rare card in the Shards of Alara set, making it one of the hardest cards to find within that specific expansion. It is numbered 179 in the set.

### How does Mayael the Anima's ability work in Magic: The Gathering?

This legendary Elf Shaman allows you to look at the top five cards of your library and put a creature card with power 5 or greater onto the battlefield. The remaining cards are placed on the bottom of your library in any order.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.