Mishra's War Machine

Description

The card Mishra's War Machine, designated as number 266 in the 1994 Summer Magic / Edgar set, stands as a notable artifact creature within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Classified as a Juggernaut, this seven-mana cost card brings significant presence to the battlefield as a 5/5 threat. Its mechanical identity is defined by the banding keyword, allowing it to attack in coordinated groups with other creatures and dictate how combat damage is distributed during blocked attacks. Beyond its offensive capabilities, the card introduces a strategic trade-off for the controller. At the beginning of each upkeep, the player must choose between discarding a card or allowing Mishra's War Machine to deal three damage to them. If damage is dealt, the creature becomes tapped, temporarily halting its ability to attack. This dynamic forces players to manage their resources carefully, balancing the card's power against its escalating maintenance cost. Art by Amy Weber, the design reflects the aesthetic of the mid-1990s era when Magic: The Gathering was establishing its complex rules framework. Collectors often seek out the Summer Magic / Edgar set due to its limited distribution and historical significance in the game's early development. As a rare card, Mishra's War Machine serves as an important addition for those building comprehensive collections of vintage Magic cards. The combination of its unique gameplay mechanics and its place in the game's history makes it a subject of interest for both players and investors. Completing a set of the Summer Magic / Edgar series often requires locating this card, adding to its appeal among dedicated hobbyists who value the foundational era of the trading card game.