Siren's Call

Description

Siren's Call, identified as card number 80 in the 1994 Summer Magic set, represents a distinct mechanical interaction within Magic: The Gathering's early design history. This instant spell, created by artist Anson Maddocks, offers a strategic opportunity to disrupt an opponent's offensive capabilities under specific timing conditions. The card's utility lies in its ability to trigger during the opponent's turn, specifically before attackers are declared. When cast for its single blue mana cost, Siren's Call forces the active player to attack with all their creatures that are able to do so. This mandatory effect can be devastating if the opponent lacks sufficient defenses or if the controller of Siren's Call has removal spells ready to handle the incoming damage. Following the combat phase, the spell's secondary effect triggers at the beginning of the next end step, destroying all non-Wall creatures controlled by the opponent that did not attack. This cleanup phase effect rewards players who successfully bait an opponent into a unfavorable combat scenario. The restriction that the spell can only be cast during an opponent's turn makes timing and mana efficiency critical. Collectors of vintage Magic cards often seek out cards from the Summer Magic set due to the set's brief production history and unique design philosophy. Siren's Call remains a notable example of the game's evolving rules regarding forced combat and conditional destruction. For investors and historians of the hobby, owning a copy of card #80 provides insight into the iterative development of blue magic. The card's straightforward text box contrasts with its potential to swing game states, making it a fascinating study in early Magic mechanics. Whether building a vintage collection or analyzing the game's strategic roots, Siren's Call offers a tangible connection to Magic: The Gathering's foundational era. ## What is the mana cost for Siren's Call? Siren's Call has a mana cost of one blue mana ({U}). It is a common instant spell that requires only a single mana to cast, making it an efficient option for early game interaction. ## When can you cast Siren's Call? The card can only be cast during an opponent's turn, specifically before attackers are declared. This timing restriction allows it to disrupt the opponent's strategy rather than supporting your own immediate actions. ## What happens after Siren's Call resolves? After forcing the opponent to attack, the spell triggers an effect at the beginning of the next end step that destroys all non-Wall creatures the opponent controlled that did not attack. This provides a powerful cleanup mechanism if the opponent's board is left vulnerable.