Dark Banishing is a 1997 Tempest expansion instant card from Magic: The Gathering, featuring John Matson's artwork and card number 117.
Dark Banishing
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Tempest
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Price History
$0.17
Description
Dark Banishing stands as a defining instant spell within the 1997 Tempest expansion of Magic: The Gathering. As card number 117, this common card serves as a vital resource for players navigating the early game's complex mana curves. The card demands two generic mana and one white mana to cast, allowing the player to destroy a target nonblack creature with the added restriction that it cannot be regenerated. This mechanical depth made it a staple in decks seeking efficient board control during the format's formative years. Art by John Matson, the visual presentation of Dark Banishing complements its aggressive nature. Collectors often seek out original printings from this era to appreciate the evolution of card art and layout in Magic's history. Whether building a vintage collection or studying the game's strategic roots, Dark Banishing offers a tangible connection to the game's golden age. For enthusiasts of trading card games, owning a piece of Tempest provides insight into the foundational rules and strategies that shaped Magic: The Gathering. The card's straightforward yet impactful effect continues to resonate with players who value clarity and efficiency in gameplay. Exploring cards like Dark Banishing allows collectors to delve into the rich narrative and mechanical history of the game. Collecting Magic: The Gathering cards from the late 1990s is a popular pursuit for those interested in the game's origins. The Tempest set, with its cohesive theme and memorable cards, remains a favorite among hobbyists. Dark Banishing, with its specific mana cost and powerful effect, exemplifies the design philosophy of that time. By focusing on the card's identity and historical context, collectors can appreciate its role in the broader ecosystem of Magic: The Gathering without needing to reference specific market values or current inventory levels.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Dark Banishing
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
John Matson
Card Stock
English
{2}{B}
Instant
B
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Destroy target nonblack creature. It can't be regenerated.
"It is the way of most wizards to begin by exiling themselves and to end by exiling everyone else." —Hanna, *Weatherlight* navigator




















