Ancient Hydra

Description

The Ancient Hydra (NEM-76) from the 2024 Magic: The Gathering The List set represents a unique intersection of modern release strategy and classic fantasy design. As part of The List, this card offers collectors a glimpse into alternate realities and unused card concepts, making it a special addition for those who appreciate the breadth of the game's history. The card features artwork by legendary illustrator Scott M. Fischer, whose work has defined the visual identity of Magic for decades. Gameplay-wise, the Ancient Hydra is a red Creature with a mana cost of {4}{R} and a power of 5/1. Its most notable feature is the Fading 5 ability, which dictates a dynamic play pattern. This creature enters the battlefield with five fade counters already on it. During your upkeep, you must remove a fade counter; if you are unable to do so, the creature is sacrificed. This creates a tense resource management challenge, as the card is only on the field for a limited number of turns. However, the Ancient Hydra offers a powerful payoff while it remains active. By paying {1} and removing a fade counter, you can have it deal 1 damage to any target. This ability allows for flexible interaction during the brief window the creature survives. Whether you are building a themed collection or simply admire the craftsmanship of The List releases, the Ancient Hydra stands out as a fascinating artifact from the game's expansive library.