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About This Card

The Counterbalance card (CSP-31) from Magic: The Gathering's 2023 The List release, a blue uncommon enchantment with unique interactive gameplay.

Counterbalance

2023 • Magic: The Gathering • The List

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Market Value
Raw/Ungraded Market: $4.94
Updated about 11 hours ago
Based on TCGplayer Market (reference)Check Price Guide

Market & Price History

  • $4.94
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    Guide Estimate
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    -6.6%
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Raw / Ungraded

TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 11, 2026

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Product Overview

Description

Counterbalance (CSP-31) is a blue uncommon enchantment from Magic: The Gathering’s 2023 The List release. Designed by John Zeleznik, this card offers a distinct strategic layer for players seeking interactive control mechanics in their decks. As part of the The List series, it represents a carefully curated selection of reprinted cards that bridge different eras of the game's history, appealing to both nostalgic collectors and competitive players. The card’s primary function revolves around resource management and disruption. When an opponent casts a spell, you have the option to reveal the top card of your library. If the revealed card shares the same mana value as the opponent’s spell, Counterbalance counters that spell. This mechanic rewards careful planning and library manipulation, making it a fascinating puzzle piece for blue-based strategies. The card costs two generic mana and two blue mana to cast, fitting efficiently into mid-range and control archetypes that value tempo and card advantage. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading cards often seek out The List variants for their unique design aesthetics and the prestige of the series. The List cards are known for their alternate art and special treatments, making CSP-31 a standout addition to any collection. Whether you are building a deck around counter-spell synergies or simply appreciate the strategic depth of interactive enchantments, Counterbalance provides a compelling gameplay experience. Its inclusion in The catalog highlights the enduring appeal of Magic’s strategic card design, offering enthusiasts a tangible connection to the game’s rich tactical heritage.

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Product Specs

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.

Year

2023

Series

The List

Card Number

#CSP-31

Featured Subject

The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.

Game

Magic: The Gathering

TCG Attributes

Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.

Rarity

Uncommon

Artist

John Zeleznik

Material

Card Stock

Language

English

Mana cost

{U}{U}

Type

Enchantment

Color

U

Card Text

Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.

Whenever an opponent casts a spell, you may reveal the top card of your library. If you do, counter that spell if it has the same mana value as the revealed card.

Magic: The Gathering and related names, images, symbols, and marks are trademarks or copyrights of Wizards of the Coast LLC. SuperCatch is an independent marketplace and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Wizards of the Coast. Some Magic reference content is unofficial Fan Content under the Wizards of the Coast Fan Content Policy. Full attribution.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Counterbalance card do in Magic: The Gathering?

Counterbalance is a blue uncommon enchantment that allows you to counter an opponent's spell if you reveal the top card of your library and it shares the same mana value as the spell being cast.

What is the mana cost for Counterbalance?

The mana cost for Counterbalance is {U}{U}, which requires two generic mana and two blue mana to cast.

Who is the artist for the Counterbalance card in The List?

John Zeleznik is the artist credited for the illustration on the Counterbalance card from Magic: The Gathering's 2023 The List release.

Cards Named Counterbalance

Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.