# 2023 Magic: The Gathering The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth #519

> The 2023 Magic: The Gathering Saruman's Trickery foil card (LTR #519) is an uncommon Instant from The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth set.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2023
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth
- **Card number**: #519
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Saruman's Trickery stands as a potent spell within the Magic: The Gathering The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth set, released in 2023. Carrying the catalog number 519, this card is an Uncommon Instant with a mana cost of {1}{U}{U} and a mana value of 3. Players who enjoy controlling the flow of the game will appreciate its ability to counter target spells, offering strategic flexibility during critical turns. Additionally, the card features the Amass Orcs 1 mechanic, allowing players to place a +1/+1 counter on an Army they control, transforming it into an Orc. If no Army is present, a 0/0 black Orc Army creature token is created first, serving as a foundation for future growth. This dual functionality makes Saruman's Trickery a versatile tool for builders looking to expand their forces while disrupting opponents. The foil finish adds a layer of visual appeal, enhancing the card's presence in any collection. Illustrated by Yongjae Choi, the card captures the essence of the lore through its design, though the artwork itself remains a separate element from the gameplay mechanics. Collectors of The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth set often seek out this card for its thematic relevance and utility. The flavor text, "I gave you the chance of aiding me willingly," further immerses players in the narrative of Middle-earth. Whether used in casual games or competitive formats, this card represents a key piece of the Saruman strategy. Its inclusion in the LTR set ensures it remains a recognizable part of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game landscape. For those building decks around Orc synergies or spell control, this card offers a reliable option. Its design and mechanics reflect the intricate world-building that defines the Lord of the Rings theme in Magic. As the hobby continues to grow, cards like Saruman's Trickery remain essential for fans of the franchise and the game alike.

## FAQ

### What does the Amass Orcs 1 mechanic do?

Amass Orcs 1 allows you to put a +1/+1 counter on an Army you control, making it also an Orc. If you do not control an Army, you create a 0/0 black Orc Army creature token first before applying the counter.

### Is Saruman's Trickery a foil card in the LTR set?

Yes, the version listed here is the foil treatment of Saruman's Trickery from The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth set. The foil finish provides a distinct visual texture compared to the nonfoil version.

### What is the mana cost of Saruman's Trickery?

The mana cost for this Instant is {1}{U}{U}, requiring one generic mana and two blue mana. It has a total mana value of 3.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.