Traitor's Clutch

Description

Released in 2006 as part of the Time Spiral expansion, Traitor's Clutch (card number 137) is a black Instant card that offers flexible interaction for Magic: The Gathering players and collectors. Designed by Dave Allsop, this common card features a foil finish that distinguishes it within the set's print runs, appealing to those who seek out specific treatments from the late 2000s era. From a gameplay perspective, Traitor's Clutch provides a unique tactical option by altering a target creature's properties. The card grants +1/+0 to a creature, changes its color to black, and imposes the Shadow keyword until the end of the turn. This Shadow effect is particularly notable, as it restricts blocking interactions to only other creatures with Shadow, creating distinct combat scenarios that deviate from standard rules. The card’s mana cost of {4}{B} and mana value of 5 position it as a mid-to-late game resource, requiring strategic timing to maximize its impact. Another defining feature of this card is its Flashback ability, allowing players to cast it from their graveyard for {1}{B}. This secondary cost mechanism adds significant replay value, as the card can be utilized twice in a single match if managed correctly. The ability to exile the card after casting from the graveyard prevents infinite loops while maintaining its utility as a reusable tool in various deck archetypes. The foil version adds an extra layer of visual appeal, making it a desirable addition for those building comprehensive collections of the Time Spiral set or focusing on black-bordered classics.