This catalog entry covers the 2017 Magic: The Gathering Unstable foil card, Spike, Tournament Grinder (Card #69). It is a rare legendary creature designed for the casual and humorous side of the game.
Spike, Tournament Grinder
2017 • Magic: The Gathering • Unstable
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Market & Price History
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.86 | Guide Estimate | -1.1% | ||
- $0.86
- Source
- Guide Estimate
- Trend
- -1.1%
- Price Details
30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 8, 2026
Description
Spike, Tournament Grinder stands as one of the most recognizable characters from the Magic: The Gathering Unstable expansion released in 2017. As a legendary Human Gamer, this card introduces a distinct mechanical twist to the game by utilizing a hybrid mana cost that allows players to pay with either black mana or life. This design choice reflects the character's obsessive nature and adds strategic depth to deck construction for those interested in the unique rules of the Un-sets. Card number 69 in the Unstable set, this rare foil edition is highly sought after by collectors who appreciate the whimsical and meta-commentary style that defines the Unstable brand. The foil finish adds a premium tactile quality, making it a standout piece for those building specialized collections or completing the base set. The card’s ability to retrieve banned or restricted cards from outside the game offers a playful nod to the broader Magic community and its history, creating a piece of gaming culture that resonates with long-time fans. For investors and hobbyists alike, Unstable cards hold a special place in the TCG market due to their limited availability and unique themes. While not designed for competitive tournament play, these cards are essential for completing full set collections and for players who enjoy the creative freedom that the Un-sets provide.
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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
Spike, Tournament Grinder
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Zoltan Boros
Card Stock
English
Foil
{2}{B/P}{B/P}
Legendary Creature — Human Gamer
1 / 1
B
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
({B/P} can be paid with either {B} or 2 life.) {B/P}{B/P}{B/P}{B/P}: Reveal a card you own from outside the game that has been banned or restricted in a Constructed format and put it into your hand.
"Just wait—I have a response."
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mana cost for Spike, Tournament Grinder?
The card has a mana cost of {2}{B/P}{B/P}, which means it can be paid with either black mana ({B}) or by losing 2 life for each {B/P} symbol.
What is the effect of Spike's ability?
Spike’s activated ability allows you to reveal a card you own from outside the game that has been banned or restricted in a Constructed format and put it into your hand.
Is this card part of a competitive format?
No, this card is from the Unstable set, which is not legal in any official competitive Constructed or Limited formats due to its humorous and non-standard rules.
Cards Named Spike, Tournament Grinder
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