The 2017 Unstable set features Very Cryptic Command, a foil rare instant card with versatile effects and a unique bonus tied to artist Wayne England.
Very Cryptic Command
2017 • Magic: The Gathering • Unstable
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Market & Price History
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$4.87 | Guide Estimate | -2.6% | ||
- $4.87
- Source
- Guide Estimate
- Trend
- -2.6%
- Price Details
30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Sep 15, 2026
Description
Very Cryptic Command, card number 49a from the 2017 Unstable set, stands out as a versatile instant in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Priced at a mana cost of {1}{U}{U}{U}, this rare card allows players to choose two distinct effects from a list of powerful options. These include switching a target creature's power and toughness, preventing a creature from being blocked, or drawing a card. The card's design introduces a playful twist for collectors and players alike: if the card drawn has art by Wayne England, the controller may reveal it to draw another card. This mechanic highlights the humorous and experimental spirit that defined the Unstable release. As a foil rare, Very Cryptic Command offers a premium finish that appeals to collectors seeking high-quality examples from this unique expansion. The card's identity is deeply rooted in the Unstable set's legacy of breaking traditional Magic: The Gathering conventions. By offering multiple strategic choices in a single card, it provides flexibility that is highly valued in casual and competitive play. The inclusion of a specific artist bonus creates a unique interaction that encourages players to engage with the card's design in new ways. Collectors often seek out Unstable cards for their novelty and the memorable moments they create at the table. Very Cryptic Command exemplifies this with its dual-purpose nature and the surprise element of the Wayne England bonus. Whether used for its strategic versatility or collected for its foil finish and set significance, this card remains a standout piece of the Unstable expansion. Its ability to adapt to various board states makes it a favorite among those who enjoy creative gameplay solutions. The card's enduring appeal lies in its ability to deliver both strategic depth and lighthearted fun, capturing the essence of what makes the Unstable set special in the history of Magic: The Gathering.
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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
Very Cryptic Command
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Wayne England
Card Stock
English
Foil
{1}{U}{U}{U}
Instant
U
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Choose two — • Switch target creature's power and toughness until end of turn. • Target creature can't be blocked this turn. • Draw a card. If that card's art is by Wayne England, you may reveal it and draw another card. • Assemble a Contraption.






