Dystopia from the 1997 World Championship Decks is a rare black enchantment with unique cumulative upkeep mechanics, designed by Ruth Thompson.
Dystopia
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • World Championship Decks
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$30.46
Description
Dystopia (js47sb) is a rare enchantment card from the 1997 World Championship Decks expansion for Magic: The Gathering. This card features distinct black mana requirements and a complex upkeep cost that challenges players to manage life total carefully. The card number js47sb identifies it within the set's specific distribution, making it a notable piece for collectors of vintage Magic sets. Designed by Ruth Thompson, the card captures the essence of early Magic design philosophy, where high-impact effects came with significant risks. The cumulative upkeep mechanic requires the controller to pay one life for each age counter on Dystopia, adding a strategic layer to its play. Additionally, it forces all players to sacrifice a green or white permanent at the start of each upkeep, creating a disruptive effect on opponents who rely on those colors. For collectors, the World Championship Decks set holds a special place in Magic history. These decks were distributed to top competitors, giving the cards a prestigious association with elite gameplay. Dystopia represents this era's aggressive and interactive design style. Its rarity status and unique mechanics make it a valuable addition to any vintage collection. The card's mana cost of {1}{B}{B} and mana value of 3 place it in the mid-game range, allowing it to be played consistently while still demanding careful resource management. Its impact on the board state is immediate and far-reaching, affecting multiple players simultaneously. This dual nature—benefiting the controller while punishing opponents—makes it a fascinating subject for analysis and display.
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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
Dystopia
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Ruth Thompson
Card Stock
English
{1}{B}{B}
Enchantment
B
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Cumulative upkeep—Pay 1 life. (At the beginning of your upkeep, put an age counter on this permanent, then sacrifice it unless you pay its upkeep cost for each age counter on it.) At the beginning of each player's upkeep, that player sacrifices a green or white permanent of their choice.












