Hellkite Charger

Description

Released in 2009 as part of the Zendikar set, Hellkite Charger (card number 131) stands as a formidable presence in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Designed by artist Jaime Jones, this rare card features a mana cost of four generic and two red mana, positioning it as a late-game powerhouse for players controlling the red color identity. Its creature type is Dragon, a category that has consistently drawn collector interest due to the creature's thematic weight and visual appeal across multiple sets. In gameplay, Hellkite Charger brings two key abilities: flying and haste. Flying allows it to bypass ground-based blockers, while haste enables it to attack the turn it is summoned, providing immediate impact on the battlefield. The card’s most distinctive feature is its triggered ability: whenever the Dragon attacks, the controller may pay five generic and two red mana. If paid, this effect untaps all attacking creatures and creates an additional combat phase after the current one. This potential to generate extra turns of combat makes the card a versatile tool in aggressive or combo-oriented strategies. Collectors often seek out Zendikar cards for their distinct artwork and the set's contribution to the game's lore. Hellkite Charger represents a classic example of red mana's aggressive design philosophy during this era. Its rarity designation as a Rare card in the ZEN set adds to its status among enthusiasts who value the diversity of creature types found in the expansion. For those building collections focused on Dragons or the Zendikar plane, this card offers a tangible connection to the strategic depth and artistic heritage of Magic: The Gathering.