The 2009 Zendikar release features Lavaball Trap as card number 135, a high-cost red Instant with the Trap subtype designed for sweeping board clears.
2009 • Magic: The Gathering • Zendikar
No listings available right now.
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.33 | Guide Estimate | +3.1% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 29, 2026
Lavaball Trap, designated as card number 135 in the 2009 Zendikar expansion, stands as a defining example of Magic: The Gathering's strategic depth during this era. As an Instant with the Trap subtype, this red mana card requires an initial investment of eight mana, yet it offers a compelling alternative cost for players who have established a significant land advantage. The mechanic allows the caster to pay a reduced fee if an opponent controls multiple entering lands, rewarding aggressive mana acceleration strategies typical of the Zendikar block's design philosophy. Collectors value this card not only for its gameplay utility but also for its artistic presentation by Zoltan Boros and Gabor Szikszai. As a Rare rarity card, Lavaball Trap represents a key piece for enthusiasts building complete Zendikar collections or seeking powerful tools for constructed formats. The card's design emphasizes the tension between high mana investment and devastating board-clearing potential, making it a memorable addition to any Magic: The Gathering trading card game collection. Whether for competitive play or casual enjoyment, this card remains a staple for fans of the game's intricate mechanics and vibrant fantasy world.
We'll pre-fill the product details from this catalog entry, so your listing lands on this exact page. Just add photos of your copy, pick its condition, and set your price.
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Lavaball Trap
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Zoltan Boros & Gabor Szikszai
Card Stock
English
{6}{R}{R}
Instant — Trap
R
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
If an opponent had two or more lands enter the battlefield under their control this turn, you may pay {3}{R}{R} rather than pay this spell's mana cost. Destroy two target lands. Lavaball Trap deals 4 damage to each creature.
FAQ
Lavaball Trap has a mana value of 8, requiring six generic mana and two red mana to cast normally. However, the Trap mechanic allows you to pay a reduced cost of five mana (three generic and two red) if an opponent had two or more lands enter the battlefield under their control that turn.
When cast, this Instant card destroys two target lands and deals 4 damage to each creature on the battlefield. This dual effect makes it a powerful tool for removing both mana sources and opposing threats in a single action.
The artwork for Lavaball Trap in the Zendikar set was created by the artist duo Zoltan Boros and Gabor Szikszai. Their distinctive style brings the destructive power of the spell to life through dynamic imagery.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.
