Cragplate Baloth

Description

The Cragplate Baloth stands as a formidable presence within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game, specifically identified as card number 359 from the Zendikar Rising expansion released in 2020. As a Rare creature of the Beast type, this card commands a mana value of seven, requiring five generic mana and two green mana to cast. Its substantial power and toughness stats of 6/6 make it a significant threat on the battlefield, reflecting the heavy-hitting nature typical of the set's creature roster. What distinguishes the Cragplate Baloth is its versatile kicker mechanic. By paying an additional {2}{G}, players can enhance its impact significantly. When kicked, the creature enters the battlefield with four +1/+1 counters, instantly transforming from a solid threat into a dominant force. This flexibility allows collectors and players to appreciate the strategic depth embedded in the card’s design, offering multiple playstyles depending on resource availability. Beyond its offensive capabilities, the Cragplate Baloth features hexproof, protecting it from targeted spells by opponents. This defensive layer adds resilience, ensuring the creature can survive longer in complex games. Additionally, the spell cannot be countered, providing a layer of security against disruption strategies that often target high-cost spells. These combined traits make it a reliable and impactful choice for decks focused on green mana acceleration and creature-centric strategies. Designed by artist Jesper Ejsing, the card captures the essence of Zendikar’s rugged landscapes through its conceptual art, though the visual details are secondary to its mechanical identity. For collectors, the Zendikar Rising set represents a pivotal era in Magic’s history, reviving the beloved plane with fresh mechanics and powerful cards. The Cragplate Baloth serves as a key component for those building or completing this set, appealing to both competitive players and completists who value its unique combination of evasion, entry effects, and uncounterability.