Mastermind of the Underworld
Xanathar, Guild Kingpin holds court in the shadows, embodying the cunning and control that define the underbelly of the Forgotten Realms. This legendary Beholder doesn’t just dominate the battlefield with a solid 5/6 presence but fundamentally alters the flow of your opponent’s resources. Each upkeep presents a tactical choice: pick an opponent and lock down their ability to cast spells for the turn, while granting you unparalleled insights into their deck’s top card. This control shifts the typical tempo game by letting you run interference against opponents’ plans while simultaneously expanding your card options with the freedom to cast their top card using mana of any color.
Its synergy with cards that manipulate libraries or capitalize on casting spells from unusual zones—such as Narset, Parter of Veils or Jace, Wielder of Mysteries—makes Xanathar a versatile cornerstone in blue-black control or midrange decks. The extended art foil treatment captures the eerie charisma of this notorious crime lord, emphasizing its mythic stature. For players who value strategic disruption combined with resource advantage, Xanathar becomes a pivotal piece in any Adventures in the Forgotten Realms lineup.
Card Details:
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Mana Cost: {4}{U}{B}
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Card Type: Legendary Creature
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Subtypes: Beholder
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Card Text / Rules Text (Printed): At the beginning of your upkeep, choose target opponent. Until end of turn, that player can’t cast spells, you may look at the top card of their library any time, you may play the top card of their library, and you may spend mana as though it were mana of any color to cast spells this way.
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Power / Toughness: 5/6
