Magic: The
Gathering Set Spotlight: Dark Ascension

Release Date: February 03, 2012

Introduction to Dark Ascension

‘Dark Ascension’ is a thrilling expansion set within the world of
Magic: The Gathering. Released in February 03 2012, it marked the
fifty-seventh expansion set and continued the storyline set in the plane
of Innistrad, where darkness and supernatural horrors continue to
reign.

The Eternal Night of Innistrad

Dark Ascension delves deeper into the gothic horror world of
Innistrad, where darkness is unyielding, and supernatural creatures
haunt every shadow. The set explores themes of madness, death, and the
relentless struggle for survival.

Notable Mechanics and Themes

Dark Ascension introduced several mechanics and themes that set it
apart:

• Double-Faced Cards: The set continued to feature
  ‘double-faced cards,’ allowing creatures to transform under specific
  conditions, adding depth to gameplay.
• Fateful Hour: Dark Ascension introduced the
  ‘fateful hour’ mechanic, which provided enhanced effects when a player’s
  life total was low.
• Gothic Horror: The set embraced the gothic
  horror theme of Innistrad with vampires, zombies, and other nightmarish
  creatures.

Notable Cards from Dark Ascension

Dark Ascension features several cards with distinctive abilities and
connections to the theme of unending darkness and the battle against
supernatural forces. Some of the most notable include:

• Huntmaster of the Fells / Ravager of the Fells:
  A double-faced card representing the transformation of a human into a
  ferocious werewolf.
• Liliana of the Dark Realms: A powerful
  planeswalker card featuring Liliana Vess, with abilities that harness
  dark magic.
• Sorin, Lord of Innistrad: Another formidable
  planeswalker card, featuring Sorin Markov, with abilities that reflect
  his vampire heritage.

The Dark Ascension Expansion Symbol

The expansion symbol for Dark Ascension features a stylized, full
moon shrouded in darkness, capturing the eerie atmosphere of
Innistrad.

Limited Print Run and Collectible Value

Dark Ascension had a limited print run, contributing to the
collectible value of its cards. The cards from this set are recognized
by their distinctive black border, setting them apart from other Magic
sets.

Historical Significance

Dark Ascension is historically significant for its continuation of
the gothic horror theme of Innistrad, the introduction of double-faced
cards, and its contribution to the ongoing Magic storyline. It’s
celebrated for its depiction of the eternal night and the relentless
fight against supernatural horrors.

As with all Magic cards, the value of cards from Dark Ascension can
fluctuate over time due to collector demand and format legality. To stay
updated on Dark Ascension and its cards, we recommend checking Magic:
The Gathering websites, consulting with local card shops, and connecting
with fellow collectors.