Magic:
The Gathering Set Spotlight: Hour of Devastation

Release Date: July 14, 2017

Introduction to Hour of Devastation

‘Hour of Devastation’ is an intense expansion set within the world of
Magic: The Gathering. Released on July 14 2017, it marked the seventy-fifth
expansion set and continued the storyline set on the plane of Amonkhet,
where the God-Pharaoh Nicol Bolas reveals his devastating power.

The Rise of the God-Pharaoh

Hour of Devastation immerses players in the aftermath of Amonkhet’s
grand trials. Nicol Bolas, the all-powerful God-Pharaoh, reveals his
true intentions, plunging the plane into chaos and destruction. The set
explores themes of devastation, oppression, and the ultimate clash with
Nicol Bolas.

Notable Mechanics and Themes

Hour of Devastation introduced several mechanics and themes that set
it apart:

• Eternalize: The set featured the ‘eternalize’
  mechanic, allowing players to bring creatures back from the graveyard as
  embalmed warriors.
• Afflict: Hour of Devastation introduced the
  ‘afflict’ mechanic, which punishes players for blocking creatures with
  afflict.
• Deserts: The set introduced a focus on ‘Desert’
  cards, including new deserts and cards that interact with them.

Notable Cards from Hour of Devastation

Hour of Devastation features several cards with distinctive abilities
and connections to the theme of destruction and the power of the
God-Pharaoh. Some of the most notable include:

• Nicol Bolas, the Deceiver: A planeswalker card
  representing Nicol Bolas, the central antagonist of the Amonkhet
  storyline.
• The Scarab God: A powerful god card known for
  its ability to manipulate the graveyard and create zombie
  minions.
• Hour of Devastation: A devastating sorcery card
  that embodies the destruction brought by the God-Pharaoh.

The Hour of Devastation Expansion Symbol

The expansion symbol for Hour of Devastation features a depiction of
Nicol Bolas’s horns, symbolizing his dominance and the impending
devastation.

Limited Print Run and Collectible Value

Hour of Devastation 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

Hour of Devastation is historically significant for its dramatic
storyline continuation, the introduction of the ‘eternalize’ and
‘afflict’ mechanics, and the climactic battle against the God-Pharaoh.
It’s celebrated for its intense gameplay and the revelation of Nicol
Bolas’s true power.

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