Tidal Terror

Tidal Terror was released in 2023 as part of the Magic: The Gathering set March of the Machine. The set serves as the climax to a multi-year narrative arc involving an interplanar invasion by the Phyrexians, a biomechanical collective. As a common creature card, it was designed to function primarily within the game's Limited format, providing players with a straightforward mechanical interaction consistent with the aquatic themes common to the blue color in the game's color pie.

The card's illustration was created by artist Nicholas Gregory, who has contributed to various sets within the game. Gregory’s visual approach highlights the chaotic, high-stakes atmosphere of the invasion, depicting a monstrous entity emerging from the depths. Like many commons in the set, the card was received as a functional utility piece that helped define the power level and mechanical identity of its specific draft environment during the expansion's release cycle.