Mana value

The mana value of an object is an integer greater than or equal to zero. It's a number that determines the quantity of mana in a mana cost.

History

Mana value was known as converted mana cost (CMC) from Sixth Edition to Time Spiral Remastered, and casting cost in sets prior to Sixth Edition. The term "mana value" was introduced in Strixhaven: School of Mages.

Rules

From the glossary of the Comprehensive Rules (June 7, 2024—Modern Horizons 3)

Converted Mana Cost (Obsolete)

An obsolete term for mana value. Cards printed with this term have received errata in the Oracle card reference.

Mana value is determined by converting the mana symbols of the card into numbers and calculating the sum of those numbers. Mana symbols represented by a number (including monocolored hybrid mana symbols (}) are converted into that number. All other mana symbols are converted into 1. For example, spells with mana costs of and both have a mana value of 3.

The only case in which a spell's mana value can ever vary is for spells with in the mana cost. When an object with X in the mana cost is on the stack, X equals whatever value was chosen for it when it was put on the stack. In any other zone, X equals 0.

Odd or even mana cost

Some cards care about if the mana value is odd or even.

• Ashling's Prerogative (Lorwyn)
• Void Winnower (Battle for Zendikar)
• Extinction Event (Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths)
• Gyruda, Doom of Depths (Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths)
• Lavabrink Venturer (Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths)
• Obosh, the Preypiercer (Ikoria: Lair of Behemoths)

^* Features the reminder text: zero is even.

Cost matters

Scryfall search: oracle:"converted mana cost"

"Cost matters" was a theme in Scourge that encouraged players to use spells with high mana values. In addition to providing numerous creatures and other spells with mana values 6 or greater, several cards were printed that enhanced or facilitated them.