When I counter a spell, I want it to feel countered, and this is as close to a traffic sign, replete with raised hand, that you get in MTG
Cards per Pack Each pack contains a set number of cards
it theoretically handles fewer creatures, but not many players have more than 13 creatures by the time a board wipe is necessary, and sacrificing permanents gets around indestructible
There are countless cards that let you trade life for other resources, and Bolass Citadel is one of the most (in)famous
Cards like Archfiend of Ifnir and Drake Haven capitalize on the discard, while Nadir Kraken capitalizes on the draw
Gilgamesh, Master-at-Arms Series: From Final Fantasy V and later Spoiler Level: Low Well not exactly the unique effect, with multiple cards over the years representing similar abilities