MTG Market Watch | Top Moving Magic: The Gathering Singles For May 2025

Greg Montique
May 21
2 min read

As the Magic: The Gathering community braces for the much-anticipated Universes Beyond: Final Fantasy set launching in June, the secondary market has already started to buzz with activity. May 2025 has seen dramatic shifts in card values, thanks to previews, Commander synergies, and collector hype. Here's a look at the most notable MTG singles this month and what’s driving their popularity.

Surge Foil Final Fantasy Cards Make a Splash

Collectors are going wild for the premium versions of cards from the upcoming Final Fantasy Universes Beyond set. The chase cards in surge foil (very shiny, very rare) have shot up in value even before the official release:

Cloud, Midgar Mercenary (Borderless) – $599
Tidus, Yuna’s Guardian (Borderless) – $351.27

These prices reflect the crossover appeal, FOMO for those that didn't secure preorders, and collector-driven demand, particularly from fans of both franchises.

Helm of the Ghastlord Rises from the Shadows

Originally from Shadowmoor, Helm of the Ghastlord has skyrocketed in price—up over 500% to around $5.50.

A spectral creature emerges in swirling blue mist on a "Helm of the Ghastlord" card. Text details enchantment effects.

The resurgence is tied to its synergy with Y'shtola, Night's Blessed, a newly previewed commander that turns discard and draw into powerful triggers.

Unfulfilled Desires Finds New Purpose

A Reserved List gem from Stronghold, Unfulfilled Desires has leapt from obscurity, increasing from around $2.50 to nearly $30 at one point.

Magic card titled "Unfulfilled Desires" features two figures embracing in a red desert with camels in the background. Text includes card effects.

This spike is linked to its compatibility with the popular Eternal Might Commander deck, which thrives on efficient card filtering and graveyard interaction.

Lost Monarch of Ifnir Commands Attention

Zombie noble with staff stands on rocky terrain at sunset, surrounded by figures. Card text describes abilities and stats. Mysterious mood.

A standout from Commander: Aetherdrift, Lost Monarch of Ifnir fits perfectly into Zombie tribal decks, especially under the leadership of Hashaton, Scarab’s Fist. It has jumped from $3 to $10 in just a few weeks.

Tyrant Guard Flexes New Muscle

From Universes Beyond: Warhammer 40,000, Tyrant Guard has doubled in value to around $4.50.

Alien creature charging amid battle, glowing eyes, dark setting. Green border with text: Tyrant Guard, Creature—Tyranid, Ravenous ability.

The increase is largely driven by deck techs pairing it with Tidus, Yuna’s Guardian, making the card a surprise hit in synergy-driven builds.

Alternate Printings and tribal Gaining Steam

Simulacrum Synthesizer (Showcase) – Up by around $40 to over $95. Artifact lovers and brewers are behind the push on this one from Outlaws of Thunder Junction: The Big Score.
Astral Dragon – Now $31 and climbing. Its versatility in tribal and control decks makes it a strong speculative pick.