Unsung Legends: Exploring Magic: the Gathering Card Art and Character Designs

Originally posted with a focus on Nephilim and other intriguing card designs, this article delves deeper into the untapped potential of various Magic: the Gathering card art and character designs. Dive into the world of what could have been and explore why certain pieces deserve to be elevated into legendary status.

The Case for Nephilim

My Money is in the Nephilim: These four-color creatures stand out among the collection. As the only four-color creatures in Magic, their uniqueness adds to their mystique. However, their oddity extends beyond their color scheme. The design and art take on an almost Lovecraftian look, distinct from the Eldrazi, adding to their enigmatic appeal.

Many players, including myself, have speculated that Nephilim might be a form of Eldrazi-related lifeform or the result of a wild experiment gone awry. Regardless, the potential for these cards lies in their being legendary. Seeing indestructible, shock damage, and lifelink values combined with a high mana cost and power/toughness ratio (6/6 in the case of Nephilim) suggests they could be game-changers in the right deck. The cards have been utilized in unconventional and devastating ways, particularly in villainous and Eldrazi-themed decks. The fact that these creatures can be built around speaks volumes about their level of power and potential as a commander.

Art and Gameplay Synergy

This card’s art is more awesome than a mere uncommon: The Ninjutsu card showcases not only a stunning art piece but also effectively showcases one of Magic's mechanics. However, the cost-effectiveness of the card can be questionable, making its artistry even more impactful when combined with functional gameplay.

Including this card in decks designed for slow control strategies can leverage its artistic beauty as a powerful tool. The art design perfectly complements the theme of stealth and tactical play, making the card a standout piece in any collection. The ability to control the battlefield, target specific creatures, and provide supplementary effects through the art alone makes it more than just a simple card.

The Potential for Legendary Status

What a waste of astonishing art: When evaluating Magic: the Gathering card designs, the art often takes center stage. However, some cards feel underserved or misplaced because of this. Specifically, the Ninjutsu card exemplifies the potential for stunning art to be undervalued in its current form. Should these cards be made legendary, their unique aesthetics and intriguing designs would instantly elevate their status and utility in both casual and competitive play.

Legendary creatures not only grant commanders in Magic: the Gathering a higher tier of power but also allow for deeper strategic gameplay. Incorporating these cards into commander decks opens up new avenues for deckbuilding and playstyle experimentation. The mystique surrounding Nephilim and the artistic brilliance of cards like Ninjutsu make them perfect candidates for inclusion in the legendary ranks, granting them the recognition and power they deserve.

Conclusion

While many Magic: the Gathering cards excel in their current form, there are notable design and art elements that deserve a higher status. Highlighting these unique aspects and recognizing their potential for elevated legendary status could enrich the game for both players and spectators alike. The journey of exploring these untapped legendaries not only honors the creativity of the designers but also opens the door to new and exciting gameplay possibilities.