Argothian Swine

Argothian Swine was released in 1998 as part of the Urza's Saga set, the first installment in the Urza block for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Developed by Wizards of the Coast, this expansion marked a significant shift in the game's mechanics, introducing the powerful enchantment-themed mechanics and complex card interactions that characterized the era of design led by Mark Rosewater and his team. The card reflects the lore of the Urza block, which depicts the epic conflict between the artificer Urza and the phyrexian invasion, specifically focusing on the lush, magical landscape of Argoth.

The artwork for this common creature was provided by illustrator Randy Elliott, who contributed several pieces to the set. Elliott employed a distinct, illustrative style that captured the creature's aggressive temperament, aligning with the card's function as a straightforward offensive presence in green decks. Upon its release, the card was widely received as a reliable, functional tool for limited formats, fitting comfortably into the power level and aesthetic expectations established by the game's designers during this pivotal period of Magic history.