Branchloft Pathway // Boulderloft Pathway

The Branchloft Pathway and Boulderloft Pathway originated as part of the Zendikar Rising expansion for Magic: The Gathering, introducing a cycle of modal double-faced land cards that offered players flexible mana fixing. These cards were designed to represent the diverse terrain of the Zendikar plane, allowing players to choose which color of mana the land would produce upon being played. This specific rendition was released in the Secret Lair: Ultimate Edition drop in 2020, a premium collection aimed at high-end collectors and enthusiasts seeking visually elevated versions of competitive staples.

The artwork for this particular iteration was commissioned from renowned fantasy illustrator Donato Giancola. Giancola, known for his masterful grasp of light and classical composition, sought to capture the ethereal, ancient nature of the Zendikar landscape. By utilizing a panoramic aesthetic that spans the two sides of the card, the design creates a cohesive visual narrative of a shifting terrain. Upon release, the set was received as a prestigious offering, notable for its unique foiling process and the inclusion of high-utility lands that had quickly become essential in various competitive formats.