Caltrops

Caltrops was originally released as an uncommon artifact in the Urza's Destiny expansion for Magic: The Gathering in 1999. Designed during a period when the game was heavily focused on complex mechanical interactions, the card was intended to provide a defensive board-state deterrent, forcing creatures to take damage upon entering combat. Its inclusion in 'The List'—a rotating collection of legacy cards randomly inserted into modern booster packs—serves as a nod to the game's deep history, allowing newer players to encounter classic, utility-focused designs that characterized the late 90s era of the card game.

The original illustration for the card was created by artist Heather Hudson. She depicted the physical spikes used in historical warfare, opting for a clean, literal interpretation that emphasizes the card's function as a battlefield obstacle. While the card is not considered a powerhouse in competitive formats, it remains a notable example of early design philosophy, where cards often focused on creating distinct, flavor-driven hurdles that fundamentally altered how players interacted with the combat step.