Caltrops

Caltrops was originally introduced in the Antiquities expansion of 1994, reflecting a design philosophy centered on battlefield control and historical military themes. As an artifact card, it forces players to confront the tactical limitations of creature combat, serving as a deterrent against swarming strategies. The card found its way into the Seventh Edition core set in 2002, a release notable for being the first core set to feature card frames with white borders and modernized layout standards, intended to consolidate the game's mechanics for a growing global audience.

The Seventh Edition illustration was rendered by artist Eric Peterson. Peterson's aesthetic often leaned into the gritty, functional depiction of mechanical and historical weaponry common in mid-era Magic: The Gathering. His interpretation of the caltrops emphasizes their lethal simplicity, aiming to convey the sense of dread they instill in advancing forces. While the card is not considered a competitive staple, it remains a beloved piece for players who enjoy defensive, attrition-based gameplay styles, showcasing the enduring focus on tactical board interaction from the game's earlier design eras.