Exalted Dragon

Exalted Dragon was released in 1998 as part of the Exodus expansion, the final set in the Rath Cycle of the Magic: The Gathering card game. Designed by Richard Garfield and his team at Wizards of the Coast, the set was intended to conclude the intricate narrative arc surrounding the plane of Rath and introduce mechanics that rewarded players for managing their resources, such as land-based activation costs. This dragon represents a significant moment in early Magic design, moving away from simple aggressive creatures toward complex, cost-efficient threats that required specific deck-building considerations.

The card’s striking visual identity was crafted by artist Matthew D. Wilson, whose work helped define the aesthetic of late 90s fantasy gaming. Wilson’s illustration captures the creature’s imposing, celestial nature through a blend of sharp, angular anatomy and dramatic, ethereal lighting. Upon its release, the card was well-received by competitive players who appreciated its ability to dominate the battlefield once a player secured their mana base, cementing its status as one of the iconic rare dragons of the classic era.