Gwafa Hazid, Profiteer

Gwafa Hazid, Profiteer was first introduced to the Magic: The Gathering card game in the 2009 Conflux expansion, though this specific version hails from the 2016 Commander set. The character is a high-ranking merchant of the Esper shard on the plane of Alara, known for his ability to manipulate political landscapes through bribery and controlled resources. This reprint was designed to integrate into the multiplayer-focused Commander format, where his ability to place bribery counters on creatures to prevent them from attacking or blocking serves as a political tool for controlling the board state.

The card's striking visual identity was crafted by artist Todd Lockwood, a veteran in the fantasy illustration space. Lockwood chose to emphasize the character's opulent and calculating nature, depicting him draped in the intricate, metallic filigree iconic to the Esper faction. By focusing on Gwafa's relaxed, almost condescending posture, Lockwood successfully captured the essence of a profiteer who views war and conflict merely as opportunities for economic leverage. The art is widely regarded for its ability to convey narrative through character expression, solidifying Gwafa as a memorable figure in the game's lore.