Path to Exile

Path to Exile was originally introduced in the 2009 set Conflux as an efficient white removal spell, quickly becoming a cornerstone of competitive Magic: The Gathering. Its design aimed to provide white decks with a reliable way to handle threats at the cost of ramping the opponent, establishing a permanent fixture in the Modern format’s meta-game. The card’s enduring mechanical utility led to frequent reprints to ensure accessibility for players across various tournament levels.

The 2017 Modern Masters iteration features striking artwork by Seb McKinnon, who departed from the more literal interpretations of the spell seen in previous versions. McKinnon utilized his signature ethereal and melancholic aesthetic to emphasize the emotional weight of exile, shifting the focus from the act of removal to the somber nature of the departure. This version is highly regarded by collectors and players alike for its unique artistic direction and atmospheric contribution to the game's visual history.