Pursued Whale

Pursued Whale was released in 2020 as part of the Core Set 2021 promotional cycle for Magic: The Gathering. Designed as a blue rare creature, it features a unique ability that forces the opponent to attack with their creatures if able, while granting the controller a card draw whenever an opponent attacks. This card was intended to provide a disruptive, controlling element to Limited formats and casual Commander play, fitting into the nautical and exploration themes prevalent in the set's aesthetic.

The card’s illustration was crafted by artist Volkan Baga, who utilized a cinematic approach to capture the whale's imposing scale against a backdrop of turbulent, stormy seas. The design was received as a flavorful, if situational, piece of interaction that rewards players for navigating combat-heavy board states. As a promotional iteration, the card often features a distinct date stamp or alternate border treatment, making it a sought-after piece for players who focus on the visual storytelling of the Core Set 2021 collection.