Roots of All Evil

Roots of All Evil was released in 2010 as part of the Archenemy expansion for Magic: The Gathering, a format designed to simulate a boss battle where one player faces off against a team. The scheme card was created to add an element of chaos and mechanical progression to these multiplayer matches, reflecting the game's shift toward more experimental, narrative-driven gameplay experiences.

The card’s illustration was crafted by Nils Hamm, whose dark, textured aesthetic is a hallmark of the set’s macabre tone. Hamm’s design goal was to evoke a sense of corruption and encroaching malice, visually anchoring the scheme’s ability to force players into difficult choices. Upon release, the set was received as a novel departure from standard play, with the scheme cards noted for their distinct oversized dimensions and thematic integration into the game's lore.