Skyshroud War Beast

Skyshroud War Beast was released in 1998 as part of the Exodus expansion, the final set in the Rath Cycle for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Developed by Wizards of the Coast, this set introduced new mechanics like the 'buyback' ability and was designed to conclude the storyline involving the plane of Rath. The card represents a high-power creature within the Green color identity, reflecting the set's focus on aggressive, nature-themed threats that rewarded players for managing their land resources carefully during gameplay.

The artwork was provided by Jim Nelson, a prolific illustrator whose style during this era of Magic often emphasized dark, visceral interpretations of fantasy creatures. Nelson’s depiction of the War Beast sought to capture the ferocious and untamed energy of the Skyshroud forest’s defensive forces. While the card is not considered a competitive staple in historical formats, it is frequently cited by collectors for its distinct, late-nineties aesthetic that helped define the visual identity of the Rath Cycle.