Sly Spy

Sly Spy was released in 2017 as part of the Unstable set for Magic: The Gathering. As a silver-bordered set, Unstable was designed by Wizards of the Coast to prioritize humor, creative mechanics, and unconventional gameplay that would not be permissible in standard tournament formats. The card reflects the set's espionage and contraption-heavy aesthetic, leaning into the lighthearted, experimental nature of the game's supplemental expansions.

The art was illustrated by Matt Cavotta, a long-time contributor to the game whose work often focuses on distinct character archetypes and whimsical fantasy tropes. In this design, Cavotta captures the quintessential tropes of a classic secret agent, fitting the set's satirical take on classic spy films and comic books. The card was well-received by players who enjoy draft environments that reward inventive deck-building and social interaction rather than strict competitive efficiency.