The Secret Lair

The Heroes of the Realm cards were introduced by Wizards of the Coast as internal awards given exclusively to company employees in recognition of significant contributions to the development of Magic: The Gathering. Unlike standard promotional material, these cards are not sold in retail sets, making them rare artifacts of corporate culture rather than general consumer products. They serve as a token of appreciation for those who have shepherded the game through complex design cycles or difficult projects.

The 2020 entry, designed and illustrated by the artist known as Wizard of Barge, reflects the distinct, surrealist aesthetic the creator is known for within the tabletop community. Featuring bold lines and an unconventional color palette, the artwork departs from the traditional high-fantasy style typically found in the game. The card represents a departure from standard design language, serving both as an internal milestone for the staff and a unique collectible for those outside the company who value the intersection of corporate history and independent artistic vision.