Undying Beast

Undying Beast was released in 1997 as part of the Portal set for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. This set was designed by Wizards of the Coast as a standalone, introductory experience aimed at bringing new players into the game by stripping away complex timing rules and instant-speed interaction. The card reflects the set's aesthetic shift toward simplified mechanics and high-fantasy art styles that defined the late nineties era of the game.

The card was illustrated by Mike Dringenberg, a veteran artist well known for his foundational work on the Sandman comic series. His contribution to the Portal set leaned into the stark, evocative creature design typical of his portfolio, intending to create a menacing presence that would immediately communicate the card's function as a recurring threat on the battlefield. Upon release, while Portal was viewed as a niche product by veteran players, the artwork of individual cards like Undying Beast has since gained appreciation for its distinct role in the game's visual history.