Unholy Strength

Unholy Strength first appeared in the Alpha set of Magic: The Gathering in 1993, designed by Richard Garfield as a staple enchantment for black decks. By the time it was reprinted in Ninth Edition, which was released in 2005 as a core set designed to introduce newer players to the mechanics of the game, the card had become a hallmark of early aggressive black strategies, providing a simple but effective power and toughness boost to creatures.

The Ninth Edition illustration was produced by Dan Dos Santos, who brought a more modern, refined aesthetic to the classic card. While previous versions featured more primitive or dark fantasy styles, Dos Santos focused on a sharp, evocative composition that centered on the visceral nature of the enchantment. The card was well-received by the community as a bridge between the game's origins and its evolving visual identity during the mid-2000s.