Mezuki

Mezuki was first introduced to the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game as part of the Japanese Duel Terminal series, which utilized arcade machines to dispense cards to players. Released internationally in the Duel Terminal 7a set, the card features the distinct parallel foil pattern characteristic of the technology. The design draws heavily from Japanese folklore, specifically the yōkai known as the Mezuki, a horse-headed underworld guard often paired with the bull-headed Gozuki in Buddhist mythology.

The card’s utility lies in its ability to special summon zombie-type monsters from the graveyard, a cornerstone mechanic for graveyard-reliant decks. It was illustrated with a striking, menacing aesthetic that leans into the macabre visual style typical of the zombie archetype within the game. Upon its debut, it became a highly regarded support card for competitive players, cementing its status as a staple for its efficient resource recycling capabilities.