Magic: The
Gathering Set Spotlight: Guildpact

Release Date: February 03, 2006

Introduction to Guildpact

‘Guildpact’ is an immersive expansion set within the world of Magic:
The Gathering. Released in February 03 2006, it marked the thirty-seventh
expansion set and continued the storyline set on the plane of Ravnica, a
sprawling cityscape where powerful guilds vie for control.

The Power Struggles of Ravnica

Guildpact transports players back to the intricacies of Ravnica’s
guild system, where the power struggles between ten distinct guilds
continue to shape the city’s destiny. The set explores themes of
politics, alliances, and the ongoing battle for dominance.

Notable Mechanics and Themes

Guildpact introduced several mechanics and themes that set it
apart:

• Guilds: The set continues to feature the ten
  guilds of Ravnica, each with unique abilities and characteristics that
  reflect their role in the city.
• Multicolor Cards: Guildpact, like its
  predecessor Ravnica: City of Guilds, emphasizes multicolor cards that
  encourage players to align with specific guilds.
• Hybrid Mana: The set includes hybrid mana
  symbols, allowing players to cast spells with multiple color options and
  further promoting multicolor strategies.

Notable Cards from Guildpact

Guildpact features several cards with distinctive abilities and
connections to the theme of guilds and political intrigue. Some of the
most notable include:

• Duskmantle, House of Shadow: A land that can
  deal damage to an opponent whenever they draw a card, showcasing the
  influence of the House of Dimir.
• Orzhov Pontiff: A white and black creature with
  the ability to manipulate creatures and tokens on the battlefield,
  representing the power of the Orzhov Syndicate.
• Rakdos, the Defiler: A legendary demon creature
  from the Rakdos cult, known for its destructive and chaotic
  abilities.

The Guildpact Expansion Symbol

The expansion symbol for Guildpact features a stylized ‘G’
intertwined with a ‘P,’ representing the alliance and power struggles
among the city’s guilds.

Limited Print Run and Collectible Value

Guildpact had a limited print run, contributing to the collectible
value of its cards. The cards from this set are recognized by their
distinctive black border, setting them apart from other Magic sets.

Historical Significance

Guildpact is historically significant for its continuation of the
guild system introduced in Ravnica: City of Guilds, its emphasis on
multicolor cards and hybrid mana, and its exploration of the
interactions and conflicts between the ten guilds. It’s celebrated for
its role in shaping the way Magic approaches multicolor sets and complex
city-based storylines.

As with all Magic cards, the value of cards from Guildpact can
fluctuate over time due to collector demand and format legality. To stay
updated on Guildpact and its cards, we recommend checking Magic: The
Gathering websites, consulting with local card shops, and connecting
with fellow collectors.