Magic: The
Gathering Set Spotlight: Guilds of Ravnica

Release Date: October 05, 2018

Introduction to Guilds of Ravnica

‘Guilds of Ravnica’ is a captivating expansion set within the world
of Magic: The Gathering. Released in October 05 2018, it marked the
seventy-ninth expansion set and returned to the iconic city-plane of
Ravnica, where guilds, intrigue, and urban warfare define the
landscape.

Return to the Tenth District

Guilds of Ravnica takes players back to the bustling cityscape of
Ravnica, a plane of endless city streets, towering skyscrapers, and
political intrigue. The set explores themes of guilds, conflict, and the
power struggle for control of the city.

Notable Mechanics and Themes

Guilds of Ravnica introduced several mechanics and themes that set it
apart:

• Guilds: The set featured a focus on Ravnica’s
  ten guilds, each with its own unique abilities and identity.
• Surveil: Guilds of Ravnica introduced the
  ‘surveil’ mechanic, which allows players to look at the top cards of
  their library and decide whether to put them into the
  graveyard.
• Undergrowth: The set introduced the
  ‘undergrowth’ mechanic, which rewards players for having creatures in
  their graveyard.

Notable Cards from Guilds of Ravnica

Guilds of Ravnica features several cards with distinctive abilities
and connections to the theme of guilds and the power struggle on
Ravnica. Some of the most notable include:

• Vraska, Golgari Queen: A planeswalker card
  featuring Vraska, known for her role as the queen of the Golgari
  guild.
• Niv-Mizzet, Parun: A legendary dragon card
  representing the enigmatic leader of the Izzet guild.
• Assassin’s Trophy: A powerful removal spell
  known for its ability to target and destroy any permanent.

The Guilds of Ravnica Expansion Symbol

The expansion symbol for Guilds of Ravnica features a depiction of
the Boros symbol, representing one of Ravnica’s ten powerful guilds.

Limited Print Run and Collectible Value

Guilds of Ravnica 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

Guilds of Ravnica is historically significant for its return to the
beloved plane of Ravnica, the focus on the ten guilds, and the
introduction of the ‘surveil’ and ‘undergrowth’ mechanics. It’s
celebrated for its urban warfare theme and the conflicts between
Ravnica’s power-hungry guilds.

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