Monstrous Hound

Description

Monstrous Hound stands as a distinctive 4/4 Dog creature within the 1998 Magic: The Gathering Exodus Promos set. Identified as card number 89 with the set code PEXO, this rare card presents a strategic challenge that rewards careful resource management. Designed by Dermot Power, the card introduces a unique mechanical constraint that separates it from standard aggressive threats in the game. The core identity of Monstrous Hound lies in its conditional power. Rather than acting as an unrestricted attacker, the creature imposes a land-count requirement on both offense and defense. It cannot attack unless you control more lands than the defending player, nor can it block unless you control more lands than the attacking player. This design forces players to evaluate their board state and mana base carefully before committing the creature to combat. The flavor text "Stay" perfectly encapsulates the creature's obedient yet restrictive nature, adding narrative depth to its gameplay mechanics. For collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading card game cards, the Exodus Promos set holds a specific place in the hobby's history. These promotional cards were distributed through various channels during the Exodus expansion era, making them sought-after additions for enthusiasts focusing on complete set collection or specific promotional variants. The combination of the Exodus branding and the promotional distribution method gives this card a unique provenance among TCG collectors. Whether you are building a comprehensive library of Exodus-era promos or simply appreciate the strategic depth of conditional creatures, Monstrous Hound offers both mechanical intrigue and collectible value. Its rarity status and unique rules text make it a memorable piece for any Magic: The Gathering enthusiast interested in the game's diverse card pool.