Retribution

Description

Released in 1995 as part of the Homelands expansion, the Retribution card occupies card number 79 in the HML set. Designed as a red Sorcery, this piece of Magic: The Gathering history targets gameplay interactions involving creature removal. Players utilizing this card must pay a mana cost of {2}{R}{R} to activate its unique dual-effect ability. The strategic depth of Retribution lies in its conditional removal mechanism. When cast on two target creatures controlled by the same opponent, the affected player must choose which of those creatures to sacrifice. The surviving creature then receives a -1/-1 counter, weakening it without necessarily removing it from the battlefield. This design creates complex decision-making scenarios during gameplay, forcing opponents to weigh the loss of a creature against the continued threat of a weakened one. For collectors, this card represents a specific era of Magic design where removal spells often included interesting trade-offs rather than simple destruction. Collectors focusing on the HML set often seek out this card to complete their collection, appreciating its place in the broader narrative of mid-90s TCG development. Whether you are building a library of classic Sorceries or focusing specifically on the Homelands expansion, understanding the mechanics and history of cards like Retribution enhances the collecting experience. This card remains a notable example of the creative design approaches explored during the mid-1990s, offering both historical interest and strategic intrigue for those who appreciate the evolution of the game.