# 2009 Magic: The Gathering Masters Edition III #188

> This 2009 Magic: The Gathering Masters Edition III foil card, Arena of the Ancients (ME3 #188), is a powerful Artifact that restricts legendary creatures.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2009
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Masters Edition III
- **Card number**: #188
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Arena of the Ancients stands as a defining piece of Magic: The Gathering's Masters Edition III lineup, released in 2009. As card number 188 in the set, this Rare foil artifact offers collectors a distinct gameplay mechanic that fundamentally alters how legendary creatures interact with the board. Designed by Tom Wänerstrand, the card serves as a strategic tool for players looking to control the pace of the game by limiting opponents' ability to utilize their most powerful legendary units. The card’s primary function revolves around its entry trigger and ongoing effect. When Arena of the Ancients enters the battlefield, it taps all legendary creatures currently in play, effectively neutralizing immediate threats or setting up a tactical advantage. Furthermore, it imposes a continuous restriction, preventing legendary creatures from untapping during their controller’s untap step. This dual-layered control makes it a highly sought-after component for decks designed around limiting legendary density. For collectors, the foil finish of the Masters Edition III set adds significant visual appeal and historical context to the card. The Mana Cost of {3} and Mana Value of 3 make it accessible and easy to cast, while its Artifact type allows it to bypass land-based restrictions. Owning a copy of Arena of the Ancients provides both a functional gameplay asset and a tangible connection to the evolution of Magic: The Gathering's card design.

## FAQ

### What does Arena of the Ancients do in Magic: The Gathering?

This artifact card prevents legendary creatures from untapping during their controller's untap step. Additionally, when it enters the battlefield, it taps all other legendary creatures currently in play, providing significant control over the board state.

### What set is Arena of the Ancients from and when was it released?

Arena of the Ancients was released as part of the Masters Edition III set in 2009. It carries the card number 188 and is classified as a Rare within this expansion.

### Who is the artist for the Arena of the Ancients card?

The artwork for Arena of the Ancients was created by Tom Wänerstrand. His illustration is featured on the foil version of the card from the Masters Edition III set.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.