# 2021 Magic: The Gathering Mystery Booster Playtest Cards 2021 #1

> Ral's Vanguard is a rare vanguard card from the 2021 Mystery Booster Playtest Cards set, featuring unique gameplay mechanics that alter deck construction and spell casting.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2021
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Mystery Booster Playtest Cards 2021
- **Card number**: #1
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 2021, Ral's Vanguard stands as a distinctive entry within the Mystery Booster Playtest Cards set, designated as card number 1. This Magic: The Gathering trading card game card introduces a specialized gameplay experience that diverges significantly from standard formats. As a Vanguard card, it fundamentally shifts the parameters of the game for the player who chooses to utilize it, offering a niche but highly engaging mechanical profile for enthusiasts of the TCG.

The card’s rules text imposes specific constraints and bonuses that reward aggressive spellcasting. Players must construct their starting deck using only instant, sorcery, and land cards, eliminating creatures and other permanent types from the initial build. This restriction is balanced by a starting hand size increase of one and a starting life total reduced by five, creating a high-risk, high-reward dynamic. Furthermore, the card enhances every instant or sorcery spell cast by the player, forcing an additional card draw and dealing one extra point of damage to the targeted permanent or player.

Designed by David McDarby, this piece captures the experimental spirit of the Mystery Booster Playtest Cards series. These sets were created to explore new card designs and mechanics outside the constraints of standard expansions. Collectors often seek out these playtest cards for their historical significance within Magic: The Gathering’s evolution and their unique mechanical interactions. The rarity of the card adds to its appeal, making it a notable addition for those who appreciate the deeper strategic layers of the game. Whether viewed as a collectible artifact or a fun casual variant, Ral's Vanguard represents a fascinating intersection of design innovation and gameplay complexity.

## FAQ

### What is the primary mechanic of Ral's Vanguard?

Ral's Vanguard forces players to build decks using only instants, sorceries, and lands while granting bonuses like extra card draws and additional damage when casting those spells.

### Which set does Ral's Vanguard belong to?

This card is part of the Mystery Booster Playtest Cards set, released in 2021 by Wizards of the Coast for Magic: The Gathering.

### Who is the artist for this card?

The artwork for Ral's Vanguard was created by David McDarby, known for his distinctive style in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.