Forced Retreat

Description

The 1999 Portal Three Kingdoms expansion brought a unique twist to the Magic: The Gathering trading card game by integrating historical Chinese strategy themes into gameplay. Card number 44, titled Forced Retreat, stands out as a distinct sorcery spell within this diverse collection. Designed by artist Huang Qishi, the card reflects the set's thematic focus on leadership and tactical maneuvering over brute force. As a common rarity card in the Portal Three Kingdoms set (PTK), Forced Retreat serves as an accessible entry point for collectors exploring this era of Magic history. The card requires three mana to cast, consisting of two generic mana and one blue mana, making it a versatile tool in blue-based decks. Its primary effect allows the player to target a creature and place it on top of its owner's library, effectively removing it from the battlefield temporarily. This mechanic highlights the strategic depth found in the Portal series, which was designed to introduce new players to the game's complexities. The flavor text accompanying the card references a Wu commander's perspective before a significant engagement, adding narrative weight to the mechanical effect. Collectors often seek out cards from Portal Three Kingdoms to complete their sets or to appreciate the unique artistic direction of the time. Whether you are building a collection of vintage Magic cards or looking for specific cards to enhance your gameplay, Forced Retreat offers a piece of Magic's evolving history. The card's straightforward yet impactful ability makes it a notable inclusion in any Portal Three Kingdoms collection.